Microwave Size Calculator
Did you know that on average, each British home has about 1.3 microwaves? This kitchen appliance has changed how we cook and reheat food. Choosing the right microwave size can seem hard, with so many options. This guide will help you understand microwave sizes, capacities, and features. We aim to help you pick the best one for your kitchen and cooking habits.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the basics of microwave size and dimensions, including exterior and interior measurements.
- Learn how microwave capacity affects your cooking and reheating needs.
- See the advantages of compact microwaves for small kitchens and built-in models for a smooth look.
- Find out how to pick the ideal countertop microwave size to use your space well.
- Understand how microwave size, interior space, and dinner plates and cookware are connected.
Microwave Dimensions: Understanding the Fundamentals
Choosing the right microwave oven means looking at its size carefully. The size includes both the outside and inside measurements. These are key to fitting it in your kitchen and meeting your cooking needs.
Measuring Microwave Size: Exterior vs. Interior
The outside size of a microwave shows how much space it takes up on your counter. It includes the width, depth, and height. These can change a lot between models. Knowing the microwave exterior dimensions helps plan your kitchen space.
The inside of the microwave is where you put your food. It’s measured in cubic feet or litres. This tells you what size dishes and cookware will fit inside.
Capacity and Cubic Feet: Making Sense of the Numbers
When looking at microwaves, you’ll see sizes like “1.2 cubic feet” or “30 litres.” These are the microwave cubic feet or capacity. Knowing how to understand these numbers helps pick the right size for you.
Think about both the outside size and the inside space to choose the best microwave size for your kitchen and cooking.
Compact Microwaves: Ideal for Small Spaces
Compact microwaves are great for small kitchens. They are ideal for single-person homes, tiny kitchenettes, or small cooking areas. But what exactly is a 20-litre microwave, and what makes a compact microwave ‘good size’?
Choosing the right microwave size depends on your kitchen space and cooking needs. Compact microwaves usually have a capacity of 17 to 25 litres. This size is perfect for reheating meals, defrosting foods, and doing basic cooking tasks without taking up too much space.
- A 20-litre microwave is a good choice, measuring about 24 x 39 x 36 cm. It’s big enough for standard dinner plates and small baking dishes but still fits into small kitchens.
- For single diners or couples, a 17-litre microwave is ideal. It’s around 20 x 35 x 32 cm and great for quick reheats and simple cooking.
- A 25-litre model, measuring 29 x 45 x 36 cm, offers more space. It’s good for small families or those who like to cook more in the microwave.
When picking a compact microwave, think about your kitchen size, cooking habits, and needs. There are many compact options available, so you’ll easily find the right one for your small kitchen.
Built-in Microwave Sizes: Seamless Integration
Built-in microwaves are a top pick for modern kitchens. They give a sleek look that matches the cabinets well. But, making sure they fit right is key for a good install. We’ll look at the usual sizes for built-in microwaves to help you pick and install yours easily.
Standard Built-in Measurements for Easy Installation
Built-in microwaves have standard sizes to fit kitchen cabinets well. Here are the usual sizes to think about when picking a new built-in microwave:
- Width: Most built-in microwaves are 24 to 30 inches wide, with 30 inches being the top choice.
- Height: They’re usually 15 to 18 inches tall, with 16 inches being common.
- Depth: Built-in microwaves are about 24 inches deep, fitting well with cabinets.
Make sure to measure your kitchen space well to fit the new built-in microwave perfectly. Keeping these standard sizes in mind makes installing it easier and keeps your kitchen looking unified.
| Dimension | Typical Range | Most Common Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 24 to 30 inches (60 to 76 cm) | 30 inches (76 cm) |
| Height | 15 to 18 inches (38 to 46 cm) | 16 inches (41 cm) |
| Depth | 24 inches (60 cm) | 24 inches (60 cm) |
Knowing the usual sizes of built-in microwaves helps homeowners and DIY fans. It makes measuring for a new microwave easy and ensures it fits well in your kitchen. This info also helps tell apart a countertop microwave from a built-in microwave, aiding in making a smart choice.
Countertop Microwave Measurements: Finding the Perfect Fit
Choosing the right countertop microwave is key for your kitchen. The size matters a lot. You need to know the standard microwave size in the UK to fit it well on your countertop.
A standard countertop microwave in the UK is usually 30 to 45 cm wide, 35 to 50 cm deep, and 15 to 30 cm tall. But, these sizes can change with different models and brands.
Before picking a microwave, measure the space on your countertop. Think about any other appliances or things that might get in the way. Then, compare these measurements with the microwave’s size you’re looking at.
The size inside the microwave is also crucial. Choose one that fits your cooking needs. Whether it’s for reheating a small meal or cooking for the family, make sure it’s the right size.
By measuring your countertop and knowing the standard sizes, you can easily find a microwave that fits and suits your cooking needs.
Microwave Size and Interior Space
Choosing the right microwave means looking at its interior space. The size of a microwave affects what dishes and cookware you can use. This makes cooking easier and more efficient.
Accommodating Dinner Plates and Cookware
When picking a microwave, fitting standard items like dinner plates is key. A 20-litre microwave is popular, but can it hold a dinner plate? This depends on the microwave’s size and the plate’s size.
| Microwave Size | Typical Dinner Plate Size | Fit Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| 20 litres | 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) | Yes, a standard dinner plate will typically fit in a 20-litre microwave. |
| 25 litres | 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) | Yes, a larger dinner plate will comfortably fit in a 25-litre microwave. |
| 30 litres | 14-16 inches (35-40 cm) | Yes, a very large dinner plate can be accommodated in a 30-litre microwave. |
Think about the size of the dinner plate and the height of the microwave interior. This ensures tall dishes and cookware fit without problems.
Microwave Oven Capacity: Litres vs. Cubic Feet
Choosing the right microwave oven is key, and its capacity is a major factor. You’ll see it measured in litres or cubic feet. It’s vital to know the difference to pick the best one.
The microwave oven capacity tells you how big the inside is. This affects how many items you can cook at once. A 20 litre microwave is smaller than a 1.0 cubic feet model. But what does calculating microwave litres mean in real life?
- Litres (L) show the inside space of the microwave, telling you how much you can cook.
- Cubic feet (cu ft) are about the microwave’s size outside, not always the inside space you can use.
To calculate microwave litres, multiply the inside’s length, width, and height in metres. For example, a microwave of 0.4m x 0.3m x 0.2m is 24 litres. But its outside size might be listed as 0.8 cu ft.
| Metric | Capacity Calculation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Litres (L) | Length x Width x Height (in metres) | 0.4m x 0.3m x 0.2m = 0.024 m³ = 24 L |
| Cubic Feet (cu ft) | External Dimensions | 0.8 cu ft |
Knowing the difference between microwave oven capacity in litres and cubic feet helps you choose the right one. It meets your cooking needs perfectly.
Microwave Size: The Crucial Factor
Choosing the right size microwave is vital. It makes cooking easier and fits well in your kitchen. Whether you have a small space or a big family, knowing the size options is important.
So, what size microwave do you need? It depends on your kitchen space and the dishes you use. A 25-litre microwave is often perfect for most homes. It fits a standard dinner plate and many kitchen items.
| Microwave Size in Litres | Suitable For |
|---|---|
| 20-25 Litres | Ideal for small to medium-sized households, can fit a standard dinner plate |
| 26-32 Litres | Suitable for larger families or those who cook frequently, can accommodate larger dishes |
| 33 Litres and above | Suitable for large families or those with extensive cooking needs, can handle oversized cookware |
Think about your kitchen’s space when picking a microwave size. Make sure the appliance fits well. Compact microwaves are great for small kitchens. Built-in microwaves blend into your cabinets for a neat look.
“The right microwave size can greatly enhance your cooking experience and ensure it seamlessly fits into your kitchen.”
Your microwave’s size should match your needs and kitchen space. By thinking about these things, you can find the ideal size for convenient and efficient cooking.
Microwave Installation Sizes: Planning Ahead
When installing a microwave, size matters a lot. Whether you choose a built-in or an over-the-range model, measuring the space well is key. This ensures your microwave fits perfectly in your kitchen.
Measuring for Built-in and Over-the-Range Models
Here’s how to measure for your new microwave:
- Measure the height, width, and depth of the space where the microwave will go. This tells you the biggest size microwave you can fit.
- Check the height from the floor to the microwave cabinet or over-the-range opening’s bottom. This helps pick a model that fits the vertical space well.
- Make sure to measure the width of the cabinet or opening. This ensures your microwave slides in easily.
- Think about the cabinet or opening’s depth. Some microwaves might stick out a bit.
With these exact measurements, you can pick a microwave that blends well into your kitchen. This is true for both built-in and over-the-range models.
| Measurement | Built-in Microwave | Over-the-Range Microwave |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 15 to 24 inches | 16 to 18 inches |
| Width | 24 to 30 inches | 30 inches |
| Depth | 15 to 20 inches | 15 to 18 inches |
By using these tips and precise measurements, you’ll get a microwave that fits just right. This is true whether it’s a built-in or an over-the-range model.
Wattage and Microwave Size: Understanding the Relationship
When looking at microwaves, wattage and size are key. The wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is and how efficient it uses energy. A higher wattage means faster cooking and even heating.
So, is a 900W microwave better than an 800W one? It’s not a simple answer. A 900W microwave cooks faster and heats better, but the difference might not be huge in everyday use. A 700W microwave can still be powerful enough for many people, depending on what they cook.
Looking at microwave size and wattage shows a link. Bigger microwaves usually have more power. This ensures they cook large amounts of food well. On the other hand, smaller, compact microwaves might have less power but are still fine for most cooking.
When comparing 700W and 800W microwaves, the differences might not be huge. Think about what you need and how you cook. The right microwave is one that fits your kitchen and cooking style well.
| Microwave Wattage | Typical Microwave Size | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| 700W | 0.7 – 1.1 cubic feet | Small kitchens, singles, or couples |
| 800W | 1.0 – 1.5 cubic feet | Medium-sized kitchens, small families |
| 900W | 1.2 – 2.0 cubic feet | Larger kitchens, families, heavy cooking needs |
Understanding how wattage and size work together helps you choose the right microwave. Think about what you need and the space you have. Don’t worry too much about small wattage differences. What really matters is if the microwave fits your kitchen and cooking style.
Family Size and Microwave Capacity: Choosing Wisely
Choosing the right microwave for your home depends on your family size. If you’re a family of four or a couple with guests, knowing how microwave size affects your cooking needs is key. This knowledge helps you pick the best microwave for your needs.
A 25-litre microwave is usually ideal for a family of four. It has enough room for dinner plates and various cookware. This size ensures your meals heat up well. But, if you often have guests or your family is growing, a 30-litre microwave might be better. It can handle more cooking tasks.
A 20-litre microwave might not be enough for a family of four. It could struggle with big dishes or cooking several items at once. You might end up rearranging or reheating food often, which is both time-consuming and annoying.
| Household Size | Recommended Microwave Capacity |
|---|---|
| 1-2 people | 20-25 litres |
| 3-4 people | 25-30 litres |
| 5+ people | 30+ litres |
The right microwave size depends on your family’s needs. Picking a capacity that fits your family’s size and cooking habits ensures your microwave works well. It also saves kitchen space and boosts efficiency.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our look at microwave sizes, it’s clear picking the right one is key. Whether you want the top 3 microwaves or just want to know what makes a good one, this guide has you covered.
We’ve looked at how wattage affects microwave size and what the most common size microwave is for different homes. It’s also vital to think about energy efficiency and costs. A 700w microwave might not always be the best choice, especially if your usage and electricity prices vary.
Choosing the right microwave size is about finding the right mix of capacity, power, and cost. By measuring your space and thinking about your cooking needs, you can pick a good microwave that fits your budget. With this advice, you’re ready to make a choice that will benefit your kitchen and meals for a long time.
FAQ
What is the size capacity of a microwave?
Microwaves come in various sizes, measured in litres or cubic feet. They range from 17 litres for small models to over 30 litres for larger ones. The right size depends on your kitchen space and household size.
How do I know what size microwave I need?
The right microwave size depends on your kitchen space, household size, and cooking needs. A 20-25 litre model suits 2-4 people well. For larger families, a 25-30 litre model is better.
What does a 20 litre microwave mean?
A 20 litre microwave means it can hold up to 20 litres of food or dishes inside. It’s a compact size, great for singles or small families.
How do I choose the right built-in microwave size?
Pick a built-in microwave that fits your kitchen perfectly. Measure the space carefully, considering height, width, and depth. Sizes range from 60 to 90 cm wide and 38 to 45 cm high, so choose one that matches your kitchen.
What is the size of a standard microwave in the UK?
Standard microwaves in the UK are about 60 cm wide, 35 cm deep, and 35 cm high. They fit most kitchens and can handle various dishes. But, sizes can vary for compact or built-in models.
Is a 700W microwave powerful enough?
A 700W microwave is fine for small to medium households. It’s good for basic cooking and reheating. If you don’t need super fast heating, it’s a great choice.
How do I calculate the size of a microwave in litres?
To find a microwave’s size in litres, measure its height, width, and depth in centimetres. Multiply these together, then divide by 1000. For example, a 30 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm microwave is 30 litres.
What size microwave is best for a family of 4?
For 4 people, a 25-30 litre microwave is ideal. It lets you cook for everyone and handle larger dishes easily.
Does a 20 litre microwave fit a dinner plate?
Yes, a 20 litre microwave fits a standard 11-inch dinner plate. But, it might be a bit tight. For bigger plates or dishes, go for a 25 litre or bigger model.
Is there a big difference between a 900W and 1000W microwave?
Not much, as both 900W and 1000W microwaves work well for everyday cooking. The 1000W model cooks a bit faster, but 900W is still great for most needs. The size of the microwave is more important than the wattage.