Does your kitchen feel a bit too small for a giant microwave, but a tiny one just won’t cut it? You are not alone! Finding the perfect microwave size can be a real puzzle. Many people want more cooking power and space than a compact model offers, but they do not want a huge appliance taking over their counter space.
This is where the midsize microwave steps in! These ovens balance capacity and footprint perfectly for many homes. But how do you choose the best one for your needs? It is easy to get lost in confusing features and confusing measurements. That is why we created this guide.
Keep reading to discover exactly what makes a midsize microwave great. We will break down the key features, discuss what capacity you really need, and show you how to find a reliable model without the guesswork. Get ready to find the ideal microwave that fits your kitchen and your cooking style!
Top Midsize Microwave Oven Recommendations
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- 8-in-1 Multifuntional Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, bake(convection), broil (grill), combi., low temp., odor removal, defrost can fulfill more usages.
- Healthy Air Fryer Microwave Combo: Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimension (WxDxH): 20.6*18.0*11.8 inches, internal dimension (WxDxH):14.0*13.2*9.5 inches, 12.4-inch position memory turntable
- Compact Size but Large Capacity & Powerful: Small Footprint as Kitchen Essential, 12.4inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12 inch pizza and 8*4 inch casserole, offers the perfect balance of size and convenience.
- Medium-sized 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, Black/White
- New! Cooking platform and stylish design; New! Gray Interior; New! White LED Display; New! LED Interior Lighting
- 12.4" Carousel turntable for even cooking; 10 Power Levels with 2-stage cooking
- Convenient "+30 seconds" key for instant start; Auto Cook for popular menu items
- Weight and Time Defrost for quick and accurate thawing; Convenient “Express Cook” with single press up to 6 mins cooking
- Medium-sized 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, Stainless
- Orville Redenbacher's Certified Popcorn Presets
- 12.4" Carousel turntable for even cooking; 10 Power Levels with 2-stage cooking
- Convenient "+30 seconds" key for instant start; Auto Cook for popular menu items; Weight and Time Defrost for quick and accurate thawing; Convenient "Express Cook" with single press up to 6 mins cooking
The Midsize Microwave Buying Guide: Your Kitchen Companion
A midsize microwave oven is a fantastic choice for many kitchens. It offers more cooking space than a small model but does not take up as much counter space as a large one. Finding the right one means looking at a few important things. This guide will help you choose wisely.
Key Features to Look For
Think about what you need the microwave to do. These features make a big difference in how you use your appliance.
Capacity and Size
- Capacity: Midsize usually means 1.1 to 1.6 cubic feet. This size easily fits a standard dinner plate. Measure your counter space first!
- Dimensions: Check the height, width, and depth. You need space around the unit for air to flow.
Power and Performance
- Wattage: Higher wattage cooks food faster and more evenly. Most midsize models offer 1000 to 1200 watts. More watts mean better defrosting.
- Inverter Technology: Some microwaves use inverter technology. This technology delivers steady power, which cooks delicate foods like fish without overcooking the edges.
Cooking Presets and Controls
- Sensor Cooking: This feature senses the steam coming from your food. It adjusts the cooking time automatically. This prevents dried-out leftovers.
- One-Touch Buttons: Look for easy buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages. Simple controls make daily use much faster.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used in a microwave affect how long it lasts and how easy it is to clean.
Interior Construction
- Stainless Steel Interior: This material is durable and easy to wipe clean. It handles high heat well.
- Painted or Enamel Interior: These are common and cheaper. They can sometimes stain if strong foods are cooked often.
Exterior Finish
- Stainless Steel Exterior: This looks modern and resists fingerprints on some models.
- Plastic or Painted Metal: These are budget-friendly options. They look great when new but may show wear faster.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is not just about price. Smart design choices improve the user’s life.
Improving Quality:
- Turntable Size: A larger glass turntable spins food more evenly.
- Quiet Operation: Better insulation means the microwave runs quieter. This is great if your kitchen is near the living room.
- Sturdy Door Latch: A door that closes securely ensures the microwave runs safely and efficiently.
Reducing Quality (Things to Watch Out For):
- Flimsy Buttons: Cheap plastic control panels wear out quickly.
- Hot Spots: Microwaves with low, uneven power distribution cook poorly. Always read reviews about “hot spots.”
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you actually use your new appliance? Think about your daily routine.
Everyday Reheating and Defrosting
For busy families, quick reheating is key. A midsize model heats up a bowl of soup or a plate of pasta quickly. Good defrost settings save time when you forget to take meat out of the freezer.
Small Kitchen Cooking
If you live in an apartment or have limited counter space, this size is perfect. It cooks small batches of vegetables or microwavable meals without dominating the counter.
Advanced Users
If you often bake or cook larger items, make sure the interior height allows enough space above the food item. Some advanced features, like convection cooking (which allows oven-like baking), are sometimes included in high-end midsize models.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Midsize Microwaves
Q: What is the typical wattage range for a midsize microwave?
A: Most midsize microwaves operate between 1000 and 1200 watts. This provides strong, fast cooking power.
Q: How do I know if a midsize model will fit on my counter?
A: Measure the width, depth, and height of your intended space. Then, compare those numbers to the microwave’s listed dimensions. Always leave a few inches of space around the sides and back for ventilation.
Q: Is a stainless steel interior better than an enamel one?
A: Yes, stainless steel is usually better. It resists stains better and is easier to keep looking new.
Q: What is sensor cooking, and why do I need it?
A: Sensor cooking uses humidity sensors to guess how done your food is. It stops the microwave when the food is perfectly cooked, so you do not have to guess the time.
Q: Are midsize microwaves good for cooking large family meals?
A: They handle standard dinner plates well. However, if you cook large casseroles or multiple dishes at once, you might want to look at a larger model.
Q: Does a higher price always mean a better quality microwave?
A: Not always, but usually. Higher prices often buy you better build materials, quieter operation, and more precise cooking technology like inverters.
Q: What should I do if my food heats unevenly?
A: Check if your turntable is moving correctly. If it is, the microwave might have poor internal power distribution, which means you should look for a different model next time.
Q: Can I install a midsize microwave above my stove?
A: Only if you buy an Over-The-Range (OTR) model. Standard countertop midsize microwaves are not designed for mounting above a range.
Q: How important is the door latch mechanism?
A: It is very important for safety and efficiency. A strong latch ensures the microwave seals properly while running.
Q: Should I choose a model with a dial or push buttons?
A: This is personal preference. Dials can sometimes be faster for setting time increments, but push buttons are easier to keep clean.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!