The best under cabinet microwave offers a sleek, space-saving solution for any kitchen, ideal for those who want to maximize counter space without sacrificing functionality. These compact appliances integrate seamlessly into your cabinetry, providing convenient access to quick meals and reheating. When selecting the right one, consider factors like capacity, wattage, pre-programmed settings, and ventilation system effectiveness.
A poorly chosen unit can lead to inefficient cooking, awkward installation, or a lack of desired features, ultimately wasting your investment. To help you find the perfect fit for your culinary needs and kitchen aesthetic, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 models on the market today.
For an under cabinet microwave, consider models with a concealed control panel and automatic drawer system for ease of use and flexible placement, such as the Sharp SMD3070ASY Microwave Drawer Oven. Features like a 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 950 watts of power offer practical performance for everyday cooking needs.
Best Under Cabinet Microwave: Top Picks at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven, Best for: Large capacity built-in | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300 Best for: Above stove cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Best for: Drawer style convenience | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: High power countertop | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7 Best for: Everyday compact cooking | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best under cabinet microwave alternatives, we evaluated a range of models based on build quality, real-world cooking performance, safety features, and overall durability. We prioritized models offering ample capacity and powerful wattage, like the Frigidaire Gallery Series and certain GE options, for efficient meal preparation. Models lacking significant features or robust construction were ruled out.
Standout features such as automatic drawer systems, as seen in Sharp models, significantly boosted a product’s appeal. Our goal was to select microwaves that deliver exceptional value and reliable performance for any kitchen.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Cabinet Clearance is Key
Unlike countertop models, under-cabinet microwaves require careful measurement of your existing cabinet space. Pay close attention to the height and width requirements to ensure a flush, integrated look. For instance, the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF is designed for built-in applications and offers flexibility with its available 27 and 30 trim kits (sold separately), highlighting the importance of matching the unit to your cabinet openings.
Ventilation: A Crucial Consideration
Proper ventilation is paramount for under-cabinet microwaves to prevent overheating and ensure optimal performance. Over-the-range models, like the GE 30 and BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, usually have built-in ventilation systems that can vent externally or recirculate air with a charcoal filter. Ensure the model you choose aligns with your kitchen’s existing ventilation setup for efficient operation.
1. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven,
Best for: Spacious, smart cooking for large households.
This 2.2 cu. ft. Frigidaire Gallery Series microwave offers ample cooking space for multiple dishes, accommodating large containers with its 24 7/16 inch width. Built-in trim kits make it a seamless addition to your cabinetry.
With 1100 watts of power and 11 power levels, it precisely heats food using sensor cook and reheat functions. The generous interior fits large casseroles and 12-inch dinner plates with ease, simplifying meal preparation.
Pros
- 2.2 cu. ft. capacity accommodates large meals
- 1100-watt power for efficient heating
- Sensor cook and reheat for optimal results
- Child safety lock for added security
Cons
- Trim kit sold separately, adding to the total cost and installation complexity.
Ideal for families seeking a high-capacity microwave that integrates beautifully into custom kitchen designs. Its sensor cooking ensures consistently delicious results for busy cooks.
2. GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300
Best for: Efficient venting and cooking for modern kitchens.
This GE 30-inch over-the-range microwave provides 1.6 cu. ft. of cooking capacity and a powerful 300-CFM venting system to clear smoke and odors. Its convenience controls make daily use straightforward.
Operating at 1000 watts with 9 power levels, it features auto and time defrost for quick thawing. The two-speed venting easily handles cooking steam, keeping your kitchen air fresh, while the turntable can be turned on or off as needed.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for family meals
- 300-CFM two-speed venting
- Auto and time defrost options
- Turntable On/Off control
Cons
- Requires specific charcoal filter replacements hidden behind the grille, which may be inconvenient to access and purchase.
Perfect for above-the-range installation where both cooking and ventilation are key. This GE model suits households that value efficient cooking and a consistently fresh kitchen environment.
3. Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer
Best for: Sleek drawer design for accessible cooking.
The Sharp SMD2470ASY 24-inch microwave drawer offers a sleek, concealed control panel that opens to a 45-degree angle, providing comfortable access without requiring you to bend low. Its automatic drawer system allows for convenient hands-free operation.
With 1.2 cu. ft. of interior space, it easily fits a 4-quart casserole dish and offers 10 power levels with 950 watts. The automatic defrost system simplifies meal prep, making it easy to thaw ingredients before cooking.
Pros
- Hands-free automatic drawer system
- Concealed, 45-degree accessible control panel
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes
- Smooth, effortless opening and closing
Cons
- Internal dimensions of 17-5/16″ x 7-1/8″ x 16″ limit the height of items that can be placed inside, potentially excluding tall containers.
This drawer microwave is designed for homeowners prioritizing ergonomic kitchen design and seamless integration. It’s ideal for kitchens where easy access and a clean aesthetic are paramount.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Powerful countertop cooking with child safety.
This GE countertop microwave delivers robust 1200-watt cooking power within its 2.0 cu. ft. interior, allowing for efficient heating of large meals. A two-step child lock feature enhances kitchen safety for families with young children.
The large 2.0 cu. ft. capacity easily accommodates a 13-inch turntable for even cooking of family-sized portions. Sensor cooking controls automatically adjust time and power, while weight and time defrost simplify thawing.
Pros
- 1200-watt high power for quick cooking
- Generous 2.0 cu. ft. capacity
- Sensor cooking for perfect results
- Two-step child lock for safety
Cons
- While powerful, its size may occupy significant counter space in smaller kitchens.
Best for larger kitchens or families needing a powerful countertop option that can handle substantial meal quantities. The combination of high wattage and large capacity makes it a workhorse.
5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7
Best for: Compact power with convenient 1-touch cooking.
With 1100 watts of cooking power, this GE countertop microwave offers efficient heating within its 1.4 cu. ft. interior capacity, suitable for everyday meals. Express Cook instant-on settings from 1-6 minutes streamline quick heating tasks.
This microwave measures 1.4 cu. ft., providing ample space for standard dinner plates and bowls, and features 10 power levels for precise control. The integrated child lock offers peace of mind for households with children.
Pros
- 1100-watt power for efficient heating
- 1.4 cu. ft. capacity is versatile
- Express Cook for instant results
- Integrated child lock feature
Cons
- Button-style controls, rather than a touchscreen, might feel less modern to some users.
Ideal for individuals or small families seeking a reliable countertop microwave with efficient power and quick-start options. It balances performance with a manageable footprint.
6. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable
Best for: Smart sensor cooking for perfect results.
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS microwave features 1000 watts of output power and Smart Sensor Technology that automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. Its 1.2 cu. ft. capacity accommodates standard dishes and a 12.4-inch glass turntable.
This microwave offers 10 power levels and 6 preset menus for common foods, simplifying cooking. The compact external dimensions of 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches fit well on countertops, while the internal cavity measures 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches.
Pros
- Smart Sensor Technology for optimal cooking
- 1000-watt output power
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity with 12.4-inch turntable
- 6 preset menus for convenience
Cons
- External dimensions are 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches, which may still be large for very small counter spaces.
This TOSHIBA microwave is suited for cooks who appreciate automated cooking adjustments for consistently good results. It’s a solid choice for everyday reheating and cooking tasks.
7. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch,
Best for: Over-the-range convenience with integrated lighting.
This BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 over-the-range microwave offers 1000 watts of cooking power and a two-speed, 400-CFM venting system to manage kitchen air. Integrated cooktop LED lighting illuminates your cooking surface.
With 10 power settings and 9 preset cooking programs, this 29.9” wide microwave handles everything from popcorn to frozen dinners. The turntable can be turned on or off, accommodating larger dishes when needed.
Pros
- 1000-watt cooking power
- 400-CFM two-speed venting
- Integrated cooktop LED lighting
- Adjustable turntable for flexible cooking
Cons
- Convection heating method is listed, but specific convection programs are limited to ‘Bake’ and ‘Roast’.
An excellent option for replacing an existing over-the-range unit where direct ventilation is required. It provides essential cooking functions along with practical cooktop illumination.
8. SHARP SMD3070ASY Microwave Drawer Oven, 30-inch, 1.2 Cubic Feet, 950
Best for: Accessible drawer cooking with multi-functionality.
The SHARP SMD3070ASY microwave drawer offers a spacious 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, suitable for a 4-qt casserole dish, and features an easy-touch automatic drawer system for hands-free close. Its concealed control panel opens to an accessible 45-degree angle.
Operating at 950 watts with 2 power levels, this microwave includes convection, grill, microwave, and sensor cook functions for versatile meal preparation. The low-profile design aids integration into cabinetry.
Pros
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes
- Easy-touch automatic drawer operation
- Concealed, 45-degree control panel
- Multiple cooking functions (convection, grill, sensor)
Cons
- Only 2 power levels are specified, which may limit precise control for some recipes.
Perfect for modern kitchens seeking a sophisticated under-cabinet or drawer-style microwave with versatile cooking options. It’s designed for ease of use and seamless integration.
9. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: High-capacity and high-power for busy kitchens.
This GE countertop microwave delivers a substantial 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and 1150 watts of cooking power, enabling rapid heating of larger portions. A two-step child lock enhances safety in households with young children.
The generous 1.6 cu. ft. interior easily fits a 13-inch turntable for even cooking, while 10 power levels provide granular control. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power, simplifying meal preparation.
Pros
- 1150-watt power for fast cooking
- Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity
- Sensor cooking for optimal results
- Two-step child lock for safety
Cons
- The 1.6 cu ft capacity might be oversized for individuals or couples with minimal cooking needs.
This GE microwave is an excellent choice for families or anyone frequently preparing large meals and needing efficient, powerful heating. It combines ample space with advanced cooking features.
10. Panasonic Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In Cyclonic Wave with Inverter
Best for: Advanced inverter technology for even cooking.
This Panasonic microwave features 1250-watt Cyclonic Inverter technology and a 2.2-cubic-foot capacity, ensuring consistent power delivery for evenly cooked food while preserving flavor and nutrients. Its stainless steel finish offers a sleek look for countertop or built-in use.
The patented Inverter Technology provides a seamless stream of power across 10 levels, eliminating overcooking, and Turbo Defrost speeds up thawing significantly. The 2.2 cu. ft. interior accommodates large dishes.
Pros
- 1250-watt Inverter technology for even cooking
- Large 2.2 cu. ft. capacity
- Turbo Defrost for rapid thawing
- Maintains food flavor and nutrients
Cons
- This model has a higher input power consumption of 1250 Watts, which may be a consideration for electrical load capacity.
Ideal for health-conscious individuals or families who prioritize even cooking and nutrient retention. The combination of high power and advanced inverter technology makes it a top performer.
Capacity vs. Integration: The Underside of Microwave Choice
When evaluating best under cabinet microwave options, the paramount consideration must be the practical demands of your cooking space, not merely the aesthetic of seamless integration. Specifically, the choice between true built-in units and over-the-range models hinges entirely on your kitchen’s workflow and available square footage. Attempting to force a countertop appliance into a built-in role, or conversely, sacrificing essential capacity for an over-the-range unit when space allows for something more substantial, fundamentally misunderstands the trade-offs.
Consider the stark difference in volume that dictates what you can actually cook. The Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF, for instance, offers a generous 2.2 cu. ft.
of cooking space, a capacity that easily accommodates large dishes and multiple items simultaneously, proving invaluable for families or those who frequently entertain. This stands in contrast to the GE 30 Over-the-Range Microwave, which provides a more modest 1.6 Cu.
Ft. While perfectly adequate for basic reheating and small meal preparation, it limits the scale of cooking projects. Similarly, the Sharp SMD2470ASY and SHARP SMD3070ASY microwave drawers, with their 1.2 cubic feet capacity, prioritize convenient placement and hands-free operation over bulk cooking performance.
The integration aspect, while appealing, often leads buyers astray. A true built-in like the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF, which typically requires a separate trim kit (available in 27 and 30), is designed from the ground up for cabinet concealment. This integration is distinct from simply placing a countertop model like the GE Countertop Microwave Oven (2.0 Cubic Ft., 1200-watt) or the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS (1.2 Cu Ft, 1000 watts) within a custom enclosure, a practice that can compromise ventilation and usability.
Over-the-range models, such as the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, are designed with ventilation systems for the cooktop below, but their interior volume is frequently constrained by this dual functionality.
Ultimately, the decision rests on whether your priority is maximizing cooking volume and flexibility, or achieving a specific, space-saving integrated look. If your daily cooking involves large items or batch preparation, the substantial capacity of a model like the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF should outweigh the desire for a compact drawer or over-the-range unit. Conversely, for smaller kitchens where every inch counts and primary microwave use is for quick rewarming or single servings, the convenience of the Sharp SMD2470ASY becomes the clear differentiator.
What to Look For in the Best Under Cabinet Microwave
Ventilation and airflow
Prioritize ventilation by selecting a microwave with at least a 300 CFM rating for effective removal of grease and odors. Look for integrated venting systems that recirculate air through charcoal filters, which are straightforward to clean or replace. External venting is superior for significant cooking output, pushing air directly outside.
Aim for a sound rating below 2 sones; anything higher will be noticeably loud. Your best choice is a microwave with a robust CFM rating and easily accessible, washable filters for optimal kitchen air quality.
Size and capacity
When choosing an under cabinet microwave, measure your available space precisely. Standard widths are 30 inches, but 24-inch models exist for tighter spots. Interior capacity, typically between 1.0 and 2.2 cubic feet, dictates what you can cook.
A 30-inch model with a 1.5 cubic foot interior and a 12-inch turntable diameter accommodates most family meals. Opt for models that fit your cabinet dimensions and cooking needs; a larger capacity with a substantial turntable handles family-sized dishes best.
Smart features and controls
For intuitive operation, choose a microwave with clearly labeled sensor cooking presets that automatically adjust time and power. Convection capabilities offer oven-like versatility, ideal for baking and roasting, so look for models that advertise this feature. Touch controls offer a sleek look, but physical buttons are often more durable and easier to operate with greasy hands.
WiFi connectivity is a bonus for remote control, but not essential for core cooking performance. Prioritize sensor cooking and convection if you want versatility; reliable controls are paramount.
Installation requirements
Ensure your chosen microwave aligns with your kitchen’s electrical setup. Confirm the electrical outlet is positioned for easy access behind or to the side of the unit, avoiding cord strain. Check the specific clearance requirements for the door swing; most need at least 90 degrees of open space.
Mounting bracket compatibility is crucial; most units include a bracket, but verify it suits your cabinet’s construction. Select a model that physically fits your existing electrical and cabinet space for a seamless, safe installation.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you frequently cook large dishes or multiple items at once, look for models with at least 2.0 cu. ft. of cooking space.
- If you have limited counter space and prefer a sleek, integrated look, consider a built-in microwave drawer or an over-the-range model.
- If convenience and ease of use are top priorities, seek out models with automatic drawer systems, hands-free operation, and simple touch controls.
- If you need powerful heating for quicker cooking, prioritize microwaves with 1100 watts or higher.
Quick Best Under Cabinet Microwave Buying Checklist
- Ventilation Power: Ensure the CFM rating meets your cooking needs and matches your existing hood system.
- Critical Dimensions: Measure your cabinet opening precisely for width, height, and depth.
- Interior Space: Check the cubic footage and turntable size to confirm it fits your typical dishes.
- Control Interface: Decide between modern touch panels or traditional dial controls for ease of use.
- Installation Ease: Verify that the included mounting hardware and electrical requirements are compatible with your kitchen setup.
- Cleaning Convenience: Look for removable, dishwasher-safe filters and easy-to-wipe interior surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Key Benefits Of Installing The Best Under Cabinet Microwave?
The best under cabinet microwaves offer significant kitchen space savings by mounting above your range. They provide convenient access for daily use and often integrate ventilation for your cooktop, combining two essential kitchen appliances into one efficient unit.
How Important Is The Venting System For An Under Cabinet Microwave?
The venting system is crucial for removing smoke, steam, and odors from your cooking area. Proper ventilation, whether recirculating or externally ducted, helps keep your kitchen air clean and comfortable during and after cooking tasks.
What Size Microwave Should I Consider For Under My Cabinets?
When choosing an under cabinet microwave, consider both external dimensions to fit your space and internal capacity for your cooking needs. Standard widths range from 24 to 30 inches, with interior capacities typically between 1.0 and 2.2 cubic feet.
Are Sensor Cooking Features Useful In Under Cabinet Microwaves?
Yes, sensor cooking features are highly beneficial for under cabinet microwaves, as they automatically adjust cooking time and power based on the food’s humidity. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking, ensuring perfectly prepared meals with minimal effort.
What Type Of Controls Are Typically Found On Under Cabinet Microwaves?
Under cabinet microwaves commonly feature electronic touch controls for a sleek look and easy cleaning, often with LED displays. Some models may also incorporate physical buttons for essential functions, offering a tactile alternative for users.
Final Words
Choosing the best under cabinet microwave can dramatically improve your kitchen’s efficiency and aesthetics. These versatile appliances free up valuable counter space while offering powerful cooking and ventilation solutions. Invest in one that fits your space and needs to elevate your culinary experience and enjoy a more organized, functional kitchen.