Selecting the Right Microwave Size According to Your Needs

Right Microwave Size

What’s the average microwave size for me?” may be on your mind if you’re searching for the ideal microwave.

The solution to standard microwave size in mm, depends on your kitchen’s layout and your cooking ambitions, whether you’re eyeing an KitchenAid appliances or Home Depot appliances.

If you’re looking for average microwave size that save space, think about built-in or over-the-range options. Let’s look at some crucial advice for selecting the ideal microwave size to improve your cooking.

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What is the standard microwave size in mm?

With some general guidelines, choosing the average microwave size is simple.

When the door is closed, over-the-range microwaves typically measure between 15 and 17 inches deep (381mm and 431.8 mm) , 30 inches wide (762 mm), and 17 inches tall. But for built-in microwaves, they generally correspond to standard cabinet sizes.

Here’s a tip: to make sure the standard microwave size in mm, will fit snugly into your current kitchen setup, pay close attention to both the dimensions of the item and the cut-out details as you browse through the available options.

Now, there are a lot of options available to you if you’re looking for a average microwave size in countertop style. You can find everything to suit your needs and the available space, from small companions to extra-large ones.

But microwaves aren’t just for outside use. Additionally, their interior capacity—which is frequently stated in the product name—is measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.) to determine their size. While the average microwave size may differ depending on the type, the external measurements usually have similar dimensions.

To keep things easy, choose your preferred style of microwave first, and then find your ideal fit by looking at those outside measurements or by measuring microwave size in person.

The Different Microwave Styles and Microwave Size Guide

Over-the-Range Microwaves

These microwaves are ideal for people with limited counter space. They tackle kitchen odours in addition to conserving counter space. Now, about measuring microwave size, the interior sizes range from full-sized (2.1 cubic feet) to compact (0.8 cubic feet). The typical width is around 30″, which fits in perfectly with the cabinet and range. Heights typically reach a height of 17 inches.

Also, the depths of closed doors vary from 15″ to 18″. When those doors are swung open, 42″ to 45″ of depth is revealed. It is to be expected that they will occasionally peek out.

Over the Range Microwaves

Countertop Microwaves

A countertop microwave is your kitchen’s adaptive appliance. You have a lot of flexibility because you can place it practically anywhere or install it into cabinets with the help of a trim kit.

The widths vary from a tidy 15 inches for smaller ones to a roomier 24 inches for the larger guys. Sizes range from small (0.5 cubic feet) to large (over 2.0 cubic feet). As a helpful hint, remember to account for the door swing when measuring microwave size, and make sure it has adequate room to function.

About depth, the depths behind closed doors range from 14″ to 20″. The door swings open to reveal depths ranging from 27″ to 39″.

Countertop Microwaves

Built-in/ Integrated Microwaves

Another type of microwave is, that sits flush with your cabinetry but doesn’t require venting is a built-in microwave. Interior areas are cozy in widths of 24″, 27″, or 30″, and range in volume from 1.0 to over 2.0 cubic feet. About 20″ to 25″ is the range of depths with doors closed, and 30″ to 35″ when they are wide open. They can curl up under counters or cabinets and frequently rock a drop-down door. This is the place to go if you want that smooth, integrated look.

Built in Microwaves

The Technique for Measuring Microwave Size

Step 1: Measuring microwave size height

  • Trace a measuring tape along one of the vertical walls of the appliance.
  • Measure vertically from top to bottom, taking into account any feet or support bases.
  • If a tape measure is not available, an alternative is to use a yardstick, metre stick or standard ruler.
  • For an accurate measurement when using a ruler, mark the tool’s end and reset it if needed.
  • Using a pen or pencil, note the measurements on a piece of scrap paper.
  • Note down these measurements in form of microwave size guide so you have them handy when you go appliance shopping.

Step 2: Measuring microwave size width

  • Move the tape measure from one side of the microwave to the other.
  • Measure from edge to edge across the appliance’s face after turning the tape measure 90 degrees.
  • Make sure you measure width accurately because that’s what determines how much counter space you’ll need.
  • While larger microwaves can reach up to 37 inches (94 cm) in width, smaller microwaves typically stay under 30 inches (76 cm).
  • When measuring width, be exact because there’s usually less room for error than with height.

Step 3: Measuring Microwave size depth

  • To find the appliance’s depth, assess from the front to the back.
  • Move the tape measure from the microwave’s flat face to the back edge.
  • You will not find the handle, the knob, or any other sticking out features included in the official dimensions, so do not include them in your measurement.
  • The depth estimation is essential for determining what kinds of objects the microwave can hold.
  • Accurately record the depth dimension for later use when choosing an appliance.

The Ultimate Comparison: Microwave Size Chart

There are many options available in the when it comes to microwave, and each one has a distinct set of dimensions. Choosing the best one can be simple if you know roughly what options are available.

Have a look at the given microwave size chart below for average microwave size, which provides an overview of the options. This chart will help you identify the ideal measurements and capacity to complement your cooking style and fit your kitchen space. It’s similar to window shopping for your dream microwave that’s customized for you!

TYPE OF MICROWAVE HEIGHT (IN.) WIDTH (IN.) DEPTH (IN.)1 CAPACITY (CU. FT.)
Countertop 13″ 21″ – 24″ 16″ – 20″ 1.5 – 2.2 cu. ft.
Compact 10″ – 12″ 15″ – 18″ 12″ – 16″ 0.5 – 0.9 cu. ft.
Over-the-range 17″ 30″
24″(compact)
15″ – 17″ 1.7 – 2.0 cu. ft.
Low-profile 10″ 30″ 18″ 1.1 cu. ft.
Built-in 17″ – 22″ 24″, 27″ or 30″ 20″ – 25″ 1.0 – 2.2 cu. ft.

 

How to Find the Right Average Microwave Size for Your Kitchen?

Step 1: Know the Standard Microwave Specifications

Consider the various sizes, shapes, and installation options when choosing a microwave. For the best experience with a home appliance, pick one that fits your needs and your kitchen space seamlessly.

 

Microwave Size Small Standard Large
Microwave Capacity 0.5 cu. ft. – 0.9 cu. ft. 1.0 cu. ft. – 1.6 cu. ft. 1.7 cu. ft. – 2.2+ cu. ft.
Family Size 1-2 2-4 4+
Typical Use Daily essentials, such as heating up small amounts and getting ready ingredients. Warm up dinnerware and easily prepare meals for a medium-sized family. Quickly and efficiently cook, reheat, or defrost a large number of dishes at once.

Step 2: Lookout for Dimensions

Understanding the dimensions of an average microwave size is essential to ensuring they fit tightly in your area. You might only need roughly 10–11 inches in height, 15–18 inches in width, and 12–16 inches in depth for smaller countertop models. Conversely, larger built-in or over-the-range microwaves can have dimensions of 10–22 inches in height, 24–30 inches in width, and 15–25 inches in depth. Having a precise fit for your microwave buddy is ensured by knowing these dimensions, regardless of whether you have a large counter or a small kitchen nook.

Step 3: Keep in Mind Your Family Size

When choosing a microwave, take your family’s size into account in addition to the size of your kitchen. Larger dishes may not fit in every countertop microwave, unlike built-in or over-the-range models. The typical capacity of a microwave is between 0.7 cu. ft. (suitable for most plates) and 2.2 cu. ft. (better for larger cookware). Therefore, consider what portion size suits your family’s needs and the recipes you enjoy making.

Step 4: The Usage

Prior to choosing a microwave, think about how you typically use it. Investing in a bigger microwave could make sense if you have a large family or frequently host gatherings. In this manner, you can quickly prepare, reheat, and defrost heavier dishes to satisfy the appetites of your loved ones or visitors.

Step 5: Power Consumption

It’s important to take wattage into account when choosing a microwave for your family. In essence, wattage indicates the cooking power, usually ranging from 500 to 1200 watts. Your food will cook more quickly the higher the wattage. A defrost setting, which reduces the power by 20 to 30 percent, is frequently included with microwaves. The ability to safely thaw food in the microwave is a useful feature.

Conclusion

When starting your search for the ideal microwave, there are a number of things to take into account. You’re on the right track if you know what to look for in a microwave and are interested in learning more about types, average wattage, and best placement ideas.

Remember these tips as you search to make sure you find a microwave that matches your kitchen’s style and fulfils your cooking requirements.

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