At a Glance:
A microwave drawer is just what it sounds like—it looks and acts like a drawer, yet it cooks your food just as any other microwave does. While they’re not as common as traditional microwave ovens, the microwave drawer has become a regular in designer kitchens since they’re the perfect way to save space in the kitchen while still having the convenience of a microwave. Friedmans Appliance is the right place to learn more about the products if you’re curious, with a wide selection to choose from the leading brands on the market. Follow along to learn everything you need to know about microwave drawers in our guide.
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Explore a new look for the kitchen with microwave drawers from Friedmans Appliance
Shop NowWhat is a Microwave Drawer?
While many microwaves are hung above the stove, or sit on a counter, taking up valuable kitchen space, a microwave drawer installation happens in a more convenient location. For example, a microwave drawer in island work centers or in your wall alongside other cabinetry is possible. They are also far more accommodating to all people, whether tall or short since they are more accessible than over-the-range or countertop microwaves. With the same features as your typical microwave, a microwave drawer is the ultimate modern convenience for your kitchen.
Microwave drawers are an investment and are currently sold by luxury appliance brands. Microwave drawers can range in price anywhere from $1,439–$2,799, however, they are well worth the cost due to their many benefits. They are made by a few different well-trusted, luxury appliance brands such as Viking, Thermador, GE Cafe, and Bosch. If you’re looking for a way to declutter your countertops while decking out the kitchen with the latest innovations, a microwave drawer is worth exploring.
Related: Fisher & Paykel Dishwashers Let Buyers Explore New Horizons
Microwave Drawers: Compared
Microwave drawers are a great addition to your kitchen, but of course, everyone has a different opinion as to which type of microwave they prefer. Below are listed some pros and cons of microwave drawers in addition to explaining the differences between styles such as microwave drawer vs built in models. First up, the pros and cons of microwave drawers.
Pros
✅ Saves space in your kitchen
✅ Sleek, modern appearance
✅ Larger size to cook bigger items
✅ More accessible to everyone in a household
Cons
✖ Expensive
✖ No option for convection cooking
✖ No turntable
Countertop Microwaves
Countertop microwaves are a well-known staple in many households. They are desirable to many people due to their simplicity and the familiarity they hold for many.
Pros
✅ Convenient location
✅ Affordable cost
✅ Variety of power capacity options
Cons
✖ Takes up counter space
✖ Can be look tacky
✖ Not equipped for air ventilation
Built-in Microwaves
Built-in microwaves tend to look nice and fit well into a kitchen. They are typically easy to use but do cost more upfront to purchase and install.
Pros
✅ Saves space
✅ Good quality
✅ Nice appearance overall
Cons
✖ High cost up-front
✖ Must be professionally installed
✖ Expensive repairs
Over-the-Range Microwaves
Over-the-Range microwaves have become more popular over the past decade. They often include a convenient venting system and help save space in your kitchen. Keep in mind that not all over-the-range microwaves are compatible with all gas cooking appliances (here’s a good kitchen ventilation guide to keep in mind while you shop).
Pros
✅ Saves space in your kitchen
✅ Great way to add kitchen ventilation on a budget
Cons
✖ Hard to reach for shorter homeowners
✖ Less aesthetically appealing vent system than a hood vent
5 Top Rated Microwave Drawers
Now that you’re familiar with the differences between microwave drawers and other microwave styles, let’s take a look at five models we recommend.
Bosch 800 Series 1.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Drawer Microwave
Shop This Bosch Microwave Drawer
A stainless steel and black microwave drawer from Bosch is sure to be a great addition to your kitchen. Known for their numerous quality checks and eco-friendly designs, all of Bosch’s products are well worth the purchase. This Bosch microwave drawer is made with a variety of user-friendly features and a sleek LCD display with touch controls, plus an interior large enough to fit a 13” x 9” casserole tray. It also includes a one-year warranty for your peace of mind.
Featured Bosch HMD8451UC microwave review: “I have had microwaves for 3 decades and have never once used any of them to cook because they ruin food. Until now. First of all the reclaimed counter space afforded by the clever install is such a boon to my kitchen. The Bosch puts the "friendly" into user friendly in a big way! The read out screen's step by step instructions are simple and direct. The cooking is even and gradual... not at all like those that create hot spots, soggy spots, and all around lousy results. I have loved my Bosch dishwasher and now I am thrilled with my Drawer Microwave.”
Wolf® 1.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Microwave Drawer
Shop This Wolf Microwave Drawer
Wolf as a brand is known for its quality and innovation, which can be clearly seen in the enhanced settings and features that grace each and every model out on the market. This 30 inch microwave drawer model from Wolf is no exception. This Wolf microwave drawer includes features such as a keep warm setting, 20% larger space capacity, 10 power levels, and a control panel lock. This microwave drawer also perfectly matches the Wolf Series E ovens as well, so you can easily match your appliance for a better overall aesthetic in your kitchen.
KitchenAid® 1.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Under Counter Microwave Drawer
Shop This KitchenAid Microwave Drawer
KitchenAid is a well-known, reliable brand that builds its appliances to last. This KitchenAid microwave drawer is an excellent option for your kitchen, as it combines quality with efficiency. With 950-watt cooking power and 1.2 cubic feet capacity, this microwave drawer can cook even the largest-sized items at a faster rate than most microwaves. It also includes helpful features such as a timed defrost, sensor detection, and a keep warm function. This KitchenAid appliance is a top-rate option for a microwave drawer and will not let you down.
Featured KitchenAid KMBD104GSS microwave review:“…I have no intention of going back to having to lift food into an above-the-counter microwave. The unit itself is great! It is definitely living up to the highly reputable, long-established "Kitchen Aid" name! It operates very quietly, heats well and has a lot of nice features. The SS finish looks great in my new kitchen, along with my new Kitchen Aid dishwasher, which is also a significant upgrade.”
Thermador® Masterpiece® MicroDrawer® 1.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built in Microwave
Shop This Thermador Microwave Drawer
Thermador is renowned as a world-class appliance brand that uses quality materials to create durable, modern, highly desirable appliances. This 24 inch microwave drawer allows for flush installation, so you can fit it in easily to any part of your kitchen. This Thermador microwave drawer also includes 10 different cooking modes with a sensor cooking feature, so your food is cooked to perfection every time. The luxury of Thermador is clearly on display in this appliance and is a surefire way to improve your kitchen.
GE Cafe™ 1.2 Cu.Ft. Matte Black Built In Microwave Drawer
Shop This Cafe Microwave Drawer
This Cafe microwave drawer is easy to use, easy to clean, and highly rated by users. GE Cafe is known for its high-quality, stylish designs, and this microwave drawer lives up to all expectations. The handleless door opens easily with the push of a button, and its glass touch controls are a beautiful aesthetic. With sensor cook and sensor reheat settings, as well as a child lock, this microwave drawer is one of GE Cafe’s neatest appliances to date.
Featured Cafe CWL112P3RD5 microwave review: “The Café drawer microwave opens just like a drawer. This makes it a lot easier for me that I do not need to stretch to reach (I have another microwave where the door opens down) I found it easier to clean and the size (24") is just perfect. The café microwave has a sleek, clean, and modern look..
Microwave drawers may be more expensive than other microwave options, but their benefits far outweigh any hesitations you may have. They help save space in your kitchen, are easy to access, have incredible features, and immensely elevate the aesthetic of your kitchen. A microwave drawer is an addition your kitchen is waiting for.
If you are looking to upgrade your kitchen by purchasing a microwave drawer and you live in or near the Bay Area, Friedmans Appliance is by far the best place to purchase one. Friedmans has the best customer service around, as well as great deals and sales year-round. If you want a great deal on a luxury microwave drawer, Friedmans Appliance will get you what you need.
Why Trust Friedmans Appliance?
Established in 1922, Friedmans Appliance has been the most trusted name in the Bay Area for over 100 years. What started as a small appliance store in Oakland has expanded to include every appliance you need for your home. Our commitment to value, inspiration, and character has only grown, creating an unbeatable reputation for top-notch appliances. At Friedmans, we strive to give our customers the best of the best, including our selection of top appliance brands and our exceptional customer service. Speaking of which, we offer a 100-day price guarantee on all our products — the longest in the industry!
Our wide selection of appliances is just one of the reasons we’re the best Bay Area appliance store. We carry refrigerators in every style, every cooking appliance to show off your chef skills, and every dish care and laundry appliance you need for cleanup.
Shop Microwave Drawers at Friedmans
See for yourself why Friedmans is a trusted name in the Bay Area and shop microwaves online. While we are located in Pleasant Hill, we deliver to all of Northern California — even Reno! If you have any questions, our team is always happy to help you discover a microwave drawer you’ll love, whether you call us at 925-808-2950, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by our appliance store in Pleasant Hill to experience the quality in person. Visit us today!
Learn More: What is a Steam Oven? Everything You Need to Know