There are multiple microwave dimensions, including a variety of installation and style options. There is no standard microwave design, but one of the most popular styles is the countertop microwave.
Typical benchtop microwaves are 24 inches wide, 14 inches high, and 16 inches deep. A microwave this size has approximately 1.5 cubic feet of capacity. Other common microwave designs include built-in microwaves, drawer microwaves, and over-range microwaves. All of these microwaves can be modified to different sizes.
Before you go out and buy that super cool microwave with all the bells and whistles, make sure it will work in your space. It’s also important to have a realistic picture of how you’ll be using the microwave and what style will work best in your kitchen.
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What size microwave should I get?
When deciding what size microwave to buy, the key factor is how much countertop space you are willing to sacrifice. If you have limited space in the kitchen, you might want to opt for a smaller model.
You can also consider investing in a model that doesn’t take up counter space. Models like built-in microwaves and drawer microwaves, which we break down in this article, are great space savers.
On the other hand, there are many reasons to invest in a larger microwave model. For example, if you anticipate using your microwave heavily or heating up large dishes. In these scenarios, it might be worth sacrificing extra counter space to ensure you’re meeting your microwave needs.
Regardless of which model you buy, most internal microwave dimensions range from 0.5 cubic feet to just over 2 cubic feet. For reference, a 0.5 cu ft microwave is just big enough to hold a 10 inch dinner plate.
A 2 cu ft microwave is large enough to hold most larger cookware. The most common size is in the 1-2 cubic foot range. External dimensions vary by model, so you should measure your desired microwave location before deciding on a specific model.
Compact microwave dimensions
Compact microwaves are 0.7 cubic feet and are perfect for small kitchens and light use, such as. B. heating soups. The average dimensions of a compact microwave are 17.3 x 10.1 x 14.1 inches. These microwaves are typically 700 watts.
Dimensions of a medium-sized microwave
Medium-sized microwaves are 1.2 cubic feet and are great for quick meals without sacrificing too much counter space. You measure on average 20.69 x 12.19 x 15.25 inches and have 1,200 watts.
Full size microwave oven dimensions
Full-size microwaves average about 1.6 cubic feet, making them among the larger microwave options. These microwaves are perfect for large families and larger meals.
The dimensions of an average full size microwave are 21.8×19.2×13 inches. You can usually assume that a full-size microwave is 1,200 watts.
Large microwave dimensions
The largest microwaves available are ideal for a large family that wants to get a lot of use out of their microwave. At 2.2 cubic feet, these microwaves also have the capacity for most large cookware.
The average dimensions of a large microwave are 20x24x14 inches. You can count on 1,200 to 1,250 watts for your large microwave.
Which microwave model should I get?
There are four types of microwaves to consider when purchasing. These are countertop microwaves, built-in microwaves, over-range microwaves, and drawer microwaves. Read on to find out which of these microwaves is the best choice for your needs.
Countertop Microwave Dimensions
Countertop microwaves are the most popular of all microwave options and are generally the cheapest. They are convenient to set up as they require no additional installation other than unpacking. Another advantage is their portability – if you need to move, they can move with you.
You can also put countertop microwaves in open cabinets as long as you follow all the necessary safety precautions. These precautions include making sure the microwave is on a sturdy shelf, has adequate ventilationand proper wiring management.
The average countertop microwave is 24 inches wide, 14 inches high, and 16 inches deep. These microwaves are also available in smaller units.
The dimensions of the average small countertop microwave are 15 to 19 inches wide and 10 to 11 inches high. These microwaves typically have a capacity of 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet of interior space.
Dimensions of the built-in microwave
Unlike tabletop microwaves, built-in microwaves are built into a wall or cabinet. Built-in microwaves are great kitchen cabinet space savers. They also offer more customization options and accessories than countertop microwaves.
However, these microwaves are slightly more expensive than tabletop microwaves because they require professional installation. Also, once installed, it is not portable.
The dimensions of a built-in microwave are usually based on standard cabinet sizes. The width of the average built-in microwave is either 24, 27, or 30 inches.
The height ranges from 17 to 22 inches. Depths range from 20 to 25 inches with the door closed and 30 to 35 inches with the door open.
Over-The-Range Microwaves
An over-the-range microwave hangs above your stove and attaches to the side of the kitchen cabinets. It has a contemporary look and features stove lighting and ventilation. Similar to a
Microwave dimensions over range
An over-the-range microwave hangs above your stove and attaches to the side of the kitchen cabinets. It has a contemporary look and features stove lighting and ventilation. Similar to a built-in microwave, an over-the-range microwave is great for freeing up counter space.
Overall, this type of microwave is a good choice for ventilation and saves counter space. You can expect to pay more for an over-range microwave, but you also get more bang for your buck. It also requires professional installation.
When considering an over-range microwave, you must first measure the space above your stovetop. Most standard microwave models across the range are 30 inches wide, with some smaller units measuring 24 inches wide.
The area above the hob must accommodate an appliance of one of these sizes. Also, the room should allow 6 inches of clearance between all walls and the microwave. This space ensures that you can fully open the microwave door.
Also measure the height of your hearth area. The bottom of the microwave or cabinet must be at least 30 inches from the cooking surface.
These are general guidelines, so check your manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you have adequate ventilation around the microwave.
Drawer Microwave Dimensions
Drawer microwaves (also called microwave drawers) are unique in that you pull them out like a drawer instead of having a door that swings open. This unique feature sets it apart from other microwave models.
A major benefit of drawer microwaves is the counter space saving as they easily slot into the base cabinets. They are also considered safer than microwaves or built-in microwaves as there is no risk of dropping heavy objects from a height.
However, microwave drawers tend to be the most expensive microwave models. They can also prove uncomfortable for those with back problems – it can be difficult to bend down for the controls.
Regardless of the brand, there are two sizes available for the outside width of a drawer type microwave – 24 or 30 inches. The 24-inch model is the more popular size, and internal dimensions remain the same for both units.
Other factors to consider when buying a microwave
What microwave power do I need?
Watt is the unit that measures the power of a microwave. The higher the wattage, the faster the cooking time. Some higher wattage microwaves are more expensive, so this is a key factor to consider when budgeting.
In general, a 1,000 watt microwave is considered basic and will cook your food easily and quickly. Wattages of 700 or less can be slow and won’t cook your food as evenly.
What microwave features should I look out for?
Most modern microwaves offer a range of features and specifications that will make your life easier. Here are some customer favorites to keep in mind when shopping in the microwave:
- Automatic defrost
- Pre-programmed settings
- Smooth control panels
- Parental Control Features
- Easy to clean interiors
- sensors
- Inverter technology
- Grill and steam options
It’s wise to choose a microwave that can do whatever you want, as you’re likely to have it for a while. Most microwaves last about 10 years, but you can keep using them as long as they work well.
Just make sure you’re not blindsided by all the features you’re trying to cram into an oversized microwave. First and foremost, finding the best fit for your space is most important.
in summary
Countertop microwaves are the most typical, measuring 24 inches wide, 14 inches high, and 16 inches deep. This size microwave gives you approximately 1.5 cubic feet of capacity. Standard built-in microwaves are 24, 27, or 30 inches wide, and over-the-range and drawer type microwaves are 24 or 30 inches wide.
There are many types of microwaves in different sizes and formats. Which one is best for you and your kitchen needs depends on several factors.
For example, if you’re considering an overhanging or built-in model, make sure there’s room in your cupboard or above your stovetop. Microwaves are an important investment, and the right one will make a positive difference to the overall look of your kitchen.