Shopping for a new microwave oven? Do a little research on countertop and over-the-range microwave dimensions and capacities earlier you lot purchase then you can notice the right size for your space and cooking needs. A new microwave can help free upward some counter infinite or streamline mealtime with the latest features, like convection.

Not sure where to start? Keep reading to learn more nigh external and internal sizes for unlike microwaves types, and then check out How to choose the right microwave.

Green beans in an open microwave

What are standard microwave sizes?

There are 2 measurements to take into consideration when determining what size microwave to buy. The external dimensions, measured in inches, tell y'all the overall size of the microwave and help you make up one's mind how much space y'all'll need to adjust your appliance. The internal dimensions–or capacity–measured in cu. ft., point how much cooking space is available within the microwave. Depending on space constraints in your kitchen, the depth of the appliance may be the nigh of import factor in determining which size microwave is right for you.

Let'southward take a look at the different microwave styles and configurations available:

Countertop microwaves

A countertop microwave can be placed almost anywhere in your kitchen or installed in cabinetry with a trim kit for extra flexibility and like shooting fish in a barrel access.

  • Interior space ranges from 0.five cubic feet (usually considered compact microwaves) to over 2.0 cubic feet.

  • Exterior width ranges from roughly 15 inches for meaty microwaves to 24 inches for larger units.

  • Remember to consider the depth of the microwave with the door open to make sure you have plenty space for the full swing-out.

    • Closed-door depths range from roughly 14" to 20"

    • Open-door depths range from roughly 27" to 39"

Over-the-range microwaves

Over-the-range microwaves aid gratis up counter infinite and even vent out kitchen odors from the range beneath.

  • Interior space usually ranges from 0.8 cubic anxiety for meaty microwaves up to ii.1 cubic feet for full-sized models. The industry-first Low Contour Microwave Hood Combination past Whirlpool brand brings together the all-time of both worlds with a space-saving pattern and one.1 cubic feet of interior infinite, enough of room to fit tall spectacles, wide plates and big bowls.

  • Widths will normally be roughly 30" to match the standard width of the range below and the standard cabinet width where the microwave will be mounted.

  • Most over-the-range microwaves are roughly 17" tall.

  • Closed door depths can range from fifteen" to 18". Admissible depths will run from 42" to 45", but the standard width of over-the-range microwaves ensures that all models will accept a similar swing-out radius. Wait over-the-range microwaves to extend beyond the surface of your cabinets. For a completely flush fit, explore built-in microwaves, which are designed to install directly into preexisting cabinetry.

If this style sounds similar a good fit for your family, shop a full lineup of over-the-range microwaves from Whirlpool make. You'll find compact over-the-range microwaves, low profile models and two.i cubic foot chapters microwaves with features like steam cooking to help with good for you family unit meals.

Built-in microwaves

Congenital-in microwaves are made to fit flush with cabinetry on all sides and, unlike over-the-range models, accept no venting capabilities.

  • Interior space can range from i.0 to over 2.0 cubic feet, with most landing between 1.two to 1.half-dozen cubic feet.

  • Widths align with standard cabinet widths, usually 24", 27" or 30".

  • Depths range from roughly 20" to 25" with the door airtight and 30" to 35" with the door open. Congenital-in microwaves often have a drib-down door and can exist installed in a chiffonier or under a counter.

Whirlpool® over-the-range microwave in a modern kitchen

How do I measure out my current microwave dimensions?

Brand sure to reference the installation instructions or product guides for your appliance as well as comply with all local codes and ordinances. Use the data below every bit a helpful guide for typical microwave dimensions and the clearances by and large required.

Countertop microwaves

Mensurate the height, width and depth of your current microwave or the space on your countertop or shelves you want it to occupy. You should generally account for 1" of ventilation infinite between the microwave and the wall behind it and at least iii" of space from the edge of the counter to the open microwave door to avoid tipping, Also, attempt to put at least two feet between the microwave and the range.

Over-the-range and built-in microwaves

Measuring the meridian, width and depth of your existing microwave enclosure is more important than the measurements of your current appliance when it comes to over-the-range and built-in microwaves. Measure cabinet-to-cabinet, keeping in listen that it's okay for over-the-range microwaves to drop beneath cabinets, every bit long as you lot retain 30" from the lesser of the microwave to the acme of the stove. If you're installing the microwave oven nigh a left sidewall, make sure at that place is at least half-dozen" of clearance betwixt the wall and the microwave oven so that the door tin open fully.

In addition to getting precise dimensions of your cutout, make sure there is space for ventilation per your manufacturer'southward instructions. It'due south important to note that built-in microwaves require professional person installation.

Hand selecting popcorn option on a countertop microwave

What to consider other than a microwave's size

Here are three more than important considerations beyond dimensions.

The size of your family unit

A family of 4 or more will more than likely demand a full-size microwave and may even consider a congenital-in microwave plus a countertop microwave depending on who is using information technology and what they're using it for.

How you cook in your microwave

Are you using a microwave simply to re-heat items or pop the occasional pocketbook of popcorn, or, do you plan on cooking casseroles and other larger dishes in information technology? If you're cooking whole meals in the microwave, you might want to invest in a model with advanced features like select Whirlpool® models with sensor or convection cooking.

The wattage you need

The more than wattage, the quickler foods cook. Well-nigh recipes are written for one,000 watts of power for optimal cooking results. If yous melt a lot of frozen foods or food from scratch, you may want to aim for college wattage.

Find a Whirlpool® microwave that's the correct fit for yous

Model: WML75011HV

Color: Black Stainless

Model: WMH53521HV

Color: Fingerprint Resistant Black Stainless

MSRP: $599.00

Salvage $170 (28%)

Model: WMH54521JZ

Color: Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel

MSRP: $599.00

Salve $120 (20%)

Model: WMC50522HV

Color: Fingerprint Resistant Blackness Stainless

MSRP: $449.00

Salve $45 (x%)

More helpful Whirlpool® microwave articles

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How do microwaves work to properly cook your food?

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How to clean a microwave inside and out

How to make clean a microwave within and out

Learn how to clean your microwave quickly and just, from the interior to the turntable.

What you can and can't put in a microwave

What you tin can and tin't put in a microwave

Information technology goes without proverb that the but thing you should actually put in your microwave is food, liquids and nutrient-safe containers.

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