Best Medium (Mid-Size) Microwaves

1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet is the size most American kitchens actually buy — large enough for a dinner plate, small enough to leave room for a coffee maker. At 900–1000W with sensor cooking standard, this tier hits the price-to-performance crossover where extra spending stops mattering.

• ✓ 1000W is the industry standard — it's fast enough for defrosting meat, reheating casseroles, and heating water reliably.
• ✓ At this size, sensor cooking becomes standard — it's the single most useful feature for preventing overcooked food edges.
• ✓ Turntable diameter typically hits 12.4–13 inches, fitting most dinner plates and serving bowls without cramping.
• ✓ This category includes both countertop and OTR models at similar price points — OTR saves counter space if it matches your kitchen style.

290 models in this guide