Imagine a kitchen that looks sleek and feels spacious. A built-in microwave can help make that happen. But when you decide to get one, you also need a trim kit. This little piece is super important for making your microwave look like it belongs perfectly in your wall or cabinet.
Choosing the right built-in microwave with a trim kit can be tricky. You might wonder if it will fit right, look good with your other appliances, or if it’s even worth the extra cost. It’s easy to feel a bit lost with all the different sizes, styles, and brands out there. You want your kitchen to be beautiful and functional, and the wrong choice can lead to a gap or an awkward look.
Don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down what you need to know about built-in microwaves and their trim kits. You’ll learn what makes a good trim kit, how to measure for the perfect fit, and what features to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in picking the best option for your kitchen, making it look modern and polished.
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: 8.7/10
The Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF is a spacious and smart built-in microwave oven. It offers a large 2.2 cubic feet of cooking space, which is great for big meals or cooking several things at once. This microwave uses special sensors to figure out the best power and time for your food, so it always tastes delicious. It’s designed to fit neatly into your kitchen, but remember, the trim kit you need to make it look built-in is sold separately.
What We Like:
- The 2.2 cu. ft. capacity is generous, fitting large dishes easily.
- Sensor cooking helps ensure food is cooked perfectly every time.
- It has a sleek, modern design that looks great in any kitchen.
- The dimensions are well-suited for standard cabinet cutouts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The trim kit is an additional purchase, adding to the overall cost.
- The trim kit is sold separately and comes in specific sizes (27″ and 30″).
This Frigidaire microwave offers a lot of convenience and cooking power. If you’re looking for a large, smart microwave for your kitchen, this is a solid option to consider.
2. Summit 27” and 30″ Built-In Microwave Oven Stainless Steel
Rating: 8.6/10
Elevate your kitchen with the Summit 27” Built-In Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel appliance offers a spacious 2.2 cubic feet of cooking capacity and a powerful 1200W motor to handle all your culinary needs. Its sleek digital control panel and included trim kit ensure a seamless, modern look that fits perfectly into your 27-inch cabinet opening.
What We Like:
- Generous 2.2 cu.ft. capacity fits large dishes.
- Powerful 1200W output cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Easy-to-use digital control panel with 1-touch cooking options.
- Includes a complete trim kit for a professional, built-in look.
- Stainless steel finish complements most kitchen decors.
- The +30 Seconds button is super handy for quick additions.
- Defrost functions take the guesswork out of thawing.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific cutout dimensions are required for installation.
- The trim kit is designed only for 27″ openings.
This Summit microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a powerful and stylish built-in option.
3. Frigidaire PMBS3080BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Frigidaire PMBS3080BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Oven. This sleek appliance fits seamlessly into your cabinetry, offering a spacious interior for all your cooking needs. Its sensor cook feature takes the guesswork out of reheating and cooking, ensuring perfect results every time. Get ready for convenient and efficient meal preparation with this modern microwave.
What We Like:
- Generous 2.2 cu. ft. capacity handles large dishes.
- Sensor Cook technology automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
- Built-in design creates a clean, integrated look in your kitchen.
- 24 3/8 inch width fits most standard cabinet openings (with the required trim kit).
- Intuitive controls make operation simple and easy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 30″ trim kit is sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Specific cutout dimensions (24 3/4″ W x 20″ D x 16 3/4″ H) need careful measurement for installation.
- Requires a separate purchase for full installation.
This Frigidaire microwave offers a fantastic blend of style and functionality for your kitchen. While the trim kit is an extra purchase, the overall convenience and cooking performance make it a worthwhile addition.
4. Frigidaire PMBS3080A 24 Inch Wide 2.2 Cu. Ft. 1100 Watt Built In Microwave with Sensor Cook – Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Frigidaire PMBS3080A built-in microwave. This sleek stainless steel appliance offers a generous 2.2 cubic feet of space, perfect for cooking or reheating larger meals. With 1100 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly, making meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- **Fits-More Microwave:** Its spacious interior easily accommodates larger dishes and cookware, so you can heat up family-sized meals without a problem.
- **Sensor Cook:** Take the guesswork out of cooking. The microwave automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture level, ensuring perfectly cooked results every time.
- **Convenient Quick Start Options:** Get your food ready in a flash with easy-to-use quick start buttons for common cooking times.
- **Sensor Reheat:** Reheating leftovers is simple. This feature senses the food’s moisture and reheats it to perfection, preventing dry or overcooked meals.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the built-in design is attractive, installation might require professional help for some homeowners.
- The stainless steel finish, while stylish, can show fingerprints and may need frequent wiping to maintain its shine.
This Frigidaire microwave is a smart addition to any kitchen, offering both convenience and excellent cooking performance. It makes everyday meal preparation simpler and more enjoyable.
5. 30” Summit Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The 30” Summit Microwave Oven, SMBI27TK30, offers a spacious 2.2 cu. ft. capacity and a sleek stainless steel design to upgrade your kitchen. It comes with a trim kit, making it easy to install into standard 27” wide cabinets, giving your kitchen a built-in look. This microwave is designed to handle all your cooking needs, from reheating leftovers to preparing quick meals.
What We Like:
- The large 2.2 cu. ft. capacity fits plenty of food.
- The included trim kit makes installation seamless and provides a built-in appearance.
- It has a powerful 1200W heating element for fast cooking.
- The modern stainless steel front and jet-black exterior look great in any kitchen.
- The clean white interior and large glass turntable make cooking and cleaning easy.
- The large window lets you watch your food cook without opening the door.
- Pre-programmed settings simplify cooking for common items like potatoes and popcorn.
What Could Be Improved:
- The precise microwave dimensions (13 1/2″ H x 24 3/8″ W x 19 5/8″ D) are smaller than the overall unit dimensions (18.88″ H x 29.75″ W x 19.63″ D), which might confuse some users during installation.
- The trim kit covers spaces up to 29 3/4″ W, but the overall unit is 29.75″ W, so ensure your cut-out is precisely within the specified range for a perfect fit.
This Summit microwave is a fantastic addition for anyone looking for both style and function in their kitchen. Its generous capacity and user-friendly features make meal preparation a breeze.
Upgrade Your Kitchen: Built-In Microwaves with Trim Kits
A built-in microwave with a trim kit can make your kitchen look sleek and modern. It’s a great way to save counter space and give your kitchen a professional feel. This guide will help you choose the best one for your home.
Why Choose a Built-In Microwave with a Trim Kit?
Countertop microwaves take up valuable space. A built-in model fits right into your cabinetry. A trim kit is like a frame that makes the microwave look like it belongs there. It covers any gaps and gives a seamless finish. This makes your kitchen look tidier and more organized.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a built-in microwave, several things are important. Think about what you’ll use it for most.
1. Size and Capacity
- Interior Capacity: Microwaves are measured in cubic feet. A larger capacity is good for cooking big meals or using larger dishes. Smaller households might be fine with a smaller one.
- Exterior Dimensions: Make sure the microwave will fit the space you have. Measure the opening in your cabinet carefully.
2. Power (Wattage)
- Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most built-in microwaves are 900 watts or higher. This is usually enough for most tasks.
3. Cooking Presets and Features
- Many microwaves have special buttons for popcorn, potatoes, or defrosting.
- Some have sensor cooking, which adjusts the time automatically based on the food.
- Convection cooking allows you to bake and roast foods, not just microwave them. This is a great feature if you want more cooking options.
4. Ease of Use
- Look for a control panel that is easy to understand.
- A bright interior light helps you see what’s cooking.
- A turntable that rotates food ensures even heating.
5. Trim Kit Design
- The trim kit should match the color and finish of your other appliances.
- Check that the trim kit is the right size for your specific microwave model.
Important Materials
The materials used in your microwave affect how it looks and how long it lasts.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice because it looks modern and is durable. It resists fingerprints well on some models.
- Painted Metal: Microwaves with painted exteriors come in various colors to match your kitchen.
- Glass: The door is usually made of glass so you can see inside.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a microwave better, while others can make it less good.
Quality Boosters:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make reliable appliances.
- Build Quality: A sturdy construction means it will last longer.
- Advanced Features: Things like sensor cooking and convection can make cooking easier and better.
Quality Reducers:
- Cheap Materials: Thin metal or flimsy plastic parts can break easily.
- Poorly Designed Controls: Complicated buttons or a hard-to-read display can be frustrating.
- Lack of Ventilation: Good ventilation is important to prevent overheating.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your microwave will shape your experience.
Everyday Cooking:
For quick meals, reheating leftovers, or making popcorn, a simple microwave with good presets is perfect. Families will appreciate a larger capacity for cooking multiple items.
Entertaining Guests:
If you often host parties, a microwave with convection cooking can help you prepare appetizers or even bake small dishes. This gives you more flexibility in the kitchen.
Small Kitchens:
A built-in microwave is a game-changer for small kitchens. It frees up counter space and makes the kitchen feel more spacious. The sleek look also adds to the overall appeal.
FAQ: Built-In Microwaves with Trim Kits
Q: What is a trim kit for a built-in microwave?
A: A trim kit is a decorative frame that fits around your built-in microwave. It makes the microwave look like it’s a permanent part of your cabinets and covers any gaps.
Q: Do I need a trim kit for every built-in microwave?
A: Yes, if you are installing a microwave into a cabinet opening, a trim kit is usually needed to give it a finished look and ensure it fits properly.
Q: How do I measure for a trim kit?
A: You need to measure the width and height of the cabinet opening where the microwave will go. The trim kit needs to be the correct size to fit this opening.
Q: Can I install a built-in microwave myself?
A: Installation can be complex and may involve electrical work. It’s often best to hire a professional to ensure it’s installed safely and correctly.
Q: What is convection cooking?
A: Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air, which cooks food more evenly and can help it brown and crisp up, similar to an oven.
Q: How much does a built-in microwave with a trim kit cost?
A: Prices vary widely. Basic models can start around a few hundred dollars, while high-end models with advanced features can cost over a thousand dollars.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves hard to keep clean?
A: Stainless steel is generally easy to clean. Some models have fingerprint-resistant coatings, which makes cleaning even easier.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a built-in microwave?
A: Built-in microwaves, like other kitchen appliances, typically last between 7 and 15 years with proper care.
Q: Can I replace just the microwave without replacing the trim kit?
A: This depends on the specific models. If you buy a microwave designed to fit the same cabinet opening and use the same trim kit, it might be possible. Always check compatibility.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a built-in microwave with a trim kit?
A: You can find them at appliance stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers. Reading reviews can help you make a good choice.
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!