How to Choose a Microwave
How Much Do Wou Want to Spend?
Countertop microwaves usually cost less than either over-the-range or built-in types. Small models start around $60, and midsized models are typically in the $100 to $400 price range. OTR microwaves can be had for under $200, but most we test cost $500 and up. Microwaves designed to be built into cabinetry or a wall cost roughly $400 or mare. Some countertop models are available with kits that give you a built-in look for less.
Where Will You Put It?
Think about where a microwave would work best, and how much space you have. Midsized countertop models, for example, are typically a little over 20 inches wide and up to 18 inches deep; large microwaves can be an inch or two larger. You’ll want to factor in height as well, but unless you have very low cabinets—the standard spacing is 18 inches—a countertop model should fit in nicely. Dimensions can be found on the model page for each microwave in our ratings.
Countertop, OTR, or Built-In?
Countertop models are the most widely sold. Over-the-range models are just that: They’re installed over your cooktop. The built-in category includes models designed only to be built in, surrounded by cabinetry or built into the wall. Microwave drawers fall into this group and can be placed under the countertop or below a wall oven.
Microwave Types
Depending on your kitchen, you can choose from countertop, OTR, and built-in microwaves. Note that the size of the unit doesn’t always translate into usable cooking space. Our research shows that usable capacity for tested microwaves is about 50 percent of what manufacturers claim. Models with more watts typically have more cooking power, but a difference of 100 watts or so doesn’t matter much.
All the microwaves in our tests have a minimum of 700 watts; models with higher wattages provide faster and more even cooking. All the microwaves we recommend feature power levels between 1,050 and 1,250 watts. (You can see the watts in the full view of our microwave ratings by sliding the Ratings & Specs bar to the right.) The usable capacity and wattages presented below are based on our tested models.
Countertop Microwaves
Countertop microwaves are available at a range of prices and don’t require installation. Just plug it into an ordinary outlet, but use one dedicated to the microwave or it might trip the circuit breaker. Check the usable capacity in our ratings, and note the microwave’s external dimensions to make sure it will fit in the space you have for it. Some are equipped with a convection mode that uses a heating element and a fan to bake or roast items as you would in a traditional oven.
Usable Capacity
Most of the models we tested in this category have a usable capacity of about 50 to 60 percent of what manufacturers claim.
Watts
700 to 1,100 for small
800 to 1,250 for midsized
1,000 to 1,250 for large
Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens
Known as OTRs, these models free up counter space. While they can be vented to the outside, don’t expect an OTR to exhaust cooking gases as well as a range hood. Installation might require an electrician.
Usable Capacity
Most of our tested OTR models have a usable capacity of about 40 to 50 percent of what manufacturers claim.
Watts
900 to 1,200
Built-In Microwaves
This category includes models designed only to be built in, surrounded by cabinetry or inserted into a wall. Microwave drawers, for example, can be placed under a countertop or installed below a wall oven. The look is sleek and integrated. Some countertop microwaves can be built in with a kit. The information below is for models designed to be built in, not for countertop models with optional built-in kits.
Usable Capacity
We haven’t yet tested enough built-ins to determine the percentage of usable capacity compared with manufacturers’ claims.
Watts
950 to 1,000
Features to Focus On
As the price of a microwave goes up, so does the number of features. One we find invaluable is the sensor, which measures the steam that food emits and turns off the microwave when cooking is done. Here are other features to consider.
Turntables and Trays
They keep food moving for uniform heating. Most microwaves have a turntable that rotates food. Others have a rectangular tray that slides from side to side, which might work better for large casseroles or platters.
Quick Keys
A 1-minute or 30-second key requires just a tap to extend the preset cooking time, maintaining whichever power level was selected. It also allows quick adjustments to your previous settings. Pushing the button more than once multiplies the time extension.
Racks
These let you speed things up by cooking multiple dishes simultaneously. They may also be used to improve convection cooking by allowing heat beneath the cooking dish. But you may have trouble fitting even a coffee mug in some models unless you remove the rack, so check when shopping.
Shortcut Keys
They take the guesswork out of cooking popular foods such as popcorn and frozen vegetables, and some models have shortcuts for oatmeal, pasta, stew, and grits.
Convection Cooking, Grilling, and Browning
These features offer the appeal of a second oven in your kitchen. But none of the models we tested consistently provided the results you’d get from a traditional oven or a grill.
Child Lock
If there are children in the house, a lockout function prevents them from opening the door and possibly getting burned by hot food.
Turntables and Trays
They keep food moving for uniform heating. Most microwaves have a turntable that rotates food. Others have a rectangular tray that slides from side to side, which might work better for large casseroles or platters.
Microwave Brands
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