Which Type of Microwave is Best for Home Use? | Countertop vs Built-in vs OTR Guide

When my old microwave stopped working last month, I found myself standing in the store feeling totally lost. There were so many different types and styles! Should I get another countertop model? Maybe try one of those built-in ones? What about the ones that go over the stove? I spent weeks learning about all the different types of microwaves, talking to friends about what they use, and even chatting with some repair folks. Now I’m sharing what I learned to help you figure out which type of microwave might work best in your home without all the confusion I went through.

The Main Types of Microwaves

Countertop Microwaves

Countertop microwaves are the most common type you’ll see in homes. As the name tells you, these sit right on your kitchen counter. They come in many sizes, from tiny ones perfect for a dorm room to big ones that can cook a whole chicken. The best thing about countertop microwaves is that they’re super easy to set up – just put it where you want it and plug it in!

Most countertop models cost between $60 and $300, depending on size and features. These microwaves are great if you rent your home or might move soon, since you can take them with you. They’re also good if you’re not ready to change your kitchen cabinets or walls.

The downside? They take up counter space that you might want to use for other things like mixing food or setting down groceries. If you have a small kitchen, this can be a real problem.

Over-the-Range Microwaves

Over-the-range (OTR) microwaves are installed above your stove. They do two jobs: heating food like a regular microwave and working as a vent hood for your stove. This type saves counter space, which is why many people like them. They usually look very nice and neat in the kitchen too.

These models typically cost from $200 to $600. They’re great for kitchens where space is tight but you still need a good-sized microwave. Many come with good lighting that shines down on your stove, making it easier to see what you’re cooking.

The not-so-good part? They can be hard to install if you’re not handy with tools. Many people need to hire someone to put them in, which adds to the cost. Also, shorter people might find it hard to reach into a microwave that’s up high, and the venting isn’t always as strong as a regular range hood.

Built-In Microwaves

Built-in microwaves are made to fit right into your kitchen cabinets or wall. They look very sleek and high-end, like they were made just for your kitchen. Some come as part of a wall oven unit, with the microwave on top and the regular oven below.

These usually cost $300 to $1,000 or more. People who are building a new kitchen or doing a big remodel often choose this type. They’re perfect if you want your kitchen to look custom-made and don’t mind spending more money.

The downside is that they’re the most expensive type and the hardest to install. You usually need a professional to put them in. Also, if it breaks down, replacing it can be tricky since you need to find one that fits the exact same space.

Drawer Microwaves

Drawer microwaves are the newest type and pretty cool! Instead of having a door that swings open, these pull out like a drawer. You can build them into lower cabinets or kitchen islands.

These fancy microwaves usually cost $800 to $1,500. They’re great for modern kitchens and very helpful for people who have trouble reaching up high. Since they pull out, it’s easier to take hot dishes out without spilling.

The downsides? They’re very expensive and not as common, so there aren’t as many models to choose from. Finding someone who knows how to install them might also be tricky in some areas.

Comparing Different Microwave Types

Here’s a simple chart that compares the main types of microwaves to help you see the differences:

Important Features to Look For

Size and Capacity

The size of microwave you need depends on what you cook and how many people you’re feeding. Here’s a quick guide:

• Small (0.5-0.9 cubic feet): Good for heating drinks, single plates, and popcorn
• Medium (1.0-1.6 cubic feet): Works for most families, fits casserole dishes
• Large (1.7-2.2 cubic feet): Best for big families or if you use your microwave to cook full meals

Remember that bigger isn’t always better! A huge microwave in a tiny kitchen might make cooking harder, not easier.

Power Levels

Microwave power is measured in watts. More watts usually means faster cooking:

• 600-800 watts: Budget models; slower cooking
• 800-1000 watts: Good for most home uses
• 1000+ watts: Fast cooking, good for frequent users

Most home kitchens do fine with microwaves in the 900-1100 watt range. Getting more power than that is usually only needed if you cook a lot of food at once or use your microwave as your main cooking tool.

Special Features Worth Having

Modern microwaves come with all kinds of bells and whistles. Some are really useful, while others you might never use.

Sensor cooking is one of the most helpful features. It measures the steam coming from your food and adjusts the cooking time by itself. This means no more overcooked edges and cold centers!

Convection microwaves are also worth thinking about. These can work like a regular microwave but also have a heating element and fan like an oven. That means you can use them to bake and roast food, not just heat it up. They cost more but might be worth it if you need more cooking options.

Real People’s Experiences

I talked to lots of people about their microwaves to get real opinions. Tracy from Michigan has a countertop model and told me, “I like being able to move it when I need the counter space for big holiday meals. But most days I wish it didn’t take up so much room.“

Mark in California installed an over-the-range microwave five years ago. He said, “It freed up so much counter space that my small kitchen suddenly felt bigger. But cleaning the vent filters is a chore I often forget to do.”

For Small Kitchens

If your kitchen is tiny, you have a few good options:

• A small countertop model that can sit in a corner
• An over-the-range model to free up counter space
• A built-in microwave if you’re remodeling anyway

For the smallest kitchens, over-the-range models often make the most sense because they use space that’s not very useful anyway.

For Big Families

Families cooking for many people should look for:

• Larger capacity (1.8+ cubic feet)
• Higher power (1000+ watts)
• Preset buttons for popular foods
• Turntables big enough for casserole dishes

Many big families find that an over-the-range or built-in model with at least 1.8 cubic feet of space works best for them.

Cost Considerations

The type of microwave you choose makes a big difference in what you’ll pay:

Countertop models are the most budget-friendly option, with good basic models starting around $60-$80. Even fancy countertop models with lots of features rarely cost more than $300.

Over-the-range models start around $200 for basic versions but can go up to $600 for models with special features. Don’t forget to add $100-$300 more if you need someone to install it!

Built-in and drawer microwaves are the most expensive, with prices starting around $300 for built-ins and $800 for drawer models. Installation costs extra here too, usually $100-$400 depending on how much work needs to be done.

My next-door neighbor Jane spent $1,200 total on her drawer microwave with installation, but says it was worth every penny because her arthritis makes it hard to lift hot dishes from high places. Sometimes the best choice isn’t about money but about what makes life easier!

Making the Final Decision

After all my research, I found that there’s no single “best” type of microwave for everyone. The right choice depends on:

• How much space you have
• Your budget
• Whether you’re renting or own your home
• How often you use a microwave
• What you usually cook in it
• Any physical needs you have (like trouble reaching high places)

For most people who rent or are on a budget, a good countertop model makes the most sense. If you own your home and have a bit more to spend, an over-the-range model gives you more counter space and a cleaner look.

If you’re remodeling your kitchen or building a new house, that’s when built-in or drawer models become worth thinking about. They look fantastic and can be placed at the perfect height for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a microwave last?

Most microwaves last about 7-10 years with regular use. Countertop models sometimes have shorter lives (5-7 years) while built-in models often last longer.

Is it worth fixing a broken microwave?

Usually not. Unless it’s a very expensive built-in model, the cost to fix a microwave is often more than half the price of a new one. If your microwave is more than 5 years old, replacing it is usually smarter.

Do I need a special electrical outlet for a microwave?

Most countertop microwaves can use regular outlets, but they should have their own circuit if possible. Built-in, drawer, and some powerful over-the-range models might need special wiring. Check the instructions before buying.

Are bigger microwaves always better?

No! A microwave that’s too big for your needs wastes space and energy. The best size is one that fits the dishes you use most often with a little room to spare.

Can you put a countertop microwave in a cabinet?

Some countertop models can go in a cabinet if there’s enough space around them for air to flow (usually 3 inches on all sides). But many aren’t made for this and could overheat. Built-in models are specially designed with vents in different places to work in enclosed spaces.

Do microwaves with more watts cost more to run?

Higher wattage microwaves use more electricity while running but cook faster, so the total energy used might be about the same. The difference in your electric bill would be very small either way.