The right countertop microwave size is the one that fits your available space with the manufacturer’s required ventilation clearance, opens without obstruction, and accommodates the dishes you actually use. Check exterior dimensions, open-door space, and interior measurements separately: cubic-foot capacity alone cannot tell you whether a plate or casserole will fit.
Countertop microwave dimensions: exterior size versus capacity
Exterior width, height, and depth determine whether a microwave fits on a counter or shelf. Interior capacity describes the volume of its cooking cavity; it does not specify the appliance’s footprint or guarantee a particular dish will fit.
Whirlpool gives typical countertop microwave ranges of 0.5 cubic feet to over 2.0 cubic feet in capacity and roughly 15 to 24 inches in exterior width. Its guide also gives approximate depths of 14 to 20 inches with the door closed and 27 to 39 inches with it open. These are general ranges, not dimensions for every model. Check the current specification sheet for the exact unit you are considering. Whirlpool’s microwave sizing guide
How to measure your counter or shelf
- Measure the usable space. Record width, depth, and height at the tightest points. Account for walls, cabinets, backsplashes, nearby appliances, and any shelf supports that could obstruct the microwave or its vents.
- Check the specific model’s exterior dimensions. Find its listed width, height, and depth in the current specification sheet. Do not estimate from a product photo or choose by capacity alone.
- Allow for the model’s ventilation clearance. Read the installation instructions and identify where the vents are. Add the required space around the appliance to your fit check; the microwave must not block its own ventilation openings.
- Check the door’s full swing. Confirm that the door can open fully without hitting a wall, cabinet, or neighboring appliance. Compare the available space with the model’s open-door footprint, not just its closed depth.
- Test your usual cookware against the cavity. If a particular plate or casserole needs to fit, look up the interior dimensions and turntable diameter. Compare those measurements with the dish itself; equal cubic volume does not mean equal shape or clearance.
Ventilation clearance varies by manufacturer and model
There is no single clearance figure that applies to every countertop microwave. GE’s general guidance for its countertop-only models calls for 3 inches at each side and the top, and 1 inch at the rear. GE explains: “Microwaves need adequate air clearance on each side, the rear and the top to function properly.” See GE Appliances’ countertop clearance guidance.
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#1 Best Overall
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13” x 10.2”
LG USA’s countertop installation guidance, published March 31, 2026, specifies 20 centimeters above and 10 centimeters at the left, right, and rear. These are LG’s stated clearances, not a universal rule. Follow the installation manual for the exact model you own or plan to buy. LG’s countertop microwave installation guidance
Can a countertop microwave go in a cabinet?
Do not assume a countertop model is safe in an enclosed cabinet. GE says its countertop-only units are not recommended in tight or enclosed spaces, and LG says not to install its countertop oven in an enclosed cabinet. A cabinet installation is appropriate only if the exact model’s instructions permit it and specify any required installation kit or clearances. Built-in and over-the-range microwaves have different installation requirements.
Rank #2
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggie, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
Compare models using the measurements that matter
When two models seem suitable, compare their listed measurements and requirements side by side. Use current manufacturer specifications and the installation manual rather than treating capacity as a shortcut for fit.
| What to compare | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Exterior width, height, and depth | Shows whether the closed appliance fits the counter or shelf. |
| Required clearance and vent locations | Shows how much additional space the manufacturer requires and whether nearby surfaces obstruct airflow. |
| Open-door footprint and door access | Shows whether the door can swing fully in the available space. |
| Interior dimensions and turntable diameter | Shows whether your usual plates and containers fit; cubic-foot capacity alone does not establish this. |
| Your counter space and cookware | Connects the appliance’s measurements to the actual location and dishes you need it to accommodate. |
Choose by measured fit and the cookware you use, not by an assumed capacity for a particular household size. Whirlpool’s ranges are useful for orientation, but the exact model’s specifications and installation instructions determine whether it will work in your kitchen.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
Rank #4
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
Rank #3
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they'll never forget, Farberware helps today's families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
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