Who Manufactures Mainstays Microwaves?

Who Manufactures Mainstays Microwaves? Mainstays microwaves are manufactured by Midea Group, a major Chinese appliance company, as private-label products exclusively for Walmart.

Overview of the Mainstays Brand

Mainstays is Walmart’s in-house brand for affordable home essentials, including kitchen appliances like microwaves. Launched to provide budget-friendly options, Mainstays targets cost-conscious consumers seeking reliable everyday products. The brand emphasizes value, with microwaves priced typically between $50 and $100, making them accessible for students, small households, and first-time buyers.

Mainstays microwaves come in various sizes, from compact 0.7 cu ft models to larger 2.2 cu ft units, all designed for countertop use. Key features include multiple power levels, quick-set menus, and child safety locks. According to consumer feedback, these microwaves score an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Walmart’s site, with over 10,000 reviews praising their simplicity and performance.

For more on available models, check out Walmart’s official Mainstays microwaves page here.

Midea Group: The Powerhouse Behind Mainstays Microwaves

Midea Group, founded in 1968 and headquartered in Shunde, China, is the world’s largest microwave oven manufacturer. As an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), Midea produces appliances for numerous global brands, including private labels like Mainstays for Walmart. Their microwave subsidiary, Guangdong Midea Microwave Oven Manufacturing Co., Ltd., handles design, production, and quality assurance.

Midea’s involvement is evident in model numbers; for instance, the Mainstays EM720CGA-W shares the EM720 prefix with Midea’s own lines like EM720CB7 and EM720CWW, indicating rebranded manufacturing. This partnership allows Walmart to offer low-cost microwaves without in-house production.

In 2024, Midea reported overseas revenue exceeding 40% of total earnings, with own-brand manufacturing growing 35% year-over-year. The company employs over 190,000 people worldwide and operates factories in China, Thailand, and beyond.

Learn more about Midea’s global operations on their Wikipedia page here.

Manufacturing Process and Quality Standards

Midea’s microwave production involves advanced automation in facilities like those in Guangdong, where annual output contributes to global totals. As of 2018 data, Midea and fellow Chinese firm Galanz produced 60 million of the world’s 80 million microwaves annually, showcasing their dominance in the sector.

The process includes:

Component Assembly: High-voltage capacitors, magnetrons, and turntables are sourced and assembled with precision robotics.
Testing Phases: Each unit undergoes electromagnetic safety checks, heating uniformity tests, and durability simulations.
Compliance: Mainstays models meet UL safety standards and FCC regulations for emissions.

Quality control emphasizes energy efficiency, with many models featuring 700-1200 watts and eco-modes. Consumer Reports rates the Mainstays EM720CGA-W at 60/100 overall, noting even heating but average speed.

For detailed reviews, visit Consumer Reports’ microwave section here.

Popular Mainstays Microwave Models and Features

Mainstays offers a range of microwaves tailored to different needs. Here’s a comparison table of top models:

Model	Capacity (cu ft)	Power (Watts)	Key Features	Price Range (USD)
EM720CGA-W	0.7	700	Push-button door, 10 power levels, child lock	50-60
MSF0B100072352	0.7	700	LED display, auto-defrost, compact design	55-65
2.2 Cu Ft Model	2.2	1200	Sensor cooking, quick menus, large turntable	90-100

These models prioritize user-friendliness, with bold one-touch buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages. Users report longevity, with some units lasting over 5 years in daily use.

Market Impact and Statistics

Midea’s production scale influences the microwave market significantly. In Thailand, Midea holds the No. 1 spot for microwaves, with projected 4 million+ units from local manufacturing in 2025. Globally, Midea’s smart home appliances, including microwaves, contributed to 2024 semi-annual revenue of billions, per their financial reports.

Walmart’s Mainstays line captures about 10-15% of U.S. budget microwave sales, driven by Midea’s efficient supply chain. This collaboration reduces costs, passing savings to consumers amid rising appliance prices.

Explore Midea’s market achievements on their official site here.

FAQ

Who owns the Mainstays brand?
Mainstays is owned by Walmart, serving as their private-label for affordable home goods.

Are Mainstays microwaves reliable?
Yes, many users report 4-6 years of service, though they may lack advanced features found in premium brands.

What is Midea Group’s role in microwave production?
Midea is the largest global producer, acting as OEM for brands like Mainstays, Toshiba, and Comfee.

Can I find Mainstays microwaves outside Walmart?
Primarily no, as they’re exclusive to Walmart stores and online.

How do Mainstays microwaves compare to name brands?
They offer similar basic functions at half the price but may have shorter warranties (typically 1 year).

Final Thoughts

Choosing a Mainstays microwave means opting for Midea’s proven manufacturing expertise at Walmart’s value pricing. For budget buyers, these units deliver essential performance without frills. Always check warranties and reviews for specific models to ensure they fit your needs.