Buying a microwave should be straightforward, but walk into any store and you’ll quickly realize it’s more complicated than expected. Do you need 1000 watts or will 700 do? Should you spend extra for sensor cooking? Is a convection microwave worth the investment? And what’s the real difference between a $60 model and a $400 one? If you’re wondering how to choose the best microwave without overspending or ending up with the wrong size, you’re in the right place.
This guide breaks down everything from microwave types and essential features to sizing considerations and budget-friendly tips, so you can confidently select the perfect microwave for your kitchen. Lets check out the types:
Types of Microwaves
- Built-in microwaves – Built-in microwaves are basically the luxury option. They slide right into your cabinets or wall so you get that clean, seamless look—nothing sticking out or breaking up your kitchen’s flow. Sounds great, right? Well, they’re definitely the most expensive type, and good luck installing one yourself. Most people only go this route when they’re already renovating or building a new kitchen. For everyone else, it’s probably more trouble than it’s worth.
- Over-the-Range Microwaves– Think of these as the multitaskers of the microwave world. They go above your stove, heat up your leftovers, and pull double duty with exhaust fans and cooktop lighting. Great for small kitchens where counter space is gold. The downside? Installation can get complicated fast, especially if your kitchen needs electrical upgrades or new ductwork. If you’re not the DIY type, plan on calling in a professional—and yeah, that’ll cost you extra.
- Countertop Microwaves-Countertop microwaves are the no-brainer choice for most people. Plug it in, stick it on your counter, done. That’s it. They’re affordable, you can take them with you when you move, and there’s zero installation hassle. The catch? They’re counter hogs. If you’re working with a tiny kitchen, losing that space might hurt. Still, you get the biggest selection here—every size, every budget, every feature combo you could want.
- Convection Microwaves-Think of these as a microwave and a mini oven had a baby. They microwave like normal, but the convection feature lets you bake, roast, and get that nice browned finish you can’t get otherwise. Pretty handy if you don’t have room for a bunch of appliances or you want something more versatile. The downside? They’re pricier and there’s definitely a learning curve. But if you’re living solo or it’s just two of you, this might be all the oven you need.
Alright, now that you know which type fits your kitchen, let’s talk about the features that actually make a difference in how your microwave performs.
Not all features are created equal.
Essential Features: What Actually Matters
- Size and Capacity – Microwave size gets measured in cubic feet, and honestly, most people buy too small and regret it later. Here’s the breakdown: If you’re single or it’s just two of you mainly reheating coffee and leftovers, a compact 0.5 to 0.9 cubic foot model works fine. Small families should look at mid-size options—1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet. These fit normal dinner plates and medium casserole dishes without playing Tetris. Got a bigger family or like cooking actual meals in your microwave? Go for 1.6 to 2.2 cubic feet. But here’s what people forget: measure the outside too, not just the interior. Check how far that door swings open. I can’t tell you how many times someone buys the perfect-sized microwave only to realize the door blocks their cabinets or smacks into the wall. Measure your space before you click “add to cart.”
- Control Panel: Digital vs. Dial -This comes down to personal preference, honestly. Digital touchpads look sleek and give you precise control with all those preset buttons for popcorn, defrost, whatever. Great if you like gadgets. The problem? They can be confusing for some people, and when they break, they really break. Dial controls are old-school simple. Turn the knob, microwave goes brrr. They’re durable, never confuse anyone, and honestly, my parents prefer them. The trade-off is less precision and fewer fancy features. Think about who’s using this thing. If it’s just you, get what you like. If your whole family or roommates are using it, simpler might save you headaches.
- Wattage: – Low-wattage microwaves (600-800 watts) are cheap, but they’re painfully slow and heat unevenly. You’ll bite into a Hot Pocket that’s lava on one side and frozen on the other. Mid-range models (900-1,000 watts) hit the sweet spot for most people—decent speed, even heating, not crazy on your electric bill. High-wattage beasts (1,100-1,250 watts) are fast and cook evenly, but they cost more upfront. Bottom line: if you actually cook in your microwave and not just reheat stuff, don’t go below 1,000 watts. Trust me on this one.
- Durability- You’ve got two choices: stainless steel or painted metal.Stainless steel interiors cost a bit more, but they’re worth it. They don’t stain when you inevitably forget to cover your spaghetti sauce, and they wipe clean easily. They look newer for longer. Painted interiors are fine on budget models, but that coating chips and stains over time, especially if you’re not great about cleaning up splatters right away (no judgment).If you’re spending over a hundred bucks, go for stainless.
- Turntable vs. Flatbed Design:- Most microwaves have that spinning glass plate. It works, it’s affordable, but it takes up space and can be annoying to clean around. Flatbed microwaves ditch the turntable completely—there’s a rotating antenna underneath instead. You get more usable space, easier cleaning, and you can fit bigger or weirdly-shaped dishes without them hitting the sides. Flatbeds cost more and they’re harder to find, but if you’re constantly trying to squeeze oversized plates in there, they’re a game-changer.
- Sensor Cooking:- t detects the steam coming off your food and automatically adjusts the time and power so things don’t overcook or stay cold in the middle. Instead of guessing “hmm, maybe 2 minutes?” you just hit the sensor button and let it figure it out. Works great for vegetables, rice, reheating leftovers—basically the stuff you actually use a microwave for.It adds some cost, but if you use your microwave regularly, sensor cooking is one of those features you’ll actually appreciate every single day.
Common Mistakes
Buying Too Small
The number one regret? “I should’ve gone bigger.” If you’re debating between two sizes and have the space, always go larger. You’ll never regret extra capacity, but you’ll definitely regret squeezing dinner plates in at an angle.
Ignoring Wattage
Don’t get hypnotized by price and forget about power. Below 900 watts means slow, uneven heating. If you actually use your microwave regularly, stick with 1,000+ watts minimum.
Not Checking Door Swing
Sounds obvious, but people forget: which way does the door open? Will it block cabinets, hit the wall, or make you reach awkwardly? Visualize it in your actual space before buying.
Paying for Features You Won’t Use
Sensor cooking? Useful. That smart home connectivity and 47 preset modes? You’ll never touch them. Be honest about what you’ll actually use and save your money.
FAQs
What size microwave do I need for a family of 4?
At least 1.6 cubic feet, ideally closer to 2.0. Family-size meals and larger dishes need room. Anything smaller means heating things in batches, which gets old fast.
Is 700 watts enough for a microwave?
Only if you barely use it. 700 watts is slow and uneven. For daily use, go for at least 1,000 watts.
What’s the difference between convection and regular microwaves?
Regular microwaves just heat food. Convection models add a heating element and fan so they can bake, roast, and brown like a real oven. They cost more but offer way more versatility.
How long should a microwave last?
Budget models: 3-5 years. Mid-range: 5-9 years. Premium: 10+ years. Depends on build quality and how often you use it.
Do I need sensor cooking?
It’s actually worth it. Sensor cooking detects moisture and adjusts time automatically, so your food heats evenly without guessing. One of the few features you’ll use daily.
Can I install an over-the-range microwave myself?
Only if you’re handy with electrical work and mounting heavy appliances. Otherwise, hire a pro—it’s safer and prevents costly mistakes.