Tired of your microwave hogging precious counter space? Many of us dream of a clean, uncluttered kitchen, but where do you put that essential appliance? If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your cabinets and wondering, “Can a microwave actually go in there?” you’re not alone. Choosing a microwave designed to fit inside a cabinet can feel like a puzzle, with questions about ventilation, size, and how it will actually look and work.
This is where our guide comes in! We understand the frustration of limited kitchen real estate and the desire for a more streamlined look. By reading on, you’ll discover the secrets to successfully integrating a microwave into your cabinetry. We’ll break down what makes a microwave “cabinet-ready,” what to watch out for, and how to find the perfect fit for your kitchen’s style and your cooking needs. Get ready to unlock a whole new level of kitchen organization!
Our Top 5 Microwave For Inside Cabinet Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave For Inside Cabinet Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.7/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, making it ideal for smaller spaces. This microwave heats your food quickly and evenly thanks to its 700-watt power. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern. It’s also super easy to use for everyone.
What We Like:
- It has special buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes. This makes cooking simple.
- The push-button door is easy to open.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- The 10 power settings let you control how your food cooks.
- It has a clock and a kitchen timer for convenience.
- The 30-second express cook button is handy for quick reheating.
- The large LED display is easy to read.
- The glass turntable is removable, so you can clean it easily.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find 0.7 cubic feet a bit small for larger dishes or multiple items.
- While it’s powerful enough for most tasks, it might take a little longer to heat very large portions compared to higher wattage microwaves.
This microwave oven is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It offers great features for its size and price.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.5/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper. This compact microwave is designed for quick meals and snacks. It’s perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms. You get 700 watts of power, which is great for heating up your food fast. Plus, it has a sleek black finish that looks good anywhere.
What We Like:
- Extra-Quick Cooking: Six handy presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies make cooking simple. You can also just press a number for minutes of cooking.
- Low to High Power: Ten power levels let you melt butter or cook food rapidly.
- Digital Controls: Easy to set time and power. The +30 seconds button adds extra time when you need it.
- Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch starts.
- Safety First: A child safety lock prevents the door from opening by accident. You can also lock the control panel.
- Mute Option: Turn off the beeps with the Audio Button. This is great when you need quiet.
- Modern Design: The compact size and black finish fit any kitchen style. Eco Mode saves power and turns off the display.
- Easy to Clean: The exterior wipes clean easily. The glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Trusted Quality: It’s cETL approved and comes with a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger families or big meals.
- While it has 10 power levels, some users might prefer a wider range for very specific cooking needs.
This Chefman microwave offers a great balance of features and convenience for daily use. It’s a reliable choice for anyone needing a straightforward and efficient countertop microwave.
3. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.8/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a compact yet powerful microwave. It’s designed for small spaces like apartments and dorm rooms, but it still packs a punch with 700 watts of cooking power. The stainless steel finish looks great and makes cleaning a breeze.
What We Like:
- It heats food quickly and efficiently with 700 watts of power.
- You get lots of control with ten power levels and multi-stage cooking.
- Six one-touch settings, like popcorn and pizza, make cooking super easy.
- Defrosting by weight or time is a handy feature.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size is perfect for small kitchens or offices.
- The LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra security.
- The stainless steel interior and exterior are easy to wipe clean.
- Farberware is a trusted brand known for quality kitchenware.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger families or for reheating very large dishes.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking functions.
This microwave offers a great balance of convenience and functionality for everyday use. It’s a solid option for anyone seeking a reliable and easy-to-use appliance.
4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 8.7/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a stylish and compact stainless steel microwave oven that’s ideal for small living spaces like apartments and dorm rooms. It boasts a 900-watt cooking power, a 0.9 cubic foot capacity, and a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable, making it super convenient for reheating meals or cooking quick snacks. Plus, its user-friendly design includes helpful features for everyday use.
What We Like:
- Powerful 900W cooking power gets food hot fast.
- Six preset menus take the guesswork out of cooking common items like popcorn and potatoes.
- Eleven different power levels give you lots of control for different foods.
- The Mute Mode is a lifesaver for quiet kitchens or late-night snacks.
- The Two-Step Child Lock is a great safety feature for families.
- The interior LED lighting lets you see your food clearly.
- Easy Defrost and One-Touch Start functions make cooking simple.
- The removable 10.6-inch turntable fits most plates and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions, while compact, might still be a squeeze for some very tiny kitchens.
- While the presets are helpful, advanced cooks might want more customization options beyond the 11 power levels.
This TOSHIBA microwave offers a great blend of power, convenience, and safety for anyone needing a reliable and compact cooking solution. It’s a solid choice for adding ease to your daily routine.
5. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.1/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a 1.2 cubic foot countertop microwave that brings smart cooking to your kitchen. Its sleek black design and 1000 watts of power make it a capable appliance for all your reheating, defrosting, and cooking needs. This microwave is packed with features designed to make meal prep easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- The Smart Sensor Technology is a standout feature. It automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on how much moisture is in your food, so your meals come out perfectly cooked every time. No more guesswork!
- It offers 6 preset menus for common foods like pizza and vegetables, plus a sensor reheat option. This saves you time when you’re in a hurry.
- With 10 different power levels, you have plenty of control to cook or heat things just right. It also includes a clock and a kitchen timer.
- Defrosting is a breeze with options for defrosting by weight or time. You can also start the microwave quickly for up to 6 minutes at full power with the one-touch start.
- The Mute Mode is a thoughtful addition. You can turn off the annoying buzzer by long-pressing the “8” button for 3-5 seconds, which is great for late-night snacks or quiet kitchens.
- The 12.4-inch removable glass turntable is large enough for most dishes and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 preset menus, the description mentions “12 Auto Menus,” which might be confusing. It’s important to clarify the exact number of pre-programmed cooking options.
- The external dimensions are a bit larger than some compact microwaves, so make sure you have enough counter space before purchasing.
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS offers a great balance of smart features and user-friendly operation. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a reliable and versatile microwave.
Your Kitchen’s Best Friend: The In-Cabinet Microwave Buying Guide
You want a microwave, but you also want to keep your countertops clear. An in-cabinet microwave is the perfect solution! It tucks away neatly, saving space and keeping your kitchen looking tidy. But choosing the right one can feel a bit tricky. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an in-cabinet microwave, pay attention to these important features:
Size and Dimensions
This is the most important thing. Measure your cabinet opening precisely. You need to know the width, height, and depth of the space. Microwaves come in different sizes, so a perfect fit is essential. A microwave that’s too big won’t go in. A microwave that’s too small might look odd.
Ventilation
In-cabinet microwaves need good airflow. Look for models with built-in ventilation systems. Some microwaves have fans that pull air in and push it out. Others might need to be vented to the outside. Check if the microwave you like has a good ventilation system. This keeps the microwave from overheating.
Power (Wattage)
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most in-cabinet microwaves are between 900 and 1200 watts. For most everyday tasks, 1000 watts is a good choice. If you plan to cook a lot or reheat large meals, more wattage is better.
Control Panel and Features
Think about how you like to use your microwave. Do you want simple buttons or a fancy touch screen? Many microwaves have preset cooking options for common foods like popcorn or baked potatoes. Some even have smart features that connect to your phone. Choose controls that are easy for you to understand and use.
Door Style and Opening
In-cabinet microwaves often have doors that swing open. Some swing to the left, and others swing to the right. Make sure the door opens in a way that works with your cabinet space and doesn’t bump into anything.
Important Materials
The materials used in microwaves affect their durability and appearance.
Stainless Steel Interior and Exterior
Stainless steel is a popular choice. It’s strong and looks very nice. It’s also easy to clean. Many microwaves have stainless steel interiors and exteriors. This makes them last longer and resist scratches.
Glass Turntable
A glass turntable helps your food cook evenly. It spins your food around so all sides get hot. Make sure the glass turntable is easy to remove and clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave better or worse.
Brand Reputation
Well-known brands often make better quality appliances. They have a history of making reliable products. Researching brands can help you avoid disappointment.
Build Quality
Feel the microwave. Does it feel sturdy and well-made? A good build quality means the microwave will last longer. Wobbly parts or thin metal can be a sign of lower quality.
Ease of Installation
Some in-cabinet microwaves are easier to install than others. Look for clear instructions and simple mounting systems. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, you might need to hire someone to install it.
Noise Level
Microwaves can be noisy. Some models are quieter than others. If you have an open-plan kitchen, a quieter microwave might be important to you.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your in-cabinet microwave?
For Quick Meals and Snacks
An in-cabinet microwave is perfect for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or heating up a quick snack. It’s always there when you need it.
To Save Counter Space
The main reason people choose these is to free up counter space. This makes your kitchen look cleaner and gives you more room to prepare food.
For a Sleek, Modern Kitchen
An in-cabinet microwave blends in with your cabinets. It creates a seamless and modern look for your kitchen. It can make your kitchen feel more organized and stylish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I measure for an in-cabinet microwave?
A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening very carefully. Also, check the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact cutout dimensions required.
Q: Can I install an in-cabinet microwave myself?
A: Some models are designed for DIY installation. However, it often requires basic carpentry skills and electrical knowledge. If you’re unsure, it’s best to hire a professional.
Q: Do in-cabinet microwaves need special ventilation?
A: Yes, they do. Most require venting to the outside or have built-in fans to circulate air. Check the product details to understand the ventilation requirements.
Q: What is the difference between a built-in microwave and an in-cabinet microwave?
A: “Built-in” often refers to microwaves designed to be installed flush with cabinetry, sometimes with a trim kit. “In-cabinet” usually means a microwave that fits within a standard cabinet opening, often with its own door or panel.
Q: How much wattage do I need?
A: For general use like reheating and cooking simple meals, 900-1000 watts is usually sufficient. More wattage means faster cooking times.
Q: Are in-cabinet microwaves harder to clean?
A: Not necessarily. Many have easy-to-clean interiors, often made of stainless steel. The turntable is usually removable for washing.
Q: What if my cabinet opening is an unusual size?
A: You may need to look for custom cabinet solutions or consider a microwave designed to fit a specific opening size. Some manufacturers offer different sizes within their in-cabinet lines.
Q: Can I use a regular countertop microwave in a cabinet?
A: Not usually. Regular microwaves are not designed for the ventilation and installation requirements of being inside a cabinet. Using one improperly can be a fire hazard.
Q: How much space do I need around the microwave for ventilation?
A: Always check the manufacturer’s manual. They will specify the required clearance on the sides, top, and back for proper airflow and safe operation.
Q: What is a trim kit for an in-cabinet microwave?
A: A trim kit is an accessory that helps a microwave fit snugly into a larger cabinet opening, creating a more finished and built-in look. It often includes vents and a frame.
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!