Types of Microwaves

The microwave is a classic kitchen appliance that can handle everything from reheating leftovers to making creative meals. These days, there are many different kinds of microwaves to choose from that vary in style and functionality, but being spoiled for choice is a double-edged sword. Over the range microwaves, microwave drawers, flatbed or turntable - these are all terms you didn't need to know before, but now they can make or break your kitchen appliance arsenal. Don't fret - we've got the 411 on everything you need to know about this modern microwave landscape below.

What are the Different Types of Microwaves?

It's important to note how many different types of microwaves there are before you can decide which might be right for your kitchen. There are four major types of microwaves to know.

Countertop Microwaves

Countertop microwaves embody the classic microwave style and function. These units sit atop your counter with a swinging door, ready for anything you throw at them whether it be leftover pizza, a bag of popcorn, or any other microwave staple. Just because they're basic doesn't mean they don't pack a punch either. Many modern models feature multiple power levels, and various preset cooking modes to add even more versatility to your kitchen. There are also many compact countertop microwaves that help save space on your counter without sacrificing power.

Over the Range Microwaves

Over the range microwaves are, as their name implies, designed to sit in a special space above your range. These models come with all of the usual benefits of a typical microwave with a few added bonuses. Most models come with ventilation systems, and these over the range microwaves with exhaust fans help air out your kitchen when you're cooking on your stovetop. Many units also come with lights that sit right above your range, allowing you to see what you're doing on the stove more clearly as you cook. These microwaves also tend to be on the larger side, offering you a greater internal capacity for larger dishes, and more power in some cases. Some over the range microwaves also come with air fryers, bringing you a whole new way to prepare your favorite foods.

Microwave drawers are made to roll out of a space in your cabinetry, saving you room on your countertop while giving you a neat way to reheat your food. These microwaves typically don't have turntables; they are known as flatbed microwaves, which means they cook your food through microwaves emitted from the top of the unit. Of course, these units come with all of the same features you can expect from a modern microwave, including multiple power levels and preset functions.

Built-in microwaves are meant to be installed directly into your cabinetry or your kitchen island, adding a sleek look to your kitchen. These units are known for their style, but they've also got plenty of power. Many models boast features like sensor cooking, which can make real-time adjustments to perfectly heat your food, as well as features like various preset modes for specific foods or tasks. Just like the microwave drawers, they also save counter space, making these units viable options for smaller spaces. Convection built-in microwaves also come with the added ability to roast or bake food, adding even more versatility to these stylish appliances.

Which is Better, a Flatbed or Turntable Microwave?

Though neither kind of microwave is specifically better than the other, there are a few benefits that come with each. Turntable microwaves are the more traditional kind of microwave, plus they're the more affordable type, making them a good option for anyone who's not looking to break the bank on a microwave. They operate by rotating your food in a circle as it cooks to ensure even heating. On the other hand, flatbed microwaves tend to be more expensive but more convenient to use than their turntable counterparts. Rather than rotating your food with a turntable, microwaves are distributed more efficiently across your whole dish while keeping it still. Without a turntable to worry about, these microwaves are easier to clean when something spills, and have more space to fit larger or oddly-shaped dishes. If cost is the biggest worry for you, a turntable microwave will do you just fine. If you're looking for a slightly more convenient experience, you should consider getting a flatbed microwave. If you want to learn more about how microwaves function, and even a bit of their history, check out our blog: How Does a Microwave Work?

What Size Microwave Do I Need?

Something that you may not have considered is the size of your microwave. Its size helps determine how well it fits into your space, and whether it can accommodate certain dishes and meals. A small microwave usually has a capacity ranging from around 0.5 cubic feet to 0.9 cubic feet. This makes it large enough to handle heating small microwavable meals and other similar items. Countertop microwaves tend to be the type that offers microwaves on the smaller side. A medium-sized microwave usually has a capacity of 1 cubic foot to 1.6 cubic feet. This means they have enough space to accommodate full dinner plates, making them ideal for a wider variety of tasks like reheating large leftovers or helping with meal prep. You can find medium-sized microwaves across most of the different types, so you'll definitely have choices if you're looking for a microwave of this size. Large microwaves typically have a capacity of 1.7 cubic feet to 2.2 cubic feet or more, giving you plenty of space to cook even larger items. Like we mentioned earlier, you can often find over the range microwaves in this size, since they would likely be too large to fit on your countertop or even in your cabinetry in some cases.

The microwave is the backbone of many modern kitchens, and it needs to be reliable. With so many options to choose from, there's sure to be a microwave that suits your kitchen. If you're currently looking for a microwave and want more guidance, feel free to check out our microwave buying guide. No matter which unit you go for, we hope it heats up your popcorn and reheats your leftovers just the way you like them.