Choosing a built in microwave can feel like a maze, there are so many specs, designs, and installation options that it is easy to get lost. Whether your kitchen needs more counter space, or you just want a reliable appliance that looks great, it is not always easy to spot the right choice. Here are the top picks ranked by usability and customer feedback:
Best Built In Microwave Picks for November 2025 (By User Reviews)
- built-in trim kit available in 27" (GMTK2768AF) and 30" (GMTK3068AF) Sold Seperatly
- Provides 2.2 cu. ft. of cooking space, accommodating large dishes and multiple items at once for convenient and efficient cooking
- Sensors in the microwave determine and set the appropriate power levels and cook time to ensure great tasting food
- Automatic Drawer System Smoothly Opens and Enables Hands-Free Close
- Convenient Kitchen Placement Allows for Easier Cooking, Saves Prep and Clean up Time
- Concealed Control Panel Opens to an Easy-to-Read and Operate 45 degree Angle
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- AIR FRY MODE: Cook healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods in less time, thanks to an air fryer built into your microwave.
- CONVECTION MODE: Achieve crisp, golden brown results in this microwave oven with convection, which includes a special rack that allows air to circulate around foods for even heat distribution.
- Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN98JS Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor, 2.2 Cubic Foot, 1250W
- Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven with Cyclonic Inverter: This 1250-Watt high power, 2. 2-cubic-foot capacity stainless steel countertop/built-in microwave maintains the full flavor and nutrients of...
- Inverter Technology With Turbo Defrost: Enjoy your foods heated consistently and evenly without overcooking thanks to patented Cyclonic Inverter Technology, which evenly circulates heat in 3D waves...
- Fits-More Microwave
- Take The Guesswork Out Of Cooking With Sensor Cook
- Convenient Quick Start Options
What Should You Look For When Shopping for a Built In Microwave?
Built in microwaves offer more than just a tidy look. They can blend right into cabinets, but it is easy to miss a detail and end up with a model that is tough to use day to day. That is why the buying process should be more than just picking the largest or the one with the most features.
Many buyers overlook ventilation and door clearance. Do not skip these, or you might end up returning your new microwave after a single use.
To help you sort through the noise, it helps to look at several factors:
- Size and installation type
- Power and wattage
- Control panel layout
- Venting options
- Durability and build quality
- Ease of use
- Extra features like presets, convection, or sensor cooking
- Warranty and customer support
If the space is tight, double check both the product width and the cut-out requirements. Some models need an extra inch or two behind or to the side for airflow.
Types of Built In Microwaves
Most built in microwaves fall into one of these categories:
- Microwaves built for wall mounting
- Microwave drawers (installed below a counter or oven)
- Combination microwave and oven units
Wall-mount options are common in modern kitchens. They keep the appliance at eye level and save valuable counter space. Drawer models work best for island counters or universal-access kitchens. These pull out like a drawer, making them easier to use for people who find it hard to reach over their heads.
Some built in units act only as microwaves. Others might have combinations, like microwave plus convection, helpful for baking, browning, or roasting. Not everyone will use a combination every day, but it can be handy for smaller kitchens where appliance space is at a premium.
Key Features That Matter
Many built in microwaves look alike, but a few features make all the difference in daily use:
- Wattage between 900 and 1200, enough power for even heating
- Easy-to-read, responsive digital touch controls
- Multiple cooking modes (reheat, defrost, popcorn, sensor cook, etc.)
- Sturdy handle and reliable door mechanism
- Adjustable power levels for better control
- Turntable or flatbed, turntables move food for even cooking, but some premium models use flatbeds and inverter tech
- Trim kits (for a seamless fit) included or easily available
- Child lock option (if needed)
Microwaves with sensors can detect when food is ready and adjust cook times on their own. This sounds like a minor thing until you run into undercooked leftovers or a burnt pizza slice. Not everyone uses this every day, but when it works, it is surprisingly useful.
The feel of the controls and how easy it is to open the door adds up over time. If possible, test it in person or look for videos online before buying.
Built In Microwave Sizing Guide
Getting the correct size is not as simple as measuring the outer box. Built in microwaves use two different measurements:
| Measurement | What It Means |
| Total width/height/depth | The external dimensions, including the door and trim |
| Cut-out size | The opening in the cabinet or wall where the unit will be installed |
| Capacity (cubic feet) | Usable cooking volume inside the microwave |
| Power cord length | Can affect installation position – check before purchase |
It is not unusual for a microwave to have a standard width but need extra depth for the trim kit or proper ventilation. Sometimes, brands make it sound like a universal fit, then you realize the trim kit only matches their other appliances.
Microwaves need at least an inch or so of clearance for heat and airflow. Tightly fitted installations might overheat or void the warranty.
Installation Factors
Installing a built in microwave takes more planning than just sliding it into place. There are usually three main steps: prepping the cabinet, running electrical, and adding the trim kit. Sometimes, the job seems straightforward, then you run into an old cabinet that does not match the manual’s diagram at all.
Venting and Safety
Every built in microwave needs ventilation, but not all use the same style. Some vent into the room; others need to exhaust outside. The best options let you switch placement during installation, or at least give you a choice. If you use the microwave a lot for reheating soup or cooking popcorn, venting is important to help with steam and odors.
Microwave Drawer vs. Built In Wall Microwaves
Drawer microwaves are set low, often under the counter. They pull out like a regular drawer, so loading heavy dishes or reheating leftovers can be less awkward. Wall microwaves, on the other hand, are at eye or chest level and are better if most users do not want to bend down.
Microwave Drawer
Wall-Mounted Microwave
Pros and Cons of Built In Microwaves
What Actually Makes a Built In Microwave ‘Good’?
Everyone wants their kitchen to both look sharp and be easy to use. But what improves the day-to-day experience? It is not all about looks. Here are a few real-world checks that matter, beyond just lists of features:
- Door opens smoothly without snagging
- Turns on and off with no lag
- Adjustable sound volume for alerts
- Interior lights are bright enough to see food bubbling or boiling over
- Easy wipe-down materials (stainless, smooth glass, or ceramics)
- Manual and warranty are simple to use and register
If you have ever heard a squeaky hinge or a weak closing latch, you know how much that little annoyance adds up. It is better to pick a sturdy option, even if other features are slightly lower. No one really talks about this, but it makes a big difference after a few weeks.
Buyer’s Guide for Built In Microwaves
Many buyers get stuck reading endless spec sheets. It is tempting to fixate on tiny differences in cubic feet or wattage, but it is better to think about who will actually be using the microwave, and how often. Simplicity often wins, unless heavy use or advanced cooking modes are needed.
Common Mistakes When Buying a Built In Microwave
- Not confirming the opening size before purchase
- Ignoring how the door swings open (left, right, dropdown)
- Overlooking vent requirements
- Assuming trim kits fit all models
- Buying more power than the outlet supports
- Not checking for warranty on installation
Maintaining and Cleaning a Built In Microwave
Upkeep is pretty simple, as long as you are consistent. Wipe the inside every week, and check the air vents for dust or grease build-up. Many models support removable turntables or racks, which make cleaning easier.
If you are near the coast or in a humid environment, stainless finishes can last longer. In dryer climates, any common material works, but glass touchscreens are usually easier to keep smudge-free.
Frequently Asked Questions about Built In Microwaves
How do you measure for a built in microwave?
Start by measuring the cabinet cut-out (width, height, depth). Then, compare it to the product’s required cut-out measurements and make sure to leave room for trim kits and ventilation.
Is a trim kit necessary for a built in microwave?
Yes, most built in microwaves require a trim kit for proper fitting and a clean look. Kits can also help with heat management around the microwave.
Can a built in microwave be installed over a range?
Some built in microwaves are rated for over-the-range use if they have proper venting. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and local safety codes before installing over a cooktop.
What are common sizes for built in microwaves?
Most built ins range from 24 inches to 30 inches wide, with cut-out heights between 15 and 18 inches. Double check cut-out depth, as some cabinets are shallower than standard sizes.
How long does a built in microwave last?
Built in microwaves usually last from 7 to 10 years. Heavier daily use means the lifespan could be shorter, but basic care and regular cleaning will help it last longer.
Still wondering if a built in microwave is worth it for your kitchen’s needs? Sometimes the smallest difference, like a smoother door or quieter beep, becomes the thing you value most. What is your main goal for a new built in microwave: space-saving, style, or something else? Put it in the comments below.
Last update on 2025-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
