Best Built-In Microwaves: Top 10 Picks

The best microwaves built in microwave ovens deliver a sleek, integrated look and powerful cooking performance for modern kitchens. They are designed for homeowners seeking to maximize countertop space and enhance their appliance aesthetic. Options vary significantly in capacity, wattage, cooking presets, and installation requirements, so a poor pick can lead to performance issues or an unappealing finish.

Choosing the right model ensures efficient meal preparation and a cohesive design. With this curated list of top-performing units, you can confidently find the perfect built-in microwave oven to elevate your culinary experience and kitchen décor.

For those seeking the best microwaves built in microwave ovens, models offering ample capacity and advanced features, such as the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF with its 2.2 cu. ft. cooking space, or the LG Countertop Microwave with Smart Inverter technology for even heating, provide excellent options.

GE also offers powerful built-in alternatives.

Best Microwaves Built In Microwave Ovens: At a Glance

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology Best for: Smart cooking	Check Price
Best Pick 2	GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor Best for: Sensor cooking	Check Price
Best Pick 3	Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven, Best for: Large capacity families	Check Price
Best Pick 4	GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Best for: Multi-functional cooking	Check Price
Best Pick 5	GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Power cooking	Check Price

How We Picked

For our selection of best microwaves built in microwave ovens, we prioritized real-world performance, build quality, and durability. We compared capacity, wattage, and innovative features like Inverter Technology (seen in Panasonic and LG models) and Sensor Cooking (GE and Frigidaire). Models lacking robust safety features or demonstrating subpar cooking consistency were ruled out.

We also considered convenience features and the overall value proposition, ensuring each chosen appliance offers reliable functionality and long-term satisfaction for discerning buyers who value precision and efficiency in their kitchens for years to come.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Built-In Microwave Fit Matters Most

When opting for a built-in microwave, the first consideration isn’t just power or capacity, but precise dimensions. Unlike countertop models, these are designed to integrate seamlessly into cabinetry, often requiring specific cutout sizes. Ensure the microwave, such as the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF or Frigidaire PMBS3080BF, fits the intended space as these can be a significant renovation investment if the fit is wrong.

Trim Kits Elevate Your Installation

Achieving a professional, built-in look often necessitates a trim kit, which frames the microwave within your cabinetry. For models like the Frigidaire Gallery GMBS3068BF and Frigidaire PMBS3080BF, these kits are sold separately and come in various sizes (e.g., 27 or 30). Selecting the correct trim kit ensures a flush, cohesive integration, making the appliance appear custom-built rather than a freestanding unit placed within a niche.

1. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology

Best for: Even cooking, fast defrosting.

This 1480-watt Panasonic microwave uses patented Inverter Technology to deliver a seamless stream of cooking power, ensuring evenly prepared food without overcooking. Its 1.2 cubic foot capacity allows for ample space to heat family-sized portions.

With 10 power levels, this stainless steel unit offers flexibility for various cooking needs. The 340mm turntable diameter ensures consistent heating for items placed anywhere within the microwave, accommodating larger dishes comfortably.

Pros

• 1480-watt high power for rapid cooking.
• Inverter Technology ensures even food preparation.
• 1.2 cubic foot capacity fits large dishes.
• 10 power levels offer cooking versatility.

Cons

• The advertised 1200 watts of energy consumption for heating is lower than the 1480-watt cooking power, indicating higher energy use during operation.

Ideal for families needing quick, consistent meal preparation. Those who value even cooking and rapid defrosting will appreciate its performance.

2. GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor

Best for: Smart cooking for frozen meals.

Featuring WiFi Connect, this GE Profile microwave allows seamless management of power, cook time, and timers from your smartphone or tablet. Its 1.1 cubic foot capacity and 800 watts of cooking power deliver fast, even results.

The Scan to Cook technology simplifies meal preparation by allowing you to scan barcodes on frozen meals, automatically setting the optimal cook time and power. This GE Profile unit includes 10 power levels for precise control.

Pros

• WiFi Connect for remote control.
• Scan to Cook simplifies frozen meals.
• 1.1 cu. ft. capacity is balanced for most needs.
• 800-watt power ensures quick results.

Cons

• At 800 watts, it offers less cooking power compared to some higher-wattage models, potentially leading to slightly longer cooking times for dense foods.

Perfect for tech-savvy individuals and busy households. Those who frequently prepare frozen meals will benefit from its smart features.

3. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven,

Best for: Large capacity for family meals.

This Frigidaire Gallery Series built-in microwave oven provides a generous 2.2 cu. ft. of cooking space, enabling you to accommodate large dishes and multiple items simultaneously for efficient meal preparation. It operates at 1100 watts.

Built-in trim kits are available separately in 27″ and 30″ sizes to match your cabinetry. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts power and cook time, ensuring perfectly prepared food without guesswork.

Pros

• 2.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large cookware.
• Sensor cooking ensures optimal results.
• 1100-watt power for efficient cooking.
• 11 power levels offer precise control.

Cons

• The trim kits required for a fitted look are sold separately, adding to the overall cost and requiring an additional purchase.

Excellent for large families or those who entertain frequently. Anyone seeking a spacious, built-in solution with smart cooking features will find it suitable.

4. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection

Best for: 4-in-1 versatility for busy cooks.

This GE 4-in-1 microwave combines air frying, convection, and broiling capabilities with standard microwave functions, allowing for healthier, crispier food preparation. It offers 1050 watts of microwave power.

The convection feature includes a special rack to promote air circulation for even heat distribution, achieving crisp, golden-brown results. Its 1.0 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for everyday meals.

Pros

• Air Fry function for healthier meals.
• Convection mode for baking and browning.
• Broil function for searing and caramelizing.
• 1050-watt microwave power is efficient.

Cons

• While it offers powerful cooking options, its 1.0 cu. ft. capacity is smaller than some dedicated convection ovens, potentially limiting batch sizes for baking.

Ideal for anyone looking to consolidate kitchen appliances and cook healthier. Those who enjoy crispy textures and versatile cooking methods will appreciate its multiple functions.

5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8

Best for: Spacious and powerful everyday cooking.

This GE countertop microwave boasts a substantial 2.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1200 watts of cooking power, allowing you to efficiently prepare larger meals and dishes. Its glass turntable rotates for optimal and even cooking.

Sensor cooking controls automatically calibrate the time and power needed for delicious results, removing the guesswork from reheating and cooking. It features 10 power levels for customized cooking.

Pros

• 2.0 cu. ft. capacity fits large items.
• 1200-watt power for faster cooking.
• Sensor cooking ensures optimal results.
• Weight and Time Defrost is convenient.

Cons

• Despite its large capacity, it is designed as a countertop model, which may require significant counter space.

Best for large families or individuals who frequently cook or reheat substantial portions. Those needing a powerful microwave with smart cooking features will find its capacity and performance beneficial.

6. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8

Best for: Efficient cooking with ample space.

With 1150 watts of cooking power and a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, this GE countertop microwave provides effective and efficient cooking for a variety of meals. Its glass turntable ensures optimal cooking results.

Sensor cooking controls automatically adjust time and power for delicious food, taking the guesswork out of meal preparation. The unit offers 10 power levels for precise control over cooking intensity.

Pros

• 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles larger dishes.
• 1150-watt power cooks food quickly.
• Sensor cooking provides ideal results.
• Weight and Time Defrost is user-friendly.

Cons

• This is a countertop model and, despite its efficient design, requires dedicated counter space.

Suitable for households that cook moderate to large portions and value efficiency. Anyone seeking a balance of power, capacity, and smart cooking features will find this microwave a solid choice.

7. Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.2 Cu. Ft., 1250W, Inverter Technology

Best for: Fast cooking with even results.

This Panasonic countertop microwave delivers 1250W of cooking power for faster results and features Inverter Technology for consistent power, ensuring evenly cooked meals. Its 1.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large plates and dishes.

The Genius Sensor Cooking automatically adjusts cook time and power levels for optimal results across various food types. With 10 power levels, you can customize cooking for different recipes.

Pros

• 1250W power for rapid cooking.
• Inverter Technology prevents uneven heating.
• 1.2 cu. ft. capacity fits family-sized portions.
• Genius Sensor Cooking simplifies preparation.

Cons

• The advertised 1480 watts of power consumption is higher than its 1250-watt cooking power, indicating less energy efficiency during use.

Designed for individuals and families who prioritize speed and consistent cooking outcomes. Those who frequently reheat leftovers or cook full meals will appreciate its performance.

8. Frigidaire PMBS3080BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Oven with Sensor

Best for: Spacious built-in for large kitchens.

This Frigidaire 2.2 cu. ft. built-in microwave oven is designed for seamless integration into your cabinetry, featuring dimensions that fit standard cutouts. Its large capacity accommodates even the most substantial dishes and meal preps.

Available with a 30″ built-in trim kit (sold separately), it offers a polished, integrated look. Sensor cooking technology automatically determines and sets the correct power levels and time needed for perfectly cooked food.

Pros

• 2.2 cu. ft. capacity accommodates large cookware.
• Designed for built-in installation.
• Sensor cooking ensures optimal results.
• Fits standard 24 3/4″ cutout width.

Cons

• The required built-in trim kit is sold separately, adding to the total cost of installation.

Ideal for custom kitchen renovations and homeowners seeking a large, integrated microwave. Those who frequently cook large meals or entertain will appreciate its spaciousness.

9. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver

Best for: Compact design with smart functions.

The Breville Compact Wave microwave features an 80% quieter soft-close door and a 25L capacity within a compact footprint, making it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. It is engineered for precise reheating and defrosting.

This countertop microwave includes one-touch auto buttons for Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn, and Beverage, alongside a Food Menu with options like reheat pizza and defrost vegetables. It offers 80% quieter operation.

Pros

• Compact 25L footprint saves counter space.
• 80% quieter soft-close door.
• One-touch auto buttons for convenience.
• Precise defrost and reheat functions.

Cons

• At 25L, its capacity is smaller than many standard microwaves, which may limit the size of dishes you can heat.

Perfect for apartment dwellers or small kitchens where space is at a premium. Those who value quiet operation and convenient preset functions will find it a great fit.

10. LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 18.75x14x10.69 Inch,

Best for: Smart Inverter for precise cooking.

This LG countertop microwave features Smart Inverter technology for precise cooking power control and even heating, ensuring your food is cooked uniformly. It offers 1000 watts of cooking power with 10 adjustable levels.

With Auto Cook options for 7 food types including Bacon, Fresh Vegetable, and Frozen Entrée, it simplifies meal preparation. The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for everyday cooking needs.

Pros

• Smart Inverter for even heating.
• 1000-watt power cooks efficiently.
• Auto Cook for 7 food types.
• EasyClean interior simplifies cleaning.

Cons

• The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity may be too small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.

Best for individuals or couples needing a reliable microwave for everyday cooking and reheating. Those who appreciate smart technology and easy cleaning will find it beneficial.

Built-In Microwaves: Size Over Power

When evaluating built-in microwave ovens, the sheer capacity is the single most important factor that buyers frequently overlook. While power output, measured in watts, certainly plays a role in cooking speed, the cubic footage of interior space dictates what you can actually _do_ with the appliance. Smaller capacities like the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS with its 1.1 cu.

ft., or the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven at 1.0 cu. ft., are perfectly adequate for reheating leftovers or basic popcorn tasks.

However, for those who envision using their built-in as a true secondary oven or for preparing meals involving larger dishes, these compact options will prove frustratingly limiting. The Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF and the Frigidaire PMBS3080BF, both boasting a generous 2.2 cu. ft., demonstrate the upper echelon of what is currently available for integrated cooking.

This substantial space allows for the simultaneous cooking of multiple items or the accommodation of bulky casserole dishes that would simply not fit into smaller units. Similarly, the GE Countertop Microwave Oven with its 2.0 cubic ft.

capacity offers a significant step up from the sub-1.5 cu. ft. models, making it a far more versatile choice for families or individuals who entertain frequently.

While brands like Panasonic tout their Inverter Technology, as seen in the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S (1.2 cu. ft., 1200 Watt) and the Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven (1.2 cu.

ft., 1250W), this innovation focuses on even cooking and defrosting. This is crucial for food quality, but it doesn’t expand the physical confines of the cooking chamber. Similarly, the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave has a specific niche with its soft-close door and user-friendly interface, but its 0.9 cu.

ft. capacity marks it as a unit squarely for light use, not for ambitious meal preparation.

The most common mistake lies in prioritizing wattage over volume, assuming that more power will compensate for a lack of space. A 1200-watt microwave, like the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S, will heat food faster than an 800-watt model, but if your roasting pan or steamer insert doesn’t fit, the speed becomes irrelevant. The GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., excels by offering both robust power and ample room, suggesting that the truly equipped kitchen should not compromise on either dimension.

For those who intend to regularly cook meals beyond simple reheating or defrosting, the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF, with its 2.2 cu. ft.

of cooking space, stands as the most practical and forward-thinking choice among these best microwaves built in microwave ovens.

What to Look For in Built-In Microwave Ovens

Capacity and cavity size

Prioritize capacity based on your household size and cooking habits. For singles or couples, a 0.9 to 1.1 cubic foot interior is sufficient, typically accommodating an 11-inch turntable for most standard dishes. Larger families or those who frequently reheat or cook large items should opt for 1.6 cubic feet or more, offering ample space for family-sized meals and a 13-inch turntable or even a rectangular cavity that removes turntable limitations.

Always check the usable shelf space, as some models sacrifice internal height for flush installation. Choose larger capacities for maximum versatility.

Cooking power and features

Select a microwave with at least 1000 watts for efficient cooking, as lower wattages will result in significantly longer heating times. For ultimate convenience, opt for sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts time and power based on food’s steam. If you entertain or like baking in your microwave, convection cooking adds oven-like functionality, allowing for browning and crisping.

For everyday reheating and defrosting, reliable manual power levels are essential. Invest in 1000+ watts with sensor cooking and convection for the most adaptable cooking experience.

Design and installation

Ensure the microwave’s dimensions and trim kit are compatible with your cabinetry for a seamless built-in look. Standard trim kits are readily available, but some high-end models require specific, often costly, matching kits. Stainless steel and black are the most popular finishes, offering a modern aesthetic, so choose what best complements your kitchen décor.

Consider door swing direction; horizontal swings are ideal for tight spaces or islands, while vertical swings are more traditional. Verify the mounting depth to prevent cabinet overhang.

Select a model with a compatible trim kit and the door swing that fits your kitchen layout.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you need to heat large dishes or cook multiple items at once, look for models with a larger capacity, around 2.0 to 2.2 cubic feet.
• If you prioritize quick and even cooking, choose a microwave with higher wattage (1000W+) and Inverter Technology.
• If you’re looking for versatility beyond basic heating, consider a model with convection or air fry capabilities.
• If you have limited counter space but still want robust cooking, a compact model with higher wattage (1000W+) and advanced features like Smart Inverter might be ideal.

Quick Best Microwaves Built In Microwave Ovens Buying Checklist

• Measure your cabinet space accurately before shopping for dimensions.
• Determine your wattage needs; higher watts mean faster cooking times.
• Consider convection cooking if you plan to bake or roast small items.
• Check for included or optional trim kits to ensure a seamless integration.
• Evaluate interior capacity based on the types and quantities of food you typically heat.
• Prioritize control panel usability for easy operation and access to features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Main Advantage Of A Built-In Microwave Oven?

The primary benefit of a built-in microwave oven is its streamlined aesthetic, seamlessly integrating into your cabinetry for a clean, modern kitchen look. Unlike countertop models, they save valuable counter space and provide a permanent, custom installation.

How Much Interior Capacity Do Most Built-In Microwave Ovens Offer?

Most built-in microwave ovens typically provide an interior capacity ranging from 1.0 to 2.2 cubic feet, accommodating various dish sizes. This capacity is suitable for heating individual meals, reheating leftovers, or cooking smaller side dishes efficiently.

What Is The Typical Wattage Range For Built-In Microwave Ovens?

Built-in microwave ovens commonly operate within a wattage range of 900 to 1200 watts, ensuring robust and efficient heating performance. Higher wattage allows for quicker cooking and defrosting, as it delivers more energy to the food.

Are Trim Kits Necessary For Built-In Microwave Ovens?

Yes, trim kits are generally essential for built-in microwave ovens to create a flush and professional appearance within cabinetry cutouts. They cover any gaps between the microwave and the cabinet, providing a finished, integrated look.

Can I Use A Built-In Microwave For More Than Just Reheating?

Absolutely, many built-in microwave ovens feature advanced functions like convection cooking, allowing for baking, roasting, and broiling. This versatility transforms them into multi-functional appliances capable of handling a wider array of culinary tasks.

Final Words

Investing in the best microwaves built in microwave ovens enhances kitchen aesthetics and functionality, offering a sleek, integrated solution. Their space-saving designs and often advanced cooking features provide convenience and elevate meal preparation. Choose the right model to seamlessly blend style with performance for your ideal culinary space.