The 10 best KitchenAid® microwaves for you in 2025
Whether melting chocolate for ganache or air frying crisp, juicy chicken, a KitchenAid® microwave can serve as a stepping stone for baking sweet treats or assist in making mealtime favorites.
The best microwaves for your kitchen have ventured into a realm of new possibilities designed to perform multiple functions. Read on to learn about the different types of microwaves and how to choose the right one for your cooking needs.
Types of microwaves
In general, the three types of microwaves are built-in, over-the-range or hood combinations and countertop microwaves. KitchenAid brand also offers another type called an under-counter microwave—an ingenious top-loading drawer microwave installed in your lower cabinets or island that’s easy to reach into.
A convection microwave combines standard features with a convection heating element and can be found on select models. Discover more about the types of microwaves and their individual benefits.
What are the best microwaves?
The best microwave for you depends on the size, layout and design of your kitchen, as well as the size of your household and the type of cooking you do most. Ideally, it’s the one that seamlessly fits into your lifestyle. Here are some options to help determine the best KitchenAid® microwave for you.
1. Best KitchenAid® built-in microwave ovens for you
Built-in microwave ovens are installed into pre-existing cabinetry and work well in kitchens with limited countertop space. They can be installed in a variety of locations and provide a streamlined, integrated look with some flush installations available.
Built-in microwaves from KitchenAid brand provide a versatile, supplementary cooking space with select models featuring convection cooking, a broil element and Crispwave™ Technology.
KitchenAid® 24" Built-In Microwave Oven With 1000 Watt Cooking
This high-powered KitchenAid® microwave provides a full family-sized cooking capacity that can quickly and thoroughly cook all your favorite foods.
1.4 cu. ft. Capacity
1000-Watt Cooking Power
Precision Glass Touch Controls
- Satin Textured Handles
- Chrome Inlaid Frame
KitchenAid® 1000 Watt Built-In Low Profile Microwave
The space-saving design of this KitchenAid® built-in low-profile microwave fits mixing bowls, casserole dishes and more while freeing up more room in the kitchen.
1.1 cu. ft. Capacity
1000-Watt Cooking Power
Exterior Quick Access Buttons
Hidden Microwave Controls
- Sensor Cooking Functions
- CookShield Finish
2. Best KitchenAid® over-the-range or microwave-hood combinations for you
You can install some microwaves above a cooktop or range to centralize cooking tasks, as well as use it as a vent hood to help clear smoke and odor from the air. Over-the-range microwaves, also called microwave-hood combinations, can also help free up your countertops.
KitchenAid® Over-the-Range Microwave with Flush Built-In Design
This KitchenAid® over-the-range microwave fits evenly with cabinets to give your kitchen a seamless look and feel, and features Sensor Functions that automatically adjust cook time along with a Turntable-Free Design that can heat multiple items at a time.
- 1.1 cu. ft. Capacity
- 1000-Watt Cooking Power
- Turntable-Free Design
- Built-in Design1
- 3-Speed 400 CFM Motor Class Ventilation System2
- Steam Clean
1. Fits evenly with your cabinets to give your kitchen a seamless look when installed in standard cabinet depth of 12 ¾”.
2. Performance varies based on installation. Resources available at AHAM.org
KitchenAid® 30" 1000-Watt Microwave Hood Combination
This high-power KitchenAid® over-the-range microwave features Sensor Functions to assist you in the kitchen by automatically adjusting the time needed to cook, reheat or defrost without guesswork about power levels or cooking times.
2.0 cu. ft. Capacity
1000-Watt Cooking Power
Sensor Functions
- Cookshield Finish
- 3-Speed 400 CFM Motor Class Ventilation System3
- Sensor Steam/Simmer Cook Cycle
3. Performance varies based on installation. Resources available at AHAM.org
KitchenAid® Smart Low Profile Microwave Hood Combination with Dual Fan Ventilation
This smart over-the-range KitchenAid® microwave hood combination offers the Dual Fan Ventilation System and a low profile design that opens up more room to create beneath its sleek, low-profile cabinet.
1.1 cu. ft. Capacity
Smart Capabilities
Low Profile Design
Dual Fan Ventilation System
Tap-to-Open Door
1000-Watt Cooking Power
Whisper Quiet™ Ventilation
PrintShield™ Finish
3. Best KitchenAid® countertop microwaves for you
Countertop microwaves can easily be placed in the most convenient spot in your kitchen to provide quick access where your making happens. Installation is simple, as all you need is an outlet and a stable, flat surface. If you move homes, your countertop microwave can move with you.
KitchenAid® 1.5 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave with Air Fry Function
This KitchenAid® microwave goes beyond reheating and defrosting to air fry, bake, roast and grill. Designed to stand alone on your countertop, this microwave can also be paired with a trim kit4 for a custom built-in look.
1.5 cu. ft. Capacity
Steam Clean Function
1000-Watt Cooking Power
1400-Watt Convection Element
Touch-Activated Controls with LED Display
4. Sold separately
KitchenAid® 21 3/4" Countertop Microwave Oven with the PrintShield™ Finish - 1200 Watt
This versatile KitchenAid® countertop microwave delivers the beauty of easy cleaning, the speed and accuracy of nine sensor-driven and pre-programmed cooking cycles, plus convenient electronic controls.
- 1.6 cu. ft. Capacity
- 1200-Watt Cooking Power
- PrintShield™ Finish
- Timed Defrost
- Electronic Controls with LED Display
4. Best KitchenAid® drawer or under-counter microwaves for you
Drawer or under-counter microwaves free up counter space and are ideal for open kitchen designs and islands. The drawer is usually installed at waist height and opens up for top access to check or stir foods without removing the dish from the microwave.
KitchenAid® 24" Under-Counter Microwave Oven Drawer
Give your kitchen more room for creativity with an ingenious top-loading KitchenAid® microwave oven drawer that can save you valuable countertop space and handle a variety of cooking cycles with ease.
1.2 cu. ft. Capacity
950-Watt Cooking Power
Drawer Design
Sensor Functions
Auto Touch Open/Close
5. Best KitchenAid® convection microwaves for you
A convection microwave can unlock new culinary possibilities and expand your menu. With features like roast, broil, bake and crisp, you can use your microwave as a second oven. Models with convection cooking can be often be found in any microwave type: built-in, over-the-range, countertop and under-counter.
KitchenAid® Over-the-Range Convection Microwave with Air Fry Mode
Go beyond reheating and defrosting with this KitchenAid® microwave that does so much more. This model combines Air Fry Mode, Convection Mode, Grill Mode, Sensor Steam and Simmer Modes and a ventilation hood, all in one space-saving appliance that fits above your cooktop or range, freeing up your countertops for more of your culinary endeavors.
1.9 cu. ft. Capacity
1,200 Watts Cooking Power
Keep Warm Function
Convection Cooking Modes
KitchenAid® Built-In More-In-One Convection Microwave Oven
This KitchenAid® microwave combines the versatility of an air fryer, toaster oven, convection oven, microwave and ventilation hood, all in one space-saving appliance designed for flush installation.
1.1 cu. ft. Capacity
950-Watt Cooking Power
Multifunction Oven Modes
Smart Appliance
What to consider when buying a microwave
When choosing a microwave, it helps to be selective with details like the size, wattage, features and functionality, along with the design and style perfect for your kitchen. Keeping these in mind when choosing the best microwave for your cooking habits can help enhance the foods you make the most.
1. Dimensions and capacity
Microwaves come in different sizes designed to fit your kitchen. They are measured by exterior width, height and depth, as well as interior capacity. While the interior capacity is sometimes listed in the product name, the exterior size varies by microwave type.
Countertop microwaves typically offer the largest range in sizes with very compact models available.
- Built-in microwaves can offer larger capacities that can function almost like a second oven.
KitchenAid® microwaves have capacities that range from 1.1 to 2.2 cubic feet. It’s important to consider how much space you have available so you can get the right fit.
2. Wattage
Microwave wattage generally ranges from 900-1,200 watt cooking power. The more wattage, the quicker your food may cook. Many microwave recipes require 1,000 watts for the optimal results when doing more than just basic heating, so a model with high wattage may be the way to go when choosing a microwave.
3. Features
Match your making by choosing a microwave with features and functionality that can complement your culinary endeavors. Here are some microwave features available on select KitchenAid® models:
Timed Defrost: Defrosting frozen foods with this feature automatically lowers the setting to 30% power for the amount of time you select. Learn how to defrost chicken in the microwave for optimal results.
Sensor Cooking: Using a humidity sensor, select microwaves can automatically regulate the time based on preprogrammed, menu-driven cycles.
Convection Cooking: Convection microwaves have an additional heating element and fan to circulate heat throughout the cavity. This allows you to bake, broil or roast smaller portions of your favorite recipes.
Broil Element: Add the finishing touches to a meal by melting cheese or browning food in a microwave with Broil Mode.
Crispwave™ Technology: The crisper pan and Crispwave™ Technology allows you to use your microwave to grill, fry or crisp foods.
Air Fry Mode: Replaces a countertop air fryer for all of the crisping with none of the clutter. Triple heating elements and a fan circulate hot air around the included air fry basket to crisp and brown food with less oil.5
Sensor Steam and Simmer Modes: Make it easy to steam vegetables and fish or simmer rice and pasta. Just add water to the included steamer container and select what you're making. When a sensor detects the water is boiling, it will start counting down the ideal cook time.
Keep Warm Function: Keep your cooked foods warm without overcooking them until it’s time to serve.
Steam Clean Mode: Steam the inside of your microwave to loosen cooked-on food without the need for harsh chemical cleaners.
PrintShield™ Finish: This specialized coating on stainless steel microwaves allows for easy cleanup of fingerprints or smudge marks.
Multifunction Oven Modes: Replace a convection or toaster oven, freeing up counter space by elevating your baking, roasting, broiling and toasting. Triple heating elements and a fan direct heat where it's needed to cook at temperatures up to 450°F.
Learn more on how to choose a microwave oven in this microwave buying guide, or learn more about the fascinating history of how these appliances have evolved over time.
5. When compared to deep frying.
4. Design aesthetic
Consider the design aesthetic when choosing a microwave to create a consistent style in your kitchen. Whether your home has a contemporary or eclectic motif, you can find a model with the right color, finish and other refined details to fit seamlessly with your style.
5. Warranty
Having warranty coverage on your microwave provides you with the peace of mind to focus on exploring new flavors and pushing the boundaries of your creativity. Consider microwave options with warranty coverage to help your appliance make it through life’s unpredictability.
When is the best time of year to buy a microwave?
The best time of year to buy a microwave is when you’re looking to upgrade your appliance. Perhaps you want additional features or you’re remodeling your kitchen. KitchenAid brand has special offers on microwaves and other major appliances throughout the year. You can receive exclusive offers, product news and even price matching by signing up here.
