Last Updated on May 11, 2023 by Mosabbir
While looking for a new microwave, it’s crucial to know the size. After knowing the dimensions, you can easily understand what plates and containers the appliance can accommodate.
So, if you are aware of the microwave’s size, you can plan your recipes easily.
So, how to determine microwave oven size?
Well, it’s what we will discuss here.
How To Determine Microwave Oven Size?
Measurement of your microwave is required when you are replacing it or determining whether a particular model will suit your requirements or not.
You should measure the interior dimensions of the microwave first. The internal area is generally measured in cubic feet, but you can also remember it in feet.
It will help you use a measuring tape to determine microwave dimensions UK. Measure the height and width of the appliance first.
Do not measure the external height. Finally, check the internal depth of the instrument. Multiply all the results and divide them with 1728 to get the size in cubic feet.
For instance, Russell Hobbs RHM2076B has dimensions of 14 x 17 x 10 inches. So, the result is 2, 380, and if we multiply it with 1, 728, then the outcome is 1.37. Hence, the size of RHM2076B is 1.37 cubic feet.
Different Sizes of Microwave Ovens
Microwave ovens are available in 4 different sizes; compact, midsize, full-size, and extra-large. A compact model is available with a size of 1 cubic foot.
These variants are suitable for small kitchens and can accommodate small glass or microwave-safe plastic containers, bowls and plates.
Midsize versions are available with a size anywhere between 1.1 to 1.5 cubic feet. These variants are perfect for baking.
On the other hand, full-sized microwaves are available between 1.6 to 2 cubic feet. Anything more significant than these numbers is considered an extra-large option.
Microwave Oven Types and Their sizes
You can find three different types of microwaves in the UK; countertop, over the range, and built. The first category is easy to manage, unlike the two latter ones.
Place a countertop microwave on your kitchen slab, plug it into the nearest electrical outlet and start using the appliance.
As simple as you can read it. These kitchen instruments are available within a size of 0.7 to 2.2 cubic feet.
Over the range microwaves are more significant than their countertop competitors. As you can understand from its name, such an appliance rests above your cooking range.
It also works as a hood. So, perfect to try if you own a small kitchen. These models are available anywhere between 1.4 to 2.0 cubic feet.
Built-in microwaves are suitable if you own the house. Installation of such an appliance is achieved generally by an expert.
Most of the times, these microwaves are installed within a cabinet, wall or space specially built for such a kitchen appliance. These variants are generally available between 1 to 2 cubic feet.
You need to consult a professional every time there are requirements to install or uninstall a built-in microwave. Plus, you cannot use it as a standalone device like a countertop microwave.
How to Choose the Right Size of a Microwave Oven?
You need to consider a few points to select the right microwave oven size. It’s essential to choose something according to your requirements. Otherwise, it will not be a wise investment.
- What do you want to prepare?
What is your purpose for buying a microwave? Are you a bachelor or living with a family? These are the two primary points to consider.
If you want a kitchen appliance for family usage, try something with a size between 1.1 to 1.5 cubic feet. Such an appliance will do the needful without occupying much space on your kitchen’s counter.
If you live alone and need a microwave to reheat your meals, prepare noodles or reheat the pasta, then a model with a size of less than one cubic foot will be acceptable. If you are planning to cook a whole chicken, then try a bigger version.
- Open space in your kitchen
If you own a small kitchen or live on rent, try a countertop microwave. Such instruments are easy to move as per your needs.
On the other hand, if you need a cooking appliance for a commercial establishment, then try to purchase something with more than a capacity of 2 cubic feet.
Bigger microwave ovens are powerful, and hence, they can cook or reheat faster than their smaller competitors.
But, you cannot go for a vast kitchen appliance if you don’t have the available space. So, choose according to the usage as well as open space.
FAQs
Is 25L Microwave enough?
Well, the answer depends upon the number of users and their eating habits. A 20-litre microwave is sufficient for a small family. But, if you are living with a large family with more than four members, then try something with a capacity of more than 25 litres.
Is 800w microwave enough?
An 800W microwave is sufficient for most of the reheating, defrosting and cooking purposes. However, higher wattage results in fast cooking or reheating.
But, most of the recipes demands power between 800 to 1000W. So, yes, an 800W microwave is enough. But, it might take some extra minutes to cook, reheat or defrost something.
Are built-in microwaves better?
A built-in microwave offers all the functions, but it does not occupy any space on your countertop.
Such an appliance is powerful as well but needs professional assistance for installation and removal. So, these variants are best if you own a house and living with a large family.
Conclusion
Now we know how to determine microwave oven size in cubic feet. The measurements are only for the internal capacity, and it lets you know the abilities of a microwave oven. The size is generally related to the power. So, a model with high degree can cook faster than its small partners.
