Types of Microwaves – With various configurations, features and price ranges on the market, choosing the right microwave for your kitchen requires careful consideration.

This guide aims to help you become familiar with the eight most common types of microwaves, as well as how each can be adapted to your kitchen layout, family budget, and daily cooking habits.

With this information, you will be able to make a better decision and choose the microwave that best suits your needs.

Types of Microwaves

1. Over-the-Range Microwaves

The first one is the over-the-range microwaves that can free up countertop space by installing easily between cabinets above a stove or cooktop, so you can keep all your cooking in one centralized location.

These microwaves often offer ventilation, and are available in models that either exhaust the air outside the home or filter and recirculate the air back into the kitchen.

Models usually have two types of filters: charcoal filters that reduce odors and oil filters that help clean the air.

2. Built-In Microwaves

Built-in microwaves are installed on the wall or within existing cabinets, and often come with advanced features that give them a premium look and feel.

These types of microwaves save space in other areas of the kitchen and come in a variety of sizes and power levels, making it easy to find the perfect match for your family’s favorite dishes.

These microwaves can also be professionally installed in other locations in the kitchen, including under the counter in a drawer style.

3. Under-Counter Microwaves

Usually installed into lower cabinetry, an under-counter microwave offers you a modern but discreet placement that fit neatly in your kitchen.

Unlike traditional microwave doors that swing sideways, opening an under-counter mounted microwave is easier as it simply slides out.

Their waist-high design also improves accessibility, and most models come with an effective locking system.

Under-counter microwaves give a premium feel, but are usually priced higher than countertop and built-in microwaves.

Also Read: “Will Microwaves Kill Bacteria? Check the Answer Here!“

4. Convection Microwave Ovens

Need both a convection oven and microwave? This next type of microwave could be your answer to that!

Providing the best of both worlds, a microwave oven adds features like baking and roasting to fulfill the needs of your family without sacrificing spaces of your kitchen.

5. Countertop Microwaves

These stand-alone microwaves sit on the kitchen countertop and are easy to install and operate.

Although they compete for countertop space with other appliances, countertop microwaves offer the best flexibility and are easily moved around the kitchen when needed.

In addition, most models are ADA compliant. Countertop microwaves are typically lower priced than other types, but are available in a wide range of capacities, features, and finishes.

6. Low Profile Microwaves

Similar to over-the-range models, low profile microwaves are installed above the stove or cooktop and under the cabinet instead of the range hood.

Its slim and compact design allows this model to function as a hood-like vent. This microwave is perfect for kitchens with cabinets that are too low for a regular over-the-range microwave or for those who want more space above the cooktop.

7. Smart Microwaves

Last but definitely not least is the smart microwaves. Like its name implies, smart microwaves are a type of microwaves that offer features such as Wi-Fi, remote control and or adaptive features that bring a lot of convenience in cooking at home.

This feature is also accompanied with a voice control and can exist within every type of microwave listed above.

So there you have it! The 7 types of microwaves to choose for your lovely kitchen!