Imagine a kitchen that looks sleek and polished, where appliances seem to blend seamlessly into the cabinetry. That’s the magic a built-in microwave with a trim kit can bring. But choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze. You want that perfect fit and style, but the sheer number of choices can leave you scratching your head. Will it match your cabinets? Is it the right size? These are the questions that often make homeowners pause.
This is where we come in. We know the frustration of wanting a beautiful, functional kitchen but getting lost in the details of appliance installation. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. By reading on, you’ll discover exactly what a built-in microwave with a trim kit is, why it’s a fantastic upgrade for your kitchen, and how to pick the one that will make your space shine. We’ll break down the key features and considerations so you can shop with confidence.
Let’s dive into the world of built-in microwaves and trim kits, and transform your kitchen into the stylish hub you’ve always dreamed of.
Our Top 5 Built-In Microwave With Trim Kit Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Built-In Microwave With Trim Kit Detailed Reviews
1. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers a lot of space inside for all your cooking needs. This microwave makes preparing meals easier and more efficient. It has smart sensors that figure out the best way to cook your food.
What We Like:
- The large 2.2 cu. ft. capacity easily fits big dishes and multiple food items.
- Sensor cooking technology automatically adjusts power and time for perfectly cooked meals.
- Its built-in design creates a sleek, modern look in your kitchen.
- The dimensions are well-suited for standard cabinet cutouts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The trim kit is sold separately, which is an extra cost to consider.
- The installation might require professional help for a seamless built-in look.
This Frigidaire microwave is a great choice for those looking for a spacious and smart cooking solution. It’s designed to make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Frigidaire PMBS3080BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the sleek Frigidaire PMBS3080BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Oven. This spacious microwave fits perfectly into your cabinetry, offering a clean and modern look. Its generous 2.2 cubic feet capacity handles large dishes with ease. The sensor cook feature takes the guesswork out of reheating and cooking, ensuring perfect results every time.
What We Like:
- Spacious 2.2 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Sensor Cook automatically adjusts cooking time and power for delicious results.
- Built-in design creates a seamless and professional kitchen appearance.
- Easy-to-use controls make operation straightforward.
- The 24-inch width fits standard cabinet openings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The required trim kit (PMTK3080AF) is sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Installation requires specific cutout dimensions (24 3/4″ W x 20″ D x 16 3/4″ H), so measure carefully.
- The depth might be a bit large for some smaller kitchens.
If you’re looking for a powerful and stylish built-in microwave, the Frigidaire PMBS3080BF is a fantastic option. Just remember to factor in the cost and installation requirements of the trim kit.
3. Frigidaire PMBS3080A 24 Inch Wide 2.2 Cu. Ft. 1100 Watt Built In Microwave with Sensor Cook – Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Frigidaire PMBS3080A built-in microwave. This sleek stainless steel appliance offers a spacious 2.2 cubic feet of cooking room, meaning you can fit larger dishes easily. With 1100 watts of power, it heats food quickly and efficiently. It’s designed to blend seamlessly into your cabinetry, giving your kitchen a modern, built-in look.
What We Like:
- The Fits-More Microwave feature gives you plenty of space for bigger meals and plates.
- Sensor Cook takes the guesswork out of cooking. It automatically adjusts cooking time and power levels for perfect results every time.
- Quick Start options make it super easy to heat things up fast. Just press a button for common cooking times.
- Sensor Reheat is a lifesaver for leftovers. It gently reheats your food without drying it out.
- The stainless steel finish looks very modern and is easy to wipe clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the built-in design is great, installation might require professional help for some users.
- The control panel could be a little more intuitive for first-time users.
This Frigidaire microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both style and smart cooking technology. It makes meal prep and reheating a breeze.
4. Summit 27” and 30″ Built-In Microwave Oven Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Summit 27” Built-In Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel. This powerful 1200W microwave offers a generous 2.2 cubic feet of cooking space, making it ideal for families and busy households. Its modern digital control panel and included trim kit ensure a seamless, built-in look that fits perfectly into your 27-inch cabinet opening.
What We Like:
- Spacious 2.2 cu.ft. interior holds large dishes.
- Powerful 1200W heating cooks food quickly and evenly.
- User-friendly digital control panel with one-touch cooking options for common foods like pizza and popcorn.
- The +30 Seconds button is super convenient for adding extra cooking time.
- Comes with a complete trim kit for a professional, integrated look in 27″ cabinets.
- Stainless steel finish complements many modern kitchen styles.
- Large glass turntable ensures even heating every time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specified cutout dimensions are quite precise, so careful measuring is essential before installation.
- While stainless steel is stylish, it can show fingerprints and requires regular cleaning to maintain its shine.
This Summit microwave brings both style and substance to your kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a high-performance, built-in microwave that looks as good as it cooks.
5. BRAMA Microwave Oven Built-In 1200-Watts with 10 Power Levels Pre-Set Cooking Settings and Express Cook
Rating: 9.4/10
The BRAMA Microwave Oven Built-In is a powerful and versatile appliance that can handle all your cooking needs. Its large capacity and 1200 watts of power make it ideal for preparing family-sized meals. You can easily control your cooking with 10 different power levels and a variety of pre-set cooking options. This microwave is also designed for convenience, with features like express cook and sensor cooking that take the guesswork out of meal prep. It looks great in any kitchen, whether you choose to place it on your countertop or install it as a built-in unit.
What We Like:
- It has a large 2.2 Cu.Ft. capacity, perfect for big meals.
- The 1200-watt power and 10 adjustable power levels offer great cooking control.
- It’s easy to install and can be used as a built-in appliance with the included trim kit.
- Features like Express Cook, sensor cooking, and pre-set menus make cooking simple.
- The silent mode is a nice touch for quiet kitchens.
- The Child Lock feature adds extra safety for families.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The touch screen controls might take a little getting used to for some users.
- While it has many features, some advanced cooks might wish for more customization options beyond the pre-sets.
This BRAMA microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both power and convenience. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich microwave.
Finding the Perfect Built-In Microwave with Trim Kit
A built-in microwave with a trim kit can make your kitchen look sleek and professional. It’s a microwave that fits right into your cabinetry, like a wall oven. The trim kit is a special frame that helps it blend in perfectly. Let’s explore what makes a good one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a built-in microwave with a trim kit, keep these features in mind:
- Size Matters: Measure your cabinet space carefully. Microwaves come in different widths, heights, and depths. The trim kit needs to match these dimensions exactly.
- Wattage Power: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most built-in microwaves are around 1000 watts or more, which is great for most tasks.
- Capacity: Think about how much food you usually cook. Larger families might need a microwave with a bigger interior space.
- Cooking Modes: Look for helpful presets like popcorn, defrost, and sensor cooking. Sensor cooking adjusts time and power based on the food’s moisture.
- Easy Controls: A simple and clear control panel makes using the microwave a breeze. Touch panels are modern and easy to clean.
- Turntable: A turntable rotates food for even heating. Some models have a large turntable for bigger dishes.
Important Materials
The materials used in your microwave affect its look and how long it lasts.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for both the microwave exterior and the trim kit. It looks modern, is durable, and resists fingerprints well.
- Tempered Glass: The door window is usually made of tempered glass. It’s strong and lets you see your food as it cooks.
- Interior Coating: The inside of the microwave often has a ceramic or enamel coating. These are easy to wipe clean and resist scratches.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a built-in microwave and its trim kit great or not so great.
Quality Boosters:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better parts and have good customer service.
- Sturdy Construction: A microwave that feels solid and well-built usually lasts longer.
- Smooth Door Operation: The microwave door should open and close smoothly without feeling flimsy.
- Precise Trim Kit Fit: The trim kit should fit snugly against the cabinet with no gaps.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin or Wobbly Materials: If the metal feels thin or the plastic parts seem cheap, the quality might be lower.
- Poorly Aligned Trim Kit: Gaps or uneven edges on the trim kit can make the whole installation look messy.
- Flimsy Door Hinges: Hinges that feel weak can break over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a built-in microwave with a trim kit is all about convenience and style.
- Sleek Kitchen Design: It creates a seamless look, making your kitchen feel more organized and high-end.
- Space Saving: Since it’s built into the cabinets, it frees up counter space. This is great for smaller kitchens.
- Easy Everyday Use: Reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or defrosting food is quick and simple.
- Precise Cooking: Advanced features like sensor cooking ensure your food is cooked perfectly every time.
- Family Meals: Larger capacity models can handle family-sized dishes, making meal prep faster.
Choosing a built-in microwave with a trim kit is an investment in your kitchen’s look and functionality. By considering these features, materials, and quality factors, you can find a model that you’ll love using for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a trim kit for a built-in microwave?
A: A trim kit is a decorative frame that surrounds the built-in microwave. It covers any gaps between the microwave and the cabinet opening, giving it a finished and professional look.
Q: Do I need a special trim kit for every built-in microwave?
A: Yes, trim kits are usually specific to the microwave model and brand. You need to buy a trim kit designed to fit your particular microwave and cabinet opening size.
Q: How do I measure for a built-in microwave and trim kit?
A: You need to measure the width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening where the microwave will go. Also, check the dimensions of the microwave itself.
Q: Can I install a built-in microwave myself?
A: Installing a built-in microwave can be complex. It often involves electrical work and precise fitting. Many people hire a professional for installation.
Q: What is the difference between a countertop microwave and a built-in microwave?
A: A countertop microwave sits on your counter. A built-in microwave is designed to be installed within cabinetry, often with a trim kit for a seamless look.
Q: How much does a built-in microwave with a trim kit typically cost?
A: Prices vary widely. Basic models might start around $400-$500, while high-end models with advanced features can cost $1,000 or more, not including the trim kit which can add another $100-$300.
Q: Are built-in microwaves more powerful than countertop models?
A: Not necessarily. Power, measured in watts, is similar across both types. The main difference is the installation and aesthetic.
Q: How do I clean the inside of a built-in microwave?
A: Most interiors can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the coating.
Q: What are some common problems with built-in microwaves?
A: Common issues can include uneven heating, malfunctioning controls, or problems with the door seal. The trim kit can also sometimes become misaligned.
Q: Can I replace an old built-in microwave with a new one?
A: Yes, but you must ensure the new microwave and its trim kit fit the existing cabinet opening. You might need to adjust the opening or choose a different model.
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!