How to Choose the Best Microwave for Your Kitchen

Microwaves have come a long way since they first became common kitchen appliances in the late 1970s. Whether you reheating leftovers or cooking a quick meal, the ease and convenience provided by a good microwave can be a major timesaver.

But with so many models on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. We will cover everything you need to consider when shopping for a microwave, from size and design to features and price. Keep reading to find the best microwave for your kitchen setup and enjoy everything these useful appliances can offer. 

Countertop microwaves are easy to move, require no effort to install and come in a variety of sizes, including some conveniently compact options. The countertop microwave is ideal for anyone who is renting their home and will want to take the appliance with them if they move. These models also typically have the lowest starting price, although you can choose more expensive countertop models if you want additional features.

Thanks to space efficiency and its ventilation system, over-the-range microwaves are also a popular choice. This design tends to be roomy because the need to spare counter space isn’t an issue. The starting price for a microwave like this is also a little higher because they are designed to vent smoke and heat from the range below.

Some kitchens are set up with a microwave above the stove. If you’re replacing one, this should be an easy swap. However, if you don’t already have this layout in your kitchen, you will likely need the help of a professional to reconfigure cabinets and ensure proper ventilation with a range hood. Additionally, whoever installs the microwave will need to use brackets and wall studs to ensure the device is securely attached.

Not only do above-the-range microwaves make excellent purchases for homeowners with limited counter space, but they are also ideal for cooks who want easy access to the stovetop, oven and microwave without having to run around the kitchen.

Built-in microwaves can fit perfectly within spacious, high-tech kitchens. They offer some of the latest technology and the added convenience of being out of the way. One advantage of built-in microwaves is that you can install them wherever you decide works best.

Installing the microwave away from the stovetop allows more people to prepare food in the kitchen without stepping on each other’s toes. For the same reason, spacious kitchen layouts also benefit from designs that separate the oven from the stovetop rather than choosing an all-in-one appliance. If you do want these appliances together in the same spot, it makes sense to choose a built-in microwave and oven combo.

Keep in mind that you’ll benefit from assorted designs based on placement. For instance, microwave drawers are designed to be installed below the countertop. Ones with drop-down doors do best at waist height. And for microwaves at shoulder height, you’ll probably want a conventional left- or right-opening door design.

Similar to how induction cooktops work, the technology featured in convection microwaves features circulating hot air that takes less time to bake and can create a golden-brown finish.

Some new microwaves also offer inverter technology, which allows for more even cooking and defrosting while using less energy. Sensor cooking has also improved with each generation of microwaves. This feature allows the microwave to sense when food is optimally heated and automatically shuts itself off. Additionally, there are now smart microwave options available that you can connect to your smart home network for added convenience, such as using an app on your phone to start or stop cooking.

Hopefully you now have a sense of what features appeal to you and what type of microwave you might want. From compact microwaves and countertop to over-the-range or built-in, there are a number of possibilities from top brands to choose from. But that doesn’t mean the decision-making is over. The final elements to consider are size, power usage and cost.

When it comes to your budget, choose a price range that you can stick to while still getting the features that are important to you. You don’t have to buy a luxury microwave get high-tech features. Remember to factor in installation for over-the-range and built-in models. Then, think about how you’ll be using the microwave so you can list your desired features by priority and estimate a desired size.

Before buying, always measure the space where you’ll be putting the microwave to make sure you don’t choose something too large. And finally, ask yourself if you want a microwave oven that is energy-efficient and can reduce utility bills, leading to more sustainable living. If so, be sure to focus your search on models that use inverter technology. Whatever you ultimately decide to go with, the perfect microwave for your kitchen setup is waiting for you.