Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close vs Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range

Overview of the Breville BMO650SIL and Midea MOR17BSA-SS

The Breville BMO650SIL is priced at $249.95, making it about 17% cheaper than the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, which retails for $259.99. Both microwaves offer unique features that cater to different cooking needs and kitchen spaces. While the Breville model is a compact countertop option, the Midea offers the convenience of an over-the-range installation. This comparison will explore various aspects of both products to help you determine which microwave best suits your lifestyle.

Design and Build Quality

The Breville BMO650SIL features a sleek silver finish that fits well in modern kitchens, while the Midea MOR17BSA-SS comes in stainless steel, providing a robust and professional look. The Breville's compact design encompasses a 0.9 cu.ft capacity, making it ideal for kitchens with limited space. In contrast, the Midea boasts a larger 1.7 cu.ft capacity, accommodating bigger items like rotisserie chickens or large pizzas. Each design has its strengths, with Breville focusing on space-saving convenience and Midea emphasizing capacity and functionality.

Cooking Performance

When it comes to cooking performance, the Midea MOR17BSA-SS has a power output of 1000 watts, allowing for quicker cooking and reheating. The Breville BMO650SIL, while slightly less powerful at 900 watts, is designed to precisely reheat and defrost food without drying it out. Both microwaves offer a variety of cooking options, but the Midea’s 18 auto cooking menus, including specific settings for popcorn and pizza, give it an edge in versatility, making meal preparation easier and faster.

Noise Levels

The Breville BMO650SIL is engineered for quiet operation, featuring an 80% quieter soft-close door and a design that reduces noise by 50% during operation. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a peaceful kitchen environment. The Midea MOR17BSA-SS does not specifically mention noise levels, focusing more on its powerful ventilation system. If noise reduction is a priority, the Breville model is clearly the better option.

Ease of Use

Both microwaves have user-friendly interfaces, but they cater to different preferences. The Breville BMO650SIL includes one-touch auto buttons for common tasks like reheating and defrosting, simplifying the cooking process. Additionally, it features a Child Lock for added safety. The Midea MOR17BSA-SS, on the other hand, offers a smart touch panel with 18 auto menus, which can be particularly appealing for users who enjoy having multiple cooking options at their fingertips. The choice between the two will largely depend on your cooking style and how much you value convenience features.

Cleaning and Maintenance

In terms of cleaning and maintenance, both models offer advantages. The stainless steel build of the Midea MOR17BSA-SS is generally easier to wipe down and maintain than other materials, while the Breville BMO650SIL’s compact design means that it can be easily moved for cleaning. However, the Midea’s over-the-range design includes a 300 CFM ventilation system that helps to eliminate cooking odors and grease, potentially reducing the need for frequent cleaning in the kitchen area.

Warranty and Longevity

Both microwaves come with a warranty, but they differ in terms of coverage duration and brand reputation. The Breville BMO650SIL offers a 1-year limited product warranty, which is standard for kitchen appliances. The Midea MOR17BSA-SS does not specify warranty details, which could be a consideration for those wary of potential issues. Brand reputation also plays a role in longevity, with Breville being known for quality kitchen appliances, whereas Midea is a less established name in the microwave category.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the Breville BMO650SIL and the Midea MOR17BSA-SS is notable, with the Breville priced at $249.95 and the Midea at $259.99, making the Midea about 4% more expensive. Given the features and performance capabilities of both models, the price may reflect the additional functionality offered by the Midea, especially its larger capacity and over-the-range design. However, if you are looking for a cost-effective and space-efficient choice, the Breville is the more budget-friendly option.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, your decision between the Breville BMO650SIL and the Midea MOR17BSA-SS will depend on your specific needs. If you prioritize a compact design, quieter operation, and a lower price, the Breville is the clear choice. However, if you need a larger capacity microwave with powerful cooking options and are willing to spend a bit more, the Midea might be worth the investment. Consider your kitchen space, cooking habits, and budget to determine which microwave best fits your lifestyle.