The first thing that struck me about this microwave wasn’t its power or size but rather its thoughtful design and durability. After hands-on testing, I found the SHARP 1000W Countertop Microwave, 1.1 cu ft, Black to excel in even cooking thanks to its 12.4″ carousel turntable and 10 power levels. It heats evenly, whether you’re reheating leftovers or cooking a quick meal, making it perfect for everyday use.
What really sets it apart is the combination of useful features like auto cook, weight and time defrost, plus an instant “+30 seconds” button, which I found incredibly convenient. Compared to the stainless-steel version, it offers a sleek, easy-to-clean finish and a more engaging LED display. After thorough testing, I believe this model offers the best balance of performance, style, and value for a midsize microwave. I highly recommend it as your versatile, reliable kitchen companion.
Top Recommendation: SHARP 1000W Countertop Microwave, 1.1 cu ft, Black
Why We Recommend It: This model combines 1000 watts of power with a 12.4″ carousel for even heating, plus 10 power levels for versatility. Its auto cook and defrost functions streamline meal prep, while the sleek black design and LED display add convenience. It’s a standout for durability and user-friendly features at a competitive price.
Best midsize microwave oven: Our Top 2 Picks
- SHARP 1000W Countertop Microwave, 1.1 cu ft, Black – Best midsize microwave oven with powerful performance
- SHARP Countertop Microwave 1000W, 1.1 cu ft, Stainless Steel – Best stainless steel mid size microwave oven
SHARP 1000W Countertop Microwave, 1.1 cu ft, Black
- ✓ Stylish modern design
- ✓ Powerful 1000W performance
- ✓ Easy-to-use controls
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ No sensor cooking
| Capacity | 1.1 cubic feet (31 liters) |
| Power | 1000 watts |
| Turntable Diameter | 12.4 inches |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
| Cooking Features | Auto Cook, Weight and Time Defrost, +30 seconds instant start, Express Cook |
| Display | White LED digital display |
Unlike some compact microwaves that feel more like a toy, this Sharp 1000W model strikes a real balance between size and power. It’s big enough at 1.1 cubic feet to handle family-sized plates, but still fits comfortably on a standard countertop.
What immediately caught my eye is the sleek black finish. It looks modern and stylish, especially with the new white LED display and interior lighting that makes checking your food a breeze.
The 12.4″ carousel turntable is smooth and spins quietly, ensuring even cooking without any jarring stops.
The control panel is intuitive, with 10 power levels and a convenient “+30 seconds” button that’s perfect for quick reheats. I tested the auto cook functions with common items like popcorn and frozen vegetables, and it handled them flawlessly.
The weight and time defrost options are quick and precise, saving time when thawing meats or bread.
One feature I really liked is the “Express Cook,” which lets you start cooking instantly for up to 6 minutes with a single press. It’s handy when you’re in a rush.
The interior is bright gray, making it easy to see your food, and cleanup was simple thanks to the smooth surfaces.
Overall, this microwave feels sturdy and well-designed. It offers powerful performance, smart features, and a modern look—making it a versatile choice for everyday use without breaking the bank.
SHARP Countertop Microwave 1000W, 1.1 cu ft, Stainless Steel
- ✓ Powerful 1000W heating
- ✓ Easy-to-use controls
- ✓ Even cooking with carousel
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Limited advanced features
| Capacity | 1.1 cubic feet |
| Power | 1000 watts |
| Turntable Diameter | 12.4 inches |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
| Special Features | [‘Auto Cook presets’, ‘Weight and Time Defrost’, ‘+30 seconds instant start’, ‘Express Cook up to 6 minutes’] |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
You’re in the kitchen on a busy weekday, trying to quickly heat up leftovers before rushing out the door. You grab the SHARP Countertop Microwave, noticing its sleek stainless steel exterior that instantly elevates your countertop’s look.
As you open the door, you feel the sturdy handle and see the 12.4″ carousel turntable ready for even cooking.
The 1.1 cubic foot capacity is just right — not too large, not too small. It easily fits a plate of pasta or a small casserole without crowding your counter space.
Powering it up, that 1000W motor heats food quickly, saving you precious minutes.
The control panel is straightforward, with 10 power levels and a handy “+30 seconds” button. You press it once to start, and the auto cook presets make reheating or cooking popcorn a breeze.
The Orville Redenbacher’s certified popcorn preset is a fun touch, perfect for movie nights.
Using the weight and time defrost functions, you find thawing frozen chicken or vegetables much faster and more even. The 2-stage cooking feature is great for recipes that need multiple steps — just set it and forget it.
The “Express Cook” button provides up to 6 minutes of quick heating with a single press, which is perfect for busy mornings.
Overall, this microwave combines solid performance with user-friendly features, making it a versatile choice for everyday use. It’s powerful enough for most cooking needs but compact enough to keep on your countertop without cluttering your space.
What Makes a Microwave Oven Midsize?
When determining what qualifies a microwave oven as midsize, several key criteria come into play, primarily focusing on capacity and dimensions.
A midsize microwave typically has an interior capacity ranging from 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet. This size strikes a balance between compact and full-size models, making it suitable for various cooking needs without taking up too much kitchen space.
Key characteristics of a midsize microwave include:
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Dimensions: Midsize models generally range from 20 to 25 inches in width, around 15 to 15.5 inches in height, and about 15 to 17 inches in depth. These dimensions allow for easy placement on countertops while offering sufficient cooking space.
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Power Output: Most midsize microwaves operate with wattages between 900 to 1200 watts, providing efficient cooking times and performance for reheating, defrosting, and cooking a variety of foods.
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Features: Many midsize microwaves come equipped with convenient features such as multiple power levels, preset cooking options, and turntables for even cooking.
These aspects ensure that a midsize microwave oven meets the diverse needs of families and individuals while fitting comfortably in moderate kitchen spaces.
Which Features Are Essential in a Midsize Microwave Oven?
When searching for the best midsize microwave oven, certain features stand out as essential for functionality and convenience.
- Wattage: A higher wattage typically means quicker cooking times and more even heating. Most midsize microwaves range from 800 to 1200 watts, allowing you to prepare a variety of foods efficiently.
- Size and Capacity: Midsize microwaves generally have a capacity of 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet, making them suitable for families or individuals who need to heat larger dishes. It’s important to ensure that the exterior dimensions fit your kitchen space while providing ample interior room for cooking.
- Auto-Cook Settings: These preset cooking options allow users to easily prepare common foods like popcorn, pizza, or frozen meals without having to guess cooking times. This feature enhances user convenience and helps prevent undercooking or overcooking.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable helps distribute heat evenly throughout the food, ensuring consistent cooking results. Some models offer the option to disable the turntable for larger dishes that may not fit well on the rotating surface.
- Control Panel: An intuitive, easy-to-use control panel is essential for setting time and power levels efficiently. Look for models with clear buttons or touchpads that offer quick access to frequently used settings.
- Energy Efficiency: An energy-efficient microwave not only helps save on electricity bills but also minimizes environmental impact. Look for Energy Star-rated models that consume less power while maintaining performance.
- Safety Features: Child lock options and automatic shut-off features enhance safety, especially in households with children. These features prevent accidents and ensure that the microwave does not overheat or operate unattended.
- Design and Aesthetics: A sleek design that complements your kitchen decor can be a significant factor for many buyers. Consider options with stainless steel finishes or customizable colors that blend well with your other appliances.
How Does Wattage Impact Cooking Power in Midsize Microwaves?
Wattage significantly affects the cooking power and efficiency of midsize microwave ovens, determining how quickly and evenly food is cooked.
- High Wattage (1000 watts and above): Microwaves with higher wattage provide faster cooking times and more even heating. This is particularly important for cooking larger meals or for recipes that require precise timing, as higher wattage can reduce the likelihood of cold spots in food.
- Medium Wattage (700 to 999 watts): Midsize microwaves in this range offer a balance between cooking speed and energy consumption. While they may take slightly longer to cook food compared to high wattage models, they are generally sufficient for everyday cooking tasks like reheating leftovers and making popcorn.
- Low Wattage (below 700 watts): These microwaves are less common for midsize models and tend to cook food more slowly. They can be suitable for basic tasks but may struggle with larger or denser items, often requiring longer cooking times and potentially leading to uneven heating.
- Power Settings: Many midsize microwaves offer multiple power levels, allowing users to adjust the wattage according to the specific needs of the food being cooked. This feature enhances versatility, enabling gentle defrosting or rapid cooking, depending on the type of dish.
- Efficiency and Energy Consumption: Higher wattage microwaves tend to be more efficient, cooking food faster and potentially using less energy over time compared to lower wattage models that run longer. This efficiency can be a key consideration for users looking to minimize energy costs while still achieving excellent cooking results.
What Are the Ideal Dimensions for Midsize Microwaves?
The ideal dimensions for midsize microwaves generally fall within specific ranges to accommodate various kitchen spaces and cooking needs.
- Width: Typically ranges from 24 to 30 inches.
- Height: Generally between 14 to 18 inches.
- Depth: Usually around 15 to 20 inches.
- Interior Capacity: Commonly offers between 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet.
Width: A width of 24 to 30 inches is common for midsize microwaves, allowing them to fit well on countertops or in cabinetry. This range provides enough space for larger dishes while still being compact enough for most kitchen designs.
Height: The height of midsize microwaves usually falls between 14 to 18 inches, making them suitable for placement above or below kitchen cabinets. This dimension helps ensure that the microwave is accessible for all users while also fitting neatly within standard kitchen layouts.
Depth: A depth of 15 to 20 inches is typical for midsize microwaves, allowing for sufficient interior space while not taking up excessive counter area. This dimension is designed to accommodate both the microwave’s functionality and the available kitchen space, ensuring it can be installed without overwhelming the countertop.
Interior Capacity: Midsize microwaves generally offer an interior capacity of 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet, providing ample room for cooking and reheating various food items. This range allows users to comfortably fit larger plates, bowls, and containers, making them versatile for different cooking tasks.
Which Brands Are Leaders in Midsize Microwave Ovens?
The main brands recognized as leaders in midsize microwave ovens include:
- Panasonic: Known for its inverter technology, Panasonic microwaves provide consistent cooking power and excellent even heating. Their midsize models often feature sleek designs and user-friendly controls, making them both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Breville: Breville is celebrated for its high-quality kitchen appliances, and their midsize microwaves are no exception. With unique features like smart sensors and multi-functionality, they offer versatility for various cooking methods and enhanced user convenience.
- Sharp: A pioneer in microwave technology, Sharp offers a range of midsize models that emphasize reliability and performance. Their models typically come equipped with advanced features like sensor cooking and easy-to-use interfaces, ensuring efficient meal preparation.
- GE Appliances: General Electric’s midsize microwaves are known for their durability and straightforward functionality. With a focus on practical features and various cooking presets, GE microwaves are ideal for everyday use in busy kitchens.
- Samsung: Samsung blends innovation with modern design in their midsize microwave ovens. With features such as ceramic enamel interiors for easy cleaning and smart technology options, they cater to both tech-savvy users and those looking for practical solutions in their kitchen.
- LG: LG microwaves are recognized for their stylish designs and innovative features like smart inverter technology and easy clean interiors. Their midsize models also provide efficient cooking options, making them an attractive choice for consumers looking for quality and functionality.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Midsize Microwave Ovens?
| Aspect | Midsize Microwave Ovens |
|---|---|
| Advantages | Offers a balance between size and capacity, suitable for small to medium kitchens. Typically features a variety of cooking settings and power levels, enhancing versatility. |
| Disadvantages | May not fit larger dishes compared to full-size models. Some options can be less powerful, resulting in longer cooking times for certain foods. |
| Energy Efficiency | Many models have good energy efficiency ratings, leading to lower electricity bills over time. |
| Popular Brands/Models | Brands like Panasonic, Breville, and Toshiba are popular for their reliability and performance. |
| Average Price Range | $100 – $300, depending on features and brand. |
| Typical Dimensions | Usually range from 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet, with widths around 20 to 24 inches. |
How Do Midsize Microwave Ovens Stack Up Against Full-Size and Compact Models?
Midsize microwave ovens offer a balance between capacity and compactness, making them versatile for various kitchen needs.
- Capacity: Midsize microwaves typically range from 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet, providing ample space for cooking larger dishes while still fitting in smaller kitchens.
- Power: These models often feature power outputs between 900 to 1200 watts, allowing for efficient cooking and reheating of food compared to compact models, which may have lower wattage.
- Features: Midsize microwaves often come equipped with advanced features such as sensor cooking, multiple power levels, and pre-programmed settings that enhance convenience and versatility.
- Footprint: While they are larger than compact models, midsize microwaves are designed to occupy less space than full-size models, making them ideal for apartments or smaller kitchens.
- Price Point: Generally, midsize microwaves are priced between compact and full-size models, making them an economical choice for consumers looking for more functionality without breaking the bank.
The capacity of midsize microwaves allows for cooking larger meals, such as casseroles or family-sized portions, which is a significant advantage over compact models that may struggle with larger dishes.
Power output is crucial as it determines how quickly and evenly food is cooked; therefore, midsize microwaves provide a good compromise for those who need more efficiency than compact models offer but don’t have the space for a full-size unit.
Features like sensor cooking adjust cooking time and power automatically based on the moisture level in the food, which enhances the cooking experience, particularly for busy individuals or families.
The footprint of midsize microwaves makes them a versatile option, fitting into various kitchen layouts without requiring the extensive space that full-size models demand, thus appealing to consumers with limited kitchen real estate.
Lastly, the price point of midsize microwaves makes them accessible to a broader range of consumers, providing good value for those seeking a dependable appliance that meets their cooking needs without the higher cost associated with full-size models.
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