8 Best Midsize Microwave Ovens of 2026

This Toshiba EM131A5C-BS brings serious smarts to midsize microwaving, standing out with its Smart Sensor humidity detection and 1.2 cu ft capacity—a rare combo that balances precision and space. With 1000W of cooking power, a removable 12.4-inch turntable, and 12 auto-cook menus, it’s engineered for users who want set-it-and-forget-it convenience without sacrificing control. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or cooking frozen meals, the sensor tech actively monitors moisture levels to prevent overcooking, solving the all-too-common microwave woe of rubbery food.

In real-world testing, the Toshiba shines when handling delicate tasks like steaming vegetables or reheating pasta—scenarios where most microwaves either underperform or dry things out. The 10 power levels allow fine-tuned control, while the one-touch start and mute function add thoughtful touches for late-night use. However, the interior lighting is modest, making it slightly harder to monitor cooking in dim kitchens, and the control panel beeps can feel intrusive—though the mute option fixes that. It handles larger plates well thanks to the spacious turntable, but bulky casserole dishes may still rub against the walls.

Compared to the SHARP B0CNQ9LVDZ, this Toshiba offers smarter automation and a larger cavity, making it a better pick for families or frequent cooks who value consistency. While the SHARP delivers solid basics, the Toshiba’s sensor-driven cooking and ECO mode give it an edge in both performance and efficiency. It’s the best overall midsize microwave for those who want intelligence and reliability in one sleek, easy-clean package—without paying premium all-in-one prices.

The Sharp 1.1 cu ft microwave is a no-frills powerhouse that nails the essentials with 1000W output and a smooth 12.4-inch carousel turntable, making it the go-to for users who prioritize reliability over bells and whistles. Its new LED interior lighting and white display modernize the look, while 10 power levels and 2-stage cooking provide enough flexibility for most everyday tasks. If you’re tired of confusing presets and want a microwave that just works—fast and consistently—this one delivers with refreshing simplicity.

During testing, the Sharp proved especially strong in even heating and defrosting accuracy, thanks to its well-calibrated power settings and consistent turntable rotation. The +30 seconds express key is a small but game-changing feature for quick top-offs, and the Auto Cook menus for common foods are surprisingly accurate. However, the 1.1 cu ft capacity feels slightly cramped compared to 1.2 cu ft models, and the interior coating isn’t as easy to wipe clean as Toshiba or Farberware’s smooth finishes. It handles standard dinner plates with ease but struggles with deeper dishes.

When stacked against the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS, the Sharp trades automation for straightforward functionality—it lacks smart sensors but offers a cleaner interface and faster response. It’s the best basic microwave for dorms, offices, or minimalist kitchens where you need dependable performance without programming fatigue. For those who cook simple meals and value quick, tactile controls, this Sharp is a lean, efficient machine that outperforms its modest price tag.

Don’t let its compact 0.9 cu ft size fool you—the Chefman 900W microwave packs a punch for budget-conscious buyers who still want modern features in a minimalist footprint. With 10 power levels, one-touch presets, and a mute button, it’s built for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or as a secondary unit where space is tight but convenience matters. The memory function lets you save favorite settings, a rare perk at this price, and the eco mode shuts off the display to save energy—smart touches that elevate its value.

In daily use, the Chefman handles reheating, popcorn, and beverages with impressive speed, though its 900W output means longer cook times for dense foods like baked potatoes or frozen entrees. The top-rack dishwasher-safe turntable is a cleaning win, and the child safety lock adds peace of mind. However, the interior depth limits plate size, and the plastic-heavy build feels less durable than metal-bodied rivals. It struggles with multi-stage cooking, lacking the finesse of higher-end models, but for basic tasks, it’s surprisingly capable.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER B07HG9YGZY, the Chefman offers similar features at a lower price, but with a slightly less premium feel. It’s the best budget-friendly microwave for students or renters who need essential functions without overspending. While it won’t replace a full-sized oven, it delivers solid performance where it counts—making it a smart starter microwave that doesn’t cut corners on usability.

The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS is a sensor-powered standout that redefines precision in midsize microwaving, making it the best choice for smart cooking in its class. Identical in specs to its black sibling, it leverages Smart Sensor humidity detection to auto-adjust time and power, ensuring perfectly reheated leftovers and flawlessly steamed veggies every time. With 1000W output, a 12.4-inch removable turntable, and 12 auto menus, it’s a kitchen ally for anyone who’s battled soggy or scorched meals.

Real-world tests confirm its sensor mode outperforms manual settings for delicate foods like fish or rice, adjusting mid-cycle to prevent drying. The ECO mode and mute function enhance usability, while the easy-clean interior resists stains and wipes down effortlessly. However, the silver finish shows fingerprints easily, and the beep sequence can’t be fully disabled without a long press—minor quirks that don’t undermine performance. It heats evenly across the turntable, though very large plates may still hit the walls.

Versus the Farberware B07VNT3L14, this Toshiba offers smarter automation and more presets, despite a similar footprint. While the Farberware matches it in capacity and power, it lacks the adaptive intelligence that makes this model excel. If you want hands-free precision and consistent results, the EM131A5C-SS is unmatched for sensor-driven cooking—blending high-tech convenience with everyday practicality in a sleek silver finish.

The Farberware 1.2 cu ft microwave strikes a perfect balance between size, smarts, and savings, earning its title as the best value for size in the midsize category. With 1000W power, smart sensor cooking, and a spacious 1.2 cu ft cavity, it delivers full-sized performance in a footprint that fits snugly on most counters. The six one-touch presets—including popcorn, pizza, and potato—work reliably, and the defrost-by-weight function takes the guesswork out of thawing.

In practice, the Farberware heats food evenly and efficiently, thanks to its consistent turntable and well-tuned sensor. The child safety lock and bright interior light add practicality, while the stainless steel finish resists scratches better than plastic models. However, the sensor is less responsive than Toshiba’s, occasionally undercooking dense items, and the control panel lacks a mute option, making it less ideal for nighttime use. It handles family-sized plates well, though very tall containers may not fit.

Compared to the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS, the Farberware offers nearly the same capacity and power at a lower cost, but with fewer smart features and no mute function. It’s the ideal pick for budget-focused households who want a large, sensor-equipped microwave without paying premium prices. For those prioritizing size and value over advanced automation, this Farberware is a no-nonsense winner that punches above its weight.

The GE GCST10A1WSS is a compact multitasker that redefines what a microwave can do, making it the best compact multifunction oven for small kitchens craving versatility. With 1050W power, air fry, convection, and broil modes, and a crisper pan, it replaces multiple appliances while saving counter space. The two-step child lock and LED display enhance safety and usability, and the 1.0 cu ft cavity fits most standard dishes—ideal for singles or couples.

Testing reveals its air fry mode delivers crispy fries and golden chicken nuggets without preheating, while convection baking browns evenly thanks to the elevated rack. The broil function adds a sear to meats and melts cheese beautifully—features absent in standard microwaves. However, the smaller capacity limits family meals, and the learning curve for combo cooking may frustrate beginners. It’s powerful but demands attention to avoid overcooking.

Against the Toshiba ML2-EC10SA(BS), this GE offers similar air fry and convection features in a smaller, more affordable unit, though with less cooking space and fewer presets. It’s the best choice for urban dwellers or minimalists who want maximum functionality in a compact design. While not a full oven replacement, it delivers gourmet results where space is tight—making it a smart upgrade from basic microwaving.

The Toshiba ML2-EC10SA(BS) is a kitchen powerhouse, merging microwave speed with full air fryer and convection capabilities in an 8-in-1 design—making it the best all-in-one cooking solution for serious home cooks. With 1000W microwave power, convection bake, broil, and odor removal mode, it replaces up to three appliances, freeing up counter space without sacrificing performance. The 12.4-inch position memory turntable rotates during microwave use and locks for air frying, a clever detail that boosts versatility.

In real use, it air fries crispy wings, bakes muffins, and broils salmon with impressive results, all while reheating leftovers faster than a standard oven. The multistage cooking lets you microwave then crisp in one cycle—a game-changer for frozen foods. However, the interface is complex, requiring a learning curve, and the fan noise during convection mode is noticeable. It fits a 12-inch pizza or whole chicken, but taller dishes may not clear the interior.

Compared to the GE GCST10A1WSS, this Toshiba offers more cooking modes and a larger turntable, though at a higher price. It’s the ultimate choice for meal-preppers and families who want restaurant-quality results from one appliance. If you’re ready to ditch multiple gadgets, this 8-in-1 microwave is a performance leader that delivers on its bold promises.

The BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu ft microwave wins with effortless design and intuitive operation, making it the best simple design for users who want clarity over complexity. Its push-button door release is a standout—no more awkward handle pulls—and the large LED display makes time and power settings easy to read. With 900W power, 10 power levels, and six pre-programmed buttons, it covers all essentials without cluttered menus or confusing icons.

In daily use, it heats drinks, reheats plates, and defrosts quickly, though the smaller cavity limits larger dishes. The removable 10.6-inch turntable is easy to clean, and the child safety lock works reliably. However, the stainless steel frame shows smudges, and the interior depth is shallow, making it hard to fit deep bowls. It lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or mute mode, but for basic tasks, it’s dependable.

Versus the Chefman B0DY9CXFGG, it offers a more premium look and smoother door mechanism, though at a higher price. It’s ideal for seniors, students, or secondary kitchens where simplicity and reliability matter most. If you want a no-hassle microwave with clean aesthetics, this BLACK+DECKER delivers straightforward performance in a sleek, compact body.