Imagine this: you’re craving a quick snack, or need to reheat leftovers in a hurry. You open your kitchen cabinet, and… your microwave is just too small. Or maybe it’s too big, taking up precious counter space you barely have. Finding the perfect microwave that fits your needs and your kitchen can feel like a real puzzle, right?
That’s where the “mid-size” microwave oven shines. It’s the sweet spot between tiny and gigantic, offering just enough room for your everyday cooking without overwhelming your kitchen. But with so many models boasting different features and sizes, how do you pick the one that’s truly best for you? It’s easy to get lost in the details and end up with a microwave that’s either too cramped or too much of a space hog.
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a mid-size microwave a great choice and help you understand the key features to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a microwave that makes your kitchen life easier and tastier. Let’s dive in and find your perfect match!
Top Mid Size Microwave Oven Recommendations
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 14.6 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” x 10.2”
- Two-step Child Lock Feature: For extra protection and prevent misuse, all microwave oven manufacturers are asked to follow the new safety standard and add this 2-step child lock function
- Mute Function: Turn off all the microwave beeps by pressing the sound on/off button for 3 seconds, for a quiet cooking experience
- Easy one-touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time). With easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizes 50% standby power by using ECO mode
- Included Components: 1 Microwave Oven and 1 Manual Instruction Book
- 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 1000W 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.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate
- 900 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 10.6” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 18.7” x 13.4” x 10.7”, Internal dimensions: 12.36” x 13.66” x 8.70” (W x D x H); Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
- 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.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- 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 13.3x 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.
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they'll never forget, Farberware helps today's families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
Your Mid-Size Microwave Oven: A Smart Kitchen Companion
Choosing the right mid-size microwave oven makes cooking and reheating meals a breeze. These ovens are bigger than countertop models but smaller than full-size ranges. They fit nicely in most kitchens. This guide helps you find the perfect one.
Why a Mid-Size Microwave?
Mid-size microwaves offer a great balance. They have enough space for larger dishes and family meals. They don’t take up too much counter space. You can cook, defrost, and reheat food quickly.
Key Features to Look For
1. Capacity (Cubic Feet)
This tells you how much food can fit inside. For a mid-size oven, look for something between 1.0 and 2.0 cubic feet. A 1.2 cubic foot oven is good for families. It can hold a 13-inch dinner plate. A 1.6 cubic foot oven can fit a casserole dish.
2. Wattage (Power)
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most mid-size microwaves have between 900 and 1200 watts. 1000 watts is a good standard. It cooks food evenly and quickly.
3. Cooking Presets and Functions
Many microwaves have buttons for common foods. These include popcorn, pizza, baked potato, and beverages. Some ovens have sensor cooking. This adjusts cooking time automatically. It prevents overcooking.
4. Turntable Size
A larger turntable cooks food more evenly. It needs to be big enough for your favorite plates. Check the diameter of the turntable. Most mid-size ovens have turntables around 12-14 inches.
5. Interior Light
An interior light lets you see your food as it cooks. This is a simple but helpful feature. You can watch your food without opening the door.
6. Easy-to-Clean Interior
A non-stick interior coating makes cleaning simple. You can wipe up spills easily. Stainless steel interiors are durable and look nice.
Important Materials
1. Exterior Casing
Most microwave exteriors are made of durable plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel looks sleeker and is more resistant to scratches. Plastic is lighter and often more affordable.
2. Interior Cavity
The inside of the microwave is usually coated with enamel or a ceramic material. These materials are easy to clean and resist heat. Some higher-end models use stainless steel interiors.
3. Door and Window
The door has a glass window so you can see inside. The glass is usually tempered for safety. The door handle should feel sturdy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better parts. They offer good warranties.
- Build Quality: A microwave that feels solid and well-made will last longer.
- Consistent Heating: The best microwaves heat food evenly. No cold spots!
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are very noisy. Look for models that are quieter.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels light or rattles can break easily.
- Uneven Cooking: If your food is often cold in the middle, the microwave isn’t working well.
- Short Lifespan: Some microwaves stop working after only a few years.
User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Meals
Reheating leftovers is a snap. A mid-size microwave can heat a whole plate of spaghetti quickly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Quick Snacks
Making popcorn or heating up a frozen snack is easy. The dedicated popcorn button is a lifesaver.
Defrosting
Need to thaw chicken for dinner? Most microwaves have a defrost setting. It saves you time.
Simple Cooking
You can cook simple meals in a microwave. Think baked potatoes or steaming vegetables. Sensor cooking makes this even easier.
A mid-size microwave oven is a valuable addition to any kitchen. Consider these features and factors to pick the best one for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best capacity for a mid-size microwave?
A: For a mid-size microwave, a capacity between 1.0 and 2.0 cubic feet is usually best. This size fits most family needs.
Q: How important is wattage in a microwave?
A: Wattage is important because it affects how fast and evenly your food cooks. Higher wattage (around 900-1200 watts) is generally better.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” do?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect moisture. It then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level for your food.
Q: Are stainless steel interiors better than enamel?
A: Stainless steel interiors are very durable and easy to clean. Enamel interiors are also good and easy to clean, but can chip over time.
Q: How do I know if a microwave heats food evenly?
A: Look for reviews that mention even heating. A good test is to heat a plate of food and check for cold spots.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a mid-size microwave?
A: Yes, you can cook many simple meals. Things like baked potatoes, steamed vegetables, and some casseroles work well.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a mid-size microwave?
A: A good quality mid-size microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper care.
Q: Should I worry about the noise level of a microwave?
A: Yes, some microwaves can be quite loud. If noise is a concern, check reviews for information on quiet operation.
Q: What is a convection microwave, and do I need one?
A: A convection microwave has a fan and heating element that circulates hot air. This allows for baking and roasting, not just microwaving. It’s an advanced feature.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can clean it with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough spots, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe clean.