Best Microwave Drawers of 2023: Top 6 Models Reviewed
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The best microwave drawer models in 2023 free up space in the kitchen with their revolutionary under-counter design, but the enhanced aesthetic comes at a price (both financial and functional).
I’m the founder of Designer Appliances, a premier appliance store in New Jersey, and I have 15+ years of appliance experience. I’ve test-driven most of these microwave drawers, but most importantly, I’ve heard real-life feedback from our discerning customers.
These six microwave drawers are the ones I recommend to customers, family, and friends. Some offer convenient features for everyday use, while others look great. Let’s explore the pros and cons and find the best microwave drawer for you.
Other Sharp Microwave Drawer Models:
- KB6524PSY 24″ with Curved Handle.
- SMD2470ASY | Best Seller, comes in 24″ or 30″, Hidden-Angled Controls, Optional Kit for Flush Installations (Black Stainless Steel version SMD2470AH).
- SMD2489ES This new addition comes with Wifi connectivity and an app for recipes and troubleshooting, 24″, Wave-to-Open Door |
- SMD2499FS Brand new microwave drawer with convection cooking technology (a. k.a. standard oven features). Advanced mobile app for recipes and troubleshooting, 24″, Wave-to-Open Door
2. Best Flush Install
Bosch HMD8451UC
Bosch HMD8451UC
You’ll love:
- Making your kitchen redesign as classy and aesthetically pleasing as possible – even down to the microwave!
You might not love:
- The control panel is horizontal. This makes it hard to see it without bending down.
Why We Chose It: Your kitchen appliances should be crafted like works of art, and be able to help you effectively craft a myriad of culinary works of art. If you fancy yourself the Van Gogh of heating up your frozen chicken tenders to just the right time and temperature, Bosch has tailor made the perfect cooking canvas for you.
If you already have Bosch appliances in your kitchen, then the beautiful design of a Bosch microwave drawer will fit right in. When you purchase a suite of Bosch appliances from us, you can receive a 10-15% rebate depending on the configuration.
If you’re specifically opting to buy this new beautiful flush door model from Bosch, you’ll also get:
- 950 watts of cooking power
- 24” model flush with cabinet
- 30” model flush or proud installation
- Soft glide touch controls
- Convenient automatic sensor programs
- Elegant and modern LCD display
- 30” can be installed below a wall oven
- Automatic sensor technology
This humble little 950 watt cooker that can has just the right cutting edge technologies and dynamic sensors to warm your leftovers up to just the right textures and temperatures.
Bosch Models:
24” HMD8451UC Flush with cabinet.
30” HMD8053UC Flush or proud installation.
3. Best Warranty
Thermador MD24WS
Thermador MD24WS
You’ll love:
- Comes free as part of Thermador’s 1-2-Free rebate.
You might not love:
- The color combination is ideal for Thermador kitchen packages. The light gray/stainless steel color might not be ideal for all designs.
Why We Chose It: This versatile flush mount machine is fitted with 10 multifaceted cooking modes, a powerful 1,500 cooking watts, and has a generous warranty offer to back up it’s efficacy.
The MD24WS comes with a 2 year factory warranty. In addition, Thermador has a great rebate program (a.k.a. 1-2-Free) where you can get this microwave drawer for free with a qualified package order. You’ll also be able to get wonderful perks like:
- 2-year warranty coverage
- 950 cooking watts
- Glass touch controls
- 10 cooking modes
- Sensor cooking
- Blue LCD display
- Built-in flush installation
Like what you see? Consider swinging by our showroom sometime and giving this model a gander.
Thermador Models:
24” MD24WS Built in
30” MD30WS Fully Flush
Important Product Update
The Thermador wall oven received a major design change which impacted the microwave drawer line. The new models now feature even better integration for flush mount installs, both for the 24″ and 30″ drawers.
The face plate of the microwaves matches with the rest of the Thermador offerings better than ever before, and the warranty remains the same at 2 years. Here are some newer iterations of these models:
- 24″ Thermador Microwave Drawer: MD24WS
- 30″ Thermador Microwave Drawer: MD30WS
4. Best Service
Wolf MS24TES
Wolf MS24TES
Who It’s For: Faithful Wolf buyers who are looking for a great microwave drawer to complement their current Wolf oven.
Why We Chose It: This microwave drawer continues Wolf’s seven decade long tradition of making quality industry leading trailblazers, and will lend itself nicely to your current set of Wolf products.
A Wolf microwave drawer will match your existing Wolf wall oven and comes with an excellent warranty. However, the biggest reason why people choose a Wolf product is Wolf’s dedication to customer service.
Wolf is the only appliance company in the US that is dedicated to your satisfaction. Although Wolf’s technology is patented by Sharp, all microwaves are manufactured to Wolf’s quality standards and testing. This approach pays dividends to its customers as Wolf appliances are less likely to be serviced.
If you plan on picking up this new wonder drawer from Wolf, look forward to receiving:
- A 2-year full warranty and 5-year limited warranty
- 950 watts of cooking power
- 10 cooking presets, including Keep Warm mode
- A specialty gourmet mode for detecting humidity and moisture
- Automatic cook time and power adjustments for delicious results
Wolf Models:
- 24” MD24TES E Series – Transitional
- 30” MD30TES E Series – Transitional or MD30PE/S E Series – Professional
5. Best Convection
Sharp SMD2499FS w/Conveciton
Sharp SMD2499FS
Who It’s For: Buyers who are after a smart microwaving experience like no other.
Why We Chose It: This smart, WiFi-compatible Sharp convection microwave drawer is the only model on the market that comes with convection cooking. Yes, even your microwave can have an app for it now, and with over 50 built-in cooking programs, we feel that Sharp offers one of the best.
This model’s added smart convention capability allows you to use the SMD2499FS akin to a regular oven, saving you space. Also, you will be able to declutter your countertop more as you will no longer need the toaster oven.
Sharp reprogrammed its mobile app to support the release of the convection microwave drawer. The app now comes with 50 programs that you could use to give yourself a reprieve when planning a meal. In addition, you can program up to 30 additional favorites in your menu.
With the Sharp convection microwave drawer, you can grill burgers, toast bread, and even air fry chicken tenders. This microwave accommodates 9 x 13-inch cooking sheet and comes with racks and tools to get you started.
This microwave drawer is easy to operate from your app or using the angled control panel which hides with a touch of a finger. The door opens smoothly (if you prefer, with a wave of a hand), and closes with a gentle nudge. You do not need to worry about spilling the soup or your coffee when the door glides in and out.
6. Bonus Pick
Viking VMOD5240SS
Viking VMOD5240ss
Who It’s For: People looking for a traditional, old school, and frill-free microwaving experience.
Why We Chose It: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That’s the adage all appliance owners without a warranty hope to live by, and the one which Viking has been living by for several years now. Fortunately, Viking has their latest microwave drawers covered for up to five years of warranty.
Viking has been running this line of popular 1,000 Watt microwave drawers for the past few years VMOD5240SS, and backing its long-term success with long term:
- Full 2-year warranties
- 5-year limited warranties
- 90-day cosmetic warranties
It might be a good idea to use Viking wall ovens to facelift your existing kitchen appliance products, and to match the streamlined look of Sharp and other competitors.
The Monogram Microwave Drawer ZWL1126SJSS also has a great price point and complements the greater product line.
3 Burning Questions We Get From Our Customers
1) Where do I install the microwave drawer?
A microwave drawer sits under kitchen countertops like a regular drawer and can be installed flush or proud (i.e. protruding slightly from the cabinet) to your surrounding cabinets. This is why some people call them under counter microwaves.
They can fit in well with any design and look stylish while making it easier to tend to your baked potato or microwave corn on the cob. You can also place a microwave drawer in a corner or next to a wall. Essentially, consider it like an oven.
2) How do I use a microwave drawer? Is it different than a regular microwave?
- Open the drawer up with the easy touch of a button once you’re ready to place your food on the tray.
- Close the drawer (with a light tap or using the close button) and choose your cooking time on the touch control panel.
- When cooking time is complete, open the drawer and take out your food.
3) What sizes do they come in?
Across all brands, there are two sizes of microwave drawers available regarding the exterior width, but the interior measurements are the same.
Outside width: 24-inches or 30-inches are the main choices 24″ being the most popular size.
Interior space: 17 5/16” W x 7 1/8” H x 16 9/16” D (1.2 cu. ft) – same for 24-inch or 30-inch models.
The only exception is the new Sharp convection microwave drawer SMD2499FS. It is still 24-inches wide; however, the SMD2499FS is bulkier (higher) than other standard drawer microwave models at 23-5/8″ W x 19-1/2″ H x 20-7/8″ D (1.4 cu. ft). The interior dimensions of the cavity are 16-15/16″ W x 8-3/4″ H x 16-7/16″ D.
Microwave drawer vs countertop microwave
You’re not missing out on any important features by choosing a microwave drawer. You will still get:
- Numerous power levels
- Open/close door button
- Cooking/reheating sensor
- Defrost mode
- Beverage mode
- Melt/soften/keep warm modes
- Clock with time features
- Light
- Child lock
- Smooth glide for no liquid spills
Please note at this time that microwave drawers do not come with convection cooking options, which means you cannot broil and bake like a regular oven.
Final Thoughts
A microwave drawer is a great way to upgrade the overall design of your kitchen. While you will pay a bit more for a microwave drawer, the longer life-span of the drawer (over a countertop microwave) as well as the ease of use and ergonomic benefits under the counter are well worth it.
Some manufacturers offer a free microwave drawer or a money back rebate when purchasing their appliance packages. We find this value-driven incentive a great way to include one of these fantastic products in your kitchen plans.
FAQs
Are Microwave Drawers Worth It?
A typical microwave drawer costs approximately $999. A typical mid-range, highly rated built-in microwave such as the Frigidaire Professional FPMO227NUF costs $399 and it needs to be integrated with a trim kit which typically costs $149 for a total of $548.
Considering you will not be able to install a built-in microwave under a counter or like a drawer in island the premium is less than $500. Also, keep in mind that some manufacturers offer savings towards microwave purchases in order to encourage kitchen appliance package sales.
What Are The Benefits Of A Microwave Drawer:
If you’re after minimalist cooking, you can never go wrong with a microwave drawer, humble machines capable of delivering tremendous cooking power in a convenient, compact package. We would even argue that the best convection microwave drawers can go toe to tow with full fledged convection ovens.
Do Drawer Microwaves Need To Be Vented?
Since drawer microwaves are self contained appliance units, no additional ventilation systems are required to use them.
Are microwave drawers a fire hazard?
The highest quality drawer microwaves are superbly fire resistant, though microwaves can still face the same potential fire hazards that you could experience with any other cooking appliance. Use your drawer microwave responsibly and abide by common sense cooking safety rules, just as you would with your oven or grill.
Everything You Need to Know About Microwave Drawers
A microwave drawer can give homeowners the ability to tuck this appliance under the counter in their kitchen design. If you’re considering a drawer microwave, keep reading to learn all about how they work, the pros and cons, and more.
It’s easy to see why microwave drawers are so popular! They are the ultimate in form and function, taking the kitchen design world by storm as soon as they hit the market.
When we were designing our new kitchen, I knew right away that I wanted an under counter microwave in our island. It was the most visually unobtrusive option, and you all know that I love a clean, minimalist kitchen.
A microwave drawer is the modern choice, bringing form and function to your kitchen. There are a variety of makes, models, styles, and finishes to choose from.
In addition to a modern under counter microwave, we updated our kitchen with panel ready appliances that blend seamlessly with our creamy inset cabinets. We also added a gorgeous French Lacanche Range that is a showstopper and panel ready appliances.
If you’re thinking of adding a microwave to your island, make sure to check out my Kitchen Island Dimension Guidelines. It’s a lifesaver when it comes to planning your space!
If you’re not quite ready for a big remodel, take a look at my Kitchen Remodel Ideas on a Budget and How to Update a Kitchen with Oak Cabinets (Without Painting Them). You’ll find a lot of great ideas!
Keep reading for all about microwave drawers and how they can benefit your kitchen!
Table of Contents
Types of Microwaves
There are three main types of microwaves: countertop, over-oven (aka built-in), and under-counter (aka microwave drawer). Here’s a bit more about each one.
- Countertop Microwaves – The first models to hit the market, countertop microwaves get the job done and they’re usually the most inexpensive. However, they take up valuable real estate in the kitchen. Countertop space is at a premium, whether it’s a workspace or just to keep it visually open. Find my favorite tips for how to eliminate kitchen counter clutter here.
- Over the Oven Microwaves – Over the range microwaves are typically mounted to the wall and installed between two cabinets. Generally speaking, you purchase a size that is as close as possible to the space you have to fill, and it comes with filler pieces to make up the difference. This type of microwave requires some type of ventilation system.
- Microwave Drawers – If you want the microwave in island look, you’ll need to purchase a microwave drawer. A drawer microwave fits under the counter in a lower cabinet. They allow countertops to stay uncluttered, while also creating a more seamless aesthetic overall.
Where to Install Under Counter Microwave
Microwave drawers are especially popular in kitchen islands, because it’s such a central, convenient location for use. However, they can be installed under any countertop or in any wall cabinet. They can go against a corner or next to a wall – basically anywhere a wall oven can be installed.
Some homeowners like to stack their microwave drawer just under a wall oven, so all of their cooking appliances are together in one place. There isn’t a right or wrong way to do it.
One other thing to consider is that microwave drawers can be installed flush with the cabinet face for a more seamless look or installed proud, which means protruding slightly in front of the cabinets. How you choose to do it depends on your personal preference.
How Does an Under Counter Microwave Work?
Microwave drawers are extremely user friendly. When you’re ready to use it, simply open it with the touch of a button. The drawer will slide out, rather than swing on a hinge like traditional microwaves.
Lower your food inside the tray, then select your desired settings on the control panel. Close the drawer with another touch of a button. That’s it! Keep reading for some of the pros and cons.
Microwave in Island Sizes
Regardless of the brand, there are currently two sizes available for the exterior of the drawer, but the interior size is the same.
Outside width: 24″ or 30″ (24″ is the most popular size)
Interior measurements (same for 24″ and 30″ models): 17 5/16” W x 7 1/8” H x 16 9/16” D (1.2 cu. ft)
Microwave in Island Pros and Cons
Personally, I don’t think there is much to not love about having a drawer-style microwave. But I’ll let you decide for yourselves. Here’s a list of some of the pros and cons of under counter microwaves:
Pros of Microwave Drawers
- Additional countertop space – Like an over the oven microwave, a microwave drawer leaves your countertops clear for workspace, decor items, or just to be visually open.
- Space for an oven hood – Custom oven hoods are trending right now, and you can’t exactly have one with a microwave over your oven. A microwave drawer allows you to install an oven hood that can be a statement piece in your kitchen.
- Improved accessibility – These open out instead of swinging on a hinge. This is good news for anyone who is left-handed or who may have trouble lifting heavy dishes above chest height. With a lower microwave, they can easily lower dishes in and lift them out.
- Easy to clean – Not only are these microwaves easier to reach, but without a turntable they don’t have any nooks and crannies. They have only easy-to-clean flat surfaces.
- Design is modern – Most models have a sleek design that fits well into a modern aesthetic. However, it looks right at home in a more classic style like mine, because it makes the space look updated and fresh. For another example, look at this Modern Kitchen in an Old House that I toured – it’s amazing!
- Safety features – Some parents are concerned about having a microwave that is low enough for their children to reach. There’s no need to worry! Under counter microwaves have a feature that allows adults to lock the control panel. It can be set as the default, so you can rest assured your children can’t use it without you present.
- Large capacity – You don’t have to compromise on space. The interior can fit a 4-qt casserole dish, which I find is plenty of space.
- Cook as you go – You can easily add seasoning or stir without removing your food from the microwave. Just open the drawer, stir your food, and close again. It’s that simple!
Cons of Microwave Drawers
- No convection – Convection cooking occurs through circulating hot air throughout the appliance. Currently, this can’t be done in any microwave drawer due to lack of ventilation. This means no broiling or baking like you can in a regular oven.
- No turntable – Microwave drawers have newer technology that doesn’t use turntables to heat food. That’s only a con if you’re really set on the old way of doing things.
- Same heating capabilities as other microwaves – They do a good job, but they aren’t going to work miracles on frozen food.
- Limited sizes – Only 24″ and 30″ widths are currently available, and the interior sizes are all the same across brands.
- Installation – Installing a microwave in your island is a bit more complicated than plugging one into your wall. If you’re not really familiar with what you’re doing, I recommend hiring a professional electrician to do the job.
- Cost – Traditional microwaves cost between $100 – $500. You will pay more to get the premium design and features of a microwave drawer in your island. An under counter microwave drawer typically costs about $1,000 but can cost up to $1,800, not including installation.
Our under counter drawer microwave.
Why Are Microwave Drawers Expensive?
There’s no way around it. If you want the microwave drawer look and function, you’re going to pay more for it.
The main reason is because the technology belongs to SHARP, which means they make all of the microwave drawers and can charge as much as they want for them. Also, these are the only microwaves that don’t rely on turntables to heat food, so the parts are unique. Unique equals more expensive. And finally, the parts are high-quality and up-to-date, which means they will cost more.
Other companies, like Bosch, GE, and KitchenAid, buy the base microwave from SHARP at a high price, then add extra parts to it to make it their own. Technically, they could add cheap parts to try to save a few dollars, but what’s the point? If they’re already spending $900 on a base microwave, it makes sense to add high-quality parts.
This is why microwave drawers are at their current pricepoint, and it’s why they aren’t likely to drop any time soon.
Is a Under Counter Microwave Worth It?
The answer to this question is entirely up to you. I obviously decided that for me, the answer was yes!
You can read all about how we designed our kitchen, specifically how we decided where to compromise and where to splurge in this post – Classic Kitchen: Give and Take. I hope it will give you some inspiration for your own spaces.
If cost is your only consideration, there are definitely more affordable options in microwaves. However, if you’re considering the form, function, and premium features of a microwave drawer, the higher cost may be worth it to you. Only you can decide that.
For some people, other factors are more important than the cost. Maybe they love the sleek, uncluttered look of having a microwave in their island. Or perhaps they have a condition, such as arthritis, that makes it difficult to lift dishes into an over-oven microwave. Improved accessibility is a big reason many people choose to go with under counter microwaves.
One thing to consider is that sometimes brands will run deals that offer free microwave drawers when you purchase their appliance package. That could be a big savings if you’re in the market for new appliances.
Think of what is important to you, then decide if the extra cost is worth it to you. If your answer is yes, maybe it would mean a few extra months of saving. That’s worth it for years of enjoying what you want, right?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a microwave in an island?
The answer is, it depends. You can’t put a regular counter microwave in an island, because it doesn’t have the right ventilation. The best way to have a microwave in island is to purchase a microwave drawer and have it professionally installed.
It is designed to be built in to a cabinet. Technically, you can put an over-oven microwave in an island IF the ventilation comes out the top front. You’d need to build a base for it to sit on, add brackets for it to rest on, and make sure it is ventilating properly. Do NOT put it behind a closed door.
Why do people put microwave in island?
Many people love the modern, sleek design of having a microwave in their island. It leaves the view of their kitchen more unobstructed. For others, they love the improved accessibility it offers.
Simply put, a microwave in the island is a lot easier to reach and clean. It’s easier and saver for people who may struggle to lift heavy dishes up an over-oven microwave. For many people, the higher price tag is worth it.
What kind of microwave goes in an island?
It’s called a microwave drawer or an under counter microwave. Almost all major brands make their own model, but most of the controls and features are similar across brands.
The major differences from regular microwaves are that it slides open like a drawer, rather than swinging on a hinge, and that it doesn’t use a turntable to heat food.
How do drawer microwaves vent?
Microwave drawers are self-contained united, meaning that they have ventilation systems built in and no additional ventilation systems are necessary.
Sources
Sharp Stainless Steel Microwave Drawer | Sharp Microwave Drawer Oven with Handle | Bosch Stainless Steel Microwave Drawer | Frigidaire Professional Convection Microwave Oven with Drop-Down Door | Thermador Drawer Microwave | KitchenAid Microwave Drawer
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Kitchen + Dining
Oncologist Karasev explained in which case the use of a microwave oven can cause cancer
- Health
Almost every home has a microwave oven: it is convenient to heat up food and even cook sometimes. But can it cause serious harm to health? We deal with oncologist Ivan Karasev.
March 5, 202311
- Source:
- iStockphoto
Some people are still wary of the microwave: you never know what kind of radiation comes from it. Others, on the contrary, can no longer imagine their ordinary life without it.
Is it true that microwaves can still cause cancer? In rare cases, yes, there really is a risk, says Ivan Karasev.
– Microwave ovens became widespread around the world around the 1960s and 1970s. In the USSR, they began to be produced from the beginning of the 1980s, since then this technique has improved so much that modern microwave ovens in most cases do not pose any threat, , the doctor says.
The main “tool” of the microwave oven is electromagnetic waves. The same waves, for example, come from ordinary mobile phones, only in a microwave oven they are also, as it were, “locked inside”.
When there is a risk
The development of malignant neoplasms is caused by radiation, smoking, viral diseases, as well as hereditary predisposition.
– Cancer develops from cells in our body that have genetic mutations. Hundreds and millions of such cells arise every day, and our immunity fights them . But at a certain point, if our defense system misses the “enemy”, the development of a cancerous tumor begins, the doctor explains.
As far as microwaves are concerned, they cannot physically cause any oncological diseases. But risks appear if we are dealing with faulty, non-certified equipment made by craftsmen, as they say, on the “knee”.
Read also
An interesting fact: radiation, including solar radiation, and exposure to toxic substances contribute to the fact that there are more cells with mutations and the risks increase. But even this is not a guarantee that you will certainly develop cancer.
Medicine still does not know all the mechanisms of formation of malignant tumors, and it is impossible to say for 100% what the reason is in each case.
Microwave Safety Distance
Each microwave oven comes with an instruction manual with safety recommendations. In particular, they indicate the distance at which it is better to stay from the microwave for 100 percent safety. Usually it is about half a meter.
– There are publications about how the non-compliance with this rule reflected on fast food vendors in small kiosks. In them, the sellers were constantly 5-10 centimeters from the microwave oven, located at the counter at the level of the pelvis. Among these people, then they noticed an increased incidence of malignant tumors of the organs of the reproductive system, warns Ivan Karasev.
But it is impossible to get cancer in this way at home. All the “horror stories” in this regard have no basis.
Read also
Heating food in a microwave oven
As for changes in the food itself, the harm of microwaves has not been proven. Studies have been conducted in which heating in a microwave oven was compared with heating in a double boiler and on a conventional stove. There were no significant differences.
Important: it is not the microwave oven itself that can harm, but the dishes in which you heat food. These are disposable plates. In this case, part of the synthetic substances gets into the food. If a person constantly does this, then over time the cumulative effect will be, perhaps even in the form of an oncological disease.
See also
Microwaved food can also harm your health if you put your lunch or dinner in the microwave into a plastic container containing toxic bisphenol, phthalates and other dangerous compounds, which, when heated, get into food, says Elena Paretskaya.
Therefore, remember one simple rule: you can heat up food only in special containers with the appropriate marking.
Microscopic particles of plastic, getting into the intestines, disrupt the microbiota and weaken the immune system. In addition, plastic can provoke stress and metabolic failure. As a result, our body loses its ability to fight infections. And plastic can cause diseases of the reproductive system and even provoke the development of cancer. Therefore, it is still not worth storing food in containers or warming them up in them.
Text author:Sofya Khromova
Where to put the microwave oven? – Knowledge – News
So, you are renovating your kitchen. You’ve created a functional layout, selected quality cabinetry, and selected the perfect backsplash tile. It will look fantastic! But, wait, where do you put your microwave? Don’t let your microwave oven placement be an afterthought, because it’s much more likely to mess up your kitchen design that way. Instead, plan ahead and weigh your options so it’s as unobtrusive as possible.
America’s love-hate relationship with the microwave
Microwave ovens are in 90 percent of American kitchens. After all, they quickly cook food, can heat a cup of tea in a matter of minutes and are easy to use. The range of options and styles has exploded. Microwave ovens are available in a variety of price points, colors, and sizes to fit just about any budget or style. There are even portable microwaves.
Choosing the best microwave for your kitchen often comes down to location and personal preference. Let’s take a look at the different types of microwave ovens available.
Table top microwaves with disclaimer
Table top microwaves are often the most affordable, but they can take up precious kitchen space. For those with limited space, dedicating a two-foot section of countertop is simply not an option. Even though a tabletop microwave is cheap, it might not be practical for your kitchen. If you are designing new kitchen cabinets, you can create a special nook with an electrical outlet to fit a standard microwave oven snugly on the countertop. It can be an affordable option that still saves counter space, and we often recommend it to customers who don’t need or need a large and expensive built-in microwave.
OTC Microwave Ovens
Attaching the microwave to the bottom of the cabinet is a common installation, either by screwing it directly onto the cabinet or by creating a built-in corner for a standard countertop model. Over-the-counter microwaves are practical because they free up counter space, although there is usually not much clearance between the counter and the bottom of the microwave. The height they are set at is ergonomic for most, but can be a problem for shorter people. Because they require a properly located electrical outlet and may require a specially designed cabinet, they can be more expensive to install. It doesn’t really matter if you’re getting new cabinets as part of a kitchen remodel, but if you’re trying to upgrade a built-in microwave, the cost could be more than the value you get from it.
Extra Long Range Microwaves
Another way to add a microwave to your kitchen is to mount it above the stove where the extractor hood would normally be. This might seem like a good place to hide your microwave, but we almost always advise against it.
Reaching the microwave oven over a hot plate can be dangerous. Most long range microwaves have some sort of built-in exhaust system, but these add to the cost of the microwave and are not as powerful as a full exhaust. Many simply filter the air and send it back to the kitchen. This does not affect the removal of moisture from the air, which is an important task of a proper exhaust fan system.
Microwave drawers
This sleek design is built into your base cabinets or kitchen island and slides out like a standard drawer. Some of them are even motorized and open on their own. This can be a great option for those in your home with vertical issues and saves valuable work space. The main disadvantage is that these devices are expensive (over $1000) and much more difficult to upgrade. In addition, giving up that space in the box could be a deal breaker.