Whether you're reheating leftovers, defrosting ingredients, or steaming veggies, a microwave can be a versatile addition when you're short on time or spare hands. These small appliances can be installed above a range for a double-duty microwave and range hood or placed on the countertop for freestanding convenience. Knowing how to measure a microwave will help you determine the best dimensions for your kitchen. Keep reading below to learn more about microwave sizes.

Standard Microwave Sizes
Microwave Dimensions by Type
Microwave Capacity
How to Measure for a Microwave

Standard Microwave Sizes

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Standard microwave sizes tend to vary by type, though most microwave dimensions measure 29" – 30" wide, 16" – 18" tall, and 15" – 16" deep with the door closed. There are four main types of microwaves – over-the-range, countertop, built-in, and drawer – with slightly different standard sizes for each style.

Microwave Dimensions by Type

Over-the-Range

Over-the-range microwaves are installed above a cooktop and serve as both a range hood and a microwave. Most over-the-range microwaves measure 30" wide to match the width of a standard-sized range below and a standard-sized cabinet above. These microwaves also measure around 17" tall and 15" – 18" deep with the door closed. Open-door depth ranges between 42" and 45".

Tip!

For step-by-step instructions for sizing over-the-range microwaves, read our guide How to Measure for an Over-the-Range Microwave & Prepare for Installation.

Countertop

Countertop microwaves are stand-alone small appliances that can sit on top of any flat surface. If countertop space is limited, small countertop microwaves can be 15" – 19" wide, 10" – 11" tall, and 12" – 16" deep with open-door depth measuring about 23" – 30". Standard-sized countertop microwaves measure 21" – 25" wide, 12" – 15" tall, and 16" – 20" deep with the door closed. With the door open, the depth of countertop microwaves can range from 34" – 39".

Built-In

Built-in microwaves are installed into the face of an existing cabinet for a seamless design that doesn't occupy any counter space. They open from one side like a traditional microwave or pull down like an oven door. The width of these microwaves matches the width of standard-sized cabinets, which is typically 24", 27", or 30". Built-in microwaves also measure 17" – 22" tall, 20" – 25" deep with the door closed, and 30" – 35" deep with the door open.

Drawer

Microwave drawers are installed into existing cabinets beneath the countertop. Rather than swinging open like a countertop or over-the-range model, this type of microwave pulls opens like a drawer. Similar to built-in microwaves, microwave drawers match the width of standard-sized cabinets (24", 27", and 30"). They measure 14" – 17" tall and are up to 40" deep with the door open.

Tip!

Read our guide How to Choose the Best Microwave For Your Kitchen to learn about the different installation types as well as helpful features, power wattage, and ventilation types.

Microwave Capacity

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In addition to the exterior measurements, capacity is a key consideration when choosing a microwave.

Compact: Less than 1 cu. ft., compact microwaves are best suited for small spaces. These compact units are great for single-serving tasks like reheating small plates of leftovers or frozen items.

Mid-/Full-Size: Standard microwaves have a capacity of 1 cu. ft. to 2 cu. ft. These microwaves are ideal for most households and can accommodate full-size dinner plates.

Large: Large microwaves – greater than 2 cu. ft. – are great for defrosting or reheating large items or heating multiple dishes at once.

How to Measure for a Microwave

The first step in picking the correct microwave size is measuring the available space. Grab a tape measure and follow the steps below to learn how to measure for a microwave.

Note: If you're simply replacing an existing microwave, remove that microwave and record its dimensions to help you shop for a new one of the same size.

Step 1: Measure Width

Use a tape measure to measure the width of the available space. For countertop microwaves, make sure to leave at least 2' of space between the microwave and the range so that the two aren't placed beside each other.

Step 2: Measure Depth

Then measure the distance from the back wall to the front edge of the counter. Leave at least 1" of space behind a countertop microwave for proper ventilation and another 3" in front to avoid any tipping that could happen.

Step 3: Measure Height

Last, measure the height of the available space. For countertop microwaves, start from the top of the countertop to any obstructions above, such as upper cabinets, trim, or shelving. You should measure the height of the cabinet cutout for built-in or drawer microwaves.

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