Upgrading your kitchen appliances can transform the way you cook and entertain. When it comes to countertop microwaves, the options are endless, but finding the perfect fit for your space and needs is key. From powerful performance to user-friendly features, these five medium-sized models offer a balanced blend of efficiency and style. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or simply looking to streamline your cooking routine, exploring these top-rated microwaves might just be the game-changer your culinary dreams have been waiting for. Discover how these versatile appliances can elevate your kitchen experience and unlock a world of culinary possibilities.
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven (EM131A5C-BS)
If you're looking for a reliable and versatile medium-sized countertop microwave, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is an excellent choice that offers a range of convenient features.
With its 1.2 cu ft capacity and 1100W of power, this microwave can handle all your heating and reheating needs. It boasts pre-programmed sensor cooking options for popular foods, as well as the ability to customize up to three favorite settings.
The intuitive control panel and large digital display make it easy to use, while the interior light and child safety lock add to the overall convenience.
Customers rave about its quiet operation and effective, even cooking.
Though the stainless steel exterior may be prone to fingerprints, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a top-rated microwave that'll upgrade your kitchen with its impressive performance and user-friendly design.
Best For: The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS countertop microwave is best for those seeking a reliable, versatile, and user-friendly microwave with a range of convenient features.
Pros:
- Quiet operation
- Easy to use with intuitive controls
Cons:
- Stainless steel exterior prone to fingerprints
- Limited color options
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven (EM925A5A-BS)
For those seeking a medium-sized countertop microwave that boasts a sleek black stainless steel finish and a range of convenient features, the TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS is an excellent choice.
Sporting a 0.9 cubic foot capacity and a 900-watt cooking power, this microwave is perfect for reheating meals and whipping up quick snacks.
Its intuitive control panel makes it a breeze to navigate the six auto-cook menus, while the mute function and eco mode ensure a quieter, more energy-efficient operation.
Weighing in at just 27.3 pounds, this TOSHIBA model is easy to move around and fits neatly on your countertop.
With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 29,000 customers, it's clear that this microwave delivers reliable performance and impressive value for the price.
Best For: Homeowners or small households looking for an affordable and compact microwave with convenient features and a sleek design.
Pros:
- Efficient 900-watt cooking power for quick reheating and cooking
- Intuitive controls with easy-to-read digital display
Cons:
- Front feet may not provide optimal stability on some surfaces
- Glass turntable support issues reported by a small number of users
Farberware Countertop Microwave (1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft.)
The compact Farberware Countertop Microwave (1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft.) is an ideal choice for those living in apartments, dorms, or small spaces who need a reliable and budget-friendly microwave for quick meal preparation.
With its 1000-watt power and 1.3 cubic feet capacity, this Farberware model can efficiently heat up food and drinks.
The six one-touch cooking options for popcorn, potato, and pizza make it user-friendly, while the clear LED display and easy-grip door handle add to its convenience.
While the ventilation system could be improved to reduce moisture buildup, the stainless steel interior and exterior ensure easy cleaning.
Overall, this Farberware microwave offers a great value, earning high praise from customers for its design, functionality, and price point.
Best For: Compact kitchens, dorms, and apartments where a reliable and budget-friendly microwave for quick meal preparation is needed.
Pros:
- Efficient 1000-watt power and 1.3 cubic feet capacity
- User-friendly with six one-touch cooking options
Cons:
- Ventilation system could be improved to reduce moisture buildup
- Some users reported issues with durability after extended use
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.2 cu ft
With a powerful 1100-watt output and a spacious 1.2 cu ft capacity, the Farberware Countertop Microwave is the ideal choice for medium-sized households looking to quickly and efficiently heat, cook, and reheat a variety of dishes.
This microwave boasts ten adjustable power levels, allowing you to precisely control the cooking process, while the six one-touch cooking options and express cook feature make it a breeze to use.
The intuitive keypad and large digital display ensure easy operation, and the memory function lets you customize and save your favorite settings for future use.
Crafted with a sleek stainless steel exterior and easy-to-clean black interior, this microwave not only performs exceptionally well but also complements your kitchen's décor.
Plus, the added safety of the child lock feature provides peace of mind for families.
Best For: Medium-sized households seeking a powerful, spacious, and user-friendly countertop microwave for quick and efficient heating, cooking, and reheating.
Pros:
- Powerful 1100-watt output for rapid cooking and reheating
- Spacious 1.2 cu ft capacity accommodates various dish sizes
Cons:
- Some users report initial loudness during operation
- Grill function may be complex to program for some users
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.1 cu ft
Offering a 1.1 cubic foot capacity and 1000 watts of cooking power, the Farberware Countertop Microwave is a practical choice for smaller kitchens or those with limited counter space.
Its compact dimensions of 16.54 x 20.2 x 12.03 inches make it easy to accommodate, while the stainless steel exterior offers a sleek, easy-to-clean design.
You'll appreciate the versatility of its ten power levels and multi-stage cooking capabilities, as well as the six one-touch presets for common items like popcorn and pizza.
The clear LED display and intuitive controls, including the handy Add 30-Seconds function, ensure straightforward operation.
Although the interior lighting is a bit dim, the Farberware microwave delivers consistent, even cooking performance that satisfies most users.
With a reasonable price point and generally positive customer feedback, this model represents a solid value in the countertop microwave market.
Best For: The Farberware Countertop Microwave is best suited for smaller kitchens, apartments, dorms, or offices where compact size and easy-to-use features are prioritized.
Pros:
- Offers 1000 watts of cooking power and a 1.1 cubic foot capacity in a space-saving design
- Features convenient one-touch presets and multi-stage cooking options for versatile performance
Cons:
- Interior lighting is dim, making it difficult to clearly see the contents during cooking
- Operational noise is more noticeable than some other models
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Medium Size Countermicrowave
When picking a medium-sized countertop microwave, consider the power and capacity that suit your needs.
Look for an intuitive control panel design that makes cooking simple.
Explore versatile cooking options, energy efficiency, a compact footprint, and appealing aesthetics to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Power and Capacity Considerations
Power and capacity are two critical factors to weigh when selecting a medium-sized countertop microwave. You'll typically find models ranging from 900 to 1100 watts, with higher wattage resulting in quicker cooking times and more efficient heating.
When it comes to capacity, most medium microwaves offer between 0.9 to 1.3 cubic feet, allowing you to accommodate various dish sizes and types. Look for models with 10 power levels, as this versatility enables you to customize your cooking experience based on the food being prepared.
Multi-stage cooking capabilities can also be a valuable feature, streamlining processes like defrosting followed by cooking in one seamless operation. Evaluating the turntable size, usually around 10 to 12.4 inches in diameter, is crucial as well, as a larger turntable can enhance cooking efficiency by ensuring even heat distribution.
Intuitive Control Panel Design
Beyond the power and capacity considerations, an intuitive control panel design can significantly enhance the user experience of a medium-sized countertop microwave.
Look for large, clearly labeled buttons that make it easy to navigate the microwave's features. A bright digital display that shows cooking time, power settings, and a countdown timer can help you monitor the cooking process more effectively.
One-touch cooking options are a game-changer, allowing you to access specific functions, like popcorn or pizza, with just a single press. This streamlines the cooking experience, making it a breeze to prepare your favorite meals.
Moreover, multi-stage cooking capabilities enable you to program different cooking times and power levels in a single sequence, simplifying meal preparation.
For households with young children, child safety locks integrated into the control panel design can provide added peace of mind, preventing accidental operation and ensuring the safety of your little ones.
With these thoughtful design features, your medium-sized countertop microwave can become a true kitchen companion.
Versatile Cooking Options
In addition to intuitive control panels, medium-sized countertop microwaves should offer a range of versatile cooking options to cater to your diverse culinary needs. Look for models that provide pre-programmed settings for common items like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes. These one-touch options will simplify meal preparation and deliver consistent results, taking the guesswork out of cooking.
Moreover, seek out microwaves with multiple power settings, typically 10 or more. This versatility allows you to efficiently defrost, reheat, and cook a variety of foods to perfection. For even greater flexibility, consider models with multi-stage cooking capabilities, enabling you to seamlessly transition between defrosting and cooking or reheating.
Lastly, convenient features like memory functions can save your favorite cooking settings, streamlining your routine and making meal prep a breeze. With these versatile cooking options, your medium-sized countertop microwave will become an indispensable tool in your kitchen.
Energy Efficiency and Eco-mode
Along with versatile cooking options, energy efficiency is another important factor to consider when choosing a medium-sized countertop microwave.
Many models come equipped with eco-mode features that reduce power consumption during standby and cooking, helping to lower your electricity bills.
Look for microwaves that offer multiple power settings, allowing you to select lower wattage for less intensive cooking tasks, contributing to energy savings.
Utilizing the eco-mode can lead to a significant reduction in energy use, as it minimizes unnecessary power draw when the microwave isn't actively cooking.
Additionally, sensors can optimize cooking times and power levels, ensuring your food is cooked efficiently without overusing energy.
By choosing a microwave with a high energy efficiency rating, you can enjoy long-term savings and a reduced environmental impact due to its lower energy consumption.
Energy-efficient features make a big difference, so be sure to prioritize them when upgrading your kitchen.
Compact Footprint and Aesthetics
Compact footprint and aesthetics are crucial considerations when selecting a medium-sized countertop microwave for your kitchen. With limited counter space, you'll want a model that occupies minimal real estate while seamlessly blending with your existing decor.
Fortunately, medium-sized microwaves typically have a compact footprint, ranging from 16 to 21 inches in width, making them an ideal fit for kitchens with tight quarters.
Beyond functionality, the aesthetic appeal of your microwave can enhance the overall look of your kitchen. With stylish finishes like black stainless steel, these microwaves can complement modern kitchen designs, elevating the visual appeal of your culinary command center.
Additionally, with a manageable weight of 27 to 35 pounds, repositioning your microwave for cleaning or during kitchen reorganizations is a breeze.
The user-friendly controls and bright displays on medium-sized microwaves ensure ease of use, while the versatile turntable, with diameters around 10 to 12.4 inches, allows you to heat and reheat a variety of dish sizes with ease.
Noise Level and Sound Settings
Noise level and sound settings are crucial factors to consider when choosing a medium-sized countertop microwave. You'll want to prioritize models designed for quieter operation, which can enhance the cooking experience in shared living spaces.
Many models come equipped with sound control options, allowing you to mute beeping sounds during operation and at the end of cooking cycles for a more peaceful environment.
Users often report that quieter models provide a more pleasant cooking experience, particularly in homes with children or in open-concept living areas. The operational noise of microwaves can be a consideration, as some models are known to have excessive beeping or louder cooking sounds compared to others.
It's advisable to check customer reviews and product specifications regarding noise levels before making your purchase, as this can greatly impact your satisfaction in day-to-day use.
Reliable Performance and Durability
When selecting a medium-sized countertop microwave, you'll want to prioritize models with reliable performance and durable construction to ensure long-lasting functionality in your kitchen. Look for a minimum power output of 900 watts, as higher wattage typically leads to faster and more even cooking results. A stainless steel exterior not only enhances the microwave's longevity but also makes it easier to clean and maintain.
User reviews can provide valuable insights into a microwave's durability and reliability, so be sure to read about its consistent cooking times and effective defrosting features. Additionally, consider models with warranties of at least one year, as this demonstrates the manufacturer's confidence in the product's quality.
Features like a child safety lock and eco mode can further contribute to the microwave's longevity by promoting safe and energy-efficient operation. By focusing on these factors, you can find a medium-sized countertop microwave that will reliably serve your kitchen needs for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Microwaves Be Used for Commercial Purposes?
While these microwaves are primarily designed for residential use, you could potentially use them for light commercial purposes, such as in a small office or break room. However, their durability and capacity may not be suitable for heavy-duty commercial kitchens.
What Is the Warranty Period for These Microwaves?
The warranty period for these microwaves can vary, but many manufacturers offer a 1-year limited warranty covering parts and labor. Be sure to review the specific warranty details before making your purchase to ensure it meets your needs.
Can the Microwaves Be Installed Under a Cabinet?
Can the microwaves be installed under a cabinet? Yes, most medium-sized countertop microwaves are designed to be installed under a cabinet, providing convenient and space-saving placement in your kitchen. Make sure to check the manufacturer's installation instructions.
How Does the Energy Efficiency of These Microwaves Compare?
The energy efficiency of these microwaves can vary, but you'll want to look for models with Energy Star certification. This ensures they meet strict guidelines for power consumption and won't drive up your utility bills.
Are There Any Special Cleaning Instructions for These Microwaves?
Most microwaves have cleaning instructions in the manual. Generally, you'll want to wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoid harsh cleaners, and keep the vent clear. Follow the manufacturer's guidance for optimal performance and longevity.
Conclusion
Upgrade your kitchen with these powerful and efficient medium-sized countertop microwaves.
From customizable settings to one-touch cooking, these appliances offer reliable performance and stylish designs to elevate your culinary adventures.
With capacities ranging from 0.9 to 1.3 cu ft, you'll find the perfect fit for your kitchen space.
Experience the convenience and versatility these microwaves provide, making your cooking experience better than ever.