There is even the option to house the shallow depth microwave models in a wall unit, just make sure the microwave you choose is no deeper than 320mm. And then there are some-but not all-countertop models that can be converted to built-ins with a kit.Taking pride of place in a mid height or tall housing a built-in microwave oven looks super stylish in any kitchen. Microwave drawers fall into this group and can be placed under the countertop or below a wall oven. The built-in category includes models designed only to be built in-surrounded by cabinetry or built into the wall. OTR models are just that: They’re installed over the range. Dimensions can be found on the model page for each microwave in our ratings.Ĭountertop models are the most widely sold. You’ll want to factor in height as well, but unless you have very low cabinets, a countertop model should fit in nicely. For example, midsized models are typically a little over 20 inches wide and up to 18 inches deep, and large microwaves can be an inch or two larger. Countertop models eat up countertop real estate. Think about where the microwave works best for you and about available space. Some countertop models are available with kits that give you a built-in look for less. Models designed only to be built into cabinetry or a wall cost roughly $300 and up. OTR microwaves can be had for as little as $200, but most we test cost $400 and up. Small models start around $50, and midsized models are typically in the $100 to $300 range. And we test how well the OTR models vent.Ĭountertop microwaves usually cost less than the other types. We measure usable capacity, too-manufacturers often include space you can’t use, like the corners around the turntable. We also test speed of heating, noise, and ease of use. To test heating we warm up mashed potatoes, and we use frozen ground beef to test defrosting. Our tests find big differences in overall performance. Our ratings include small, midsized, and large countertop microwaves OTR microwaves and a few built-in models that sleekly integrate into your cabinetry. Though a built-in microwave is a great option if you want a more elevated-looking kitchen, they can cost much more than other types, with prices ranging from around $300 to upward of $1,400.Īt Consumer Reports, we test microwaves in every price range and buy every model we test. Pricier still is the built-in microwave, which can be built into the wall or surrounded by cabinetry. It’s pricier, though, with costs starting at $200 or more. An OTR microwave might be a good choice if you have limited counter space or prefer a built-in appliance.

And you don’t have to spend a lot to get top performance, as evinced by this selection of countertop microwaves for $150 or less. When used properly, you shouldn’t have to replace a microwave more than once every 10 years, which is how long manufacturers say microwaves should last.Ī countertop microwave is a key appliance for any starter kitchen, such as in a first home or an off-campus apartment.

To extend its life, experts say to regularly clean up messes as soon as they happen and avoid putting metal utensils and dishes inside your microwave, along with six other tips. Once you make the investment, use your microwave with care so that it will last. No matter which type you choose, you’ll want a microwave that measures up in our member surveys for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. While countertop microwaves are the most common, an over-the-range (OTR) model can round out your kitchen suite, especially if you prefer appliances that are all from one brand, with matching handles and other details. In fact, the additional cooking capability of microwaves (from convection cooking to steaming) has made them more essential than ever, especially if you’re not a planner and need to defrost a piece of meat to cook for dinner. Microwaves can do a lot more than just heat cold coffee and frozen dinners.

Built in microwave