Mid-size microwaves are the most common choice because they balance capacity and footprint. They hold full dinner plates, wide bowls and many casserole dishes without taking over the counter. The six models below cover the 1.0 to 1.6 cubic foot range.
They come from established brands, and each one fits the idea of a family microwave that is neither tiny nor oversized. We have not used them ourselves, so confirm the interior size, features and exterior dimensions on the current listing before you buy. Check the turntable diameter if you own wide plates, because the cubic foot number alone can mislead. Also think about who will use the unit each day, since a simple panel suits a busy household better than a crowded one.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Cubic feet | Around 1.1 is a common middle; 1.6 suits large dishes |
| Turntable diameter | It decides which plates and bowls fit |
| Inverter or standard | Inverter models give steadier power |
| Presets | A clear panel with a few helpful keys beats a crowded one |
| Footprint | Check width and depth with the door open |
| Cleaning | A smooth interior wipes down fastest |
| Noise | A quieter fan and beep help in an open kitchen |
| Door | A smooth handle or button opens the unit without a fight |
Specs at a Glance
| Microwave | Size class | Key feature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sharp SMC1131CW | About 1.1 cubic feet | White finish | Carousel turntable |
| Panasonic NN-SU696S | About 1.3 cubic feet | Inverter | Wide cavity |
| LG NeoChef LMC1575ST | About 1.5 cubic feet | Smart inverter | Roomy |
| Whirlpool WMC30516HZ | About 1.6 cubic feet | Sensor | Large cavity |
| Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) | About 1.3 cubic feet | Sensor | Stainless look |
| Magic Chef MCM1110B | About 1.1 cubic feet | Presets | Straightforward panel |
The 6 Best Mid-Size Microwaves
1. Sharp SMC1131CW
A Sharp Carousel mid-size microwave with a white finish and a simple keypad. It sits in the 1.1 cubic foot class.
Suits: white kitchens. Strengths: a clean, plain layout. Weaknesses: a basic feature list. Skip it if you want a stainless look.
View Sharp SMC1131CW on Amazon
2. Panasonic NN-SU696S
A larger Panasonic microwave with inverter technology and a wide cavity for plates and platters.
Suits: cooks who value even heat. Strengths: a roomy cavity and steady power. Weaknesses: a bigger exterior. Skip it if counter space is short.
View Panasonic NN-SU696S on Amazon
3. LG NeoChef LMC1575ST
An LG microwave in the 1.5 cubic foot class with Smart Inverter technology for even cooking.
Suits: families. Strengths: a spacious interior. Weaknesses: a larger footprint. Skip it if you want a compact unit.
View LG NeoChef LMC1575ST on Amazon
4. Whirlpool WMC30516HZ
A Whirlpool microwave in the 1.6 cubic foot class that suits family cooking, with sensor options and presets.
Suits: big dishes. Strengths: the biggest cavity here. Weaknesses: the outside is large. Skip it if your shelf is shallow.
View Whirlpool WMC30516HZ on Amazon
5. Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS)
A Toshiba mid-size microwave with a sensor system and a stainless-style finish. Check the listing for the exact size.
Suits: mixed family use. Strengths: sensor features and a clean look. Weaknesses: details vary by version. Skip it if you want a dial.
View Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) on Amazon
6. Magic Chef MCM1110B
A Magic Chef mid-size microwave in the 1.1 cubic foot class with digital presets and a straightforward layout.
Suits: simple kitchens. Strengths: an easy-to-use panel. Weaknesses: a basic set of features. Skip it if you want sensor cooking.
View Magic Chef MCM1110B on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Clean the glass tray and ring regularly.
- Cover foods that tend to splatter.
- Check the door seal for build-up.
- Keep a few inches of space around the unit.
- Stir liquids and let them rest before drinking.
- Wipe the door seal so food does not harden on the edges.
- Replace a cracked or chipped turntable promptly.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying a unit that is smaller than your dishes.
- Ignoring the weight of larger models on a thin shelf.
- Using the same time for different power levels.
- Covering the vents with towels or boxes.
- Skipping the manual’s list of safe materials.
- Heating a mug of water far too long, which can cause a sudden boil.
- Leaving closed jars or sealed pouches in the cavity.
Mid-Size Microwaves FAQ
What is the best size for a family?
Many families pick a model in the 1.1 to 1.6 cubic foot range. It gives room for plates and bowls.
Does a bigger microwave cook faster?
Not by itself. Speed depends on the power and the cooking system, and a roomy cavity simply lets you fit more food at one time.
Is a white microwave harder to keep clean?
Not necessarily. Any smooth interior is fairly easy to clean, and the colour of the outside has little effect on the inside. A quick wipe after use keeps stains from setting.
Are mid-size microwaves quiet?
Most have a fan hum and a beep. If noise matters, read the listing or the manual for any sound settings.
The Short Version
For a white kitchen, the Sharp SMC1131CW. For even heat, the Panasonic NN-SU696S. For a roomy interior, the LG NeoChef. For the largest cavity, the Whirlpool WMC30516HZ. For sensor cooking, the Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS). For simplicity, the Magic Chef MCM1110B.