Best Mid Range Microwave: Top Picks And Buying Guide
Smart, affordable, and reliable — the best mid range microwave for most kitchens.
You want a microwave that cooks well, clears steam, and fits your budget. I picture a busy weeknight when you need fast dinners and a quiet fan. That is where a best mid range microwave shines. It balances power, size, and useful presets. I test models for even heat, venting, and easy cleanup. I look for simple panels and solid build. A best mid range microwave should serve families, renters, and anyone upgrading from a compact unit. I guide you to options that deliver value without high cost. I explain features, pros, and tradeoffs clearly.
Midea 1.7 cu ft Over-the-Range Microwave
Product Overview
Compact 1.7 cu ft over-the-range microwave with 1000W power and a smart touch panel. It heats fast and clears steam with a 300 CFM vent. The stainless finish looks clean and resists smudges. Controls are simple and auto menus suit busy cooks.
I found it a reliable choice when I need a trustworthy oven that balances cost and features. For small families this model ranks as a best mid range microwave thanks to vent power, easy cleanup, and steady heat. I like the clear display and practical layout.
Advantages
- 1000W for quick heating
- Smart touch panel with presets
- 300 CFM vent for good airflow
- 1.7 cu ft fits plates and bowls
- Stainless finish resists smudges
Limitations
- Vent can be noisy at high speed
- Auto menus are basic
- No convection or air fry mode
Our Verdict
I recommend this Midea for cooks who want solid power and a clean look. It is a great pick if you need a full-size interior without spending top dollar. I call it a best mid range microwave for busy kitchens that want simple controls and reliable venting.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small families | 1.7 cu ft fits plates and bowls |
| Busy cooks | 1000W heat and smart touch presets |
| Better venting | 300 CFM clears steam and odors |
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft Over-the-Range
Product Overview
1.7 cu ft over-the-range microwave with 1000 watts and one-touch auto cooking. The stainless steel shell cleans easily and matches modern ranges. Venting moves steam and odors away. The control pad is intuitive and the turntable fits large plates well.
I call this a solid everyday unit that balances price and function. It earns a place among the best mid range microwave options for cooks on a budget. The heating is even and the vent is effective. I recommend it for renters and small households who value simple, reliable performance.
Advantages
- One-touch auto cooking for quick use
- 1000W power for fast reheats
- Stainless finish for easy cleaning
- Turntable fits larger plates
- Simple, intuitive control pad
Limitations
- Basic feature set compared to premium models
- Fan noise under load
- No advanced sensor cook options
Our Verdict
I suggest this BLACK+DECKER for buyers who want straightforward features and strong heating. It is ideal for renters or first-time buyers seeking value. I view it as a best mid range microwave for practical daily use and low fuss maintenance.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Renters | Affordable with key functions |
| Everyday reheating | 1000W heat and one-touch presets |
| Simple kitchens | Easy clean stainless finish |
FRIGIDAIRE 1.8 cu ft Over-the-Range
Product Overview
Spacious 1.8 cu ft over-the-range microwave with 1000 cooking watts and child lock. The stainless steel face fits 30-inch installs and resists stains. Ventilation clears smoke with 300 CFM. The large interior holds dinner plates and casserole dishes.
I like the roomy cavity and steady heat for family meals. It ranks among the best mid range microwave choices for cooks who need size and power together. Controls are basic but dependable. The child lock gives peace of mind and the fan keeps the kitchen fresh during heavy use. It delivers large capacity, good venting, and reliable cooking at fair price.
Advantages
- 1.8 cu ft for larger cookware
- 300 CFM ventilation for effective clearing
- 1000W for fast cooking
- Child lock for safety
- Fits 30-inch standard installs
Limitations
- Basic control layout
- Can be louder when venting
- No convection or crisping mode
Our Verdict
I recommend the Frigidaire for families who need interior space and steady power. It suits cooks who want a roomy cavity without premium cost. I consider it a best mid range microwave for larger households and simple, reliable performance.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large families | 1.8 cu ft holds dinner dishes |
| Heavy cooking | 300 CFM vent handles smoke |
| Safety-minded homes | Child lock included |
BLACK+DECKER 1.9 cu ft High Vent Microwave
Product Overview
Large 1.9 cu ft over-the-range microwave with 1000W and a 400 CFM vent. The generous interior fits platters and cookware. One-touch controls speed common tasks. Stainless finish wipes clean and blends with modern ranges.
I find it a strong pick for cooks who want space and powerful ventilation. It sits squarely among the best mid range microwave picks thanks to size, venting strength, and simple controls. Heat is consistent and the fan handles heavy cooking. I suggest it for families that reheat and cook often. Installation is straightforward and the unit feels sturdy over the stove for daily use.
Advantages
- 1.9 cu ft largest interior here
- 400 CFM vent for heavy cooking
- 1000W heating power
- Easy one-touch functions
- Durable stainless finish
Limitations
- Larger size may not fit all cabinets
- Fan can be loud at max
- No air fry or convection
Our Verdict
I recommend this BLACK+DECKER when you need maximum interior space and strong venting. It is best for homes that cook frequently and need reliable airflow. For me it is a best mid range microwave when size and vent power top your list.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Frequent cooks | Large interior and strong venting |
| Large plates | 1.9 cu ft fits platters |
| Busy kitchens | Durable finish and simple controls |
BLACK+DECKER 1.5 cu ft Air Fryer Microwave
Product Overview
1.5 cu ft over-the-range microwave with air fryer and convection bake modes at 900 watts. It adds crisping and roasting alongside microwave speeds. The stainless steel design looks modern and the controls include presets for common dishes.
I call this model a flexible mid range choice for cooks who want a small air fryer and microwave in one. It qualifies as a best mid range microwave for kitchens that need multi cook modes. The crisp function works well for snacks. I like the compact footprint and easy cleanup. Installation is simple and the unit feels well built for everyday use.
Advantages
- Air fryer and convection modes add versatility
- Compact 1.5 cu ft fits many installs
- Presets simplify cooking
- Stainless finish for easy cleaning
- Good crisping for snacks
Limitations
- 900W is lower than some models
- Smaller interior limits large dishes
- Convection heat can be uneven at times
Our Verdict
I suggest this BLACK+DECKER for cooks who want a two-in-one appliance with crisping. It works well in small kitchens that want extra cooking modes. I rate it as a best mid range microwave for buyers who value air fry and convection without a big price tag.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Snack lovers | Air fry mode crisps food |
| Compact kitchens | Small footprint with multi modes |
| Versatile cooks | Convection plus microwave functions |
Midea 1.2 cu ft Slim Over-the-Range Microwave
Product Overview
Slim 1.2 cu ft over-the-range microwave with sensor cook and 1000W heating. The slim profile fits tight spaces but keeps a 400 CFM vent to clear steam. Stainless steel exterior resists stains and the simple panel makes cooking quick.
I favor this as a compact solution when space is scarce and function matters. It earns my recommendation as a best mid range microwave for studio apartments and small kitchens. Sensor cook helps prevent overcooking and the vent is strong for its size. I find the overall value solid for tight layouts. Installation is easy and controls are friendly to use.
Advantages
- Slim profile fits tight cabinets
- Sensor cook prevents overcooking
- 1000W power for fast heating
- 400 CFM vent for a small unit
- Easy to install in smaller kitchens
Limitations
- Smaller interior limits large cookware
- Fewer presets than larger models
- White noise from vent at higher settings
Our Verdict
I recommend the Midea slim for anyone with limited space who still wants solid power and venting. It works well in apartments and galley kitchens. As a best mid range microwave it balances size, vent strength, and sensible features for tight spaces.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Studio apartments | Slim fit saves cabinet space |
| Small kitchens | 400 CFM vent in compact size |
| Space-conscious buyers | Sensor cook and easy install |
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft White Over-the-Range
Product Overview
White 1.7 cu ft over-the-range microwave with 1000 watts and one-touch auto cooking. The white finish brightens kitchens and resists fingerprints. Venting clears steam and the turntable fits dinner plates. Controls are simple and the display is clear.
I recommend it for cooks who want a bright affordable unit. It ranks well among the best mid range microwave options for value and ease. Heat is steady and auto menus help with reheating. I like the clean look and how it blends into light kitchen decor. Installation is straightforward and upkeep is easy so daily care is simple.
Advantages
- Clean white finish brightens the space
- 1000W for consistent heating
- One-touch auto cooking for speed
- Turntable fits standard plates
- Easy-to-read display and simple controls
Limitations
- White finish may stain over time
- Basic vents compared to premium units
- No advanced cooking modes
Our Verdict
I recommend this WHITE BLACK+DECKER for buyers who prefer a bright finish and easy use. It is a good choice for kitchens where style and value matter. I consider it a best mid range microwave for those who want simple, reliable cooking with a clean look.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Bright kitchens | White finish blends with light decor |
| Value buyers | Good heating and simple controls |
| Busy homes | One-touch presets speed reheating |
FAQs of best mid range microwave
What defines a mid range microwave?
A mid range microwave balances power, size, and features at a moderate price. It often includes 900–1000W, decent venting, and useful presets.
Which features matter most?
I look for even heating, reliable venting, easy cleanup, and simple controls. Those make a best mid range microwave worth buying.
Are over-the-range microwaves hard to install?
Most install with a two-person mount and basic tools. I recommend checking size and weight first and following the included guide.
Do these models save counter space?
Yes. Over-the-range units free counter space and combine venting with cooking, which is ideal for smaller kitchens.
Is a 1000W microwave better?
1000W heats faster and more evenly than lower wattage. Many best mid range microwave models use 1000W for good performance.
I found several strong options that balance power, venting, and price. Each model serves different needs, from compact spaces to larger families, and all fit the best mid range microwave category.
My top tips: pick the size and vent strength you need, and favor simple controls. I trust these picks for steady daily use and good value.