Should You Choose a Microwave Drawer? Pros and Cons

In the past few years, microwave drawers have become a trendy built-in option for those who want something different from the usual countertop microwaves. They’re like a cool twist on the regular microwave, tucked away in a handy pull-out drawer under your counter. These appliances not only look stylish but also deliver reliable performance. However, it’s worth noting that microwave drawers can be a bit pricey and have some limitations to keep in mind before adding one to your home. 

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The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What is a microwave drawer?

Before we dive into the pros and cons, let’s take a quick look at what makes a microwave drawer unique. While the outside design may be quite different from traditional models, the internal cooking technology works similarly.

• It’s all neatly tucked away under the counter in a drawer setup.
• A hidden pull-out compartment discreetly conceals the appliance within the cabinetry.
• Controls or buttons, they’re right up front on the upper lip.
• Magnetrons and microwaves (radio waves) are what make your food cook, heat up, or defrost!
• No turntables or rear vents because the heat goes down.

Microwave drawers work just like countertop models, using microwave technology to quickly cook your food. The cool thing is, that they come with a built-in drawer design that blends perfectly with your modern kitchen style. So you get all the convenience and a sleek look at the same time!

Now, let’s dig a bit deeper into the specific pros and cons.

Benefits of microwave drawers

Microwave drawers bring in some awesome innovations compared to the classic countertop models. So, here are the top advantages for homeowners to think about:

Free up counter space

Installing the microwave vertically in a base drawer can free up a lot of horizontal space on your countertop. For small or crowded kitchens, having a few extra square feet can really make a difference in your workspace. Plus, not having a big appliance sitting out adds to a cleaner, less cluttered look.

Seamless built-in visual

Microwave drawers are awesome because they blend right in with your cabinets, giving your kitchen a seamless look. No more clunky stainless steel microwaves ruining your decor! Plus, they have a built-in design that adds a touch of sophistication and keeps up with the latest trends.

Better ergonomics

Microwave drawers are awesome because they are installed below counter level, putting the controls and interior compartment at a lower, more convenient height. This means kids and shorter adults can easily use them without any uncomfortable climbing or stretching. And even taller folks can enjoy the benefit of reduced strain by simply bending down instead of reaching up. 

Child safety

Besides the ergonomic design, lots of microwave drawer models have safety features like child locks, recessed buttons, or auto shut-off sensors. But even the basic ones let kids grab snacks without climbing up to unsafe places because the compartment is within their reach.

Simple loading

Instead of struggling to fit plates, bowls, or trays sideways through a tight microwave door, microwave drawers let you simply place items straight down into the pull-out compartment. This super convenient loading method also makes it safer to remove hot contents without worrying about stability. It’s a really secure and user-friendly system.

In a nutshell, microwave drawers take form and function to the next level. They offer a sleek built-in look, save space, and provide easy access. However, it’s important to consider a few limitations before deciding if the benefits outweigh any drawbacks.

Downsides and limitations

Microwave drawers come with some cool features, but they also have a few quirks and challenges to consider when making your decision.

High upfront investment

One of the main challenges homeowners face is the high cost of microwave drawers. You can usually get a good countertop microwave for under $100. But most drawer models start at around $1,000 to $1,500, without factoring in installation or cabinet modifications. This significant investment makes many buyers hesitate, despite the appeal.

Restrictive placement

While regular microwaves offer flexibility in placement, microwave drawers have a more specific design that limits where they can be installed. These drawers need to fit vertically into a base cabinet or drawer compartment, unlike other built-in appliances that can be embedded horizontally or at custom heights. This limited placement makes customization a bit tricky.

Professional installation required

Getting that seamless look you desire takes careful installation and maybe some cabinet adjustments. You might need to hire contractors to handle things like building supporting shelves or adding new outlets. Expect to budget an extra for their know-how in creating your customized built-in.

Irreplaceable built-to-fit construction

Microwave drawers pack powerful technology into narrow, pull-out compartments with precise exterior measurements. If the appliance ever conks out, finding an exact replacement that fits those specific dimensions can be a real challenge, especially for discontinued models.

Lack of convection or ventilation

Countertop microwaves often have convection functions for baking or roasting and overhead ventilation. But drawer models don’t have those extra features since all the heating elements point downward. To get rid of steam or grease, you’ll need another way to vent it out.

When you’re considering investing in one of these specialty appliances, make sure to think about the pros and cons based on your needs and kitchen setup. If having a cohesive decor is important to you, it might be worth paying a bit more. Just be aware of the functional limitations right from the start.

Assess your needs

Before you decide whether to go all out on a microwave drawer for your home, ask yourself these important questions. Consider if the pros mentioned earlier outweigh any cons that make you hesitate:

• Do you meal prep or reheat leftovers daily to justify the functionality?
• Will removing a countertop appliance significantly improve your workflow or available space?
• Is achieving a contemporary built-in kitchen aesthetic a priority for you?
• Does lacking convection baking or ventilation pose an issue?
• Do children or shorter adults need safer microwave access in your home?

When you’re deciding whether to invest in these fancy appliances, it’s important to carefully evaluate your needs and consider their strengths and weaknesses. Microwave drawers are perfect if you want a sleek and space-saving option, even if they might not have all the bells and whistles. By smartly placing them and using alternative ventilation, you can make sure you’ll be happy with your choice.

If you’re into modern kitchen vibes and often use the microwave for cooking or reheating, the upgrade will make things way more efficient. But if you just occasionally nuke up popcorn or need something more affordable, stick with budget-friendly countertops. Figure out whether seamless integration or versatility matters most to you before making a decision.

More information

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