Microwaves: How to buy the best microwave Built-in microwaves

Built-in microwaves create a streamlined and stylish kitchen finish

Built-in microwaves

Microwaves are a staple cooking appliance for many households these days, and built-in microwaves are an increasingly popular choice for a stylish, streamlined fitted kitchen finish – but be prepared to pay a premium.

Pros

• Designer, stylish look.
• Frees up your kitchen worktop, helping to save space.
• Can be positioned at eye height, which allows you to see inside and keeps it out of children's reach.

Cons

• More expensive than a standalone microwave model.
• Once fitted, its position in your kitchen is fixed.
• Fitting a built-in microwave is easiest when you're getting or designing a whole new kitchen.

What you can do with a built-in microwave

Built-in microwaves range from basic solo models to top-of-the-range combination models; the built-in element simply refers to how it's fitted into your kitchen. 

First choose the type of microwave you want, based on how you plan to use your microwave and how often – consult our guide to choosing a microwave to help you decide – then choose a built-in version.

Many built-in models will come with fitting equipment to set the microwave up yourself (which could be tricky in an existing fitted kitchen, unless there's a clear space for it to fit into). If you're getting a whole new kitchen fitted, ask for the microwave to be integrated into the kitchen designs.

Built-in microwave prices

We've tested nine built-in microwaves, with prices ranging between £250 and £650, so you'll be paying a high price for that fitted finish. You can filter our microwave reviews by type to show built-in models only.