Imagine a kitchen where your microwave blends seamlessly into the cabinets, looking sleek and modern. No more countertop clutter! Built-in microwave ovens offer this dream, but choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle. You want something that cooks food fast, looks great, and fits your space perfectly. But with so many sizes, features, and styles, where do you even begin?
Many people feel overwhelmed by the options. They worry about getting the wrong size, not having enough power, or spending too much money on features they won’t use. It’s easy to get lost in technical terms and confusing descriptions. This guide is here to clear the air and make your decision easy.
By reading on, you’ll learn exactly what to look for in a built-in microwave. We’ll break down the different types, explain important features in simple terms, and help you find the perfect oven for your kitchen and your budget. Get ready to transform your kitchen with a microwave that’s both functional and stylish!
Our Top 5 Built In Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Built In Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF Built-in Microwave Oven. This spacious 2.2 cu. ft. microwave makes cooking a breeze. It’s designed to fit seamlessly into your cabinetry, giving your kitchen a sleek, modern look. You can cook large meals or multiple dishes at the same time. This microwave takes the guesswork out of cooking with its smart sensor technology.
What We Like:
- Generous 2.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes and multiple items.
- Sensor cooking adjusts power and time for perfectly cooked food.
- Sleek built-in design creates a streamlined kitchen appearance.
- Flexible trim kit options (27″ and 30″) ensure a custom fit.
- Easy-to-use controls make operation simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- Trim kit is sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Requires specific cutout dimensions for installation.
The Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both style and smart functionality. It’s a great choice for busy families and anyone who loves to cook.
2. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It’s not just a microwave; it also air fries, broils, and uses convection heat. This stainless steel appliance is compact at 1.0 cubic feet, making it a great fit for countertops, dorm rooms, or small kitchens. With 1,050 watts of power, it cooks food quickly. It also has a child lock for safety and preset buttons for easy cooking.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance: microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven.
- The air fryer mode cooks food with less oil, making it healthier and crispier.
- Convection mode cooks food evenly and gives it a golden brown finish.
- Broil mode lets you sear and caramelize food just like a grill.
- Preset controls make cooking common foods like fries and nuggets simple.
- It has a two-step child lock to keep little ones safe.
- The 1,050-watt power and 1.0 cu. ft. size are a good balance for small spaces.
- The glass turntable ensures food cooks evenly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer about the different cooking modes.
- Some users might find the exterior gets warm during longer cooking cycles.
This GE microwave is a smart choice for anyone needing a multi-functional appliance. It offers great convenience and cooking options in a small package.
3. KoolMore KM-CWO30-SS Built-in Microwave with Convection Oven and Air Fryer
Rating: 9.2/10
The KoolMore KM-CWO30-SS is a sleek, silver, built-in microwave that does more than just heat food. It also acts as a convection oven and an air fryer. With 1000 watts of power and 10 different power levels, it offers a lot of cooking options. Its large 1.6 cubic feet capacity means you can cook a good amount of food at once. Plus, it’s designed to fit right into your kitchen, looking like a seamless part of your cabinets.
What We Like:
- It’s a 3-in-1 appliance: microwave, convection oven, and air fryer. This means you can cook in many different ways.
- The built-in design makes it look really nice and organized in the kitchen.
- It’s easy to use with simple controls.
- The air fryer lets you make healthier versions of your favorite fried foods.
- It has a big 1.6 cubic feet space inside, so you can cook larger meals or multiple dishes.
- Cleaning is simple thanks to its manual clean type.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup for built-in installation a bit tricky.
- While it has many features, mastering all of them might take a little practice.
This KoolMore microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering great versatility and convenience for all your cooking needs.
4. Frigidaire PMBS3080BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook
Rating: 9.4/10
The Frigidaire PMBS3080BF is a spacious 2.2 cubic foot built-in microwave that offers convenient cooking with its Sensor Cook technology. It’s designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen cabinetry, giving it a sleek, integrated look. This microwave is a great addition for families who need to heat up meals quickly or prepare snacks with ease.
What We Like:
- Generous 2.2 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized portions.
- Sensor Cook automatically adjusts cooking time and power for perfect results.
- Built-in design creates a clean, modern kitchen aesthetic.
- The 24 3/8 inch width fits well into many standard cabinet openings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The required 30″ trim kit (PMTK3080AF) is sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Cutout dimensions (24 3/4″ W x 20″ D x 16 3/4″ H) need careful measurement for proper installation.
- Some users may find the depth of 19 5/8 inches a bit substantial for smaller kitchens.
This Frigidaire microwave offers a large capacity and smart cooking features for busy households. Just remember to factor in the separate trim kit for a complete, built-in installation.
5. Panasonic NN-SN98JS Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor
Rating: 8.7/10
The Panasonic NN-SN98JS microwave oven is a large, powerful appliance designed for busy kitchens. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great on any countertop or can be built into your cabinetry. This microwave uses special Inverter Technology to cook food evenly and efficiently, keeping your meals flavorful and nutritious. It’s big enough to handle family-sized portions and has smart features to make cooking easier.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1250-Watt cooking heats food quickly and thoroughly.
- 2.2 cubic foot capacity easily fits large dishes and family meals.
- Cyclonic Wave technology ensures even cooking and preserves food’s flavor and nutrients.
- Inverter Technology provides consistent heating, preventing overcooking.
- Turbo Defrost speeds up the thawing process.
- Large 16.5-inch turntable rotates food for even cooking.
- Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power for different foods.
- 20 preset menu items offer convenience for common dishes.
- Delay start and child safety lock add extra utility and peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the large size takes up a lot of counter space.
- The stainless steel finish can show fingerprints, requiring frequent wiping.
This Panasonic microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a large, high-performance appliance. Its smart features and powerful cooking capabilities make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Choosing Your Built-In Microwave: A Smart Kitchen Upgrade
Built-in microwave ovens offer a sleek and seamless look for your kitchen. They blend right into your cabinetry, making your kitchen feel more spacious and organized. Unlike countertop models, they save valuable counter space. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a built-in microwave, keep these important features in mind.
- Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually cook. A family might need a larger capacity, while a single person might be fine with a smaller one.
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most built-in microwaves range from 900 to 1200 watts.
- Cooking Presets: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These make cooking easy.
- Sensor Cooking: This smart feature detects when your food is cooked and stops the microwave automatically. It prevents overcooking and saves you guesswork.
- Turntable or No Turntable: A turntable spins your food for even heating. Some models have a turntable, while others use a flatbed design that heats food more evenly without moving parts.
- Convection Cooking: Some built-in microwaves can also bake and roast like a regular oven. This feature gives you more cooking options.
- Trim Kit: This is a special frame that helps the microwave fit perfectly into your cabinet opening. Most built-in microwaves come with or require a specific trim kit.
Important Materials
The materials used in a built-in microwave affect its durability and how it looks.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for both the interior and exterior. It’s strong, easy to clean, and looks modern. Stainless steel resists rust and fingerprints.
- Glass: The door window is usually made of tempered glass. This glass is strong and can handle heat. The interior cavity might have a ceramic enamel coating, which is also easy to clean and durable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a built-in microwave better or not so good.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. Its door should open and close smoothly. The control panel should be responsive.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable appliances. Researching brands can give you an idea of their quality.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior surface, like ceramic enamel or stainless steel, makes cleaning much easier. Removable turntables also help.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud when running. Look for models that are quieter if this is important to you.
- Reliability: Reading reviews from other buyers can tell you if a microwave tends to break down often.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your kitchen and what you cook will influence your choice.
- For Busy Families: A large-capacity microwave with sensor cooking and quick presets is ideal. It helps get meals ready fast.
- For Smaller Kitchens: A compact built-in microwave saves counter space. If it has convection, it can even act as a second oven.
- For Home Chefs: A model with convection and precise temperature controls offers more cooking versatility.
- For Simple Reheating: If you just need to reheat leftovers or warm up drinks, a basic model with straightforward controls will work well.
A built-in microwave can be a great addition to your kitchen. By considering these features and factors, you can find one that fits your needs and cooking style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between a built-in microwave and a countertop microwave?
A: A built-in microwave is designed to be installed into your cabinetry, offering a seamless look. A countertop microwave sits on your counter.
Q: Do built-in microwaves come with a trim kit?
A: Some do, but not all. You often need to buy a specific trim kit to ensure a clean and proper fit in your cabinet opening.
Q: How much space do I need for a built-in microwave?
A: This depends on the specific model. You’ll need to check the manufacturer’s specifications for the required width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening.
Q: Can I replace my old microwave with a new built-in one?
A: Usually, yes. It’s best to measure your existing microwave and cabinet opening to ensure the new one will fit.
Q: What is convection cooking in a microwave?
A: Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air, allowing the microwave to bake, roast, and brown food like a regular oven.
Q: How do I clean the inside of a built-in microwave?
A: Most have easy-to-clean surfaces like stainless steel or ceramic enamel. You can usually wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Q: Are built-in microwaves more expensive than countertop models?
A: Generally, yes. The installation and often the included trim kit can make them cost more upfront.
Q: What does “wattage” mean for a microwave?
A: Wattage measures the microwave’s power. Higher wattage means it cooks food faster.
Q: Is a turntable necessary for even cooking?
A: A turntable helps spin food for even heating. Some newer models use flatbed technology that heats food evenly without a turntable.
Q: Where is the best place to install a built-in microwave?
A: Common places include above a wall oven, in a cabinet, or as part of an island. It should be at a comfortable height for use.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!