Last Updated on November 8, 2022
Microwave ovens are essential appliances for every household today. They are widely used because they save time and energy. In fact, microwave ovens are also considered to be the best built-in microwaves. If you want to choose the best built-in microwave ovens for your home then you should consider some important things before buying them. Here are some key points that you should keep in mind before purchasing a new microwave oven.
Microwave oven is an electrical appliance that cooks food rapidly using electromagnetic waves. These waves penetrate the food and heat it from inside out. The cooking process depends upon the type of food being cooked. For example, meat requires high temperatures whereas vegetables require lower temperatures.
What to consider when choosing the best built-in microwave?
A microwave oven is a very useful appliance in our homes. It helps us save time and energy while preparing meals. However, we cannot ignore the safety aspect of using an electric appliance such as a microwave. We need to know all about it before using it. Many people get confused when buying a microwave because they think that big is better. But this is not true. Microwave ovens come in different sizes, shapes, and designs. So when choosing to buy a microwave, always ask yourself these important questions. Is this microwave safe? Can I put my hand within 3 feet from the surface if it breaks down? Will it fit into my kitchen cabinets? Do I have enough countertop space for this microwave? Also check how easy it is to clean after every use. These are only some of the factors you should consider when purchasing a microwave.
How did we choose the best built-in microwaves?
We selected the top 10 based on features, ease of use, versatility and price range (under $500). To narrow down our search, we looked at different brands and types of ovens, such as conventional convection microwaves, single or double door varieties, side-by-side units, and combination ovens. All microwaves reviewed had two buttons for power level selection, heating times and timer functions. They were easy to clean and operate. And we found each had a convenient cordless remote control, making them perfect for any location.
The only downside of these microwaves was the lack of interior lighting options. Many of these models offered bright LED lights under the hood, but not all. But they still served our needs well; they provided plenty of light while baking cookies or reheating leftovers. One thing that we noticed about many models was that their doors didn’t open wide enough to accommodate large pans. So if you’re looking for a big, extra-wide door, check out our list of the top 11. Now let’s take a closer look at our picks below…
Are built-in microwaves safe?
No matter whether you buy a standalone microwave or if you get a built in one – they’re all the same. Built in microwaves are very efficient but still not 100% safe. A microwave oven does not produce direct heat like an electric stove or conventional ovens. It works by generating RF energy (Radio Frequency Energy) in the microwave cavity. This energy goes into the molecules of whatever is placed within the oven and changes their molecular structure. During this process, the atoms absorb kinetic energy from the microwave radiation and become excited, releasing vibrational energy. The vibrational energy eventually reverts back to the nuclei, causing atomic motion. The resulting atomic movement produces friction that heats food. Microwave ovens heat food quickly because they operate at higher speeds than other ovens. Most microwaves use magnetrons, which generate microwaves from electrical current. However, built-in microwaves are different from stand alone microwaves. Stand alone microwaves usually cost more than built in microwaves because the manufacturer needs to build these machines specifically for each appliance brand.
Do built-in microwaves need ventilation?
Yes. It will not only help prevent the spread of bacteria but also reduce moisture condensation. So if you have any sort of appliance that uses microwaves, such as ovens, dishwashers, etc., install a vent. This will allow hot air to dissipate while keeping you safe from harmful fumes produced by microwaves.
How do I know what size my built-in microwave should be?
The best way to determine your microwave’s capacity is to measure it yourself. If you don’t want to go through the hassle of measuring, then just ask your retailer. You can also find the exact measurements online. Measure the width and length of your kitchen countertop. Then multiply those numbers together to get the total square footage. Next, divide the total square footage by 4 to figure out how many cubic feet you need. Finally, add 1 foot per inch to the number you got from the first step to get the height of your microwave.
How long do built-in microwaves last?
Microwave ovens are generally designed to operate for 10 years or longer. However, if you leave your microwave plugged in constantly, it could shorten that life span. A good rule of thumb is not to leave your microwave running continuously unless you are using it frequently. To save energy, turn off the microwave after each use. If you want to keep your microwave going 24/7, consider buying a second microwave. You can find them online or at home improvement stores.
What size should I choose?
The size of your microwave depends on how much space you have available. Generally speaking, there are three sizes: small, medium and large. Small microwaves are usually best suited for smaller kitchens with limited countertop space. Medium microwaves are great for larger kitchens where space is less of a concern. Large microwaves are ideal for those who have ample countertop space.
Microwave is a household appliance which has surely revolutionized and modernized our home’s kitchen. Instead of standing for hours in front of our normal stoves, paying attention to the dishes being cooked, You can just toss everything in the microwave, press a few buttons and have your meal ready in minutes. Basically, a microwave heats food by converting electricity into electromagnetic waves of microwaves range. They are quick, convenient, safe and also cause least harm to the nutritional value of the food. With their popularization, they have lifted household convenience to a next level. Pros and Cons of having a microwave
- Convenience: It provides easier and faster cooking and you don’t need to check on your food after every few minutes.There is no issue of burnt, or over or under cooked food.
- Economical: Using a microwave consumes much less energy than conventional gas burners.
- Healthier food: The healthiest method of cooking is the one which involves short cooking time and less amount of liquid involved. Cooking the vegetables in the water causes leaching of their nutrients into the cooking water.
Microwave cooking, being quick, retains more nutrients in your veggies.
- Safe: There is less smoke and less heat. Microwaves also have technologies like child lock systems.
They do have some of the drawbacks.
- Using Microwave safe utensils: You have to be super conscious and cautious of what materials and utensils you place in your microwave. Not using a microwave safe dish can lead to reactions between food and the material causing melted utensil, uneatable food and also damages to your microwave.
- Limits the variety: There are some meals that just can’t be replaced using a microwave. A microwave also doesn’t let you deep fry.
- Burnt Hands: This is a common problem most of the people face while using a microwave. Sometimes the pots or utensils are too hot to handle and it can lead to burn in your skin and hands.
- Harmful for humans: There are many studies to show that microwaves are dangerous for humans. For instance, if they get damaged they can emit harmful radiations. Also the use of some plastic containers can cause the toxin to get into your food which are sometimes carcinogenic.
But, The pros of using a microwave outweigh the cons by far. A lot of these disadvantages can be eliminated if you use the right methods with right precautions. There are various types of microwaves ranging from Countertop to Built-in microwaves. 
If you decide to purchase a new microwave, you must be facing the dilemma of choosing the right one.
Comparison between Countertop and Built-In Microwave
|
Countertop |
Built-In |
|
|
Space |
Placed on kitchen counter |
Tucked in a cabinet or wall |
|
Requires more space on counter |
Saves counter and kitchen space |
|
|
Price |
Inexpensive Low maintenance |
Costlier, more maintenance required |
|
Versatility |
Portable, can be moved around |
Permanently installed |
|
Installation |
Easy to install |
Require installation expertise |
|
Cleaning |
More parts to clean |
Easier to clean |
So, you have had a look at the important features of both countertop and built-in microwaves. While a countertop microwave can suit most of you, a built -in microwave is a perfect choice for those who have little counter space or small kitchens, and for those who want to add aesthetics to their kitchen.
Advantages of Built-in Microwaves
- Saves Counter space: The biggest advantage of having a built -in microwave is that it saves your precious space on your kitchen counter.
This is a problem for most of us, especially those who are having small kitchens or less counter space. We never seem to have space to keep anything on our counter, because of this monstrous countertop microwave taking up all the area. Whereas Built-In microwave, being neatly tucked into your cabinet, gives you all the space you require for keeping jars, utensils or just empty. 
- Adds to the aesthetics: this is the second most useful advantage of a built-in microwave.
Most of us love our kitchen a lot and we try doing experiments to make it more beautiful. The last thing you need is big, bulky and unattractive appliances like microwaves, ovens and toasters to ruin your kitchen aesthetics. A built-in microwave can save you here. They fit seamlessly into your kitchen cabinet and fill your kitchen with a look of luxury.
- Easier to clean: A built in microwave has less exposed parts to clean as compared to their countertop counterparts.
- Less noise: One of the most annoying problems we face with using a countertop microwave is the noise it makes. A built-in Microwave can minimize this problem to some extent. The cabinet inside which it is placed, provides some muffling to the noise.
- Safe: If you have a small counter space, touching a hot microwave while reaching up is a possible scenario. If your microwave is placed neatly in a cabinet, it is going to be least of your worries.
It also prevents unsupervised use of microwaves by children or unfamiliar members.
Disadvantages of a built-in microwave
- Expensive: Due to less number of manufactures, these microwaves come costlier.
- Installation: In countertop microwaves, you just need to put in the plug and they are ready to use. Whereas, Built-in Microwaves require a licenced contractor with installation expertise.
- Maintenance: Unlike, Countertop microwaves, these microwaves require a lot of maintenance. If a part gets damaged, you need to replace the whole microwave.
- No portability: This is one big, serious disadvantage which comes with built in microwaves specially for those who move alot. Since a built-in microwave is installed permanently you can’t just take it and carry it around with you.
Are Over the Range Microwaves same as Built-in Microwaves?
No! They are not one and the same. While over the range microwaves are installed above the cooking range and they have a ventilation system in the bottom side of the microwave, which acts as a range hood. Built-In microwaves can be fit in any cabinet. They have ventilation systems on their side or on the top front and they don’t have a range hood.
Factors and Features to consider while buying
- Space: This is the most important factor which you need to consider.
You have to measure the space of the cabinet and keep an extra margin of 1-2 centimetres, where you want to place your microwave.
- Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is a must, especially in the case of built-in microwaves. Keep three inches of space between the oven’s top, sides, rear and the area where the unit is to be installed. Blocking air vents during use of microwaves can cause overheating and failure of the microwave.
- Size: Size is, hands down, one of the most important factors. Think about the capacity you require, members in your household, types of dishes you want to typically cook? Will the pans you use fit or not?
- Wattage: Higher the wattage, lesser will be the cooking time and the contents inside will be heated evenly. Suggested wattage is 700-1000 Watts.
- Preprogrammed Settings: You can look for a microwave with preset cooking options. Most microwaves come with the following settings:
•Popcorn setting allows you to cook according to the size of the bag. 
•Defrost is used in thawing frozen food products. 
•Reheat: Reheat button is used to heat your leftovers perfectly, without setting up any additional power level. •Convection mode: Convection mode is used for the microwaves which can also do the baking. They enable you to cook food in the same way as in a traditional oven. Moreover, they are cheaper to run than a traditional oven. So, it can cut down your bills.
- You can also look for removable racks and sensors which prevent over-cooking of the food.
- Child Lock Option: Microwave has a child safety program installed in it to prevent a child or anyone unfamiliar of it from accidentally operating it.
Measurement and Placing options
Built-in models are designed to fit standard cabinet widths, which have openings 24, 27 and 30 inches wide. Typical widths of these devices usually range between 19 – 26 inches. Microwaves designed for built-in installation are available in heights ranging from about 17 to 22 inches. The depth can be defined as the length between the front end and the back end of the microwave oven when the door is closed. Depths range from roughly 20 to 25 inches with the door closed and 30 to 35 inches with the door open. Trim Kit 
The frame around the microwave is called a trim kit. Trim kit enables easy installation of a microwave in a cabinet opening or wall. You can place them where they can be easily accessed. They ensure a better fit along with facilitating proper air flow to avoid overheating of microwaves. These kits come in a variety of finishes. You can get metallic or stainless steel as well as plastic kits, in various colors and finishes.
Top picks
Advent MW912BWDK Black Built-in Microwave Oven with Wide Trim Kit PMWTRIM
Description: It is specially Built for Recreational Vehicles, Trailer, Camper, Motor Home etc. It can be used as a Countertop Microwave Oven without the Trim Kit and as a Built-in with the Trim Kit. They come with one-touch easy-to-use electronic controls to adjust cook times, cook settings, power levels, clock and timer. Capacity: 0.9 Cubic foot Power: 900 W Dimensions (W×H×D): 19 x 14 x 15.5 inches 
Weight: 38 pounds Features:
- 6 pre-programmed one-touch digital cook settings.
- Easy access door
- Specially built for RV Recreational Vehicle, Trailer, Camper, Motorhomes.
Check it out https://www.amazon.com/Advent-MW912BK-Recreational-adjustable-pre-programmed- Amazon
Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In
Description: With its sleek, stainless-steel door and base and stainless silver body, the powerful Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor makes a stylish and convenient addition to any home, apartment or condo kitchen. Capacity: 1.2 Cubic foot Power: 1200 W Dimensions(W×D×H): 20.69 x 12.25 × 15.81 inches Weight: 25.5 Pounds Features:
- Inverter technology: Unlike traditional microwaves that rely on pulse-on, pulse-off power at lower temperatures, it delivers a constant stream of cooking power at every temperature for more evenly cooked meals.
- Turbo Defrost: It thaws food quickly and evenly. Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost speeds up defrosting time.
- Smart Cooking Settings with Genius Sensor: Built in automatic genius sensor adjusts power and times according to different food items.
- 14 preset menu items.
- Quick minute timer, delay start and child safety lock.
- Touch pad control.
Check it out https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-Microwave-NN-SN686S-AMAZON
Frigidaire FGMO205KF Gallery 2.0 Cu. Ft. Built-In Microwave
Description: Frigidaire is the brand you have come to know and trust. Year after year Frigidaire has been the most reliable brand among leading appliance brands. And it surely doesn’t disappoint, this time either. This Microwave comes with a huge capacity, child lock system, auto weight defrost and multiple preset options to make your cooking hassle-free. Capacity: 2 Cubic foot Power: 1200 W Dimensions(W×D×H): 24 x 20 x 14 inches Weight: 41 pounds Features:
- 3 Auto Cook Options
- Sensor Cook
- 7 User Preference Options
- One-Touch Options
Check it out https://www.amazon.com/Frigidaire-Microwave-One-Touch-AMAZON
Equator Combo Microwave + Oven Free Standing/Built-in
Description: This innovative combo takes the best features of the appliances you love and combines them to create the ultimate cooking machine for busy families. This 2-in-1 appliance lets you use it as a microwave, an oven or a combination of both functions. It is equipped with a variety of programmable cooking, thawing and heating options that saves you time and space. It includes a separate trim-kit for built-in installation. Capacity: 0.8 Cubic foot Power: 800 W Dimensions: 12 x 18.5 x 13 inches 
Weight: 31 Pounds Features:
- Microwave+Oven: 2-in-1 appliance.
- Memory Function: Allows you to program and save a cooking function.
- 6 preset cooking options.
- Child Lock, Auto Weight Defrost, Timer Function, Glass Turntable.
Check it out https://www.amazon.com/Equator-cu-ft-Built-Combo-Microwave-AMAZON
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