7 Best Mid-Size Microwave Ovens of 2025

This feature-packed powerhouse redefines what a mid-size microwave should offer, packing 1000 watts of cooking power, 10 precision power levels, and 6 smart auto menus into a sleek stainless-steel body. What truly sets the Chefman apart is its multi-phase cooking function, letting you program two different cooking stages—perfect for reheating leftovers and crisping them without overcooking. The mute mode and eco-friendly display shutoff make it ideal for dorms, apartments, or late-night snacks where noise and energy use matter.

In real-world use, the Chefman shines with consistent, even heating thanks to its removable 12” turntable and responsive digital controls. The +30 seconds express start is a small touch that makes a big difference when you’re in a rush, and the memory function saves time by recalling your most-used settings—no more fumbling with timers for coffee or oatmeal. While it handles standard meals with ease, dense or layered dishes (like lasagna) may need mid-cycle rotation for uniform results, a minor limitation shared across most in-class models.

Compared to the Farberware and Frigidaire options, the Chefman offers more programmability and user convenience, making it the go-to for tech-savvy users who want smart features without stepping into over-the-range territory. It’s not quite as minimalist as the Frigidaire, nor as budget-focused as the COMFEE’, but it strikes a sweet balance between innovation and reliability—delivering more features than the Farberware at a similar price point, all while maintaining a premium feel.

With Orville Redenbacher-certified popcorn, 1000 watts of power, and a massive 12.4” turntable, the SHARP delivers exceptional build quality and performance in a category often dominated by generic brands. Its sturdy interior finish and precision-engineered door hinge convey durability, while the 2-stage cooking function gives users fine control over complex reheating tasks. This is a microwave built for those who prioritize long-term reliability and consistent results over flashy features.

During testing, the SHARP handled everything from frozen burritos to steamed veggies with remarkable evenness, thanks to the oversized turntable that reduces cold spots. The Auto Cook presets are intuitive, and the weight-defrost feature accurately calculated thawing times without guesswork. However, the lack of a mute function or eco mode makes it less ideal for quiet environments or energy-conscious users—small omissions that stand out next to the Chefman or Toshiba.

When stacked against the Farberware and Frigidaire models, the SHARP feels more substantial and better engineered, though it commands a higher price. It doesn’t offer sensor cooking like the Toshiba, but it excels in mechanical reliability and cooking consistency, making it the top pick for users who want a tank-like microwave that just works—outperforming the Frigidaire in durability and heating precision, despite fewer smart features.

Don’t let its compact 0.7 cu. ft. size and 700W output fool you—the COMFEE’ is a budget-savvy workhorse that punches above its weight for small kitchens, offices, or college dorms. It delivers essential functionality with surprising polish: one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, and reheat, a bright digital display, and a 10” turntable that keeps meals rotating evenly. The silent mode and eco power-saving feature—which cuts standby consumption by 50%—make it a stealthy, efficient companion for shared or quiet spaces.

In daily use, the lower wattage means longer cook times for dense foods, and large plates may overhang the turntable due to the smaller cavity. But for beverages, instant noodles, or defrosting small portions, it performs reliably. The time and weight defrost options are surprisingly accurate, and the express 1–6 minute buttons streamline routine tasks. It won’t replace a full-sized unit for families, but for solo users or minimalists, it’s perfectly scaled and thoughtfully designed.

Next to the BLACK+DECKER and Farberware models, the COMFEE’ stands out as the most affordable entry point in the lineup, though it sacrifices space and power. It’s not a substitute for 1000W performance, but for those tight on budget or counter space, it offers more value than larger, pricier models with underused features—providing core functionality at a fraction of the cost of the SHARP or Toshiba.

The Farberware is the Goldilocks of mid-size microwaves: not too big, not too small, with 1000 watts of power and a 1.1 cu. ft. cavity that fits most dinner plates without hogging counter space. Its six one-touch presets, multi-stage cooking, and defrost-by-weight function make meal prep effortless, while the easy-clean interior resists stains and splatter—ideal for messy kitchens or busy households. This is the no-nonsense, reliable performer that gets the job done without distractions.

In practical testing, the Farberware reheated leftovers evenly and defrosted ground beef accurately using the weight-based setting. The add-30-seconds button is responsive, and the LED display remains clear and legible, even in bright kitchens. However, the lack of a mute function and basic exterior finish make it feel less refined than the Chefman or Toshiba—functional, but not luxurious. It doesn’t offer sensor cooking, but for straightforward tasks, it’s dependable and intuitive.

Compared to the Frigidaire and BLACK+DECKER, the Farberware offers more cooking flexibility than the Frigidaire, with better power than the 0.9 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER model. It’s the ideal middle ground for families wanting full-sized performance in a space-smart footprint, especially where features matter but budget is a concern—delivering more cooking versatility than the Frigidaire at a nearly identical price.

Engineered for maximized counterspace, this low-profile, compact microwave brings 1000 watts of power into tight kitchens, dorms, or office pantries without sacrificing performance. The sleek stainless-steel finish resists fingerprints and wipes clean effortlessly, while the removable glass turntable ensures even cooking and hassle-free maintenance. With six pre-programmed snacks—including wings, fries, and pizza—and auto-defrost for meat and poultry, it’s built for fast, fuss-free heating in space-constrained environments.

Real-world use confirms its strength in small-space efficiency: it fits neatly under cabinets and handles single-serve meals with precision. The rotating turntable minimizes hot spots, and the child safety lock adds peace of mind in homes with young kids. However, the control panel lacks a dedicated mute button, and the pre-sets are less customizable than those on the Chefman or Toshiba—fine for basics, but limiting for advanced users.

Against the Farberware and COMFEE’, the Frigidaire wins on design cohesion and footprint, though it offers fewer power options and no memory function. It’s not as feature-rich as the Chefman, but for those prioritizing a clean, compact look and seamless integration, it’s unmatched—offering better space optimization than the Farberware, even if it trails in programmability.

Sitting at the sweet spot of size and usability, the BLACK+DECKER delivers 900 watts of power in a 0.9 cu. ft. chassis—making it ideal for couples or small households who need more than a mini-microwave but don’t require full 1.1 cu. ft. capacity. The push-button door release is a standout, offering smooth, one-handed access that feels premium, while the 10.6” glass turntable ensures even heating across most dishes. With one-touch presets for dinner plates and beverages, it’s designed for daily convenience without clutter.

In testing, the 900W output reheated meals slightly slower than 1000W rivals, but the difference was negligible for most tasks. The large LED display is easy to read, and the interior light brightens even dim kitchens. However, the smaller cavity restricts larger cookware, and the lack of eco mode or mute function makes it less efficient than top-tier models. It’s a solid performer, but not a tech leader.

Compared to the COMFEE’ and Farberware, it bridges the gap in size and power, offering more space than the 0.7 cu. ft. COMFEE’ but less wattage than the Farberware. It’s not as powerful as the 1000W class, but for users wanting a mid-range size with a premium door mechanism, it’s a smart choice—balancing form and function better than the COMFEE’, though falling short of Farberware’s cooking power.

This is the undisputed champion of intelligent cooking, combining 1000 watts, a spacious 1.2 cu. ft. cavity, and Smart Humidity Sensor technology that automatically adjusts time and power for flawless results. The 12 auto menus, including sensor reheat and veggie steam, eliminate guesswork, while mute mode and eco mode cater to modern lifestyle needs. With a massive 12.4” removable turntable and multi-stage programming, the Toshiba doesn’t just cook—it anticipates your kitchen needs.

In real use, the sensor reheat function is a game-changer: it detects moisture levels and stops when food is perfectly warmed, not rubbery or cold in the center. The interior easily fits a 10” dinner plate, and the 10 power levels allow fine-tuned control for delicate tasks like melting chocolate. Only very thick dishes challenge the sensor, requiring manual override—but even then, performance remains strong.

Versus the Chefman and SHARP, the Toshiba adds a layer of automation those lack, making it ideal for busy households or less-experienced cooks. It’s pricier than the Farberware, but the smart features justify the cost—delivering more precision than the Chefman and superior convenience over the SHARP, all in a slightly larger, more versatile footprint.