Best Under Cabinet Microwave Ovens Top 10 Picks
Integrating advanced microwave technology with space-saving design, under cabinet microwave ovens are a culinary innovation. These units offer a sleek alternative to countertop models, providing powerful cooking and reheating capabilities without sacrificing valuable workspace. When selecting the best under cabinet microwave oven, consideration of factors like installation complexity, CFM ventilation requirements, and interior capacity is paramount.
Our curated list explores the leading contenders, focusing on models that excel in performance, durability, and aesthetic integration. Explore the top under cabinet microwave oven options engineered to enhance efficiency and elevate your kitchen’s functionality, and uncover the perfect fit for your culinary needs.
Find Your Perfect Under Cabinet Microwave
1. GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor
Elevate your kitchen with the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS, a smart countertop microwave designed for convenience and precision. Its balanced
ft. capacity and 800W power ensure efficient cooking, while innovative features like Scan to Cook and WiFi Connect transform meal preparation into a seamless, modern experience.
This GE Profile microwave offers a 1 cubic foot interior, ideal for everyday meals, powered by 800 watts for quick and even heating.
Plus, manage your appliance remotely via WiFi Connect for unparalleled control over power levels, cook times, and timers, making it a truly smart home kitchen appliance.
Pros
- Scan to Cook Technology: Effortlessly prepares frozen meals to perfection by simply scanning the barcode, eliminating guesswork for precise heating and taste.
- WiFi Connect Enabled: Offers ultimate convenience by allowing remote control via smartphone or voice commands, managing power, cook time, and timers from anywhere.
- Built-in Capable with Optional Mounts: Provides flexibility for kitchen design, adaptable for built-in installation with a trim kit or secure under-cabinet mounting (accessories sold separately), maximizing counter space.
- Sensor Cooking: Utilizes advanced sensors to automatically adjust cooking time and power for optimal results, ensuring food is perfectly heated without overcooking.
Cons
- Accessories Sold Separately: The built-in trim kit and under-cabinet mounting kit are required for specific installation types but are not included with the microwave, adding to the overall cost.
The GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS is an excellent choice for those seeking a smart, feature-rich countertop microwave that can also be integrated into their kitchen design. Its advanced connectivity and cooking technology make it a standout appliance for modern households looking for both style and functionality in their small kitchen appliances.
2. GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300
Elevate your kitchen’s functionality and style with the GE 30 Over-the-Range Microwave. Designed for modern living, this powerful appliance seamlessly integrates above your cooktop, offering ample cooking space and robust performance to simplify meal preparation.
This 6 cu.
ft. over-the-range microwave boasts 1000 watts of cooking power, ensuring efficient and rapid heating. Its sleek stainless steel finish complements any kitchen decor, while convenient features like one-touch buttons and sensor cooking make operating it a breeze for busy households.
The integrated two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively clears smoke, steam, and odors.
Pros
- Generous Capacity & Power: With a 1.6 cu. ft. interior and 1000 watts, it easily accommodates larger dishes and cooks food quickly, making meal prep efficient.
- Convenience Cooking Controls: Features like Auto and Time Defrost, as well as One Touch Buttons and Shortcut Keys, simplify common cooking tasks, allowing for effortless operation.
- Effective Ventilation: The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system efficiently removes cooking fumes and odors, maintaining a cleaner and fresher kitchen environment.
- Flexible Turntable Operation: The option to turn the turntable on or off provides versatility, especially when accommodating irregularly shaped dishes that might not rotate smoothly.
Cons
- Some users might find the 9 power levels, while standard, less granular than models offering a wider range for highly specific cooking needs.
The GE 30 Over-the-Range Microwave, a top contender in under cabinet microwave ovens, offers a compelling blend of power, capacity, and convenience. It’s an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and space-saving cooking solution that enhances both functionality and aesthetics in their kitchen.
3. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven,
Elevate your kitchen with the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF, a premium built-in microwave oven designed for modern efficiency and superior cooking results. Experience spacious interiors and intelligent sensor technology, seamlessly integrating into your cabinetry for a sleek, professional look.
This 2 cu.
ft. built-in microwave oven offers ample capacity for family-sized meals and large dishes. Featuring advanced sensor cooking and reheating, it automatically adjusts power levels and cooking times to ensure perfectly prepared food every time, eliminating guesswork for delectable outcomes.
Its intuitive touchscreen interface provides effortless control over 11 power levels and numerous cooking programs.
Pros
- Generous 2.2 cu. ft. interior capacity accommodates large platters and multiple items, ideal for busy households and entertaining.
- Intelligent sensor cooking and reheating technology automatically detects food moisture and humidity, optimizing cook time and power for consistently delicious results.
- Sleek built-in design, with compatibility for 27″ and 30″ trim kits (sold separately), allows for seamless integration into custom cabinetry, enhancing kitchen aesthetics.
- 1100-watt powerful heating ensures rapid and efficient cooking, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.
- User-friendly touchscreen control panel with Quick Start and Auto Defrost functions simplifies operation.
Cons
- Built-in trim kits are sold separately, requiring an additional purchase to achieve a fully integrated look.
The Frigidaire Gallery GMBS3068BF is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a high-performance, built-in microwave that combines substantial cooking space with smart technology. Its sophisticated design and advanced features make it a valuable addition to any contemporary kitchen, providing both convenience and culinary excellence.
4. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection
Revolutionize your compact kitchen with the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven. This versatile appliance elegantly combines microwave, air fryer, convection bake, and broil functions, offering unparalleled convenience for small living spaces without compromising on functionality or style.
Boasting a 0 cu ft interior and 1050 watts of power, this GE microwave oven is surprisingly spacious and efficiently cooks, reheats, and crisps. Its quiet operation makes it ideal for shared environments, while the easy-to-use presets and child lock provide peace of mind for everyday convenience and safety.
Pros
- Multifunctional Cooking Power: Experience the convenience of a 4-in-1 appliance that handles microwave reheating, air frying crispy snacks, convection baking delicious treats, and broiling for quick meals, all in one unit.
- Space-Saving Compact Design: With a 1.0 cu ft capacity, this countertop microwave offers ample interior space for dinner plates and personal pizzas while maintaining a small footprint, perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, and office breakrooms where counter space is limited.
- Quiet Operation for Shared Environments: Engineered for minimal noise, this effective microwave air fryer combo ensures it won’t disrupt late-night meals, office meetings, or sleeping family members.
- Effortless Meal Preparation: Featuring 1050 watts of power for fast cooking and reheating, along with intuitive one-touch buttons for fries, nuggets, and pizza, preparing quick bites has never been simpler.
- Durable and Easy to Clean: The stainless steel interior wipes down effortlessly, and the included crisper pan facilitates air frying and convection cooking, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your favorite meals.
Cons
- While suitable for small bakes and personal pizzas, the convection and broil functions might not fully replace a conventional oven for larger baking projects or family-sized meals.
This GE 4-in-1 countertop microwave oven is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a compact, powerful, and versatile cooking solution. Its ability to perform multiple cooking functions efficiently makes it an indispensable addition to small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office break areas, providing quick, delicious meals with ease.
5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Discover the ultimate kitchen companion with the GE Countertop Microwave Oven. This 1200-watt,
Its sleek design and advanced features ensure both convenience and performance for any home chef.
Experience effortless meal preparation with this GE microwave. Boasting ample
interior space and a robust 1200 watts of power, it’s designed for busy households. Enjoy perfectly cooked meals thanks to advanced Sensor Cooking Controls and efficient Weight and Time Defrost capabilities, all housed within a compact footprint.
Pros
- Enhanced Safety with Two-Step Child Lock: Peace of mind for families with young children, ensuring the appliance can only be operated intentionally.
- Spacious 2.0 Cubic Ft. Capacity & 1200 Watts: Tackle larger meals and cook efficiently without sacrificing valuable counter space, ideal for family-sized portions.
- Intelligent Sensor Cooking & Auto Defrost: Achieve consistently delicious results with automatic adjustments for time and power, plus simplified defrosting based on food weight or time.
- Convenient One-Touch Operation & Express Cooking: Simplifies use with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking presets for quick and easy meal preparation.
- Quiet and Effective Turntable: The glass turntable ensures even cooking of food by rotating it throughout the heating cycle.
Cons
- Countertop Footprint: While offering ample interior space, its overall dimensions require dedicated counter space, making it unsuitable for those seeking under-cabinet solutions.
The GE Countertop Microwave Oven, with its 1200-watt performance and generous 0 cu. ft.
ft. capacity, is an excellent addition to any kitchen seeking both power and convenience. It stands out among countertop microwave ovens for its user-friendly features and intelligent cooking technology, ideal for busy families and aspiring home cooks alike.
6. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Reclaim your counter space with the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven – an elegant, under-cabinet solution designed for modern kitchens. Experience powerful cooking performance and smart convenience, all within a compact footprint, making it a favorite choice for those seeking efficient and stylish kitchen appliances.
This 1000-watt countertop microwave oven boasts 10 power settings and a spacious 4-inch glass turntable, perfect for accommodating various dish sizes. Its intuitive push-button door release and easy-to-read LED display offer seamless operation, while pre-programmed settings simplify cooking tasks for everyday favorites like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
Its intuitive push-button door release and easy-to-read LED display offer seamless operation, while pre-programmed settings simplify cooking tasks for everyday favorites like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
Pros
- Space-Saving Design: The under-cabinet mounting capability frees up valuable countertop real estate, ideal for smaller kitchens or those who prefer a minimalist look. Its dimensions (20.6” x 16.5” x 11.8”) are optimized for efficient integration.
- Versatile Cooking Options: With 1000 watts of power and 10 adjustable power levels, this kitchen appliance offers precise control for various cooking needs. The inclusion of 6 one-touch cooking presets (popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, dinner plate) streamlines meal preparation.
- Enhanced Safety and Convenience: A child safety lock provides peace of mind, while the interior light and removable glass turntable make cleaning and monitoring food progress effortless. The 30-second express cooking function adds further efficiency.
- User-Friendly Interface: The large LED digital display and clearly labeled push-button controls ensure ease of use, even for novice cooks. The distinct stainless steel door frame adds a touch of modern aesthetic.
Cons
- While the push-button door release is convenient, some users might find it less intuitive than a traditional handle or door-pull mechanism.
The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 is an excellent choice for individuals or small families looking for a powerful, feature-rich microwave that cleverly utilizes vertical space. Its combination of performance, safety features, and thoughtful design makes it a standout option among compact microwave ovens.
7. Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Over the Range Microwave Oven, 1.2 Cu.ft Slim
Reclaim your kitchen space with the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Over the Range Microwave Oven. Its innovative slim design maximizes overhead cabinet storage, making it an ideal solution for modern kitchens seeking both style and functionality, without compromising on cooking power.
This 2 cu.
Enjoy effortless cooking through voice commands and the dedicated SmartHome app, offering remote control over cooking, ventilation, and timely completion notifications.
Pros
- Space-Saving Slim Design: The compact, slim profile is specifically engineered to fit over your range without sacrificing valuable cabinet space, enhancing kitchen organization and aesthetics for a more streamlined look.
- Smart Connectivity & Voice Control: Effortlessly manage cooking functions, adjust settings, and monitor progress remotely via the SmartHome APP, with the added convenience of voice command compatibility for truly hands-free operation.
- Precision Sensor Cooking: Intelligent Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat features utilize steam-sensing technology to automatically determine the optimal time and power levels, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time without guesswork.
- Versatile Auto Cook Menu: Access a wide array of pre-programmed cooking options with the auto cook menu, allowing you to prepare various dishes quickly and deliciously at the touch of a button, simplifying meal preparation.
- Powerful 1000W Performance: Delivering 1000 watts of power across 9 adjustable power levels, this microwave ensures rapid and efficient cooking, defrosting, and reheating, accommodating a variety of culinary needs.
Cons
- Premium Price Point: With a retail price of $480, this advanced over-the-range microwave oven represents a significant investment, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers.
The Midea MMO12S3ASTZ offers a sophisticated combination of smart technology, space-saving design, and powerful performance, making it a commendable choice for those seeking a high-end, integrated over the range microwave oven. Its smart features and efficiency are particularly beneficial for busy households looking to simplify their cooking routines.
8. SHARP SMD2470ASY Microwave Drawer Oven, 24-inch, 1.2 Cubic Feet, 950
Elevate your kitchen with the Sharp SMD2470ASY Microwave Drawer Oven, a sophisticated and innovative solution for modern culinary spaces. Designed for seamless integration and exceptional convenience, this 24-inch appliance offers a sleek aesthetic and powerful performance, making it a premier choice for those seeking the best under cabinet microwave oven.
This 2 cubic feet microwave drawer boasts an intelligent automatic drawer system that glides open for easy loading and offers hands-free closing, streamlining your cooking process. Its concealed, 45-degree angled control panel ensures effortless operation, while the spacious interior accommodates larger dishes like a 4 qt casserole.
Experience unparalleled ease of use and flexible kitchen placement with this advanced Sharp microwave.
Pros
- Effortless Operation: The automatic drawer system opens smoothly and allows for hands-free closing, offering a truly convenient and modern user experience ideal for busy kitchens.
- Flexible Installation: Its design allows for versatile placement, enabling easier cooking access and saving valuable counter and prep space, making it an excellent under-counter microwave option.
- Intuitive Controls: The concealed control panel, angled at 45 degrees, is easy to read and operate, providing a sleek look and seamless interaction for all users.
- Generous Capacity: With a 1.2 cubic feet interior, this microwave drawer comfortably fits a 4 qt casserole dish or a 20 oz beverage, providing ample space for everyday cooking needs.
- Precise & Versatile Fitting: Offers standard and flush mount cutout dimensions, ensuring a clean, built-in look in various cabinetry configurations for a polished appearance.
Cons
- Higher Price Point: As a premium drawer microwave, its cost is significantly higher than traditional countertop models, placing it in a higher budget category for under cabinet microwave ovens.
The Sharp SMD2470ASY microwave drawer oven represents a superior choice for those prioritizing sophisticated design, advanced functionality, and a clutter-free kitchen environment. Its unique drawer mechanism and intuitive controls make it a standout appliance, perfect for custom kitchen builds or upgrading to a more integrated cooking experience.
9. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch
Elevate your kitchen experience with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This powerful and spacious appliance seamlessly blends functionality with modern design, making it the ideal centerpiece for any home chef’s culinary endeavors. Its sleek stainless steel finish complements any kitchen decor.
Its sleek stainless steel finish complements any kitchen decor.
Boasting a generous 7 cubic feet capacity and 1000 watts of power, this over-the-range microwave oven simplifies meal preparation. The
The 4-inch turntable ensures even cooking for all your dishes, from quick snacks to elaborate meals. With intuitive touch controls and pre-programmed settings, achieving perfect results is effortless.
Pros
- Spacious Interior: The 1.7 cubic feet capacity and 12.4-inch turntable easily accommodate large dishes and family-sized meals, offering superior flexibility for your cooking needs.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Featuring 10 power levels and 6 quick menus (including Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost), this oven provides precise control for a wide array of cooking tasks.
- Efficient Ventilation: The integrated 300 CFM vent fan with a 2-speed setting effectively removes cooking odors and smoke, while the built-in light illuminates your cooktop for safer food preparation.
- Time-Saving Features: Speedy cooking (1-3 minutes at 100% power) and multi-stage cooking capabilities allow for customized and efficient meal preparation, adapting to your busy lifestyle.
Cons
- Manual Defrost System: While featuring various cooking programs, the defrost system is manual, requiring user input for weight or time adjustments.
The BLACK+DECKER 7 cu ft over the range microwave oven is a powerful and feature-rich appliance designed to enhance your kitchen convenience.
10. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8
Elevate your kitchen experience with the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, boasting a generous 6 cubic feet capacity and 1150 watts of power.
This GE microwave offers a perfect blend of spaciousness and efficiency, making it an ideal solution for busy households seeking superior countertop cooking performance.
Experience advanced cooking with sensor cooking controls that automatically adjust time and power for perfectly prepared meals. The convenient weight and time defrost functions, alongside simple one-touch express cooking, ensure effortless operation.
Its sleek stainless steel finish complements any kitchen decor, making it a stylish and functional addition.
Pros
- Spacious Interior & Powerful Performance: The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity combined with 1150 watts of power efficiently handles larger dishes and cooks food quickly, a significant advantage for an under cabinet microwave oven alternative.
- Intelligent Cooking Features: Sensor cooking automatically optimizes settings, while weight and time defrost take the guesswork out of thawing, providing consistent, delicious results every time.
- Enhanced Safety & Convenience: The two-step child lock offers peace of mind, and instant-on express cooking controls and helpful alarms make daily use incredibly straightforward.
Cons
- Countertop Design Limitation: While powerful and feature-rich, this model is designed for countertop placement and does not offer built-in or under-cabinet mounting options, which might be a consideration for specific kitchen layouts seeking a true under cabinet microwave oven.
This GE Countertop Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for those who appreciate ample cooking space and robust power. It simplifies meal preparation with its smart features, making it an indispensable appliance for modern kitchens that prioritize both functionality and style.
How to Choose the Best Under Cabinet Microwave
Capacity and size needs
Ensuring the right dimensions is paramount for a seamless integration of your microwave into your kitchen setup.
The internal volume and external footprint of a microwave oven dictate its utility and fit. Before you finalize your decision, meticulously measure the available cabinetry space, factoring in width, depth, and especially clearance for ventilation to prevent overheating and ensure proper function.
This measurement must align with the unit’s physical dimensions to guarantee it slides in perfectly and doesn’t obstruct drawers or doors.
Consider your typical meal preparation; a single occupant or a couple might find a compact 7 to
0 cubic foot model sufficient for reheating leftovers or preparing small snacks. However, larger families or those who frequently cook for more people will benefit from units offering 5 cubic feet or more, allowing for the preparation of multiple dishes or larger items like a whole chicken.
Thinking about your household size and cooking habits will help you determine the optimal internal capacity, preventing situations where your microwave is either too small for your needs or unnecessarily bulky for your kitchen.
Power and cooking features
The core performance of your kitchen companion hinges on its powering capabilities and how it handles various cooking tasks.
Understanding these elements is paramount for ensuring efficient meal preparation and versatility. Higher wattage, typically ranging from 700 to 1200 watts, directly correlates to faster cooking times, allowing you to reheat leftovers or prepare meals more rapidly. For those who value speed and consistency, a robust wattage output is essential.
For those who value speed and consistency, a robust wattage output is essential.
Beyond raw power, consider the array of integrated cooking programs. Many models offer convenient preset options for popcorn, beverages, or defrosting, simplifying common culinary needs with a single touch. Furthermore, models equipped with convection or grilling features elevate your appliance beyond basic microwaving.
Furthermore, models equipped with convection or grilling features elevate your appliance beyond basic microwaving. Convection fans circulate hot air for baking and roasting, while grilling elements provide browning and crisping capabilities, transforming your unit into a multi-functional cooking station capable of everything from baking cookies to searing meats.
Installation and ventilation
Secure and straightforward mounting is paramount for any appliance integrated into your cabinetry.
The included mounting hardware and the guided process for installation significantly influence your kitchen’s final aesthetic and safety. A well-designed unit will offer clear instructions and sturdy brackets, ensuring a flush and stable fit, preventing wobbling or detachment.
Without adequate airflow, heat generated during operation can lead to component overheating, reduced efficiency, and premature failure of the cooking mechanism. Therefore, always check the manufacturer’s specified clearance requirements, typically involving a certain amount of space above, behind, and to the sides of the unit, allowing for the free circulation of air to keep internal components cool and functioning as intended.
Ignoring these crucial ventilation guidelines can lead to an appliance that struggles to heat food evenly or takes significantly longer to cook meals. Consider the depth and width of your cabinet space to ensure your chosen model meets these essential airflow needs.
This thoughtful approach to mounting and heat dissipation ensures your culinary helper remains reliable and efficient for years to come.
Cleaning and maintenance
Effortless upkeep is paramount for any kitchen appliance that sees daily use, and your mounted microwave is no exception.
A microwave that’s easy to clean will save you considerable time and frustration, ensuring your cooking space remains hygienic and pleasant. Consider how simple it is to wipe down interior surfaces; non-stick coatings and smooth finishes prevent splatters from becoming baked-on messes.
These components are often dishwasher-safe, simplifying the deep-cleaning process significantly.
Beyond physical debris, lingering odors can detract from your cooking and dining experience. Look for models that incorporate effective deodorizing features.
This might include advanced airflow systems designed to vent smells during operation, or specialized steam-cleaning functions that can neutralize persistent aromas. Some units even have activated carbon filters or specific cycles tailored to eliminate strong food odors, ensuring your kitchen always smells fresh.
Quick Best Under Cabinet Microwave Oven Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space Accurately measure the intended mounting area, including height, width, and depth.
- Consider Capacity Determine how much food you typically prepare to select the right interior volume.
- Check Wattage Higher wattage means faster cooking, so find a balance for your needs.
- Evaluate Installation Requirements Ensure you have adequate ventilation and understand the mounting process.
- Look for Easy-Clean Surfaces Removable turntables and non-stick interiors simplify maintenance.
- Prioritize Safety Features Look for auto-shutoff and child lock functions for peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Main Benefit Of An Under Cabinet Microwave?
Under cabinet microwaves save valuable counter space, keeping your kitchen looking tidy and organized.
How Do I Know What Size Microwave To Get?
Measure your cabinet space and consider your typical cooking needs to choose between compact or larger capacity models.
Are Under Cabinet Microwaves Difficult To Install?
Installation can vary, but many models come with clear instructions and mounting hardware for a straightforward setup.
Do I Need Special Ventilation For An Under Cabinet Microwave?
Yes, proper ventilation is crucial for optimal performance and longevity; check the model’s specific requirements.
How Much Power (Wattage) Should I Look For?
Most under cabinet microwaves range from 700 to 1000 watts, with higher wattage generally meaning faster cooking.
Final Words
Choosing the best under cabinet microwave oven can significantly enhance kitchen functionality without sacrificing precious counter space. These units offer convenience, efficient cooking, and a clean aesthetic. Invest in one that fits your space and culinary needs to elevate your kitchen experience.
Invest in one that fits your space and culinary needs to elevate your kitchen experience.
