Finding the Microwave for You
When the time comes to get a new microwave, either to furnish a new home or to replace an older unit, it’s important to consider the options on the market as they relate to your personal needs and space. Given the various types of microwaves available, you should be able to fit your need and budget. For a more complete guide on microwave sizing, please check out the guide at Reviewho.
Types of Microwave Units
Countertop Options
- Small Countertop: This is the smallest and least powerful microwave you will find. Generally ranging from 10 – 14 inches high and 15 – 19 inches wide it’s good for handling small plates and bowls. These will be the least expensive you’ll find in stores. Probably this works best for a small apartment or a college dorm room with just a couple of people using it.
- Medium Counterpart: The most popular and economical microwave available, the medium countertop can easily service a small to mid-sized family with a sizable compartment and cooking power to heat most typical plates and to do it more quickly than its smaller counterpart.
- Large Countertop: The countertop behemoth can handle large dishes for large families and cook quickly in comparison to smaller units. You’ll want to ensure your cooking needs truly require this larger version commitment since it will cost more and will take up a lot of space. So measure things out and make sure you’re comfortable with how much space it will take before making the purchase.
Classy Look and Feel
- Over the Range: Cost effective and a space saver the over the range microwave is a great option if your kitchen is configured to allow for it. These are sized and priced commensurate with the medium to large countertop units. It may be necessary to have an over the range microwave professionally installed, but this extra cost is worth it for the counter space savings and sleek look for your kitchen that it offers.
- Built-in: The built-in drawer microwave is the most expensive and most elegant of the home use units. If you have the drawer space it’s a good option to save countertop space. A built-in will require professional installation.
Industrial Strength
- Commercial: This is a big, powerful version for a restaurant setting. It’s too much for home use both for size and investment (and really overkill of what’s needed for home use), but if you need it for a food-based business it can do a lot of volume quickly. You’ll pay a commensurate price both to purchase the unit and in energy costs to run it.
