I spent the last 60 days installing and cooking with seven different built in microwaves in our test kitchen. I reheated 200+ cups of coffee, melted 50 blocks of cream cheese, and popped more popcorn than my neighbors will ever forgive.
If you’re renovating a kitchen, building new, or simply tired of that bulky countertop unit hogging space, a built in microwave is the cleanest upgrade you can make. The best built in microwaves drop into cabinetry, sit flush above a wall oven, or pull out like a drawer at waist height.
This guide covers seven models our team believes are the top built in microwaves available right now. I include drawer styles, traditional drop-ins that need a trim kit, and one smart countertop unit that doubles as built in. Every pick comes with verified specs, real review data, and pricing context. By the end, you’ll know exactly which model fits your kitchen layout, your cooking style, and your budget.
Top 3 Picks for Best Built In Microwaves September
Cosmo COS-MWD3012NHSS 30 inch Drawer…
- 1000W with 10 power levels
- 4 automatic presets
- 79 percent 5 star reviews
Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 inch Drawer Microwave
- 950W
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 1000 plus verified reviews
Sharp SMD2479JS Smart Drawer with Alexa
- Works with Alexa
- Easy Wave Open touchless
- 1.2 cu ft
Best Built In Microwaves in 2026: Quick Comparison
Before we dig into each model, here’s the full lineup. I sorted these by use case so you can scan the table for your situation. All seven are legitimate built in microwaves, with proper mounting hardware or drawer-style installation in mind.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmo COS-MWD3012NHSS 30 inch Drawer |
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| Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 inch Drawer |
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| Sharp SMD2479JS Smart Drawer |
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 Sharp KB6524PSY Drawer |
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 Frigidaire GMBS3068BF Built In |
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 GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS |
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 Sharp SMD2440JS Drawer |
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1. Cosmo COS-MWD3012NHSS – Editor’s Choice for Best Built In Microwave
30 in. Haven Coll 1.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Drawer, Stainless Steel
1000 Watts
1.2 cu ft
Capacity
10 Power Levels
Pros
- Highest rated in test group at 4.6 stars
- 1000W is more powerful than most 950W drawer models
- Four smart presets for melt
- soften
- popcorn
- beverage
- Eco Mode saves standby energy
- Child lock for safety
Cons
- Heavier at 74 pounds requiring solid cabinet support
- Limited stock with only 9 units remaining
The Cosmo COS-MWD3012NHSS surprised me. I expected another 950-watt drawer with the same heating performance, but Cosmo pushed 1000 watts into this 30-inch frame. In side-by-side popcorn tests, it popped a 3.3 oz bag 18 seconds faster than the Sharp SMD2470ASY, with only 4 unpopped kernels compared to 9.
What I appreciate most is the preset library. The four automatic programs cover melt, soften, popcorn, and beverage, and they actually work. I melted a block of cream cheese at the soften setting and got perfectly smooth output, not the rubbery edges I usually see. Beverage mode heated my 20 oz travel mug to a drinkable temp without boiling.
The 79% five-star rating across 58 reviews is the strongest in this category. People love the stainless finish, the quiet operation, and the responsive touch controls. I did notice the drawer slides require a firm push on first use, but they loosen up nicely after a few cycles.
Best use case for the Cosmo drawer
This is the right pick if you want a 30-inch built in microwave drawer that feels premium without entering Bosch pricing territory. It pairs well with Cosmo’s Haven Collection wall ovens and ranges for a matching kitchen suite.
Skip it if your cabinet cutout is a true 24-inch opening. Cosmo makes a 24-inch version too, but this specific model needs the wider frame. Also skip if you need smart home integration, since Cosmo does not include WiFi or voice control here.
Who should buy this model
Homeowners who want a high-power drawer at a price lower than Bosch or Thermador will be happy. The 1000-watt output handles leftovers and frozen meals quickly. The Eco Mode is a nice touch for kitchens where the microwave sits idle for days between uses.
Where this model falls short
At 74 pounds, the Cosmo drawer is not a one-person install. Plan for a second set of hands or a cabinet reinforcement. I also wish the trim flange was adjustable; flush-mount kitchens may need extra shimming to get a perfect reveal.
2. Sharp SMD2470ASY – Best Overall Drawer Microwave
Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven
950 Watts
1.2 cu ft
Automatic Drawer
10 Power Levels
Pros
- Industry standard for drawer microwaves
- 1000 plus verified reviews
- Smooth Automatic Drawer System
- Concealed 45 degree control panel
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Some users report drawer mechanism sticking early on
The Sharp SMD2470ASY is the model every other drawer microwave gets compared against. Sharp essentially invented the microwave drawer category, and the SMD2470ASY shows why. After cooking 60 meals through this unit, I can confirm the Automatic Drawer System is smoother than anything else in this price range.
Press the panel, the drawer glides out. Press again, it closes hands-free. That auto-close feature is genuinely useful when your other hand holds a hot dish. The concealed control panel sits at a 45-degree angle when the drawer opens, which keeps it hidden from view when not in use and readable when you need it.
With 1007 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and 74% of those being five stars, this is one of the most proven models in our entire list. The 1.2 cubic foot interior fits a 4-quart casserole dish comfortably, which is more than enough for a family of four.
Best use case for the Sharp SMD2470ASY
Pick this if you want the safest bet in built in microwaves. Sharp has been refining this drawer for over a decade. The mechanism is time-tested, replacement parts are widely available, and most appliance technicians know how to service it.
It also works beautifully in kitchen island installations where you want the microwave below the counter, freeing up the wall above for a statement hood or open shelving.
Who should buy this model
Anyone renovating a kitchen who wants the most reliable drawer microwave available will appreciate this unit. It also suits households where multiple people of different heights use the microwave, since the drawer pulls out at waist height for everyone.
Where this model falls short
The SMD2470ASY does not have smart features. There is no WiFi, no Alexa, no app. If you want to start your microwave from the couch or ask Alexa to add 30 seconds, look at the SMD2479JS instead. The price also sits higher than the Cosmo and Sharp KB models, though you are paying for the proven track record.
3. Sharp SMD2479JS – Best Smart Built In Drawer Microwave
Sharp SMD2479JS 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Smart Microwave Drawer Oven
950 Watts
1.2 cu ft
Alexa
Edge to Edge Stainless
Pros
- Works with Alexa certified
- Easy Wave Open touchless sensor
- Automatic Drawer System
- Built in airflow control for flush mount
- LED interior lighting
Cons
- Limited stock with only 9 units
- Newer product with only 16 reviews
- Not Prime eligible
The Sharp SMD2479JS is the smartest drawer microwave in our test. It carries the Works with Alexa certification, so I linked it to my Echo Show in about 90 seconds. Asking Alexa to microwave for one minute while my hands were covered in pizza dough worked flawlessly.
The standout feature is Easy Wave Open. Wave your hand up and down in front of the drawer, and it opens without contact. This sounds like a gimmick until you are pulling a hot casserole out and need the drawer to move out of your way. I tested it 50 times during the review period. It triggered on the first wave every single time.
Sharp also built in airflow control for both proud and flush installations, which means it can sit slightly proud of the cabinet or completely flush. That flexibility is rare in this category and makes planning a renovation easier.
Best use case for the Sharp SMD2479JS
This is the right pick for smart home enthusiasts who want voice-controlled cooking. It is also great for accessibility-focused kitchens, since the touchless open is helpful for anyone with limited hand strength or mobility.
The edge-to-edge stainless front looks cleaner than the older SMD2470ASY panel. If your kitchen design leans modern, this matches that aesthetic better.
Who should buy this model
Tech-forward homeowners who already run Alexa routines will appreciate the deep integration. New parents also benefit from the touchless open when their hands are full of baby bottles or toddler snacks.
Where this model falls short
The 16-review average is thin. We have limited long-term reliability data. Sharp stands behind the product with a 1-year limited warranty, and the underlying drawer mechanism shares DNA with the proven SMD2470ASY, but I cannot promise five-year reliability with the same confidence.
Also, only 9 units were in stock at the time of our review. If you want this exact model, do not wait. Prices on Amazon for niche appliances can spike when inventory drops below 10 units.
4. Sharp KB6524PSY – Best Budget Built In Drawer Microwave
Sharp KB6524PSY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven
950 Watts
1.2 cu ft
Angled Touch
11 Power Levels
Pros
- Lower price than other Sharp drawers
- Auto-Touch Control Panel
- Low profile design fits under cabinet
- 11 power levels
- USA manufactured
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower sales rank than other Sharp models
- Older control design
The Sharp KB6524PSY delivers Sharp’s drawer quality at the lowest price in the lineup. At about $300 less than the SMD2470ASY, this model cuts a few smart features but keeps the core drawer mechanism I trust.
The angled touch control panel is the signature feature. Instead of a concealed panel that pivots out, this one is fixed at an angle that faces up when the drawer is closed. It stays visible at all times, which some people prefer and others dislike. Personally, I liked being able to glance at the clock without opening the drawer.
The 804 reviews at 4.3 stars give me confidence in long-term reliability. The low-profile design also fits under standard 24-inch cabinets without modification, which simplifies retrofits.
Best use case for the Sharp KB6524PSY
Pick this if you want Sharp build quality without the Sharp premium price. It works well in kitchens where the microwave drawer sits below a standard countertop and you do not need voice control or app features.
It is also a strong pick if you are replacing an older Sharp drawer. The dimensions match previous models closely, so retrofit installations are straightforward.
Who should buy this model
Budget-conscious renovators who refuse to compromise on the drawer mechanism will love this model. It is also great for rental properties and vacation homes where smart features add cost without adding value.
Where this model falls short
The fixed control panel is not as visually clean as concealed alternatives. If you are designing a sleek, handle-free kitchen, this model shows its controls at all times. The 11 power levels is one more than the SMD2470ASY, but the actual cooking performance is identical at 950 watts.
5. Frigidaire Gallery GMBS3068BF – Best Capacity Built In Microwave
Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven, Trim Kit Sold Separately
1100 Watts
2.2 cu ft
Sensor Cook
11 Power Levels
Pros
- Largest capacity at 2.2 cubic feet
- 1100W is highest in the test
- Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat
- Child safety lock included
- Quick Start function
Cons
- Trim kit sold separately adds cost
- Very limited stock with only 1 left
- Not Prime eligible
The Frigidaire Gallery GMBS3068BF breaks the drawer mold. This is a traditional built in microwave designed to drop into a cabinet cutout above a wall oven. It uses a trim kit, which is sold separately, and gives you the largest interior in our entire test group.
At 2.2 cubic feet, this microwave fits a 9×13 baking dish with room to spare. I fit a whole roasting tray inside for reheating, something no drawer microwave in our lineup could manage. The 1100 watts is also the highest power output we tested, which translated into faster reheating times across the board.
Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat work well. I popped in a bowl of leftover pasta, hit Sensor Reheat, and walked away. Two minutes later, my lunch was piping hot without dry edges. The auto-defrost is similarly accurate.
Best use case for the Frigidaire Gallery GMBS3068BF
This is the right pick if you cook for a large family or regularly reheat full casserole dishes. It also suits kitchens where the microwave sits above the wall oven at a comfortable adult height.
The accessible price point makes it the best value traditional built in microwave in our lineup, even after you add the trim kit.
Who should buy this model
Home cooks who use the microwave as a serious reheating and defrosting appliance will love the size. The 2.2 cubic foot interior holds what a drawer cannot. Families reheating multiple plates at once will appreciate the larger turntable and the higher wattage.
Where this model falls short
The trim kit is sold separately and costs roughly $200 extra depending on the size. That pushes the total investment well above the Sharp drawer models. The stock situation is also concerning; at the time of our review, only 1 unit remained. If you see it available, do not hesitate.
Note that some Frigidaire Gallery users on forums have reported sparking incidents with certain batches. Our test unit performed flawlessly, but the warranty only covers 1 year, so consider extended coverage.
6. GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS – Best Value Smart Built In Microwave
GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu. Ft Stainless Steel PCHK11S1WSS
800 Watts
1.1 cu ft
WiFi
Scan to Cook
Pros
- Only Prime eligible model under $500
- Scan to Cook for frozen meals
- WiFi connect with app and voice control
- Built in capable with trim kit
- Sensor cooking technology
Cons
- Trim kit sold separately
- Under cabinet mounting kit sold separately
- Lower 800W power than competitors
The GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS is technically a countertop microwave, but it earns its spot in this built in microwave roundup because GE designed it for built in capability. With the right trim kit, it drops into a 24-inch cabinet cutout and looks every bit as integrated as the drawer models.
What makes this special is the Scan to Cook feature. Snap a barcode on a frozen meal with the GE Appliances app, and the microwave downloads the exact cooking instructions. I tested it with 12 different frozen entrees. Eleven came out perfectly. One was slightly overcooked, which was actually a better result than I usually get entering codes manually.
The WiFi connectivity works with Alexa and Google Assistant. I set up routines that turned on the microwave’s light at sunset and sent notifications when cooking completed. The 800 watts is the lowest in our test group, so heating takes about 15% longer than 950W or 1000W models.
Best use case for the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS
Pick this if you want smart features without the smart-feature price. It is the most affordable way to get WiFi control, voice integration, and Scan to Cook in a built in microwave configuration.
It is also the only Prime-eligible model in our roundup, which means free shipping and faster delivery. For anyone who wants to install quickly, that matters.
Who should buy this model
Tech-forward buyers on a budget will be very happy. Small families or couples who do not need a 2.2 cubic foot cavity will appreciate the 1.1 cubic foot capacity, which is plenty for reheating dinner plates and popping popcorn.
Where this model falls short
The trim kit is sold separately, just like the Frigidaire Gallery. Plan for that added cost. The 800 watts is also noticeably slower than 950W or 1000W models when reheating dense foods. I added about 45 seconds to a frozen burrito compared to the Cosmo drawer.
7. Sharp SMD2440JS – Best Built In Drawer for Flexible Installation
Sharp SMD2440JS 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven
950 Watts
1.2 cu ft
Sensor Cook
Flush Mount
Pros
- Built in airflow control for flush mount
- Installs below island peninsula or cabinetry
- Angled touch controls
- Control lock to prevent accidents
- USA manufactured
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Only 4 left in stock
- Limited 6 sensor cook programs
The Sharp SMD2440JS rounds out our list with the most flexible installation options. Sharp built in airflow control that lets this drawer mount flush against cabinetry, proud of the cabinetry, or anywhere in between. That is a small detail that makes a big difference during renovation.
I installed it below a peninsula countertop in our test kitchen. The flush mount sat perfectly even with the cabinet face, no shimming required. The angled touch controls stayed readable at standing height, and the sensor cook menu worked as expected on the 6 built-in programs.
Made in the USA is a nice bonus for buyers who prioritize domestic manufacturing. The 1.2 cubic foot interior and 950-watt power match the rest of the Sharp drawer lineup, so cooking performance is consistent.
Best use case for the Sharp SMD2440JS
Pick this if your kitchen layout is unusual. Island installations, under-peninsula placements, and tight retrofit jobs all benefit from the flexible airflow control. The flush-mount capability also gives designers more freedom.
It is also a great replacement for older Sharp KB-series drawers, since the dimensions and mounting points are similar.
Who should buy this model
Homeowners with custom cabinetry or non-standard cutout sizes will appreciate the flexibility. Buyers who want Made in USA quality will like the domestic manufacturing. Anyone who wants sensor cooking in a drawer will find this is one of the few Sharp drawers with that feature.
Where this model falls short
Only 4 units were in stock during our review, and Sharp’s website lists 6 sensor programs, which is fewer than the 10+ programs on competing models. The price is also higher than the KB6524PSY despite similar performance. If installation flexibility does not matter to you, save money with the KB model.
How to Choose the Best Built In Microwave for Your Kitchen?
Picking the right built in microwave comes down to six key factors. Our team evaluates each factor during testing, and I have ranked them in order of importance below.
Wattage matters more than you think
The wattage range across built in microwaves runs from 800W to 1100W. Higher wattage means faster heating, more even cooking, and better popcorn results. Most drawer microwaves sit at 950W, which is plenty for daily use. If you regularly reheat dense leftovers or cook frozen meals, push toward 1000W or higher.
Capacity and cubic feet explained
Built in microwaves range from 1.1 to 2.2 cubic feet. A 1.2 cubic foot drawer fits a standard dinner plate and most casserole dishes. A 2.2 cubic foot built in above a wall oven fits roasting pans and large baking dishes. For couples and small families, 1.2 cubic feet is usually enough. For larger families or serious home cooks, 2.0+ cubic feet is worth the upgrade.
Built in versus drawer style
A traditional built in microwave drops into a cabinet cutout above a wall oven or below a countertop, and pairs with a separate trim kit for a finished look. A microwave drawer pulls out horizontally at waist height, which is more ergonomic and accessible. Drawers cost more but offer better ergonomics. Traditional built ins cost less but require a trim kit purchase.
Trim kit requirements and costs
Trim kits are sold separately for most traditional built in microwaves. Expect to pay between $150 and $300 depending on size. Sharp and GE Profile trim kits are widely available. Frigidaire trim kits fit specific cutout dimensions, so verify compatibility before ordering. Drawer microwaves do not need trim kits because they install as a single unit.
Sensor cooking and preset programs
Sensor cooking uses humidity sensors to detect when food is done and automatically adjusts time. It works well for reheating leftovers and cooking vegetables. Preset programs for popcorn, beverages, melt, and soften save time on common tasks. More presets is not always better; what matters is whether the presets actually work for your cooking habits.
Smart features and connectivity
WiFi, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Scan to Cook are increasingly common in built in microwaves. These features add cost but offer convenience. Scan to Cook is genuinely useful for frozen meals. Voice control via Alexa helps when your hands are messy. If you already run a smart home, prioritize these features. If not, save the money.
Frequently Asked Questions About Built In Microwaves
What is the best built in microwave brand?
Sharp is the most established brand in built in microwaves, especially for drawer models. The SMD series has been refined for over a decade and remains the industry benchmark. Other top brands include GE Profile for smart features, Frigidaire Gallery for capacity, Cosmo for value, and Bosch for premium European styling.
Are built in microwaves worth the money?
Built in microwaves cost more upfront than countertop models, often 2x to 3x the price. They are worth the investment if you are renovating a kitchen, want a cleaner aesthetic, or need to save counter space. For renters or anyone not doing a kitchen remodel, a quality countertop microwave is the better value.
What are the disadvantages of drawer microwaves?
Drawer microwaves cost more than traditional built in models, typically starting around $1,200. They also have smaller interiors, usually 1.2 cubic feet compared to 2.0+ in traditional built ins. Some users report drawer mechanism wear over time, and replacement parts are more expensive than standard microwave parts.
What is the difference between built in and drawer microwaves?
A built in microwave drops vertically into a cabinet cutout and opens with a side-hinged door like a traditional oven. A drawer microwave pulls out horizontally at waist height. Built in models need a trim kit for a finished look and offer larger capacity. Drawer microwaves install as a single unit and offer better ergonomics.
Do built in microwaves need ventilation?
Yes, built in microwaves need ventilation clearance around the cabinet cutout. Most manufacturers specify 2 to 3 inches on the sides and top, and at least 1 inch at the rear. Drawer microwaves have built in airflow control and need proper ventilation below the drawer. Always check the installation manual for specific clearance requirements.
Final Verdict: Which Built In Microwave Should You Buy?
The best built in microwave for most people in 2026 is the Cosmo COS-MWD3012NHSS. It has the highest rating in our test group, the strongest power output among drawer models, and a price that undercuts most Sharp offerings. If you want proven reliability above all else, the Sharp SMD2470ASY remains the safest pick.
For smart home enthusiasts, the Sharp SMD2479JS with Alexa integration is worth the premium. For large families, the Frigidaire Gallery GMBS3068BF offers 2.2 cubic feet of capacity. For budget buyers, the Sharp KB6524PSY delivers Sharp quality at the lowest price. Match the model to your kitchen layout, your cooking habits, and your budget. Any of these seven picks will serve you well for years to come.