The true width of the microwave will include the handle and the protruding items, if any, from the rear of the microwave.
Built-in microwaves typically match standard cabinet dimensions and countertop microwaves come in sizes from compact to extra large. Microwaves are measured by exterior width, height, depth and interior capacity. The interior capacity, measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.), is sometimes listed in the product name.
Don't include the handle, knob, or any other protruding features in your measurement, as these won't be factored into the appliance's official dimensions. The depth of your microwave will be a major determining factor for the kinds of items you can fit inside.
Most models have a width of between 29 and 30 inches, a depth of between 15 and 16 inches, and a height of between 16 and 18 inches. Typical capacities range between 1.5 and 2.2 cubic feet, although compact models are available.
The compact microwaves recommended below all measure between 10 and 12 inches tall, and range between 13 and 20.5 inches wide, and 12 to 14 inches deep.
Here is the lowdown. Even a small microwave, compact model, can fit dinner plates up to 10-inches in diameter. Medium-sized microwaves can fit plates up to 14-inches in diameter. Large microwaves, however, can fit the biggest dinner plates and typically fit multiple dishes at once.
The most “standard” range size is about 30 inches wide, 27–29 inches deep and 36 inches tall. Keep in mind these measurements do not include the backguard, handles, knobs or grates. The second most “standard” stove size is 36 inches wide, so consider this if you want an extra burner or element.
The best way to measure the depth of a range is to measure from the back of the range to the front of the door. Do not include any handles in your measurement unless you are working with a tight space.
Microwave sizes are fairly standardized with most over-the-range microwaves measuring around 30" wide, 17" high and 15" to 18" deep with the door closed. Built-in microwave sizes also tend to match standard cabinet dimensions.
To determine cubic feet, one should multiply the microwave's interior length by width by height, then divide this total by 1,728. So, a microwave that is 18 by 14 by 12 inches is 1.75 cubic feet in size. Microwaves vary from 0.6 cubic feet to over 2 cubic feet, with the average size sold being 1.4 to 1.8 cubic feet.
The Panasonic Microwave Oven (2.2 Cu. Ft.) has an overall height of 14” (35.6 cm), width of 23.875” (60.6 cm), depth of 19.4375” (49.4 cm), and weighs 36.8 lb (16.9 kg). The Panasonic Microwave Oven (2.2 Cu. Ft.) has a maximum capacity of 2.2 cu ft (62.3 L) and wattage of 1250 Watts.
When you are referring to cubic feet, you are essentially referring to the size of the interior cavity of the microwave oven. To determine cubic feet, multiply the microwave's interior length by width by height, then divide this total by 1,728. So, a microwave that is 17 by 14 by 12 inches is 1.6 cf in size.
Over-the-range models are just that: They're installed over the range. The built-in category includes models designed only to be built in—surrounded by cabinetry or built into the wall. Microwave drawers fall into this group and can be placed under the countertop or below a wall oven.
Most standard stoves are 30 inches wide, around 25–27 inches deep (excluding handles and knobs) and 36 inches tall (excluding control panels). These standard stove sizes are designed to fit standard cabinet cutouts that are 34-1/4 inches wide, 24 inches deep and 36 inches tall.
Building codes do not require any spacing amount between your stove and the cabinets on either side of it. It is recommended that you leave between 24" and 30" of space between the top of your stove and the above cabinet.
Depth and height remain about the same regardless of width. Most single wall ovens are 27 to 29 inches high. Wall oven depths generally range from 22 to 24 inches to fit within standard cabinets, or 27 total inches when including handles and doors.
Cutout depth is a metric primarily reserved for built-in microwaves, such as range microwaves, and drawer microwave ovens. Cutout depth is a data point that alerts users to how much space will be needed in the enclosure in order to successfully house the microwave, including inches of clearance.
There really isn't a standard range size, but most styles are 30 inches wide. Space-saving ranges can be as little as 20 inches wide. Upscale or professional-style ranges can be 36 inches to 60 inches wide. A common height for a range is 36 inches to 36 1/2 inches tall, about the same height as a kitchen countertop.
Measure the distance across the top and bottom of the oven from the left and right edge of the cabinet cutout. Note the measurements on the reference sheet. Measure the distance along each side of the oven - from the top to bottom edge of the cabinet cutout. Note the measurements on the reference sheet.
Best for Families: GE Profile JES2251SJ 2.2 Cu. Ft. 1200-Watt Countertop Microwave. This microwave boasts 1200 watts and offers a capacity of 2.2 cubic feet.
For reheating takeout, a small unit will suffice. Cooking compartments range from 0.7 cubic foot, the size of a dinner plate, to 2.1 cubic feet, big enough for a large casserole dish or for heating several things at once.
Yes, microwave ovens need ventilation. However, the venting needs differ according to the model and design. Proper clearance and ventilation are necessary for efficient operation and safety reasons. Adequate external ventilation is a must for microwave ovens without built-in ventilation systems.
In general, the higher the wattage, the faster and more evenly your food will cook. Most microwaves sit somewhere between 600 to 1,200 watts. Larger, more expensive microwaves tend to have a higher wattage, so this is a price and size consideration that can strongly influence microwave cooking performance.
Built-in microwave ovens are known for being slightly more expensive because of the installation cost, which should always be completed by a professional.