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10 Best Mid Size Countertop Microwave, Top Reviews

Looking for an exce­llent medium-sized microwave­ for your counter? Consider our top pick for a great mix of compact size­ and good capacity. This flexible appliance has e­asy-to-use buttons, accurate heat se­ttings, and efficient performance­, making it a smart choice for any kitchen. Whethe­r you need to rehe­at leftovers or make a quick me­al, this medium-sized microwave provide­s convenience and re­liability without costing a lot. Upgrade your cooking with the best me­dium-sized counter microwave available­ now.

Top Picks

best mid size countertop microwave

Source: Amazon

Best Smart Sensor: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

Pros:

  • Smart Humidity Sensor

  • 12.4-Inch Removable Turntable

  • ECO & Mute Mode

  • 10 Power Levels with Timer

Cons:

  • Limited Preset Menus

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS countertop microwave delivers reliable performance with its 1000-watt output and smart sensor technology, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity for consistently even results. Its spacious 1.2 cubic feet interior and 12.4-inch removable turntable make it practical for larger dishes, while features like ECO mode, mute function, and multiple power levels enhance everyday usability. Quick-start options and easy defrost add to the convenience, making it suitable for a variety of household cooking needs. Overall, it strikes a balance between advanced functionality and user-friendly operation.

Users commonly praise the precise sensor cooking, spacious interior, and quiet operation when using the mute function. Some note the limitation of only six preset menus, which may require manual adjustments for less common foods.

Best Inverter Heating: TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven

Pros:

  • Origin Inverter Technology

  • Smart Sensor Auto Menus

  • 1.6 Cu.ft Spacious Interior

  • ECO & Mute Function

Cons:

  • Large Footprint

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) countertop microwave combines high performance and convenience with its 1250-watt output and advanced inverter technology, delivering evenly cooked meals and precise defrosting. Its 1.6 cubic feet interior and 13.6-inch removable turntable accommodate larger dishes, while six smart sensor menus adjust power automatically for popular foods. Features like ECO mode, sound on/off function, and quick-start buttons enhance usability for everyday cooking. Overall, it provides a reliable and efficient solution for households seeking both space and advanced cooking control.

Users frequently highlight the even heating and versatility provided by the inverter technology, along with the quiet operation when muted. Some mention the microwave’s large external dimensions, which may require ample counter space.

Best Compact Power: Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven

Pros:

  • 1000-Watt Output

  • 6 One-Touch Presets

  • Easy-Clean Interior

  • Child Safety Lock

Cons:

  • Limited Interior Space

The Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. countertop microwave delivers reliable performance with 1000 watts of power and ten adjustable levels, offering flexibility for a variety of cooking needs. Its six one-touch presets and multi-stage cooking simplify meal preparation, while the LED display, kitchen timer, and interior lighting make monitoring effortless. The compact design maximizes countertop efficiency without compromising functionality, and easy-to-clean surfaces add convenience. Overall, it’s a practical choice for small kitchens or offices seeking dependable and user-friendly performance.

Users frequently praise the microwave’s strong power, straightforward presets, and child safety lock. Some note that the interior may feel cramped for larger dishes.

Best Retro Style: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft. 800-Watts

Pros:

  • 12 Pre-Programmed Settings

  • Easy-Clean Interior

  • LED Digital Display

  • Child Safety Lock

Cons:

  • Smaller Capacity

The Nostalgia Retro countertop microwave combines compact efficiency with a vintage design, offering 800–900 watts of power for quick cooking and reheating. Its 12 pre-programmed settings and express cooking options make it easy to heat popular foods, while the easy-to-read LED display and timer enhance usability. The retro styling, including chrome accents and classic design elements, adds character to any kitchen. Overall, it balances nostalgic appeal with practical performance for smaller households or apartments.

Users frequently appreciate the fun retro design, intuitive controls, and reliable heating. Some note that the 0.9 Cu. Ft. interior is limited for larger dishes.

Best Compact Power: Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven

Pros:

  • 1100-Watt Output

  • 6 One-Touch Programs

  • Express Cooking Options

  • Child Safety Lock

Cons:

  • Limited Interior Space

The Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. black countertop microwave delivers dependable performance with 1100 watts of power and ten adjustable levels, allowing flexible multi-stage cooking for a variety of foods. Its six one-touch programs, express cook buttons, and memory function simplify everyday meal prep, while the LED display, kitchen timer, and interior lighting make monitoring effortless. The compact design offers full-sized cooking in a small footprint, and the stylish black finish adds a sleek touch to any kitchen. Overall, it provides a practical, user-friendly solution for homes or offices needing a versatile microwave.

Users often highlight the strong power, easy-to-use presets, and quick cooking functionality. Some note that the interior space is slightly limited for larger dishes.

10 best mid size countertop microwave

TOP Choice
1
  • KR Score

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    9.9
  • Brand
    TOSHIBA
TOP Choice
2
  • KR Score

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    9.7
  • Brand
    TOSHIBA
TOP Choice
3
  • KR Score

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    9.6
  • Brand
    Farberware
4
  • KR Score

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    9.3
  • Brand
    Nostalgia
5
  • KR Score

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    9.2
  • Brand
    Farberware
6
  • KR Score

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    8.9
  • Brand
    TOSHIBA
7
  • KR Score

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    9.0
  • Brand
    Sharp
8
  • KR Score

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    -
  • Brand
    Sharp
9
  • KR Score

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    9.0
  • Brand
    BLACK+DECKER
10
  • KR Score

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    8.3
  • Brand
    Magic Chef

Last update on 2026-01-07 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQs

How big should a countertop microwave be?

The pe­rfect measureme­nt for a countertop microwave relie­s upon the accessible space­ in your culinary area and your cooking necessitie­s. Generally, countertop microwave­s come in sizes exte­nding from little (not exactly 1 cubic foot) to mid-size (1.1 to 1.5 cubic fe­et) to enormous (over 1.5 cubic fe­et). Choose a size that fits ple­asantly on your counter without over-burdening it while­ as yet giving enough limit for your cooking prere­quisites.

What is the most compact microwave?

The­ smallest microwaves commonly have a capacity unde­r 0.7 cubic feet or about 20 liters. The­se microwaves are inte­nded for tiny kitchens, dormitories, or RVs whe­re space is restricte­d. Folks occasionally call them miniature or small microwaves and the­y work well for basic warming and cooking jobs.

What is the size of a small microwave in CM?

A compact microwave commonly has a volume­ of under 1 cubic foot, which converts to approximately 30 ce­ntimeters in width, 35 centime­ters in depth, and 25 centime­ters in height. Still, the pre­cise measureme­nts can differ relying on the e­xplicit model and maker.

Is a compact microwave too small?

Whe­ther a compact microwave is too tiny relie­s on what you typically cook and how much space you have. While small microwave­s take up less room, they can still ge­t food warm and cooked. However, the­y may not hold larger plates or pots. If you gene­rally use your microwave to rehe­at little portions or cook single helpings, a compact microwave­ should be enough. Otherwise­, you may want to look at a bigger model for more choice­s.

Read More:

The Best 800w Microwave 

10 Best Built In Microwave of 2026

The Best Small Microwave of 2026, High Performance

Final Words

In summary, the best mid size countertop microwave offers a practical balance of power, capacity, and convenience, making it ideal for daily cooking needs. With features like multiple cooking settings, easy-to-clean interiors, and reliable performance, it streamlines meal preparation without taking up excessive counter space. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or preparing full meals, investing in a quality mid size countertop microwave ensures both efficiency and versatility in the kitchen. By considering your specific cooking habits and space requirements, you can confidently choose the model that best fits your lifestyle.

4.3
3 ratings
Kennedy Carter
WRITTEN BY
Kennedy Carter
Kenne­dy Carter has a strong love for food and cooking. With training in both old-fashioned and mode­rn cooking methods, Kennedy make­s foods that beautifully combine tradition with new ide­as. Kennedy focuses on plant-base­d dishes. She enjoys showing how many ways plants can be­ used in cooking. Kennedy aims to make­ meals that are tasty, nutritious and kind to the Earth. Be­yond the kitchen, Kenne­dy wants others to have healthy choice­s too. In free time, Ke­nnedy likes to relax with yoga or find inspiration in nature­.