Microwave Sizes
Microwaves perform rapid retherming, defrosting, melting, and cooking tasks. Most microwaves have small cooking spaces ranging between 0.6 and 2 cubic feet, making them convenient for commercial and residential kitchens, breakrooms, and offices. Home and commercial microwaves come in many sizes and styles and most often they cannot be used interchangeably; use this guide to determine the right one for your space.
Microwave Size Chart and Comparison
| Size | Exterior Dimensions (in.) | Capacity (cu ft) | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 20-22 L x 16-17 W x 13 H | 0.6-0.75 | Single portions, dorms, offices |
| Medium | 20-22 L x 16 W x 14 H | 0.8-1 | Mid-sized kitchens, everyday use |
| Large | 21-31 L x 16-21 W x 14-15 H | 1-2 | Busy breakrooms, large home kitchens |
Note: Sizing based on commercial microwaves.
Standard Microwave Sizes Explained
Learn more about microwave sizes and performance in our microwave buyers' guide.
Small Units
Small microwaves generally feature a capacity of less than 0.75 cubic foot. Use these microwaves for small heating tasks, including warming sauces, melting butter, or cooking single-portion meals.
Medium Units
Medium-sized units commonly serve commercial kitchens or breakrooms. Measuring between 0.8 and 1 cubic feet, these microwaves handle most tasks in a standard commercial kitchen. These models can accommodate microwave-safe half-size food pans while still fitting comfortably on countertops.
Large Units
The largest microwaves feature cooking areas reaching 2 cubic feet and can cook large items, like whole proteins, shared dishes, and multiple vegetable servings.
Commercial Microwave Duty Levels
Microwave duty level is determined by wattage, which impacts cooking speed. At the commercial level, light-duty microwaves draw 1,000 watts and are typically used for standard heating tasks in low-volume locations. Medium-duty microwaves range from 1,200 to 1,700 watts to cook food slightly faster. Heavy-duty microwaves draw up to 3,000 watts and offer the fastest cooking speeds available.
Residential and hotel microwaves range from 700 to 1,800 watts and are made for versatility while still working on the power of home electrical systems.
How to Purchase and Install a Microwave
When purchasing a microwave, you'll need to consider typical use, style of installation, required electrical specifications, and ventilation needs.
Microwave Installation Styles
- Countertop: The most common style, these are simply placed on a countertop for convenient access
- Shelf Mounted: Some wall-mounted shelves are designed specifically to support microwaves
- Built-In: Often seen in home kitchens, these models are built into a cabinet typically at standing height
- Over the Range: Microwaves that integrate with the ventilation systems as part of the hood; ideal for home kitchens but not suitable for commercial ranges
Choosing the Right Microwave Size for Your Space
Follow these steps before choosing a microwave size:
- Match desired capacity to your cooking habits: less than 1 cubic foot for small dishes and 1.2 to 2 cubic feet for larger product
- Measure available space, including door swing and clearance around surrounding appliances
- Check for obstacles such as backsplashes, molding, and outlet location to determine your max size
- Compare your space measurements to your microwave’s total exterior size and, for built-ins, the manufacturer’s cutout requirements
- Consider ventilation needs, trim kit requirements, and how additional features change overall size
Planning for Ventilation
- Countertop units usually need at least 1 inch of space on the sides and top and roughly 2 inches at the back for venting heat and odor
- Over-the-range units need proper duct alignment and usually need 30 inches between the microwave bottom and range top
- Some models come with filters for ventless use
When installing microwaves make sure you:
- Account for appliance plug depth
- Measure trim sizing when applicable
- Purchase a compatible microwave if heating taller dishes
FAQs About Microwave Sizes
Is a 1.6-cu.-ft. microwave big?
Yes. A 1.6-cubic-foot microwave is considered large and works well for full meals, casseroles, and platters.
Is a 1.1-cubic-foot microwave too small?
A 1.1-cubic-foot microwave fits everyday reheating and small meals. It may feel tight for oversized dinner plates or tall cookware but works well for most daily tasks and individual portions.
Is a 20-liter microwave big enough?
Microwaves in the UK and other countries are measured in liters. A 20-liter microwave is roughly 0.7 cubic feet. It handles basic reheating and small portions but isn't ideal for large dishes or batch cooking.
What size microwave fits a 30-inch cabinet?
Most over-the-range and built-in models designed for 30-inch cabinets measure about 29 to 30 inches wide. Refer to your specific microwave instructions for installation guidance and to determine what size cabinet it will fit.
How big should the microwave turntable be?
Most microwaves come with a standard turntable size that fits the specific model, but 12- to 14-inch turntables work for most meals. Commercial microwaves typically don't have turntables because they come with built-in microwave energy stirrers.
How much clearance does a microwave need?
Countertop models generally need about 1 inch of clearance on the top and sides and 2 inches at the back. Always check manufacturer instructions for correct clearance requirements.
Shop All Microwaves at KaTom
KaTom offers home and commercial microwaves in multiple sizes and various dimensions. Whether you need a large commercial countertop model or a compact over-the-range unit, shop microwaves at KaTom.
