Normal Microwave Size
A “normal” countertop microwave is about 20–24 inches wide, 12–14 inches tall and 15–19 inches deep, with 1.0–1.6 cubic feet inside — but sizes vary a lot. This page lists typical dimensions for every type, then checks whether a particular microwave fits your space with room for ventilation, works out interior capacity from measurements, and tells you whether your dish fits on the turntable.
Microwave fit checker
Kitchen Appliance Planning Pack
Printable appliance measuring worksheet, a kitchen layout grid, an appliance dimension record sheet and a microwave dish size reference chart.
- Measuring worksheet (PDF/DOCX/XLSX)
- Layout grid (PDF)
- Size chart (PDF/XLSX)
- Dish chart (PDF/XLSX)
Formats: PDF, DOCX, XLSX. Instant download after payment (link valid 72 hours, up to 5 downloads). AI-assisted: the templates were drafted with AI help and reviewed and laid out by Kedop.
$3.00 USD, one-time
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Typical countertop microwave sizes
| Size class | Capacity | Typical width | Typical height | Typical depth | Turntable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact | 0.5–0.9 cu ft | 17–19 in (43–48 cm) | 10–11 in (25–28 cm) | 13–15 in (33–38 cm) | 9.5–10.5 in |
| Mid-size | 1.0–1.6 cu ft | 19–22 in (48–56 cm) | 11–13 in (28–33 cm) | 15–18 in (38–46 cm) | 11–13 in |
| Full-size | 1.7–2.2 cu ft | 22–24 in (56–61 cm) | 13–14 in (33–36 cm) | 18–20 in (46–51 cm) | 13.5–16 in |
These are typical ranges from common models, not a standard — always check the exact dimensions of the model you are considering. Depth is usually measured with the door closed and may not include the handle.
Other types of microwave
| Type | Typical size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Over-the-range (OTR) | About 30 in wide, 16–18 in tall, 15–18 in deep; 1.5–2.1 cu ft | Fits a standard 30 in cabinet gap above a range; includes a vent fan and light |
| Built-in / trim kit | Fits 24, 27 or 30 in cabinet openings | Often a countertop model with a matching trim kit |
| Microwave drawer | 24 or 30 in wide | Installed under a counter; opens like a drawer |
| Combination / convection | Similar to full-size countertop | Also bakes and browns |
How to use the fit checker
- Choose a typical size, or pick “Enter my own” and type the exact dimensions from the product listing.
- Measure your space: width, height and depth of the shelf, niche or cabinet.
- Enter the clearance your microwave’s manual asks for at the top, sides and back.
- Check the result and the margin for each direction.
- Optionally, enter your largest dish and the turntable diameter to see whether it will turn freely.
Ventilation clearance
Countertop microwaves need air to flow around their vents. Manuals commonly ask for a few inches above the top and around an inch or more at the sides and back, but the figures vary between models — and some models vent through the front and need less. Blocking vents can make the microwave overheat and shut off. If you are putting a countertop microwave inside a cabinet, check that the manual allows it, or use a built-in model with a trim kit designed for that opening.
Capacity from interior measurements
Capacity is the interior volume: interior width × height × depth. In inches, divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet: an interior of 13.5 × 8.5 × 14 inches is 1,606.5 cubic inches, or about 0.93 cubic feet. In centimetres, divide by 1,000 to get litres; 1 cubic foot is about 28.3 litres. Manufacturers’ stated capacities may be measured slightly differently, so compare like with like.
Will my dish fit?
- A round dish fits if its diameter is no bigger than the turntable — and ideally a little smaller.
- A rectangular dish must be able to turn: its diagonal, not its length, is what matters. A 9 × 13 in baking dish has a diagonal of about 15.8 in, so it needs a large turntable or a model whose turntable can be switched off.
- Check the interior height for tall mugs and jugs.
- Some flatbed microwaves have no turntable and fit wider dishes.
Worked example
You have a shelf 24 in wide, 18 in high and 16 in deep, and a mid-size microwave 20.2 × 11.8 × 15.6 in whose manual asks for 3 in above, 1 in at each side and 1 in behind. Width: 20.2 + 2 = 22.2 in ≤ 24 ✅. Height: 11.8 + 3 = 14.8 in ≤ 18 ✅. Depth: 15.6 + 1 = 16.6 in > 16 ❌. The microwave physically fits, but not with the rear clearance — pull the shelf forward, choose a shallower model, or check whether this model really needs rear clearance.
Measuring an existing space
Measure the narrowest point of a niche or cabinet — trim and hinges often reduce the opening. Measure depth from the back wall to the front edge of the shelf, and check that the plug and cord can reach an outlet without being squashed behind the microwave.
Choosing a size
- Compact models suit dorms, offices and small kitchens: reheating, drinks and popcorn.
- Mid-size models handle most family cooking and fit on most counters.
- Full-size models take large plates and casserole dishes but need deep counters.
- Wattage matters too: most mid-size and full-size models are 900–1,200 W; lower wattage heats more slowly.
AI-assisted content
This page was drafted with AI assistance and reviewed by Kedop. Sizes are typical ranges, not data for any specific model.
Frequently asked questions
What is the normal size of a microwave?
A mid-size countertop microwave is about 20–22 in wide, 11–13 in tall and 15–18 in deep, with 1.0–1.6 cu ft inside.
How wide is an over-the-range microwave?
About 30 inches, to fit a standard range opening.
How much space does a microwave need around it?
Check the manual; many ask for a few inches at the top and about an inch at the sides and back.
What size is a microwave turntable?
Often 10–13.6 in for mid-size models and up to 16 in for large ones.
How do I calculate microwave capacity?
Multiply interior width × height × depth in inches and divide by 1,728 for cubic feet.
Will a 9 × 13 dish fit in a microwave?
Only if the turntable is about 16 in or larger, or the turntable can be turned off.