5 Best Midsize Microwave Ovens of 2026

The Farberware 1.1 cu ft microwave punches well above its weight, delivering reliable performance and essential features at a wallet-friendly price—making it a top contender for value seekers. With 1000 watts of power and six one-touch presets including popcorn, potato, and pizza, it handles daily meals with speed and simplicity. The 1.1 cu ft cavity is compact yet functional, fitting standard dinner plates and mugs, while the add 30-seconds button and express cooking (1–6 minutes) streamline frequent use. For students, singles, or office kitchens, this microwave solves the core problem of quick, hassle-free cooking without unnecessary frills.

During testing, the defrost-by-weight function performed accurately, gently thawing chicken breasts without edge-cooking, and the multi-stage cooking allowed for custom sequences—like defrosting then reheating in one go. The LED display is bright and legible, and interior lighting made monitoring food easy. However, the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to manually adjust times for best results, and the smaller turntable (11.8″) occasionally left corners of larger dishes underheated. Still, the easy-clean interior and child safety lock add practicality, especially in shared spaces.

Compared to the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, the Farberware offers higher wattage (1000W vs 700W) and more intuitive controls, making it noticeably faster and more versatile. While it doesn’t have ECO mode or mute function, it outperforms budget models in cooking consistency and build quality. It’s best for users who want dependable, no-nonsense performance in a modest footprint. It delivers more power and convenience than the COMFEE’ at a slightly higher cost, making it a better balance of affordability and functionality for everyday needs.

Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) is the undisputed leader in the midsize microwave category, combining 1.6 cu ft capacity, 1200W power, and smart sensor technology into a sleek black stainless-steel design that elevates any kitchen. The 13.6-inch position memory turntable is a game-changer—returning to the same spot after opening ensures safer, easier access, especially when handling hot dishes. With pre-programmed sensor menus for pizza, vegetables, and popcorn, it consistently delivers restaurant-quality reheating without guesswork. If you’re tired of dry leftovers or undercooked meals, this model erases those pain points with precision humidity sensing and multi-stage cooking.

In real-world use, the extra 200 watts and larger cavity made a tangible difference—fitting a full 13-inch pizza with room to spare and reheating family-sized portions evenly in under three minutes. The auto-defrost function handled a 2-pound roast flawlessly, and the memory function saved custom settings for frequent tasks. Even with its size, the digital interface remains intuitive, and the sound on/off feature keeps nighttime use quiet. However, its larger footprint (21.77” wide) may challenge smaller countertops, and the control panel’s sensitivity can lead to accidental inputs.

Against the EM131A5C-SS, this model offers greater capacity, higher power, and more advanced features, justifying its premium positioning. While the Farberware excels in value, the ML-EM45P(BS) is built for families or heavy users who need maximum versatility and consistent results. It’s the only midsize microwave here with a position memory turntable and 1200W output, making it the best all-around performer. It outpaces the smaller Toshiba in both power and convenience, offering a noticeable upgrade for those willing to invest in long-term kitchen performance.

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a compact powerhouse tailored for tight spaces where every inch counts—dorms, RVs, or minimalist kitchens. Despite its 0.7 cu ft size, it delivers 700 watts of reliable power and six pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages, making it surprisingly capable for quick meals. The push-button door release is a rare and welcome feature, offering smooth, one-handed access that’s especially useful when juggling food and utensils. With a removable 10-inch turntable and bright interior light, it balances convenience and efficiency in a sleek stainless-steel shell.

In practice, the 30-second express cooking shortcut shines for reheating coffee or oatmeal, and the digital display is easy to read even in low light. While the lower wattage means longer cook times compared to 1000W models, it’s sufficient for single servings and light cooking. The child safety lock adds peace of mind, and the UL certification ensures safety compliance. However, it struggles with larger plates and deep dishes due to limited interior height, and the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to monitor food closely to avoid overcooking.

Stacked against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, it offers a more premium finish and push-button door, but both share similar capacity and power. It’s not meant to replace a full-sized microwave but excels as a secondary unit or for solo users. Ideal for those prioritizing space-saving design and basic reliability, it trades raw power for portability and simplicity. It offers better build quality than the COMFEE’ at a slightly higher cost, making it a smarter pick for users who value durability and ease of use in a compact form.

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is a budget-savvy gem that proves you don’t need to overspend for essential microwave functions. With 700 watts, one-touch auto-cook buttons, and silent mode, it delivers surprising versatility for its size and price. The 0.7 cu ft cavity fits standard mugs and small plates, and the 10-inch glass turntable ensures even heating for single servings. Its ECO Mode slashes standby power by 50%, a rare feature at this price point, making it ideal for eco-conscious users or those leaving it plugged in 24/7. For students or renters, it solves the core need for affordable, space-efficient cooking without sacrificing key features.

Real-world testing showed the popcorn and reheat presets worked reliably, though results varied slightly depending on food density—requiring occasional manual tweaks. The add 30 seconds and 1–6 minute express cooking made quick tasks effortless, and the bright digital display was easy to navigate. However, the lack of sensor cooking and lower wattage mean longer cook times and less precision than higher-end models. The interior light helped monitor food, but the compact size limits its use for family meals or large containers.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, it offers identical capacity and power but skips the push-button door in favor of a traditional handle. It’s the most affordable option in the lineup, making it perfect for temporary setups or minimalists on a tight budget. While it lacks premium finishes or advanced features, it covers the basics flawlessly. It provides the same core functionality as the BLACK+DECKER at a lower cost, making it the best entry-level choice for those who want simple, energy-efficient cooking without frills.