10 Best Built-In Microwaves 2025 in the United States

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN97JS is a solid choice for those seeking a powerful and spacious built-in microwave. With a size of 2.2 cubic feet and a wattage of 1250W, it can handle large meals efficiently. The Cyclonic Wave and Inverter Technology ensure even cooking and thorough defrosting, which is perfect for maintaining the flavor and nutrients of your food. The built-in Genius Sensor is handy for adjusting power and cooking time automatically based on the food type, and the 20 preset menu items add convenience for a variety of dishes.

Its large 16.5-inch turntable optimizes space inside without taking up too much room externally, thanks to its thinner and lighter design. However, at nearly 37 pounds, it is relatively heavy and might require some effort during installation. The stainless steel finish gives it a sleek, modern look that fits well with most kitchen decors. While it boasts many advanced features, some users may find the multitude of options a bit overwhelming if they prefer simpler controls. The food warming feature is a nice touch, ensuring your dishes stay warm until you're ready to eat.

It includes essential safety features like a child safety lock. Given its high power and advanced technology, this microwave is best suited for busy households that frequently use a microwave for more than just reheating. Despite being on the pricier side, its reliability and efficiency make it a worthwhile investment for those needing a versatile and efficient built-in microwave.

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a versatile built-in microwave with a stainless steel finish, offering a sleek look for modern kitchens. Its 1.2 cubic foot capacity is fairly standard, making it a good fit for most households. At 1200 watts, it provides ample power for quick and even cooking, enhanced by the unique Inverter Technology that ensures consistent results without overcooking.

The Turbo Defrost feature is particularly useful for speeding up defrosting time, which is a nice convenience for busy families. A standout feature is the Genius Sensor, which automatically adjusts cooking settings based on the food being prepared, removing much of the guesswork for users and making the cooking process simpler and more efficient. Additionally, the keep warm function is handy for maintaining the temperature of dishes until you are ready to serve them.

The microwave's compact design maximizes interior space while minimizing its footprint on your countertop. However, it uses a turnable rather than a flatbed, which can sometimes limit the types of dishes that fit inside. The control panel is straightforward with a membrane keypad and five menu buttons, though some users may prefer more advanced touch interfaces. Installation is flexible, as it can be used either as a countertop or built-in microwave, but users need to ensure proper venting if opting for the latter. Weighing 25.5 pounds, it’s relatively easy to handle during installation. One potential downside is that the microwave may not blend seamlessly with all kitchen aesthetics due to its specific stainless steel design. Ideal for residential use, it brings a blend of performance, ease of use, and smart features to everyday cooking needs.

The Sharp SMD2470ASY is a 24-inch built-in microwave drawer, designed to offer convenience and save space in your kitchen. With a 1.2 cubic feet capacity, it can comfortably fit a 9x13 dish, making it suitable for most residential cooking needs. The 950-watt power level ensures efficient cooking and heating, although it is slightly below the 1000-watt standard found in many microwaves, which may affect cooking speed for larger meals.

One of its standout features is the Easy Touch Automatic Drawer System, which allows for smooth opening and hands-free closing, adding a layer of convenience and modernity to your kitchen experience. The concealed control panel, which opens at a 45-degree angle, makes it user-friendly and easily accessible. However, this microwave drawer might require a separate flush mount kit for a built-in installation, which is an additional cost to consider. Its stainless steel design is sleek and will fit well with modern kitchen aesthetics, but the product's weight of 74 pounds means it requires careful installation.

The 950-watt power might not be sufficient for those who need quicker cooking times, and the absence of pre-set cooking functions may require manual adjustments for different types of food. The Sharp SMD2470ASY is ideal for homeowners looking for a stylish and functional built-in microwave with the added benefit of a drawer system for easier access and space-saving capabilities.