5 Best Built-in Microwave Ovens of 2025, According to Experts
The same great functionality as other microwaves with a more sophisticated aesthetic.
Tested by Eva BleyerKitchen Appliances Lab Reviews Analyst
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Counter space is precious, and a built-in microwave can be an elegant solution. By integrating the appliance into your cabinetry, wall, or even as a drawer, built-ins free up room on your counters while delivering a seamless, custom look.
There are a few different types of built-ins to consider:
- Drawer and wall-mounted microwaves tuck neatly into cabinetry at a height that works for you, whether that’s under the counter or near a wall oven.
- Over-the-range models are technically built-ins, too, since they mount above your cooktop and often double as your range’s ventilation hood.
- Many built-ins are also speed ovens—hybrid appliances that combine microwave technology with convection and radiant heat—which don’t just reheat but can bake, roast, and brown, making them a versatile (though pricier) option for cooks who want the convenience of multiple appliances in one.
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we’ve tested hundreds of small appliances, including dozens of countertop microwaves. To evaluate built-ins, we drew on this Lab experience, analyzing everything from reheating leftovers and popping popcorn to defrosting and melting cheese.
Best Deal
LG Smart Built-in Microwave and Speed Oven
Pros
- Compatible smartphone app for operation anywhere
- Sleek aesthetic
- Packed full of features, including more than 50 presets
Cons
- Might be deeper than some standard cabinetry can accommodate
We haven't formally tested this exact model, but LG microwaves generally perform well in our side-by-side microwave tests. This model includes numerous enviable features, such as convection technology that enables functions such as broiling and air frying. Essentially, it utilizes a combination of heating elements to skip preheating while still achieving oven-like results in a shorter cooking time.
LG also offers a special ThinQ app that allows you to access more than 10,000 recipes, start the oven, set timers, or check on dinner from anywhere. You can even scan the barcode on a selection of ready-made meals to set the temperature and cooking time remotely.
We love the overall look of this microwave oven, too. The SmoothTouch glass controls make the unit appear more like a built-in appliance than a typical microwave. But it's not all about creating a sleek aesthetic—the microwave's large oven-style handle makes it exceptionally easy to operate.
Online reviews praise the oven's air fry feature, noting that it effectively achieves crispness. A few users note that the unit is quite deep, and space for wiring, ventilation, and cabinetry is tight. Measure twice before buying!
Features at a Glance
| Type of built-in microwave | Built-in |
| Type of microwave | Speed oven |
| Dimensions | 20.1" x 29.8" x 23.2" |
| Size | 1.7 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 1,900 watts |
Pros
- Large cooking capacity
- Smaller footprint fits in most cabinets
- Melt function is a handy feature
Cons
- No convection
Although you'll pay the price for many built-in microwaves, Frigidaire offers a quality, budget-friendly option, especially for those with limited space. The unit has a smaller footprint than most built-ins—it fits in place of 24-inch cabinets.
Despite the dimensions, the microwave oven doesn't lack much. It has a roomy 2.2 cubic feet of cooking space, which is plenty enough for a large dinner plate. It doesn't have convection power, but it is equipped with smart sensors that automatically adjust cooking time and temperature.
Additional features include a melt function for baking ingredients like butter, a quick defrost for weeknight dinners, and a child safety lock. We haven't tested this model in side-by-side tests, but the online reviews are good, and in general, we stand behind Frigidaire products, specifically if you're looking for overall value.
Features at a Glance
| Type of built-in microwave | Built-in |
| Type of microwave | Traditional microwave with smart sensors |
| Dimensions | 24.4" x 19.6" x 13.6" |
| Size | 2.2 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 1,100 watts |
GE Profile Advantium Microwave Wall Oven
Pros
- Multiple appliances in one
- Remote monitoring (camera, app) helpful for multitasking
- Large number of presets and cooking modes
- Very good whole-chicken performance
Cons
- Heating is not always even
- Fan turbulence not good for light foods
This hybrid wall oven combines convection, microwave, speed cooking, and broil functions, offering a lot of flexibility in a single built-in oven.
It features over 175 preprogrammed menu selections, a large touchscreen display, built-in Wi-Fi/SmartHQ app support, and even an in-oven camera so you can monitor dishes remotely. The user interface is modern, though there is some complexity to unlock all the modes.
In our testing, the microwave popcorn setting popped about 85% of the kernels without burning—a solid but not perfect performance. Things were more chaotic in our bread and cheese test. Food fragments flung around (a fan-driven process is involved), and after three minutes, the cheese still wasn’t really melted on the bread. It needed a full six minutes to melt.
The microwave produces good heat, but we observed temperature variations across the plate when heating meatloaf with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Our tester used the speed oven setting to cook a whole chicken, which took about 30 minutes to fully reach a safe internal temperature. The bird came out with a crispy, golden skin (though with some darker patches) and a juicy, tender interior. The remote camera-monitoring feature was especially helpful there.
Features at a Glance
| Type of built-in microwave | Built-in |
| Type of microwave | Microwave/convection/speed cook oven |
| Dimensions | 29.8" × 20.1" × 22.8" |
| Size | 1.7 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 950 watts |
KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Pros
- Multifunctional (microwave, air fry, toast, broil, keep warm)
- Excellent, even toast results
- Remote power-on adds convenience
Cons
- No turntable leads to uneven browning on some foods
- Interface has a learning curve
This KitchenAid is more than just a microwave—it’s a multifunctional appliance designed to replace or at least reduce the need for an air fryer, toaster, and warming drawer. The broil setting is excellent for blistering shishito peppers, and the keep warm function proved invaluable for holding pancakes while finishing a batch.
Every day reheating is reliable, and once you get comfortable with the interface—which does take some practice—it’s intuitive and versatile. Bonus: You can even power it on remotely, which adds convenience if you like to set it up in advance.
In our Lab tests, toasting was one of its strongest features. The bread slices came out golden brown and impressively even, although the browning didn’t always reach edge to edge. Popcorn performance was decent: it popped a bag in two minutes and 45 seconds, but 18% of the kernels remained unpopped. The air fry setting turned out juicy chicken wings with a decent amount of crisp on top, though cleanup was messy.
This model ditches the traditional turntable in favor of a flat cavity design, which gives you more usable space inside. The trade-off? Food placement becomes more critical for even cooking. When we tested bread and cheese, the lack of a turntable meant we had to line the bottom of the microwave, and after five minutes, we saw noticeably uneven browning.
Features at a Glance
| Type of built-in microwave | Over-the-range |
| Type of microwave | Traditional microwave with smart sensors |
| Dimensions | 30" x 17.8" x 12.75" |
| Size | 1.1 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 1,800 watts |
Sharp Microwave Drawer Oven
Pros
- The drawer format is accessible and fits nicely under counters
- More spacious than many other drawer-style microwaves
- Control panel tucks away
Cons
- Lack of a turntable may contribute to uneven heating
The sleek Sharp microwave drawer is ideal for kitchens where accessibility is key, and for those who dislike overhead microwaves. The drawer format is more ergonomic, especially when installed under a counter or in an island, compared to over-the-range or standard built-in microwaves. It opens out, so there's less reaching overhead. The control panel also tucks away to keep things visually clean.
While we didn’t run Lab tests on this model, many owners report online that it performs well across typical tasks, such as reheating, sensor-cooking, and daily use. Users compliment its quick and even heating for many foods, though some say it’s not perfectly consistent in every case. Some concerns arise around the control panel (visibility, durability), and because there's no turntable, some heat variation is noticeable.
The interior capacity is generous compared to many under-counter options. People report good space for casseroles.
Features at a Glance
| Type of built-in microwave | Drawer |
| Type of microwave | Traditional microwave with smart sensors |
| Dimensions | 23.8" × 23.1" × 15.8" |
| Size | 1.2 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 950 watts |
How we test the best built-in microwaves
Although we haven't conducted formal side-by-side tests of built-in microwaves in our Lab, we have tested more than 30 microwaves in the past two decades, including some built-in models.
For any microwaves we haven't physically tested in our Lab—like many of the built-in models recommended on this list—our pros and expert editorial team lean on their collective decades of experience to assess available features, plus read hundreds of user reviews to see how the products perform.
✔️ Functionality tests: We analyze the functionality of each microwave by evaluating how evenly they:
- Melt cheese (pictured)
- Bake four potatoes at a time
- Reheat a large mac and cheese casserole
- Reheat a dinner plate of meatloaf with sides
If a microwave has added functionality as a toaster oven, convection oven, or air fryer, we also put those features to the test by toasting bread, baking a cake, or air-frying chicken wings.
✔️ Presets: We test the microwave's presets if it has them.
- Popcorn: We time how long the setting takes to pop a bag of microwave popcorn, assess any burning that occurred, and weigh the remaining unpopped kernels.
- Defrost: We defrost a pound of frozen ground beef (in two different shapes).
✔️ Ease of use: Throughout testing, we assess each model's control panel, the positioning of the turntable, the opening and closing of the door, and the cleaning of the microwave.
What to look for when shopping for the best built-in microwave
Like any other major kitchen appliance, there are plenty of microwave styles and options to fit your cooking needs, available space, and design preferences. Our experts recommend keeping these key considerations in mind:
✔️ Type of built-in microwave: Built-in models create a polished, high-end look because they’re integrated into your cabinetry, a wall cutout, or even a drawer. This frees up counter space and allows you to install the microwave at a convenient height or alongside other appliances like a wall oven for a coordinated setup. Drawer microwaves, in particular, are praised for their accessibility, while over-the-range models add the bonus of built-in ventilation above your cooktop.
✔️ Type of microwave: Traditional and inverter are the two most common types.
- Traditional microwaves cycle power on and off, which can sometimes result in uneven heating and reduced energy efficiency.
- Inverter microwaves maintain a consistent power level throughout cooking, producing more even results—especially useful for delicate foods like fish or custards.
- Speed ovens (sometimes called “speed cook” or “Advantium” ovens) combine microwave technology with convection and radiant heat. These versatile hybrids can bake, roast, and brown foods far faster than a conventional oven, making them ideal if you want microwave convenience with oven-quality results.
✔️ Size: Capacity, measured in cubic feet, dictates how much you can fit inside. On average, microwaves range from about 0.8 cubic feet (good for small households or quick reheats) to 2.2 cubic feet or more (spacious enough for large casseroles and family meals). Match the size to both your kitchen layout and your cooking style.
✔️ Wattage: Power matters. For basic reheating and defrosting, a 700- to 900-watt microwave will suffice. For faster and more thorough cooking, look for models with at least 1,000 watts. Keep in mind that many packaged frozen meal instructions are written for a 1,100-watt microwave, so anything lower will take more time to heat evenly.
✔️ Features: Today’s microwaves come loaded with smart and convenient options.
- Smart sensors detect humidity and adjust cooking time automatically.
- Turntables (or flatbed designs with stirrers) help ensure even heating—removable ones are much easier to clean.
- One-touch controls, such as a +30-second button or quick-start option, add everyday convenience.
- Preset functions cover basics like defrost and popcorn, but some models add extras for potatoes, beverages, or melting cheese.
- Air fry or convection modes are increasingly common in premium models, broadening what your microwave can do.
- Smart connectivity (via Wi-Fi or apps) lets you monitor or start your microwave remotely.
- Child safety locks are important for built-in and drawer microwaves installed at kid-friendly heights.
✔️ Aesthetics: Since built-ins become part of your cabinetry, design matters. Look for stainless steel, matte black, or custom-panel-ready options to match your kitchen. Hidden or angled control panels and handleless designs create an ultra-streamlined look, while LED interior lighting adds a modern touch.
✔️ Installation: Countertop microwaves are plug-and-play, but built-ins and speed ovens require careful installation to ensure proper ventilation. You may need a trim kit for a flush fit, and professional installation is often worth it to avoid gaps, airflow issues, or electrical mishaps.
Are built-in microwaves a standard size?
Just like countertop microwaves, built-in microwaves vary in size—typically 24-inch, 27-inch, and 30-inch widths. There are a variety of sizes represented in our picks, like the 24-inch best value pick or the 30-inch KitchenAid pick, which aligns perfectly over a 30-inch range. Select the size that best suits your space, and consider that if you're not undertaking a full-scale renovation, you may need to choose a size that easily fits into an existing cabinet or drawer.
Is it worth having a built-in microwave?
If countertop space is valuable to you, a built-in microwave affords you more space, since you won't have a large countertop microwave taking over. A built-in microwave is generally regarded as a sleeker, more sophisticated option, too. The downside: They're typically more expensive, and installation tends to be more complicated.
Does a built-in microwave need to be vented?
"Built-in microwaves don't need to be vented (or exhausted) to the outdoors, as with a range hood," says Dan DiClerico, director of the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. "But they need adequate clearance on all sides to allow for proper circulation of air." The amount varies by make and model, but typical clearance requirements for a built-in microwave are between 1.5 and 3 inches.
Can I use a countertop microwave as a built-in?
Why not just stick a regular countertop model into an existing cabinet or drawer space? Sometimes this is possible; other times it's not advised. The answer depends on the specific model. Some countertop microwaves can be, but it's essential to consult the microwave's user manual for specifics.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Eva Bleyer has professionally tested all kinds of kitchen equipment, from oven ranges to juicers to kitchen scales to blenders. Eva conducted the most recent side-by-side testing of 12 new microwave models in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. While Eva doesn't cook in a microwave every day, she loves the convenience of being able to quickly melt butter or make a personal mug cake in a microwave.
Perry Santanachote is a contributing writer for Good Housekeeping. She has been testing and writing about the best kitchen appliances and cookware—from toaster ovens and air fryers to handheld mixers and nonstick pans—for over 10 years.
Perry Santanachote (she/her) has more than 15 years of experience in service journalism, specializing in food and consumer goods. She tests and reports on kitchen appliances and cooking tools. She also evaluates food products and cleaning supplies. She’s an experienced writer, product tester and recipe developer who has worked in labs, test kitchens and media organizations, including Thrillist and Consumer Reports.
Eva (she/her) is a reviews analyst in the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she tests kitchen gear, home appliances and culinary innovations. She graduated from NYU with a bachelor of science in food studies, nutrition and public health and is a trained chef through the Natural Gourmet Institute. Eva has more than 10 years of experience in the food industry, working as a food stylist, personal chef and marketing manager.
