Best built-in microwaves

Short on kitchen counter space? Built-in microwaves blend seamlessly into your kitchen cabinetry, giving you all the cooking capabilities of a freestanding microwave while freeing up valuable worktop space.

The simplest way to add an integrated microwave to your kitchen is when you're renovating. Although it's possible to add one to an existing kitchen it's a lot more difficult. The reasons for this include cupboards not being the correct size and spec to safely house your new appliance, and factoring in sufficient ventilation. 

We run through what you need to know to help you decide on the best built-in microwave for you.

See our round-up of the best microwaves for our top picks of solo, combination and grill models – plus their pros and cons.

Best built-in microwaves

We've tested all types of integrated microwaves, including solo, combination and grill models from Beko, Bosch, Hisense, Hotpoint, Samsung and more. These are some of the very best.

Best cheap built-in microwaves

Want something more affordable? Consider a Great Value model. These are at least 20% cheaper than the average price of the microwaves we've tested and score 65% or more. So you get a decent product at a decent price. 

Built-in microwave pros and cons

Whether this is your first time buying an integrated microwave or you're replacing an old one, you'll need to weigh up the pros and cons.

Pros

• Free up valuable counter space for other appliances or kitchen prep
• Can be installed at a height and location that suits your specific needs
• Give your kitchen a sleek, modern look, especially when paired with other integrated appliances such as a built-in oven or fridge freezer 
• Often come with more advanced features than freestanding models, such as grill and convection functions.

Cons

• More expensive than freestanding models
• Many need hardwiring into a fixed connection by a qualified electrician, rather than being connected with a cord and plug like a freestanding microwave
• Once installed, your appliance's position is fixed and you won't be able to relocate it easily
• They can be more fiddly to keep clean because they're set higher up. Counter-top freestanding models are easier to get into.

Go to our microwave reviews to find the best built-in microwave for your budget

Are built-in microwaves a standard size?

Built-in microwaves come in two sizes: standard and compact.

• Standard built-in microwaves are designed to fit seamlessly into standard 60cm-wide kitchen cabinets. They're usually around 45cm high but widths vary from 55-60cm, and depths from 45-60cm. Most combination microwaves fall into this category, as they tend to be larger and have space for multiple dishes.
• Compact built-in microwaves take up less space than standard microwaves, making them ideal if your kitchen has fewer eye-level cabinets or if you only microwave occasionally. Like standard microwaves, they are usually 60cm wide, but aren't as tall. They tend to measure from 30-45cm high and 30-40cm deep. Compact microwaves are usually solo or grill-type models.

Carefully check the measurements of any potential purchase as built-in microwave measurements vary. Ideally, the width and height of the microwave should be a maximum of 1cm less than the cavity measurements. Many retailer websites now carry recommended cavity measurements, which can be helpful.

When measuring depth, take into account any obstacles at the back of the cavity, such as plugs or pipes, that may prevent the microwave from sitting flush when installed.

How to install an integrated microwave

We recommend housing your built-in microwave in an upper cabinet to make it easier to get dishes in and out, and for a better view inside while cooking or cleaning.

For both safety and ease of use, the appliance shouldn't be installed any higher than about the shoulder height of the person who uses it the most.

Some manufacturers specify that their appliances cannot be installed beneath a hob.

A professional kitchen installer should be able to advise you on the best position for an integrated microwave in your specific kitchen – and any cabinet modifications you need. Plus, they'll know how to navigate any tricky installation issues that may crop up. 

They'll also work with qualified electricians to make sure required safety standards are met. An incorrectly connected appliance can be a safety issue, and may also mean it's not covered under the warranty.

Do built-in microwaves need ventilation?

Yes, they do. Built-in microwaves need proper ventilation to dissipate heat generated while cooking. 

If there isn't enough space for air to flow around your microwave, heat can build up. This can lead to poor performance, a reduced appliance lifespan and can even pose a safety hazard.

Heat can also affect nearby cabinets and surfaces, potentially causing damage or warping of wood. 

To keep your appliance working at its best and to prevent overheating, ensure you follow the manufacturer's advice on clearance requirements for ventilation.

Built-in combination microwaves tend to need more ventilation space than solo and grill microwaves because the convection oven function generates more heat.

Do built-in microwaves need to be hardwired?

Unlike freestanding microwaves, most built-in microwaves do not come with plugs and can't simply be plugged into a standard wall socket.

They need to be hardwired into their own dedicated electrical circuit, like standard built-in ovens.

If your model needs hardwiring, a qualified electrician should handle the installation for you to ensure any electrical works meet the required safety standards. 

Choose a Which? Trusted Trader to find a qualified installer you can trust.

Why are built-in microwaves so expensive?

Built-in microwaves tend to be more pricey than freestanding models, with the cheapest we’ve tested costing about £100. So why do they cost so much?

• It might be because they’re still a fairly niche product. Much like a boiling water tap or integrated wine cooler, they’ve become symbolic of a luxury kitchen equipped with the latest tech.
• They're more likely to be combination models, which tend to include more advanced and more expensive features and functions.
• If you choose a model that needs to be hard-wired, this can increase the total cost significantly.

As more brands bring out built-in models, we might start to see the price come down slightly, much like with induction hobs, which were pricier when they first became popular.

Read our guide to reliable microwave brands to find out which brands are worth the money.

Can I save money by building in a freestanding microwave?

If you don't have much cash to splash but want a built-in look, you could position your freestanding microwave on a shelf or brackets above your kitchen surfaces or position it in a custom cabinet.

Some manufacturers, such as Panasonic, make trim kits for freestanding models. These kits give a freestanding microwave the appearance of a built-in one by integrating it seamlessly into a kitchen cabinet.

If you're keen on trying out a trim kit, here's what you should bear in mind:

• Check the manufacturer's specifications for your microwave to see if there's a corresponding trim kit available. As well as giving you the perfect fit, it will be tailored to specific features of your model, such as its dimensions, where its air vents are and how big a cabinet it needs. If a kit is available, you might be able to buy it from the manufacturer's online shop (in the accessories section).
• If you can't find a dedicated trim kit, it probably means your microwave isn't meant to be integrated. While it's possible to buy generic microwave trim kits – for example, from online marketplaces – we would advise against them as they might not work as expected for your microwave model. Issues range from the trim kit not being the dimensions you expect to it not having the required vents for safe integration of your freestanding model.
• If in doubt, speak to a Which? Trusted Trader for their advice. They will be able to advise on whether you can safely integrate a countertop microwave into your kitchen so that it has plenty of ventilation space and clearance.

To see all our well-priced recommendations, head to our microwave reviews and filter by ‘Great Value’.

Can a built-in microwave be repaired?

Built-in microwaves are expensive so we recommend attempting a repair if possible, rather than splurging on a new one.

If your built-in microwave experiences issues such as a malfunctioning control panel, faulty door latch, or problems with heating or turntable functionality, these are often repairable.

Repairing a built-in microwave typically involves diagnosing the problem, sourcing the necessary replacement parts, and doing the repair work. But any repairs that require dismantling your microwave or fiddling with wiring should be carried out by a professional.

To find a local repairperson, head to Which? Trusted Traders, where we’ve compiled a list of companies we have endorsed.

However, it's important to consider the age and overall condition of the microwave, as sometimes the cost of repair may be higher than the value of the appliance, making replacement a more practical option. 

If you've bought a faulty product, read our guide on how to get a refund, repair or replacement.