Does your kitchen feel cluttered with bulky appliances taking up precious counter space? Many homeowners dream of a sleek, modern kitchen, but the appliances often get in the way. An inbuilt microwave is the perfect solution to reclaim your workspace and give your kitchen a high-end, custom look.
However, picking the right model is not always easy. You have to worry about exact measurements, ventilation requirements, and matching the style of your existing cabinets. With so many brands and features on the market, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the technical details. Choosing the wrong unit can lead to expensive installation headaches or a kitchen that just doesn’t function the way you need it to.
In this guide, we will clear up the confusion. We break down everything you need to know, from measuring your space to selecting the best features for your cooking style. You will learn how to find a model that fits perfectly into your cabinetry while staying within your budget. By the end of this post, you will have the confidence to choose an appliance that looks great and works perfectly for years to come.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen design? Let’s dive into the essential factors you must consider before you buy your new inbuilt microwave.
Top Inbuilt Microwave Recommendations
- 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
- Width: 24 7/16 Inch Depth: 19 5/8 Inch Height: 13 5/8 Inch Cutout Width: 24 3/4 Inch Cutout Depth: 20 Inch Cutout Height: 16 3/4 Inch
- Air Fry: Cook healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods in less time, thanks to an air fryer built into your microwave
- Convection: 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
- Broil: When you have a microwave with a broiler right inside, you can achieve the same effect you do with grill racks, radiating heat to sear or caramelize any food to perfection
- Preset Controls: Use microwave preset controls like Fries and Nuggets to make operation quick and easy, while ensuring precisely cooked results
- Compact Capacity. Powerful Performance.: With a 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1,050 Watts of cooking power, this microwave fits perfectly in dorms, offices, and kitchens while delivering fast, even results
- 1.6 cu ft capacity - 1000 Watts. Convenience cooking controls, operating made quick and easy
- Charcoal filter replacement for microwaves with behind the door grille - easily install your new charcoal odor filter
- Auto and time defrost - defrosting times and power levels are programmed automatically or manually for optimal results
- Turntable On/Off - controls turntable operation
- Two-speed, 300-CFM venting system - removes smoke, steam and odors
- DIGITAL PANEL: Our microwave features a Digital Control Panel that makes it really easy to use and provides choices for express cooking, altering the power level, postponing the start, setting the time, and stop/cancel features.
- CONVENIENT: Utilize the two different defrost timers to have full control over how you want your food to be warmed. Cook your personalized meals and snacks in stages.
- SAFE: Keep your little ones safe by using the Child Safety Lock that prevents inadvertent usage or access. The large display provides a clear viewing of your meals for you to keep an eye on them to make sure it cooks perfectly.
- DIFFERENT SETTINGS: Intuitive cooking settings remove the complexity from daily cooking. There are six different auto cooking settings to choose from (popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen dinner, reheat, beverage).
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 1000W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Perfect Inbuilt Microwave
An inbuilt microwave, also known as a built-in microwave, is a smart addition to any modern kitchen. It sits flush with your cabinets to create a seamless, professional look. Unlike countertop models, these units save valuable workspace and keep your counters clutter-free.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, prioritize these essential features:
- Capacity: Choose a size that fits your family’s needs. A 1.2 to 1.5 cubic foot model works well for most households.
- Power Levels: Look for at least 10 power levels. This gives you better control over how you cook your food.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature detects moisture levels in food. It automatically adjusts the time so your food never dries out.
- Convection Settings: Some inbuilt units act as a second oven. They use fans to circulate hot air, allowing you to bake or roast food perfectly.
Important Materials
Quality materials ensure your microwave lasts for years. Stainless steel is the gold standard for both the interior and exterior. It resists rust, cleans easily, and handles high heat without warping. For the interior, ceramic enamel is another great choice. It is scratch-resistant and makes wiping away grease very simple.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors determine how well your microwave performs:
What Improves Quality:
- Proper Ventilation: A high-quality unit has vents that allow heat to escape safely.
- Sturdy Door Hinges: Strong hinges prevent the door from sagging over time.
- Intuitive Controls: A clear display and easy-to-press buttons improve your daily experience.
What Reduces Quality:
- Cheap Plastic Parts: Plastic knobs or handles often break after heavy use.
- Weak Wattage: A low-wattage microwave takes much longer to heat food, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Poor Seal: If the door does not seal tightly, heat escapes and the machine works harder than it should.
User Experience and Use Cases
Inbuilt microwaves are perfect for people who love a clean kitchen design. They are ideal for busy families who need to reheat leftovers quickly or defrost frozen meals. If you enjoy baking, a convection-style inbuilt microwave is a game-changer. It provides the versatility of a full-sized oven in a smaller package. Because these units are installed into your cabinetry, they provide a stable and permanent cooking station that is always ready to use.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need a professional to install an inbuilt microwave?
A: Yes, it is best to hire a professional. They ensure the unit is securely anchored and properly ventilated to prevent fire hazards.
Q2: Can I replace a countertop microwave with a built-in one?
A: Generally, no. Built-in units require specific cabinet dimensions and venting paths that countertop models lack.
Q3: How much space do I need around the unit?
A: Always follow the manufacturer’s manual. Most units require a small gap for airflow to keep the electronics from overheating.
Q4: Is stainless steel hard to clean?
A: Not at all. Use a soft cloth and a dedicated stainless steel cleaner to remove fingerprints and smudges.
Q5: What is the benefit of a convection microwave?
A: It combines microwave speed with oven-like browning. You can roast chicken or bake cookies much faster than in a regular oven.
Q6: Do inbuilt microwaves use a standard outlet?
A: Most use a standard 120-volt outlet, but you should check your specific model’s electrical requirements before installation.
Q7: Can I put an inbuilt microwave above my stove?
A: Only if the model is specifically designed as an “over-the-range” microwave with a built-in exhaust fan.
Q8: How long do these microwaves typically last?
A: With proper care, most high-quality inbuilt microwaves last between 7 to 10 years.
Q9: What if my cabinet is too small?
A: You should check the “cutout dimensions” of the microwave before buying. Never force a unit into a space that is too small.
Q10: Are they energy efficient?
A: Yes, they are generally efficient because they cook food quickly and are designed to retain heat well within the cabinet housing.