Best Microwave Drawers of 2025

The microwave drawer was first introduced to the home appliance market by SHARP, paving the way for a revolution in microwave designs for high-end kitchens. While similar to a built-in microwave, these cooking appliances are built with a litany of advanced cooking modes and versatile features which make them far more convenient to use for the average consumer.

As your appliance authority, AjMadison not only wants to offer you the best microwave drawers for your home, but also empower you to shop our wide selection of cooking appliances like an appliance pro! Let’s go through all there is to know about microwave drawers before checking out what our top picks have to offer.

Does a Microwave Drawer Need to Be Vented?

Microwave drawers often have internal cooling fans that dissipate heat generated by components to avoid overheating, negating the need for external exhaust vents. Small vents are usually found within the cooking cavity, expelling heat and odors when the appliance slides out since they can simply rise out of the opening. As a result, you can put them in any 24 or 30-inch undercounter cutout within your cabinetry – no ductwork needed.

Is a Microwave Drawer Worth It?

There are tons of features that make microwave drawers a worthwhile investment for any home. However, the best drawer microwave for your home will be one that has all the perks you desire most. Here’s a couple of common benefits you should look for before making your next purchase.

Space-Saving Designs – Drawer microwaves save counter space that would otherwise be occupied by countertop microwaves (which would have very limited cooking features on top of that).

Easy Loading and Unloading – Microwave drawers slide out on sturdy telescopic racks since their openings are on top of the unit rather than in front. That way, you can place or remove even the heaviest cookware without bending over, making many ADA-compliant.

Can Be Installed in a Kitchen Island – Since they don’t need venting, microwave drawers have more installation versatility, allowing you to place them in kitchen islands alongside slide-in ranges or dishwashers.

Great for Tight Kitchens – Since they don’t have swing-out doors or require leaning over to load them, microwave drawers are excellent options for galley kitchens and other tight workspaces.

Easy-to-Use Controls – Select models have control panels that tilt at a 45-degree angle for easy viewing from a standing position.

Convection Cooking – Internal vents and fans evenly circulate warm air around the entire cooking cavity, producing convection cooking results for small dishes while your main oven cooks large roasts.

Sensor Technology – Smart sensors on a drawer microwave from select brands enable both precise cooking and touchless operation. While sensors inside cook food to perfection, sensors outside can register the wave of your hand as a signal to slide the door open.

Smart Connectivity – Wi-Fi-enabled designs allow you to control microwave drawers from a smartphone. Some can even connect to smart home managers like Amazon Alexa, enabling voice control capabilities.

Sleek, Minimalist Designs – Handless exteriors, full-length black glass, and other design elements give each brand of microwave drawer a unique luxury appearance that complements any high-end kitchen suite.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Microwave Drawer?

Limited Installation Heights – The top openings of microwave drawers make them impossible to install above counter height.

Slow to Open and Close – Since they automatically slide open on racks, they only go one speed, preventing you from handling them as quickly as you’d like if you’re in a rush.

High Initial Cost – The versatility and luxury designs of microwave drawers come at a high price point on the front end. However, since they’re built with high-grade components, they can last longer than standard microwaves.

Easily Reached by Children – Don’t forget to activate the child lock on your undercounter microwave drawer to prevent accidental operation by your kids, even if you’re not using it!