Find the Right Microwave Size

Buying a new microwave is a great way to free up valuable counter space or make cooking more efficient with the help of some intriguing features like convection.

When shopping for a new microwave, you should research both countertop and over-the-range microwave dimensions and capacities to learn what is the right fit for your space and which can best meet your cooking needs. 

This article explores external and internal sizes for various types of microwaves. Once you have size figured out, you can turn your attention to determining what is the best Maytag® microwave for you by visiting here. 

Standard Microwave Sizes

You need to consider two measurements when determining what size microwave is right for your kitchen. Measured in centimetres or inches, the external dimensions are the overall size of the microwave and provides the amount of space you’ll need for the appliance. Measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.), the internal dimensions, or capacity, provides the amount of cooking space inside the microwave. 

If your kitchen is tight on space, then a microwave’s depth may be key to determining which size microwave you should ultimately purchase. 

The different microwave styles and configurations include:

Built-in microwaves

Built-in microwaves are designed to sit flush with cabinets on all sides. Unlike over-the-range models, they offer no venting capabilities.

• The interior space typically ranges from 1.0 to over 2.0 cu. ft. with the majority falling in the 1.2 to 1.6 cu. ft. range.
• The widths align with the widths of standard cabinets, typically 24" (61 cm), 27"(68.5 cm) or 30" (76 cm).
• The depth with the door closed ranges from around 20" to 25" and 30" to 35" with the door open. Built-in microwaves typically have a drop-down door and can be installed under a counter or in a cabinet.

Maytag does not currently offer any built-in microwave models. 

Countertop microwaves

Enjoy extra flexibility and accessibility with a countertop microwave. These models can be placed virtually anywhere in your kitchen or even installed in cabinetry with the help of a trim kit.

• The inside of the microwave ranges from 0.5 cu. ft. (typically these are compact microwaves) to over 2.0 cu. ft. in larger models.
• The exterior width ranges from approximately 15” (38 cm)  for compact microwaves to 24” (61 cm) for larger models.
• Give thought to a microwave’s depth when the door is open. This will make sure you have enough space for the full swing-out.
• Open-door depths range from about 27" (68.5 cm) to 39" (99 cm).
• Closed-door depths range from about 14" (35.5 cm) to 20" (51 cm).

Please note that Maytag® does not currently offer any countertop microwaves.

Over-the-range microwaves

If you don’t have the counter space for a countertop model, then you can consider an over-the-range microwave. These are designed to free up counter space and have the ability to vent out odours from the range below.

• The interior space often ranges from 0.8 cu. ft. for compact models to 2.1 cu. ft. for full-sized microwaves. 
• Widths are about 30” (76 cm). This way they can match the standard width of the range below and the standard cabinet width where the microwave will be installed.
• The majority of over-the-range microwaves are typically 17" (43 cm) tall.
• Closed door depths may range from 15" (38 cm) to 18" (46 cm) whereas open door depths range from 42" (107 cm)to 45" (114 cm). The standard width of over-the-range microwaves allows for a similar swing-out radius across models.

If this style interests you, shop the full line of over-the-range microwaves from Maytag®. Browse both compact over-the-range microwaves, and 1.9 cu. ft. capacity microwaves with features like dual crisp to easily cook frozen food and leftovers like chicken nuggets and french fries.

We recommend always referring to the installation instructions or the appliance product guides while also  following all local codes and ordinances. 

The following information is intended as a helpful guide for typical microwave dimensions and the generally required clearances.

Over-the-range and built-in microwaves

When it comes to over-the-range and built-in microwaves, most don’t realize that accurately measuring the width, height and depth of your current microwave enclosure is far more important than measuring the appliance itself. 

Firstly, keep in mind that it’s fine for over-the-range microwaves to hang below cabinets so long as you maintain 30" (76 cm) from the microwave’s bottom to the top of the stove. If you plan to install a microwave near a sidewall to the left, there needs to be at least 6" (15 cm) of clearance between the wall and the microwave. This will allow the door to fully open with ease.

You also want to make sure there is space for ventilation as outlined in the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Countertop microwaves

For countertop microwaves, you need to measure the width, height and depth of either the microwave you currently have or the countertop or shelf space where you want the appliance to live. Generally, it’s a good idea to account for 1" (2.5 cm) of ventilation space between the microwave and the wall behind it in addition to a minimum of 3" (8 cm) of space from the counter’s edge to the open microwave door. This will help prevent your microwave from tipping over. Lastly, try to leave a minimum of two feet between the microwave and the range.

There are three more key considerations to make in addition to dimensions.

Household size

A household of four or more tends to need a full-size microwave. A built-in microwave plus a countertop microwave can work well for large households.

How you use your microwave

Do you simply use your microwave to reheat items and make popcorn or do you get more sophisticated and cook elaborate casseroles? If you use your microwave to prepare whole meals, you should consider purchasing a model with features like convection cooking, available on select Maytag® models.

The wattage you need

Here’s a tip to remember about microwave cooking: the more wattage, the quicker foods cook. 

Most recipes call for 1,000 watts of power to achieve desired cooking results. If you enjoy cooking a lot of frozen foods or making homemade creations, you may need a model that offers higher wattage.