The Best Integrated Microwave
From over-the-range models to compact countertop units, find the perfect integrated microwave for your cooking needs and kitchen layout.
By Lucy Ross
Updated September 11, 2026
Finding the right microwave for your kitchen means balancing power, size, and installation style.
Whether you are renovating your kitchen or just upgrading an old appliance, an integrated microwave, whether built-in, over-the-range, or a sleek countertop model, can streamline your cooking workflow and save valuable counter space.
Our team has analyzed specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback to identify the top performers in this category.
This guide covers the best integrated microwave options across different configurations and budgets. We evaluated each model against consistent criteria and scored it on our 0 to 10 BP Score.
Below you will find our top picks, followed by a detailed buying guide, answers to common questions, and final recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft Countertop Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $89.90 | Buy |
| Best Value |
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft. Countertop Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $149.99 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $185.00 | Buy |
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 Cu.Ft. Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $239.99 | Buy | |
| Best Budget |
BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $89.96 | Buy |
COMFEE' 0.7 Cu.Ft Compact Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $103.99 | Buy | |
Emerson MWG1191SB Microwave with Grill
|
9.8/10 | $126.70 | Buy | |
TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Smart Sensor Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $129.99 | Buy | |
GE 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $124.00 | Buy | |
GE 30-Inch Over-the-Range Microwave 1.6 Cu. Ft.
|
9.8/10 | $223.00 | Buy |
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft Countertop Microwave
A compact 900-watt microwave with pre-programmed settings for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and beverages. Its push-button door release and child safety lock make it a practical choice for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
Pros
- Pre-programmed buttons for common foods
- Child safety lock included
- Compact size fits small spaces
- Easy push-button door release
- Large LED display for easy reading
Cons
- Only 900 watts may heat slower than higher wattage models
- 0.9 cu.ft capacity limits large dishes
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft. Countertop Microwave
This Toshiba microwave offers a smart sensor that automatically adjusts time and power based on food humidity for consistent results. It includes six preset menus and ten power levels, making it a versatile choice for everyday reheating and defrosting.
Pros
- Smart sensor adjusts cooking automatically
- Six preset menus for popular foods
- Two defrost options: by weight or time
- One-touch start up to 6 minutes
- Stainless steel finish resists fingerprints
Cons
- No mute option for beeping
- Turntable may limit large dish sizes
GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
With 1,150 watts and a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, this GE microwave delivers reliable performance for everyday cooking. Sensor cooking adjusts time automatically, and one-touch controls make it easy to use. Suitable for families who need a trusted countertop microwave with defrost and child lock features.
Pros
- Sensor cooking adjusts time automatically
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for family meals
- 1150 watts for fast cooking
- One-touch controls for convenience
- Child lock for safety
Cons
- Requires 3 inches clearance on sides and top
- Heavy at 39 pounds
- Large footprint may not fit small counters
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 Cu.Ft. Microwave
This large-capacity microwave features Sharp's Inverter Technology for consistent, even heating and defrosting. With sensor cooking and auto cook presets, it simplifies meal prep for busy households.
Pros
- Spacious 2.2 cu. ft. interior
- 1200 watts for fast cooking
- Inverter Technology for even heat
- Sensor and auto cook presets
- Express Cook for quick start
Cons
- Large footprint requires counter space
- Heavy at 33.7 pounds
BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
This compact microwave from BLACK+DECKER packs 1000 watts and six preset cooking menus into a space-saving 1.1 cubic foot design, ideal for dorms, apartments, or offices. A child safety lock and fingerprint-resistant exterior add practicality, while express cooking and ten power levels handle quick reheats.
Pros
- Child safety lock prevents accidental operation
- Six one-touch preset cooking menus
- Compact size fits standard dinner plates
- Fingerprint-resistant black finish
- Express cooking and 10 power levels
Cons
- Only available in black finish
- No smart or connectivity features
COMFEE' 0.7 Cu.Ft Compact Microwave
This compact 0.7 cu.ft microwave from COMFEE' combines essential features with a classic white design. Its ECO mode cuts standby power by 50 percent, and the mute function lets you silence beeps for quieter operation.
Pros
- Energy-saving ECO mode
- Mute function for quiet use
- Two-step child lock for safety
- Multiple auto-cook presets
Cons
- Low 700W power for some tasks
- No sensor cooking
- Small capacity limits large dishes
Emerson MWG1191SB Microwave with Grill
This countertop microwave combines a standard microwave with a built-in grill for crisping and browning, eliminating the need for a separate appliance. With 1100 watts and 11 power levels, it handles reheating and cooking tasks reliably, while the retro controls add a nostalgic touch. It's a practical pick for those who want grill versatility in a single kitchen unit.
Pros
- Built-in grill for browning and crisping
- 11 power levels for precise cooking
- 9 presets simplify common tasks
- Stainless steel finish is easy to clean
- Child lock ensures safety
Cons
- Heavy at 34.4 pounds
- Large footprint requires counter space
- Retro controls may feel dated to some
TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Smart Sensor Microwave
This Toshiba microwave's smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, so you're less likely to overcook or undercook. With six preset menus, 10 power levels, and easy defrost by weight or time, it offers versatility for everyday kitchen tasks.
Pros
- Smart sensor adjusts cooking based on food humidity
- Six preset menus for common foods
- Easy defrost by weight or time
- One-touch start for 1 to 6 minutes
- 10 power levels for cooking flexibility
Cons
- Heavy at 34.6 pounds
- Large footprint requires ample counter space
GE 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
This compact GE microwave is built for small kitchens and dorm life, offering a 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and enough power for everyday reheating. Its one-touch presets, defrost modes, and child lock keep things simple and family-friendly, though it needs a bit of breathing room on the countertop.
Pros
- Compact footprint fits dorms and apartments
- Intuitive one-touch controls and presets
- Auto and manual defrost for even thawing
- Child lock enhances safety
- Stainless steel finish
Cons
- Requires 3-inch clearance on sides and top
- Weighs 30 pounds, less portable
GE 30-Inch Over-the-Range Microwave 1.6 Cu. Ft.
This over-the-range microwave from GE combines a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity with a 300 CFM ventilation system to keep your kitchen clear of cooking odors. It offers one-touch controls and a turntable on/off feature for flexible cooking.
Pros
- Space-saving over-the-range design
- Trusted GE performance
- Powerful 300 CFM ventilation
- One-touch express cooking settings
- Child lock safety feature
Cons
- Charcoal filter requires periodic replacement
Best Integrated Microwave Buying Guide
Power and Cooking Performance
Wattage directly affects how quickly and evenly your food cooks. Most countertop models range from 700W to 1200W, while over-the-range units typically start at 1000W.
For everyday reheating and defrosting, 900W to 1000W is sufficient; if you frequently cook full meals or use sensor cooking features, a 1200W unit like the Sharp SMC2266KS offers faster results.
Higher wattage also helps maintain food texture, especially for items like vegetables and leftovers.
Sensor cooking technology automatically adjusts time and power based on humidity levels inside the cavity. This feature is common in mid-range and premium models and reduces guesswork.
Models with inverter technology (such as some Panasonic units, though not in our list) provide more consistent heating, but standard pulse cooking remains effective when paired with quality presets.
Size and Installation Type
Integrated microwaves come in three main form factors: over-the-range (OTR), countertop, and compact. OTR models like the GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave (B00F2QFX5O) serve as both a microwave and a range hood, saving counter space and providing ventilation.
They require proper mounting and a dedicated electrical circuit. Countertop units offer flexibility and easier installation; they range from 0.7 cu. ft. to 2.2 cu. ft.
Compact microwaves (under 1.0 cu. ft.) fit well in dorms, offices, or small kitchens, while larger units handle family-sized dishes.
Measure your available space carefully. For countertop models, allow at least 3 inches of clearance on all sides for ventilation. For OTR models, verify the width (standard is 30 inches) and height above the cooktop.
If you are unsure about installation, our overhead microwave guide covers mounting considerations, and our venting microwave recommendations help you choose the right ventilation type for your kitchen.
Noise Level and Operation
Quiet operation is especially important in open-concept kitchens or if you often use the microwave while others are sleeping. Many modern microwaves feature low-noise operation, with sound levels around 50-60 dB.
Look for models with a mute button or quiet mode. The quiet microwave models we recommend are known for their minimal noise, but our top picks also score well in this area.
Over-the-range models tend to be louder due to the built-in fan, but premium units often have quieter fan settings.
Presets, Controls, and Extra Features
Preset cooking buttons for popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and beverages simplify daily use. Some models offer one-touch settings for specific foods, while others include a defrost by weight or time. A digital display with a clear timer and clock is standard.
Child lock is a valuable safety feature for families. Models like the GE 1.1 cu. ft. compact (B0DD87CCQP) include child-lock technology, making them suitable for households with young children.
Additional features such as a grill function (found in the Emerson MWG1191SB) add versatility for browning and crisping. If you enjoy multi-functional cooking, consider a convection microwave that combines microwave, convection oven, and grill capabilities.
For those who prefer smart home integration, our smart microwave guide explores Wi-Fi enabled models.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Stainless steel interiors resist stains and odors, while a removable glass turntable makes cleaning easy. Some models feature a steam clean function that loosens food residue.
The exterior finish matters too: fingerprint-resistant stainless steel (like on many Toshiba models) stays cleaner between wipes. For over-the-range units, the grease filter should be easy to remove and dishwasher safe.
Our best home microwave guide covers cleaning tips for different surfaces.
Why You Should Trust Us
At BestProducts, we are committed to independent, research-based reviews. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Every product receives a BP Score on a 0 to 10 scale, reflecting how well it meets our criteria for performance, value, reliability, and user satisfaction.
Our team analyzes hundreds of professional reviews from reputable sources, cross-references specifications, and aggregates real-world experiences from verified purchasers. This method ensures that our recommendations are balanced and trustworthy.
We also update our content regularly to reflect new models and changing prices. As an affiliate, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through our links, but this does not influence our scoring or editorial selections.
Final Thoughts
- Best Overall: Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven, With the highest BP Score in its class, spacious 2.2 cu. ft. capacity, and powerful 1200W output, this Sharp model excels in cooking performance and versatility, making it ideal for large families and frequent cooks.
- Best Over-the-Range: GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000W Stainless Steel, Combines effective ventilation with reliable microwave performance, earning a BP Score of 9.8/10. Its 1.6 cu. ft. capacity suits most households, and the 1000W power handles everyday tasks efficiently.
- Best Value: TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.2 Cu.Ft, 1000W, Stainless Steel, Offers a near-perfect BP Score at a reasonable price point. Smart sensor cooking, pre-programmed menus, and a stylish stainless steel finish make it a top choice for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on quality.
- Best Compact: COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700W, Pearl White, ECO Mode, Despite its small footprint, this model delivers solid performance with ECO mode for energy savings. Its BP Score of 9.8/10 reflects high user satisfaction among those needing a space-saving solution.
- Best for Small Kitchens: BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W, Stainless Steel, Compact yet capable, this 900W model fits neatly on tight countertops and earns a 9.9 BP Score. It is a favorite for apartments, dorms, and secondary kitchens.
When choosing your integrated microwave, consider your cooking habits, available space, and budget. For a balance of power and size, the Sharp SMC2266KS stands out as the best overall.
If you need an over-the-range unit, the GE 30″ model offers proven reliability. And for those seeking exceptional value, the Toshiba 1.2 cu. ft. is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an integrated microwave?
An integrated microwave refers to a microwave that is built into cabinetry or mounted over the range, creating a seamless look in the kitchen.
However, in common usage, the term also encompasses any microwave that is designed to be a permanent part of the kitchen, including high-quality countertop models that match the cabinetry.
Our guide covers all types, with a focus on models that combine performance with aesthetic integration.
How much power do I need in an integrated microwave?
For most households, 900W to 1000W is sufficient for reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple meals. If you frequently cook larger portions or use sensor cooking, 1100W to 1200W will provide faster and more even results.
Over-the-range models typically start at 1000W. For a detailed breakdown of power levels, see our performing microwave guide.
Can I install an over-the-range microwave myself?
Installation of an over-the-range microwave requires basic electrical and carpentry skills. Most units come with a mounting template and hardware, but you may need to cut cabinet openings or install a dedicated electrical outlet.
If you are not comfortable with DIY tasks, professional installation is recommended. Our 2.2 microwave guide includes installation tips for larger units, while the 1.5 microwave guide covers mid-size OTR models.
What is the difference between countertop and over-the-range microwaves?
Countertop microwaves sit on a counter or shelf and are portable, while over-the-range microwaves are mounted above the cooktop and include a ventilation fan and light.
OTR models save counter space but require proper installation and often have lower capacity than comparably priced countertop units. For smaller spaces, a tiny microwave or small microwave might be a better fit.
Are integrated microwaves more expensive than standard models?
Integrated models, especially over-the-range and built-in units, tend to cost more than basic countertop microwaves due to additional features like ventilation systems and more complex installation. However, many countertop options in our list offer high performance at competitive prices.
The bargain microwave guide highlights budget-friendly picks that don’t sacrifice quality.
How do I clean my integrated microwave?
For daily cleaning, wipe the interior with a damp cloth after each use. For stubborn stains, heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for a few minutes to loosen residue. Exterior surfaces can be cleaned with a mild detergent.
Stainless steel models benefit from a dedicated cleaner to avoid streaks. For more maintenance tips, refer to our quality microwave guide and the appliances category page for general appliance care.
About the author
Lucy writes about ranges, cooktops, and microwaves for BestProducts, judging heat control, installation demands, and everyday usability. She helps home cooks match a cooking surface to the way they actually cook.