Countertop Microwaves
Sit-on-counter microwaves are the most flexible category — no installation required, plug into a standard outlet, and move them when you redo the kitchen. Available from compact 0.7 cu ft units that fit in a dorm to large 2.0+ cu ft family-size models.
Most manufacturers require 3" of clearance on each side and 3" above for safe ventilation. A 20"-wide unit needs a 26"-wide opening.
Browse by size
Top brands for countertop microwaves
Common widths
Add 6 inches to the unit width for required clearances on either side.
Price ranges
Distribution across 353 models with current Amazon prices. Updated daily.
Under $100
70
models
$100 – $250
216
models
$250 – $500
46
models
$500 – $1000
15
models
Over $1000
6
models
What to look for in a countertop microwave
1. Wattage matters more than capacity
A 1.2 cu ft unit at 1100W will heat faster and more evenly than a 1.6 cu ft unit at 700W. Aim for 1000W+ unless you genuinely need a budget unit for a dorm.
2. Measure with clearances, not just the unit
A 20"-wide microwave needs a 26"-wide counter opening (3" each side). Measure the opening, not the unit, and you avoid the most common return.
3. Check turntable diameter
Capacity tells you cubic feet, but turntable diameter tells you whether your dinner plates spin. 12"+ comfortably fits a standard dinner plate; under 10" struggles.
4. Sensor cooking is the upgrade worth paying for
It auto-stops when food is heated through, eliminating the cold-center / overcooked-edge problem. Available on most $150+ units.
Frequently asked: countertop microwaves
What's a good wattage for a countertop microwave?
For everyday use, 1000W is the sweet spot — fast enough to heat a plate in 90 seconds without uneven hot spots. Below 800W, heating times double and food often comes out unevenly cooked.
How much clearance does a countertop microwave need?
Most manufacturers require 3 inches on each side, 3 inches above, and 1–2 inches at the back. So a 20"-wide unit needs a 26"-wide × 18"-tall counter space minimum. Without these clearances, the unit overheats and may void warranty.
Are countertop microwaves the same as OTR microwaves?
No. Countertop microwaves sit on the counter and need ventilation clearances around them. OTR (Over-The-Range) microwaves mount above the stove and double as a range hood. They look similar but install very differently.
Can I put a countertop microwave inside a cabinet?
Generally no — most countertop models are not rated for built-in installation and overheat without their required side/top clearances. Some models are explicitly trim-kit compatible; check the spec sheet before installing in a cabinet.
Different installation type?
Have your dimensions?
Skip the size buckets and use the main finder to enter your exact cabinet or counter dimensions — we'll show every countertop that fits including clearances.