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Built-In vs Countertop Microwave: Which is the Best Choice for Your Kitchen?

Emily Chen is the food blogger and recipe developer behind Cookindocs.com. With a lifelong passion for food, she enjoys creating easy and delicious recipes for home cooks to enjoy. Whether testing new ingredients or perfecting family favorites, Emily finds joy in cooking dishes from around the world.

What To Know

  • If you are on a budget and you don’t mind sacrificing some features, a countertop microwave is a good option.
  • If you want a microwave that will blend in with your kitchen décor and you have the budget for it, a built-in microwave is a better choice.

When it comes to choosing a microwave, you have two main options: countertop or built-in. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh your options before making a decision.

Countertop Microwave

Countertop microwaves are the most common type of microwave. They are typically less expensive than built-in microwaves, and they are easy to install. Simply place the microwave on your counter and plug it in.
Advantages:

  • Less expensive
  • Easy to install
  • Can be moved around easily

Disadvantages:

  • Can take up counter space
  • May not match your kitchen décor

Built-In Microwave

Built-in microwaves are installed in your kitchen cabinetry. They are more expensive than countertop microwaves, but they can provide a more streamlined look. Built-in microwaves also tend to have more features than countertop microwaves.
Advantages:

  • Frees up counter space
  • Can match your kitchen décor
  • May have more features

Disadvantages:

  • More expensive
  • Harder to install
  • Cannot be moved around easily

Which Type of Microwave Is Right for You?

The best way to decide which type of microwave is right for you is to consider your needs and budget. If you are on a budget and you don’t mind sacrificing some features, a countertop microwave is a good option. If you want a microwave that will blend in with your kitchen décor and you have the budget for it, a built-in microwave is a better choice.

Features to Consider

When choosing a microwave, there are a few features you should consider:

  • Size: Microwaves come in a variety of sizes. Choose a microwave that is large enough to accommodate your needs, but not so large that it takes up too much space.
  • Power: Microwaves are measured in watts. The higher the wattage, the more powerful the microwave. A higher wattage microwave will cook food faster, but it will also use more energy.
  • Features: Microwaves come with a variety of features, such as defrost, reheat, and sensor cooking. Choose a microwave with the features that are most important to you.

Installation

Countertop microwaves are easy to install. Simply place the microwave on your counter and plug it in. Built-in microwaves require more installation. You will need to cut a hole in your cabinetry and then install the microwave. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.

Cost

Countertop microwaves are typically less expensive than built-in microwaves. The price of a countertop microwave can range from $50 to $200. The price of a built-in microwave can range from $200 to $1,000.

Recommendations

Choosing the right microwave for your home depends on your needs and budget. If you are on a budget and you don’t mind sacrificing some features, a countertop microwave is a good option. If you want a microwave that will blend in with your kitchen décor and you have the budget for it, a built-in microwave is a better choice.

Common Questions and Answers

What is the difference between a countertop microwave and a built-in microwave?
Countertop microwaves are placed on your counter, while built-in microwaves are installed in your kitchen cabinetry.
Which type of microwave is better?
The best type of microwave for you depends on your needs and budget. Countertop microwaves are less expensive and easier to install, while built-in microwaves provide a more streamlined look and may have more features.
How much does a microwave cost?
The price of a microwave can range from $50 to $1,000. Countertop microwaves are typically less expensive than built-in microwaves.
How do I install a microwave?
Countertop microwaves are easy to install. Simply place the microwave on your counter and plug it in. Built-in microwaves require more installation. You will need to cut a hole in your cabinetry and then install the microwave. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.
What features should I consider when choosing a microwave?
When choosing a microwave, you should consider the size, power, and features. Choose a microwave that is large enough to accommodate your needs, but not so large that it takes up too much space. Choose a microwave with the power that you need. Choose a microwave with the features that are most important to you.

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Emily Chen

Emily Chen is the food blogger and recipe developer behind Cookindocs.com. With a lifelong passion for food, she enjoys creating easy and delicious recipes for home cooks to enjoy. Whether testing new ingredients or perfecting family favorites, Emily finds joy in cooking dishes from around the world.

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