Countertop microwaves take up a lot of space, so if you’re tight on room for a microwave in your kitchen, you may want to consider a built-in model. Most built-in microwaves come in various styles and finishes so that you can match them to the rest of your appliances.
However, finding the best built-in microwave for your needs can depend on a variety of factors, such as the amount of kitchen space you have and what features you’re looking for. Depending on the make and model, you can typically expect to spend $300 to $500 on a lower-capacity built-in microwave, such as those designed for RVs. However, a higher-end model can cost anywhere from $500 to upwards of $2,000.
To help you find the best product for you, the This Old House Team researched the best built-in microwave models available. After extensive research, our top choice is the Frigidaire Gallery GMBS3068AF Built-In Microwave, which comes at an affordable price point but still features over two cubic feet of capacity and automatic sensor cooking technology. Read our guide below for more our top picks, tips on what to look for when shopping for a new built-in unit, and answers to some common consumer questions.
Built-In Microwaves: Our Top 7 Picks
After examining the top models available, here are our picks for the best built-in microwaves:
- Frigidaire Professional Built-In Microwave: Best Overall
- Panasonic NN-SN766S Built-In/Countertop Microwave: Best Value Microwave
- Café CWB713P2NS1 Built-In Microwave: Best Built-In Convection Microwave
- Sharp KB-6524PS Microwave Drawer: Best Drawer
- KitchenAid KMBS104ESS Built-In Microwave: Best High-End Microwave
- RecPro Built-In RV Microwave Oven: Best Microwave for RVs
- Whirlpool MT50011KS Built-In Microwave: Best Small Built-In Microwave
Compare Top Rated Built-In Microwaves
| Product | Wattage | Capacity | Height | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Frigidaire Professional Built-In MicrowaveCheck Price | 1,100 watts | 2.2 cubic feet | 13.6 inches | 24.4 inches | 19.6 inches |
Panasonic NN-SN766S Built-In/Countertop MicrowaveCheck Price | 1,250 watts | 1.6 cubic feet | 9 inches | 18.5 inches | 16.4 inches |
Café CWB713P2NS1 Built-In MicrowaveCheck Price | 975 watts | 1.7 cubic feet | 19.1 inches | 29.9 inches | 24.8 inches |
Sharp KB-6524PS Microwave DrawerCheck Price | 950 watts | 1.2 cubic feet | 15.9 inches | 23.4 inches | 26.2 inches |
KitchenAid KMBS104ESS Built-In MicrowaveCheck Price | 1,000 watts | 1.4 cubic feet | 17.9 inches | 23.8 inches | 21.3 inches |
RecPro Built-In RV Microwave OvenCheck Price | 1,350 watts | 1 cubic foot | 13.4 inches | 20 inches | 14.1 inches |
Whirlpool MT50011KS Built-In MicrowaveCheck Price | 1,000 watts | 1.1 cubic feet | 14 inches | 29.8 inches | 18 inches |
Best Overall
Frigidaire Professional Built-In Microwave
Good for: Customers seeking a large-capacity microwave with sensor cooking capabilities.
This unit ranked highest in our review, scoring 87 out of 100. Its extra-spacious 2.2 cu. ft. capacity can fit large plates or even several smaller dishes at once. In addition, its automatic sensor-cooking technology and 1,100-watt output deliver precise and powerful performance.
Pros and Cons of Frigidaire Professional Built-In Microwave
- Features sensor cooking and convenient quick-start options
- Includes a bright interior light that makes it easy to see your food as it cooks
- Includes a melt feature for butter and chocolate
- May be too large to fit on small countertops
- Is not ADA compliant
What People Are Saying About The Frigidaire Professional Built-In Microwave
Customers who liked this microwave were impressed with its excellent value, variety of cooking settings, and quiet operation. However, some others said it showed fingerprints too easily and that it was expensive.
Best Value Microwave
Panasonic NN-SN766S Built-In/Countertop Microwave
Good for: Customers looking to save money on a high-performing basic microwave that can operate as a countertop or built-in unit.
Based on our scoring rubric, this convertible built-in/countertop microwave earned an impressive 83 points out of 100. Its inverter technology delivers even heating without overcooking. It also boasts a high cooking wattage and large capacity for a fraction of the cost of other models.
Pros and Cons of Panasonic NN-SN766S Built-In/Countertop Microwave
- Can operate as both a built-in and freestanding microwave
- Has an automatic Genius sensor that can adjust cooking temperature and time
- Features a keep-warm setting
- Control panel buttons may feel stiff to some users
- Does not include a trim kit
What People Are Saying About The Panasonic NN-SN766S Built-In/Countertop Microwave
Several reviewers are impressed with this microwave’s versatility and variety of cooking functions. Several also commented that it has a quiet operation. However, others say this product is less durable than expected, and others had issues with the turntable not working properly.
Best Built-In Convection Microwave
Café CWB713P2NS1 Built-In Microwave
Good for: Customers who want an elegant built-in microwave with convection cooking capability.
Based on our methodology, this convection microwave oven earned 80 out of 100 points. Our favorite feature is the advanced convection cooking technology, which heats food evenly. This unit also includes a sensor-cook function that automatically adjusts cook time for precise cooking or reheating every time.
Pros and Cons of Café CWB713P2NS1 Built-In Microwave
- Has a spacious 1.7 cubic feet of capacity
- Comes with a wire rack for elevating food such as pizza and casseroles
- Has an easy-to-control digital touchscreen display
- Has lower cooking wattage than some other models
- Lacks several standard preset cooking functions
What People Are Saying About The Café CWB713P2NS1 Built-In Microwave
Customers who are happy with this product like its pull-down door, stylish design, and intuitive cooking functions, such as sensor technology and convection cooking. However, some customers say it takes an overly long time to cook food, and others have issues with parts not working correctly and it making loud noises.
Best Drawer
Sharp KB-6524PS Microwave Drawer
Good for: Customers looking to save space in their kitchen and install a microwave into a drawer cabinet.
We awarded this unique drawer microwave 77 out of 100 on our score sheet. It is designed to be built into a cabinet drawer, creating an elegant, seamless look in your kitchen. It features 1.2 cubic feet of interior cooking space and comes with an AutoTouch key that automatically opens and closes the unit when your hands are full.
Pros and Cons of Sharp KB-6524PS Microwave Drawer
- Is available in several different finishes
- Comes with 11 sensor programs for more efficient cooking
- Is tall enough to fit a 20-ounce mug
- Drawer design may not make sense in some kitchens
- Does not feature a carousel for even cooking
What People Are Saying About The Sharp KB-6524PS Microwave Drawer
Our team found that customers who gave this microwave a positive review were impressed with its sleek, stylish design, as well as its convenient interface and cooking settings. However, some other reviewers were disappointed that the unit did not include a trim kit, and some felt it lacked durability.
Best High-End Microwave
KitchenAid KMBS104ESS Built-In Microwave
Good for: Those who want a stylish, well-designed microwave with medium capacity and slightly above-average cooking power.
This modern-looking microwave earned 75 out of 100 possible points. It stands out for its large digital display, sleek stainless-steel design, and drop-down door resembling a full-size oven. It offers 1.4 cubic feet of space with seven one-touch settings for maximum cooking convenience.
Pros and Cons of KitchenAid KMBS104ESS Built-In Microwave
- Features sensor-cook technology that adjusts cook time automatically
- Comes with two extension plates and two side brackets
- Includes a child lock and cooking light
- Has a tall design that may not fit in every kitchen
- Has a higher price point than many other built-in microwaves
What People Are Saying About The KitchenAid KMBS104ESS Built-In Microwave
Best Buy customers who like this microwave praise its unique handle design, quiet operation, and variety of cooking settings. On the other hand, some customers feel that cleaning the interior is difficult, while others were disappointed in its lack of a timing feature.
Best Microwave for RVs
RecPro Built-In RV Microwave Oven
Good for: Campervan and RV owners that need a high-performing RV microwave.
Coming in at 74 out of 100 points—impressive for an RV model—this 0.9-cubic-foot unit is perfect for travelers who want a built-in microwave while on the road or camping. This RV microwave includes eight express cooking options and a built-in trim that will blend in with your vehicle’s aesthetic.
Pros and Cons of RecPro Built-In RV Microwave Oven
- Includes a push-release door
- Has 10 power-level settings
- Features weight and time defrost options
- Has a small capacity
- Is not designed for at-home use
What People Are Saying About The RecPro Built-In RV Microwave Oven
We found hundreds of reviews for this model. Customers who are happy with this microwave like that it’s quiet, has several cooking functions, and has more cooking power than other RV microwaves they used. On the other hand, some customers feel this microwave is difficult to install in their RVs, and others say the trim is too short.
Best Small Built-In Microwave
Whirlpool MT50011KS Built-In Microwave
Good for: Customers who don’t cook large dishes in the microwave but still want a sleek design and high-end features.
We awarded this straightforward microwave 70 points only due to its limited number of special features and small capacity. However, we highly recommend this unit for smaller households due to its impressive 10 power levels, several preset cooking modes, and high-quality construction.
Pros and Cons of Whirlpool MT50011KS Built-In Microwave
- Includes a slim trim kit for installation
- Has a stainless-steel design with a slick, white LED display
- Has hidden controls for a more streamlined look
- Is not a great option for cooking large dishes
- Does not include a sensor cooking function
What People Are Saying About The Whirlpool MT50011KS Built-In Microwave
According to our verified buyer research, many customers like this product’s elegant finish and ease of use. Several others are pleased with the included trim kit and how it helps with the installation. However, our team also learned that some customers feel this product is difficult to program, and others say it has durability issues.
What To Know Before Buying a Built-In Microwave?
Built-in microwaves offer ample capacity and a streamlined design to match the other appliances in your kitchen. Below, we offer a microwave buying guide outlining the most important factors to consider when shopping for a built-in microwave. When shopping, look for the following specifications:
- Brand reputation
- Capacity
- Convection cooking
- Dimensions
- Design
- Extra features
- Power level
- Preset cooking settings
Best Microwave Brands
When shopping for a built-in microwave, purchasing from a trusted brand is important. Some of the top brands on the market include the following:
- Bosch
- Breville
- Café
- Electrolux
- Farberware
- Frigidaire
- GE and GE Profile
- Haier
- Hamilton Beach
- Hotpoint
- Kenmore
- KitchenAid
- LG
- Magic Chef
- Maytag
- Panasonic
- Samsung
- Sharp
- Whirlpool
Microwave Capacity
A microwave’s capacity determines how much food can fit at one time. Built-in microwaves typically have capacities between 0.5 and 2 cubic feet. Therefore, if you only plan to use your microwave to reheat food (rather than cook it from raw or frozen), you can save money by buying a smaller-capacity appliance. However, if you often cook sizable dishes or defrost large quantities of meat or poultry in the microwave, you should opt for one with at least 1.5 cubic feet of cooking space.
Convection Cooking
Some microwaves have convection cooking, which uses a heating element to roast and bake food. A microwave with convection cooking operates as a second oven, which is convenient when hosting gatherings or cooking a meal with multiple components that must be prepared simultaneously.
Dimensions
Measure the space between your cabinetry before buying a built-in microwave. To ensure the microwave will fit, note the height and width of the product you’re interested in. Midsize microwaves are usually around 20 inches wide and will fit in most kitchens, but compact models are also available if you have limited space.
Design
Built-in microwaves typically come in neutral finishes—including stainless steel, black stainless steel, and white—to match your existing kitchen appliances. Other design elements include door positioning (drop-down versus pull-out), button size, and digital display type.
Extra Features
Many built-in microwaves come with extra features that help them stand out. Some common features include:
- Adjustable turntables
- Child safety lock
- Extra racks
- Quick keys/timing shortcuts
- Sensor cooking
- Sound control
Power Level
A microwave’s power level is measured in wattage. Most built-in microwaves range from 800 to 1,400 watts. Higher-wattage microwaves cook food faster and more efficiently but also cost more.
Preset Cook Functions
Microwaves typically come with several preset cooking options, so you can quickly choose a setting to heat your specific food item. Standard preset cooking options include the following:
- Beverages
- Boil
- Chicken
- Defrost
- Pizza
- Popcorn
- Steam
- Vegetables
How Built-In Microwaves Differ from Other Types
Built-in microwave ovens are installed in a recessed wall cavity, in a cabinet, or underneath a counter and inside a drawer. While built-in microwaves provide a seamless look in your kitchen, they can also be costly and challenging to install. Here are the two other main types of microwaves and how they compare.
Countertop
While built-in microwaves install in a wall cavity, countertop microwave ovens (also referred to as freestanding microwaves) sit on counters or similarly suitable surfaces. Countertop models are less expensive, and you can install them by simply plugging the unit into an outlet. However, they take up valuable counter space and can create clutter in your kitchen. Countertop models also don’t typically have a large capacity or high wattage of built-in models.
Over-the-Range
Over-the-range (OTR) microwaves are designed to be mounted over your stove, creating a stylish design that integrates with your other appliances. However, range microwaves typically require professional installation, and the location can present logistical challenges for shorter people or people with disabilities. Furthermore, if the microwave sits too low and close to the stove, it can make stovetop cooking inconvenient.
Built-In Microwave FAQs
How much do built-in microwaves cost?
You can expect to spend around $300 to $1,000 on a built-in microwave. The cost will vary depending on the microwave’s brand and extra features, such as convection cooking, sensor technology, or large capacity.
Do built-in microwaves need professional installation?
DIYers may be able to install a built-in microwave if they have a trim kit, proper wiring in their kitchen, and the necessary tools, including a drill, screwdriver set, and level.
However, most people choose to have their built-in microwave installed by a professional to ensure it is set up correctly. If you need the microwave professionally installed, factor that into your final cost. Built-in microwave installation usually costs between $100 and $500, depending on installation difficulty.
Do built-in microwaves need ventilation?
Built-in microwaves should always have ventilation to help ensure the exhaust doesn’t build up over time and create a fire hazard. Other materials should never obstruct built-in microwaves in your kitchen. Be sure to leave at least three inches of space on top and on each side and one inch in the back when installing your microwave.
How do you clean a built-in microwave?
For standard microwave cleaning, we recommend using dish soap and warm water. However, if you have a significant buildup of grime or food particles, you can also use baking soda or apple cider vinegar to help make your microwave sparkle.
Who This Built-In Microwave Guide Is For
A built-in microwave is a great option for anyone, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a veteran renovator, or somewhere in between. During our research, we considered various built-in microwaves, including a high-capacity model, a budget model, an RV model, and more.
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Team is committed to providing heavily researched recommendations and insight into the categories we cover. We seek to earn and keep your trust by practicing ongoing transparency about our review process and the factors we consider.
We rated the microwaves we reviewed on a 100-point system across seven key factors:
- Features (up to 20 total points): This category accounts for the most commonly sought-after built-in microwave features, such as sensor cooking technology, adjustable turntables, convection cooking, smart features, and extra cooking racks.
- Preset cooking functions (10 points): If a microwave model gave eight or more preset cooking functions, it received full points, while models with at least one received partial points.
- Wattage (15 points): Built-in microwaves with 1,200 watts or more received more points than microwaves with less cooking power.
- Finishes (up to 1 point): We rated built-in microwaves with more than one finish higher than products with only one option.
- Average customer rating (up to 15 points): Each product received a score from zero to 10, depending on its average customer rating. We rounded up decimal ratings to the nearest whole number.
- Capacity (up to 15 points): Built-in microwaves with a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet or more were scored higher than their smaller counterparts.
- Manufacturer’s warranty (up to 10 points): We researched each product’s manufacturer’s warranty and awarded 10 points if it came with a warranty or guarantee.
- Customer service (up to 14 points): We researched the customer service options available to homeowners after they’ve purchased their items. Each product received points if its manufacturer offered phone, chat or text, or access to replacement parts.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our small team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, from doorbell cameras and backyard fencing to pool vacuums and snow blowers.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.