Microwave: dimensions, functionality, popular models

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The desire to make life easier and more comfortable stimulates the acquisition of the most functional kitchen appliances. Microwave ovens play an important role in catering. Their improvement has reached such a level that today they can fully replace ovens. It is not easy to make a choice among the abundance of offers. The main indicators by which a microwave is evaluated: size, functions, power and design.

Before buying a stove, you need to choose its location and determine the appropriate dimensions

Standard kitchen sizes and appliances

The list of kitchen appliances, without which modern life cannot be imagined, is constantly growing: refrigerators, food processors, ovens, microwaves, electric kettles, coffee makers, all kinds of devices for slicing, chopping, squeezing, etc.

The microwave oven is compact and fits well into the interior of even a very small kitchen

There are certain standard sizes of kitchen units. The basis is convenience and comfortable use. The L-shaped arrangement of the working surface is considered the most acceptable. The optimal length of the tabletop should not exceed 300-350 cm on one side and 200-250 cm on the other. Increasing the length of the working wall complicates the use of furniture.

How to properly place equipment so as not to reduce the free surface and ensure convenient operation of household appliances? You need to choose one acceptable option from two possible ones:

install a small part on the work surface, the main part - on additional shelves and bedside tables;
build in all units, with the exception of small-sized ones.

As for microwave ovens of standard sizes, the model that is not built into a set can be installed on any open surface or on brackets. The integrated device should be placed in a niche, cabinet or pencil case. For non-standard dimensions of microwave ovens, the installation location is selected on a case-by-case basis.

Among the characteristics of a microwave oven that influence its choice, the size and compactness of the device are among the main ones.

Microwave: dimensions as an indicator of functionality

The choice of any household appliance begins with assessing its functionality. The microwave oven is no exception. First of all, you need to decide what the microwave is for: just for heating dishes and defrosting food, or whether you plan to cook food in it.

The dimensions of microwave ovens are directly dependent on the set of functions. The larger the size, the more product processing capabilities the device has.

Important! Choosing a microwave oven based only on external parameters is extremely erroneous. The lack of desired operational capabilities will reduce the intensity of use and gradually lead to the unit being unclaimed.

A microwave with grill, convection, and steam processing function will have significant dimensions. Such a purchase will require a lot of space for installation; placement on a standard-sized countertop is unacceptable. If it is not possible to add a cabinet for an oven to the kitchen, it is better to build in the appliances - for this you should purchase the appropriate type of microwave.

When buying a microwave oven, it is best to look at the dimensions indicated on the packaging rather than visually assess the dimensions of the device.

If you are quite satisfied with the minimum set of options, it would be the right decision to buy a small microwave and install it on the work surface. The cooking process will be simplified as much as possible: the oven is placed at a comfortable level and is located in the center of the working area.

Freestanding microwaves: standard sizes and placement options

Each manufacturer of microwave ovens determines its standard sizes, that is, it distinguishes large, medium-sized and small devices. However, it is possible to derive statistical averages by summarizing data from various devices.

The following are considered standard sizes for freestanding microwaves:

small: height – 30 cm, width – 40 cm, depth – 30 cm;
medium: height – 30 cm, width – 50 cm, depth – 40 cm;
large-sized: height – 40 cm, width – 55 cm, depth – 43 cm.

The parameters of the furnaces are determined by the extreme points of the body. Internal dimensions are characterized by volume. The amount of internal space in small appliances can vary from 8 to 13 liters, medium-sized ovens have a volume of 15–23 liters, large-sized ones – 25-40 liters.

A freestanding microwave can be placed in a convenient place on the table

Many people prefer independent placement of microwaves. For some, the minimum of stationary equipment is a principled position: equipment should be changed more often than furniture. Others highlight the following positive features of standard-sized freestanding microwaves:

the ability to easily change the location of equipment if necessary;
accessibility and ease of care;
lower cost.

The price of a built-in stove differs from the cost of a free-standing stove with the same set of functions; it is 12–15% higher.

An independent microwave can be placed in a convenient place on the countertop, placed on a separate element of kitchen furniture (on a cabinet, shelf), or installed on brackets.

Placement methods and sizes of built-in microwave ovens

Built-in microwave ovens make it possible to rationally manage kitchen space. There is no reason to believe that such a stove takes up less space, since its dimensions are almost identical to free-standing models. Built-in microwaves are also divided into small, medium and large, and are characterized by almost the same digital indicators as those placed separately.

The choice of a built-in microwave oven depends on the parameters of the cabinet or niche where the built-in appliances will be installed

A special feature of this type of built-in household appliances is that its front part is not covered with panels (like, for example, a refrigerator, automatic washing machine or dishwasher). Niches are used to install microwave ovens.

Depending on the size of the microwave oven, it can be installed in the lower tier of kitchen furniture, in a wall cabinet or pencil case.

Helpful advice! You should order or purchase kitchen furniture after purchasing a microwave. It is not always possible to fit a device of the required size into a ready-made niche without violating the technical conditions for its placement.

The advantages of the built-in position of the microwave oven include the following:

does not take up space on popular horizontal surfaces in the kitchen;
fewer surfaces for cleaning (compared to free-standing);
adds laconicism to the interior.

For a hanging microwave, in addition to the specified parameters of the device, it is necessary to take into account its weight

Built-in microwave ovens are distinguished by their (albeit slightly) compact size. Choosing the design of such a stove is just as important as when buying a free-standing one: the open front part should be in harmony with other interior elements.

How much does a microwave weigh and how important is it to know?

Many people estimate the weight of a microwave only when they physically feel it during transportation or installation. This characteristic cannot be considered dominant, but if it is completely neglected, problems may arise during operation.

When making a niche, you should definitely know the degree of mechanical impact the lower surface of the structure will experience. Inconsistency between the indicators poses the danger of loosening fasteners and loss of joint rigidity. It is important to know the weight of the microwave when installing it on brackets. Depending on the indicator, the length and cross-section of the metal elements are selected.

Identical standard dimensions of microwave ovens in centimeters do not indicate the same weight. A 20 liter oven with almost identical dimensions can have a mass of either 13 kg or 20 kg. If we talk about average indicators, then the weight most of all depends on the dimensions. Also, the weight of the product is influenced by the characteristics of the material from which the case is made, the quality of the internal coating, and various additional devices that ensure the presence of certain functions. For example, ovens with a grill of standard medium sizes weigh from 18 to 25 kg, similar devices without the above function - 15–21 kg.

The weight of the microwave oven is influenced by the characteristics of the material from which the body is made

Particular attention should be paid to miniature ovens (portable devices). They are intended only for heating and do not cause difficulties in carrying, as they are small in size and weigh 5–7 kg. Such microwave ovens can even operate from a car battery.

Built-in microwave ovens: sizes and prices, their interdependence

Does the price of a microwave oven depend on its size? Of course, but, as mentioned above, the relationship is not direct. The size indicates the presence of a variety of functionality, and this affects the cost.

If you only need to heat up dishes and defrost them, you can purchase a small device, saving money both during purchase and during use: the oven will consume little electricity. It is worth noting that most often small standard microwave ovens are not built-in. Therefore, you will have to look for the desired option or change the installation method.

Among the built-in microwave ovens there are solo, inverter, microwave and grill types.

The following performance characteristics affect the price:

Volume. The larger it is, the higher the cost.
Power (450–1700 W). A high indicator helps cook food faster.
Functions. A large number of them (grill, convection, steam cooking) corresponds to a high cost.
Control method. Cheap models have mechanics, more expensive ones have electronics, and premium options have touch panels.
Coverage quality. Enameled is more often used in inexpensive models, stainless steel and ceramics are used in higher-level ovens.

Helpful advice! If the kitchen has an oven, then when choosing a microwave you should pay attention to duplicating functions. The presence of such is not justified both from a financial point of view and from a rational point of view.

A built-in microwave differs from a regular microwave only in the installation method; it has the same set of functions as stationary ones.

What do the dimensions depend on?

Grill function in Samsung microwave

The main parameters of microwave ovens are influenced by their functional characteristics. Samsung brand microwaves are used to perform many actions. In addition to defrosting food and heating dishes, they can additionally perform the following work:

prepare baked goods and regular meals;
grill meat products;
allow you to obtain steamed dietary products.

A modern oven with a sufficient rotating circle diameter can replace various kitchen appliances.

The dimensions of the device are directly affected by how broad its functionality is.

How to choose dishes for the microwave: acceptable shape and material

The main requirement for dishes for a microwave oven is the following: the material from which it is made must transmit electromagnetic waves. These include:

Glass. Most often, a tray made of this material is included with the stove. The glass must be heat-resistant, since it will be heated to high temperatures.
Ceramics. When heated, such dishes practically do not heat up, but during cooking they become quite hot, especially if they have thin walls. It is better to use porcelain or earthenware dishes specially designed for use in microwave ovens.
Plastic. The dishes must be made of heat-resistant material. Only types marked “microwave” or an icon in the form of three waves are allowed for use.
Cardboard. Individual semi-finished products are packaged in packaging that can be used as utensils when heated.

Related article:

Built-in microwave oven: what you should pay attention to when choosing a device
Types of models and their main functions. What to look for when choosing which manufacturer to give preference to.

The size of the dishes depends on the dimensions of the microwave; the diameter can vary from 24.5 cm to 36 cm. The optimal shape is round or oval. Square and rectangular types are less suitable for microwave ovens, since a significant amount of energy is concentrated in the corners, which causes overdrying of food.

Important! Metal utensils should not be used in microwaves. The material blocks electromagnetic waves, the container heats up, and the food remains cold.

The optimal shape of dishes for use in the microwave is round or oval

Minimum Required

To feel comfortable and get a good night's sleep, it is not enough to buy a quality bed and a good mattress. An important nuance is the free space both around the furniture and from its edges to your body. Experts recommend not to neglect the following rules:

There must be an approach/passage of at least 75 cm on all sides of the bed (except for the headboard);
The distance between lying people is at least 10 cm;
The distance from the edge of the bed to the feet is at least 10 cm;
When lying on your back, from the hand to the edge of the bed is also at least 10 cm;
From the head (or the top edge of the pillow) to the headboard at least 10 cm;
A comfortable single bed option implies a distance from the hands of a person (lying in a calm position on his back) to the edges of the mattress of at least 15 cm.

The minimum acceptable values are given; for greater convenience, experts recommend increasing the distances by another 5-10 cm.

Thus, you can calculate the minimum dimensions of a product suitable for your build and height. The width of the bed should be at least the width of your shoulders plus 30 cm (for single occupancy), and the standard size of a double bed should accommodate two people lying on their backs and a margin of 30 centimeters.

The height of the bed is also an important factor. It will be most comfortable for you to sit down and stand up from the product, sitting on which your legs form a right angle.

If you still have questions after reading the article “Standards for bed sizes, GOST, size tables: length, width, height,” ask them in the comments, we will definitely try to supplement the material with answers to them.

Overview of functions and sizes of Samsung microwave ovens

The Samsung brand offers a wide variety of microwave ovens. Small models are especially popular. Their volume does not exceed 13 liters. The design contains only a magnet, which allows you to heat ready-made dishes and subject fresh products to light heat treatment. Modest dimensions and light weight provide some freedom when choosing the installation location. Most often these are free-standing solo models.

Higher end units have a grill heater. Their overall dimensions can be either medium or large. The width of the microwave oven is 40 cm, allowing you to place a whole chicken or duck in the oven. The manufacturer produces devices of larger sizes - GE83MRTQS (with grill). Dimensions of the model: height – 27.5 cm, width – 48.5 cm, depth – 35.6 cm. The volume of this oven is 23 liters.

CE107MNR-B is a device with convection. This is a spacious oven with a volume of 28 liters. Overall dimensions of the case: height – 29.7 cm, width – 51.7 cm, depth – 47 cm.

produces a wide variety of microwave ovens

For many, the compact built-in model FG77SSTR may be suitable. The width of the microwave is 48.5 cm with a height of 36 cm and a depth of 31.2 cm. The volume of such an oven is 20 liters. Samsung is a popular brand, but at the same time, the prices for microwave ovens from this manufacturer are quite affordable.

Gradation by case type

Conventionally, all microwave ovens can be divided into 2 types:

Stationary free-standing devices made in various sizes - from compact to full-size. The main thing is to find the installation location in advance. Read more in the review “Where to put a microwave in the kitchen.”
Built-in structures. They are made in fairly large dimensions and are equipped with enviable functionality. The volumes are compensated by the possibility of installing the stove in a kitchen niche. This move will visually and practically save a lot of usable space, give the interior laconicism and perfection, while maintaining the overall style of the design solution. Read more about built-in modifications on the page “How to choose a built-in microwave oven.”

When choosing, focus on your preferences and take into account the area of the kitchen and the parameters of the kitchen unit.

Popular models and standard sizes of LG microwave ovens

The model range of this microwave oven manufacturer is wide and varied. The devices are easy to operate, even with extensive functionality. In the LG microwave oven you can equally easily defrost chicken or make yogurt, heat hodgepodge or cook steamed cutlets.

The models have an interesting design; it is easy to choose an external design that matches the chosen interior. Oven doors can have both side and top openings, which contributes to more comfortable use at different installation levels of microwave ovens.

Microwave ovens with a depth of up to 30 cm are distinguished by an affordable price and good quality. The height of such models ranges from 27 to 30 cm, and the width is 47-49 cm. Among them there are both built-in and free-standing models. Such devices can only have a tape recorder or a grill.

LG microwave ovens have an original design and fit well into any interior

Large-sized stoves from this manufacturer, with a volume of 25–28 liters, are especially popular. They have a large range of functions and can easily replace ovens. In them, thanks to convection, you can bake delicious products and grill chicken with a golden brown crust.

The overall dimensions of such furnaces usually increase most often due to height and width. For example, the LG MJ3965AIS model with grill and convection has the following parameters: height - 32.5 cm, width - 54 cm, depth - 52.3 cm.

Helpful advice! When choosing a microwave with the maximum range of possible functions, you should take into account that it will be a device with high power, and therefore a high level of energy consumption.

Conclusion

The more often and more variedly you want to cook using a microwave oven, the more carefully you need to choose. In a large family, the wishes of all members are taken into account, but it is better to make the final decision with the one who will use it most often, so that the device does not stand idle. If this is a gift, it is also worth listening to the opinions of future owners so that the purchase is useful and convenient.

Modern models can completely replace a stove; if you want to give up a gas or electric stove in favor of a microwave, it is better to take a large one with a grill, steamer, convection, in order to be able to fully cook. Travel lovers and summer residents should purchase a portable version, then they will have warm food nearby, even far from home.

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Mini microwaves: which devices should be preferred?

One of the reasons why the smallest microwave is chosen is the small size of the kitchen space. But not only. Such ovens are purchased for heating baby food in offices.

Mini microwaves have a small internal compartment volume from 8.5 to 20 l

The operating principle of small microwave ovens is no different from the functioning of large devices - these are electromagnetic waves and a fan that forces them. The only difference is in size, power and power supply. Small microwaves can be divided into two types:

Solo. These are simple designs that, due to the small hardware, can be small in size. They are used to heat food.
Fully functional units. With very modest dimensions, they have a wide range of functions, including grilling, making yoghurt, etc. These models are much more expensive than similar larger devices.

If the use of the first type is fully justified by rationality, then it is difficult to imagine how narrow 8-liter microwave ovens with full functionality are used. However, there is a completely logical explanation: if they are produced, that means there are buyers, there is demand. Perhaps a confirmed bachelor will be happy to prepare himself a delicious chicken drumstick or one glass of a healthy fermented milk drink.

Mini microwave models are equipped only with heating and defrosting functions, and have low power (about 600 W)

A piece of paradise in the home

Having decided to recreate the atmosphere of constant summer in a house or apartment, you need to know exactly what a winter garden is and how it differs from an ordinary greenhouse. A greenhouse is the same greenhouse that is focused on growing cultivated plants in artificially created conditions (for example, oranges or bananas).

Installation of built-in microwave ovens, dimensions for built-in

When determining where to place the microwave, it is worth considering some points:

You cannot install a microwave oven above a hob, near heating appliances, an oven, that is, near heat sources, since hot air can have a destructive effect on insulation;
Do not hang the microwave above the sink or in other places with high humidity levels.

The dimensions of the cabinet for the oven and microwave are always indicated in the instructions for the specific model, since they depend on the location of the ventilation of the working chamber, and it can be either top or side.

Installation of microwave ovens is carried out in several stages:

Fixing in the niche of the top bracket.
Mounting and fixing the lower brackets under the stove base.
Introduction of the microwave.
Installation of decorative elements, connection of the unit.

For proper installation of a built-in microwave, it is necessary to leave small gaps for air circulation

A freestanding microwave oven can be installed in a cabinet. Unlike a built-in microwave, the size of the space from the walls of the furniture should be greater: the depth of the cabinet is at least 10 cm greater than the depth of the oven, a 15-centimeter space must be left above the top surface, and side clearances must be at least 5 cm.

Helpful advice! To install a free-standing microwave oven in a niche, you don’t have to create a special furniture structure, but use an existing wide shelf of sufficient size, since the back wall is preserved when placing this type of oven.

Choosing a place

Any type of household appliance is designed for long-term use. Therefore, I recommend that you carefully choose a microwave and determine in advance the place where the device will be placed.

This primarily applies to those who plan to install the device in a kitchen cabinet or kitchen unit. Agree, it will be unpleasant if the dimensions of the oven are not suitable and the device simply does not fit into the compartment.

If you are a true gardener, live in the city, but often go out to the country, consider the option of portable mini-microwaves. Yes, they are not as functional as we would like, but they are easy to transport, and they also heat food well.

A small-sized microwave oven will satisfy the wishes of a small family of two or three people. The volume of these devices is 15 liters, which is more than enough to heat small portions.

If your family has more than four people, we recommend considering large-sized devices with a volume of 30 to 40 liters: it can accommodate more products than a standard one, and there will be no queue in the kitchen.

Well, we figured out the type of microwave, now the most important thing is to choose a place! It is necessary to think through all the nuances in advance and allocate a worthy place for the device. Consider the following factors:

The foundation should be as level as possible.
To avoid using an extension cord, the microwave should be located close to an outlet.
The distance between other household appliances should be at least 1 meter.
The device should not only make the life of a modern person easier, but also decorate the interior. Therefore, I recommend choosing a place where the device will look harmonious against the general background.

The last and most important rule in your own words: microwave ovens have heating elements. The longer the device operates, the greater the heat.

The device pushes out heat through the ventilation compartments, thus speeding up the cooling process and protecting the mechanism from overheating. Therefore, you cannot place microwave ovens next to flammable things: curtains, curtains, sunflower oils and everything like that.

Also, do not leave routers and gadgets near microwave ovens, otherwise interruptions in the operation of the equipment will be noticed.

Whether they can be placed on the refrigerator or dishwasher is a relative question. It all depends on the power, the level of vibration and the size of the microwave: if the oven vibrates strongly, then it is better not to install it. If there is practically no vibration, then you can install it; interruptions in operation will not bother you.

Advice from Vutekhnik: Consider models not only from global brands, but also from domestic, unfamiliar ones. Many of them are slightly inferior in design, but in functionality they can compete with brands such as LG, Samsung, BOSCH and others.

Rating of freestanding and built-in solo microwave ovens

The rating of microwave ovens proposed below is based on user reviews. Products are not classified into built-in and free-standing, since the choice here depends on taste preferences or specific conditions. The assessment was carried out according to the following indicators:

sizes;
functionality;
ergonomics;
price (for some models).

Gorenje MO17MW is equipped with a grill function, and customizable convection and cooking modes

Let's look at the best solo models.

Gorenje MO17MW. Inexpensive, easy to operate and reliable device. It has good power – 700 W. Volume – 17 l. Price – 3000 rub. Has a small diameter rotating plate.

LG MS-2336GIH. Power – 1000 W, 8 recipes with auto mode, 4 types of defrosting, touch control panel. The volume is 23 l. Ceramic internal coating. Doesn't have a handle on the door.

Panasonic NN-ST342M. A simple and effective model. Standard set of functions. Good illumination of the working chamber. When the door is opened, the body of the microwave also moves. The price is 10% higher than the cost of analogues from other manufacturers.

Samsung ME81KRW-1. Parity of price and quality. Good power (800 W), mechanical control. Easy to use, interesting design. Volume – 23 l. Internal ceramic coating. Weak backlight.

Midea MM720CMF. Affordable price (RUB 3,500–4,500), chic design. Five power levels, maximum – 700 W. Standard set of functions. Traces of dirt are visible on the glossy surface of the door.

Microwave Panasonic NN-ST342M is equipped with basic programs for heating and cooking

Criterias of choice

When choosing, you need to consider:

Camera displacement. The larger the family, the larger the capacity of the microwave should be.
Number of options. Microwaves with wide functionality are more expensive, but with their help you can prepare many dishes. The main thing is to learn how to use the grill, convection and other modes. It is worth studying the instructions so as not to break the device through negligence.
Power. The higher this parameter, the faster the food heats up. The minimum is 450 W, and the maximum is 1700 W. Models with a power of over 1500 W quickly heat up food and also prepare dishes.
Coating. Enamel, bioceramics, and stainless steel are used for stoves. There is equipment made from several materials. This type of coating is called combined. Ceramic devices are considered the most reliable.

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Exploitation

Preparation for use

It is recommended to install the stove as a free-standing stove on a flat horizontal surface at a height of at least 85 cm from the floor, ensuring a gap of at least 20 cm at the top and 10 cm at the back. Obviously, a stationary place must be allocated for the unit being tested: moving the stove from place to place is a rather labor-intensive task. Before first use, it is recommended to wipe the oven with a damp cloth and remove the internal components and door seal.

It is also strongly recommended that you read the instructions: it contains answers to many non-obvious questions that you will inevitably encounter during the operation of the stove.

The manufacturer also recommends setting the clock before use. This will not affect the quality of food preparation, and the clock will be reset to zero every time the power is disconnected. Unfortunately, this oven does not have non-volatile memory, so in the event of a power outage, the clock will have to be set again, and it will not be possible to continue executing a previously launched program.

Microwave care

All accessories - racks, baking tray, and glass disc - are easy to clean in the dishwasher. The body and glass door are wiped with a damp cloth with detergent; the manufacturer strictly does not recommend using abrasives and solvents.

If there is heavy contamination, it is recommended to boil a glass of water inside the device. There is also a special “Odor Elimination” program designed to remove smoke and steam from the microwave oven after cooking is complete.

Mini oven Gemlux GL-OR-1320MN

Photo: market.yandex.ru

The GEMLUX GL-OR-1320MN electric furnace is a functional device housed in a compact housing. The internal volume of the device reaches 20 liters, so you can use it for preparing small portions of dishes. This stove is suitable for use by families of three or fewer people. With a power of 1300 W, the electric oven will become a full-fledged replacement for the oven, allowing you to cook a wide variety of dishes. GEMLUX GL-OR-1320MN is made in a durable steel case and provides electromechanical control. You will be able to control operating modes, set the timer, and also set the optimal temperature parameters for preparing your dish. For this purpose, rotary knobs are provided on the right side of the front panel of the case. The built-in timer will help you set the electric oven to work for 60 minutes or less: upon completion of cooking, a sound signal will sound. The model supports six operating modes, including “Convection” and “Grill”, allowing you to experiment with cooking.

Mini oven Gemlux GL-OR-1320MN