Searching for the best 20 inch wide microwave delivers enhanced kitchen functionality and a sleek aesthetic for any home chef. These compact yet powerful appliances offer the perfect blend of convenience and cooking capacity, fitting seamlessly into smaller spaces without sacrificing performance. When selecting the right unit, consider factors like wattage, pre-programmed settings, and interior capacity, as a misstep can lead to wasted space or an appliance that doesn’t meet your culinary needs.
Options range from basic, reliable models to feature-rich units with convection capabilities. To help you navigate the market and find the ideal appliance for your home, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best 20 inch wide microwaves available today.
For the best 20 inch wide microwave, consider models offering substantial capacity and smart inverter technology for precise cooking, such as the LG Countertop Microwave with 2.0 cu. ft. capacity and smart inverter, or the Panasonic Countertop Microwave with a 2.2-cubic-foot capacity, both designed for even heating and full flavor retention.
These larger capacity microwaves often provide higher wattage for efficient cooking, with features like child locks enhancing safety.
Best 20 Inch Wide Microwaves, At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Large families | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Panasonic Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In Cyclonic Wave with Inverter Best for: Versatile cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Everyday use | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Simple operation | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | LG Countertop Microwave, 1.5 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 21.44″x12.13″x16.19″, Smart Best for: Smart kitchens | Check Price |
How We Picked
To determine the best 20 inch wide microwave, we prioritized key consumer concerns: build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We assessed wattage, capacity, and innovative technologies like Panasonic’s Cyclonic Wave or LG’s Smart Inverter for cooking precision. Features like GE’s two-step child lock and BLACK+DECKER’s pre-programmed buttons were evaluated for user-friendliness and safety.
We focused on models offering robust construction and lasting value, ruling out those with questionable durability or limited functionality, ensuring our recommendations deliver exceptional performance for everyday needs.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Room to Roam: Confirming Width
When aiming for a 20-inch wide microwave, precise measurements are key, especially for built-in or tight countertop spaces. Don’t just eyeball it! Manufacturers often list dimensions like the LG Countertop Microwave (23.9 wide) and the Frigidaire Gallery Series (implied by trim kits for 27 and 30 openings) which might be wider than you anticipate.
Always double-check the external width in the product specifications to ensure a seamless fit without obstructing cabinets or other appliances.
Power vs. Practicality for Your Space
While higher wattage generally means faster cooking, consider your kitchen’s electrical capacity and your typical usage. A powerful 1250-watt Panasonic or 1200-watt LG might be overkill if you primarily reheat leftovers or defrost small items. On the other hand, a 700-watt BLACK+DECKER is more modest.
Think about what you’ll be cooking and how often – a balance between ample power and your home’s electrical setup is crucial for a 20-inch wide model.
1. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Spacious cooking, family meals.
With a 2.0 cubic foot capacity, this 1200-watt GE microwave accommodates large dishes, allowing you to heat up family-sized portions or multiple items quickly.
The generous 2.0 cubic foot interior, powered by 1200 watts, ensures efficient cooking for larger meals. Its 10 power levels and 8 preset programs, including sensor cooking, automatically adjust time and power for optimal results.
Pros
- 2.0 cubic foot capacity fits large dishes
- 1200-watt power for fast heating
- Sensor cooking optimizes results
- Child lock for safety
Cons
- Interior does not have a specific non-stick coating.
This GE microwave is ideal for families needing to heat up large meals or multiple dishes simultaneously. Its ample capacity and sensor cooking features make meal preparation straightforward.
2. Panasonic Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In Cyclonic Wave with Inverter
Best for: Even cooking, nutrient retention.
Panasonic’s 2.2 cubic foot microwave features Cyclonic Wave technology and 1250 watts, ensuring food is cooked evenly while preserving flavor and nutrients.
The 2.2 cubic foot capacity is paired with 1250 watts of power for efficient cooking. Its patented Inverter Technology provides a seamless, consistent stream of power, preventing overcooking and ensuring evenly prepared food across 10 power levels for 16 programs.
Pros
- Cyclonic Wave technology ensures even cooking
- 1250-watt power for quick reheating
- Inverter Technology preserves flavor and nutrients
- 2.2 cubic foot capacity handles large items
Cons
- Exterior is stainless steel, requiring regular cleaning to prevent smudges.
For those prioritizing even cooking and nutrient preservation in a large capacity microwave, this Panasonic model is an excellent choice. Its advanced technology caters to precise reheating and defrosting needs.
3. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Compact power, efficient reheating.
This 1.6 cubic foot GE microwave delivers 1150 watts of power, offering efficient cooking in a size that conserves valuable counter space.
With 1.6 cubic feet of interior capacity and 1150 watts of heating power, this microwave efficiently handles everyday meals. It features 10 power levels and 8 preset cooking programs, including sensor cooking and weight/time defrost.
Pros
- 1.6 cubic foot capacity is space-saving
- 1150-watt power for rapid heating
- Sensor cooking for perfect results
- 10 preset programs simplify cooking
Cons
- Internal turntable has no specific reinforced structure for heavier items.
This GE microwave is well-suited for individuals or small families who need a balance of cooking power and a more compact footprint. Its sensor cooking simplifies the preparation of common meals.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Basic reheating, simple controls.
At 700 watts and sporting user-friendly push-button controls, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 microwave is designed for straightforward reheating and basic cooking tasks.
This 0.7 cubic foot microwave operates at 700 watts, with 10 distinct power settings for flexible cooking. It includes 6 pre-programmed buttons for popular items like popcorn and pizza, plus a 30-second express cooking option.
Pros
- 700-watt power for everyday use
- Simple push-button door release
- 6 pre-programmed cooking options
- Compact 0.7 cubic foot size
Cons
- Operates on 110 Volts, which may require specific appliance circuits.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a practical choice for dormitory rooms, small apartments, or office kitchens needing a simple appliance for basic popcorn, reheating, and quick meals. Its ease of use is a key benefit.
5. LG Countertop Microwave, 1.5 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 21.44″x12.13″x16.19″, Smart
Best for: Smart reheating, family meals.
The LG NeoChef 1.5 cu. ft. microwave boasts Smart Inverter technology, enabling precise power control for even heating of family-sized portions.
This LG microwave offers 1.5 cubic feet of interior space with a robust 1200 watts of cooking power. Its Smart Inverter technology ensures uniform heating, complemented by 7 specialized sensor cook options for items like potatoes and bacon.
Pros
- 1.5 cu ft capacity for family meals
- 1200-watt Smart Inverter power
- 7 sensor cook options for accuracy
- EasyClean® self-cleaning feature
Cons
- Glass Touch controls can be sensitive to moisture.
Ideal for busy households, this LG NeoChef microwave uses Smart Inverter technology to ensure even cooking for meals or leftovers. Its 7 sensor cook options simplify preparing a variety of favorite foods.
6. FRIGIDAIRE 2.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Microwave Oven, Multi Function,
Best for: Large capacity, casual reheating.
This Frigidaire 2.2 cu. ft. microwave, powered by 1200 watts, provides ample space for cooking large dishes and accommodates various reheating needs with its multi-function capabilities.
The expansive 2.2 cubic foot interior combined with 1200 watts of microwave power makes this unit suitable for family-sized meals. It features 6 pre-programmed options for common snacks and includes a white interior finish for a unique aesthetic.
Pros
- 2.2 cu ft capacity for large items
- 1200-watt power output
- 6 pre-programmed timer options
- White interior contrasts with exterior
Cons
- Touchscreen controls may not be ideal for users with limited dexterity.
This Frigidaire microwave is a good option for larger households or those who frequently cook family-sized meals. Its spacious interior and straightforward programming make it suitable for everyday use.
7. LG Countertop Microwave, 2.0 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 23.9×13.6×19.8 Inches,
Best for: Generous capacity, precise cooking.
With a 2.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1200 watts, this LG NeoChef microwave delivers precise cooking with Smart Inverter technology, ideal for large dishes.
This unit offers a substantial 2.0 cubic feet of interior space, powered by 1200 watts and 10 adjustable power levels for versatile meal preparation. It also includes 7 sensor cook options, such as for potatoes and frozen entrées, ensuring optimal results.
Pros
- 2.0 cu ft interior accommodates large items
- 1200-watt power for fast cooking
- Smart Inverter for even heating
- 7 sensor cooking programs
Cons
- Exterior surface is smooth stainless steel requiring frequent cleaning.
This LG NeoChef microwave is perfect for families needing a large-capacity appliance with advanced features for precise cooking. Its 2.0 cu. ft. size and Smart Inverter technology handle big meals effortlessly.
8. LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 18.75x14x10.69 Inch,
Best for: Compact, multi-function reheating.
The LG 0.9 cu. ft. microwave, featuring Smart Inverter technology and 1000 watts, provides precise cooking power for versatile meal preparation in a compact design.
With 0.9 cubic feet of interior space and 1000 watts of cooking power, this LG microwave is suitable for smaller kitchens. It includes Auto Cook options for 7 food types, simplifying the preparation of items like oatmeal, potatoes, and rice.
Pros
- 0.9 cu ft capacity for smaller spaces
- 1000-watt power for efficient cooking
- Smart Inverter for even heating
- Auto Cook options simplify meal prep
Cons
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is not suitable for very large dishes.
This LG NeoChef microwave is an excellent choice for individuals or smaller households looking for precise cooking and convenient auto-cook features in a compact unit. Its 1000-watt power handles everyday needs efficiently.
9. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven,
Best for: Built-in cooking, large capacity.
This Frigidaire Gallery Series 2.2 cu. ft. built-in microwave offers generous cooking space and sensor cooking technology, ensuring perfectly cooked food.
Providing 2.2 cu. ft. of cooking space, this built-in microwave can accommodate large dishes and multiple items simultaneously. Its sensors automatically adjust power levels and cook times, while 11 power levels offer broad cooking control.
Pros
- 2.2 cu ft capacity fits large dishes
- Sensor cooking ensures optimal results
- Designed for built-in installation
- 11 power levels for cooking versatility
Cons
- Requires a specific cutout size for installation.
This Frigidaire Gallery Series built-in microwave is designed for seamless integration into cabinetry, offering ample space and intelligent cooking features for modern kitchens. It’s ideal for those planning a kitchen remodel.
10. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver
Best for: Compact, quiet operation.
The Breville Compact Wave 25L microwave offers a 900-watt cooking power and a quieter, soft-close door, designed for convenience in smaller kitchens.
With a 25-liter capacity, this compact microwave features 5 preset cooking programs and 2 power levels for reheating, defrosting, and cooking. Its engineering focuses on 80% quieter operation via a soft-close door mechanism.
Pros
- 25L capacity is space-efficient
- 900-watt cooking power
- 80% quieter soft close door
- 5 cooking programs for ease of use
Cons
- Only 2 power levels limit advanced cooking adjustments.
The Breville Compact Wave is perfect for those with limited kitchen space who value quiet operation and ease of use for basic reheating and defrosting. Its compact footprint and soft-close door enhance user experience.
Power Drives Utility in Best 20 Inch Wide Microwave
When evaluating the best 20 inch wide microwave options, the most direct metric of performance is wattage, and ignoring this simple fact leads to compromised cooking results. While capacity and features play a role, the sheer power output dictates how effectively and quickly your food will be prepared, and some models lag significantly behind others.
Consider the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft. Its robust 1200 watts ensures rapid heating and efficient cooking, handling larger dishes like the 2.0 cubic foot interior can accommodate with far more expediency than lower-wattage models. This stands in contrast to the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, which operates at a relatively modest 700 Watts.
This 700-watt output may suffice for simple reheating tasks, but it fundamentally limits the appliance’s ability to brown, crisp, or cook larger items thoroughly, forcing longer cooking times and often resulting in unevenly heated food.
The Panasonic Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In Cyclonic Wave with Inverter, boasting 1250-Watts, leverages its higher power in conjunction with Inverter technology for precise control, meaning it doesn’t just blast food with heat but applies it intelligently. Similarly, the LG Countertop Microwave, 2.0 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, with its 1200 watts, promises responsive power.
While the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft. is a respectable performer, its 1150 watts positions it as a middle-ground option, perfectly adequate for many, but lacking the outright speed and penetration power that the top-tier units offer.
Buyers often get sidetracked by aesthetics or the presence of specific pre-programmed buttons, overlooking the primary function: timely and effective cooking. The 1050W rated input power on the BLACK+DECKER, for example, doesn’t tell the whole story; its 700-watt output is the operational reality. The FRIGIDAIRE 2.2 Cu.
Ft. Stainless Steel Microwave Oven, while offering a substantial cavity, needs sufficient wattage to leverage that space effectively, a spec that can vary and should be scrutinized.
Ultimately, for those prioritizing cooking efficiency and versatility in a spacious microwave, the Panasonic Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In Cyclonic Wave with Inverter, with its 1250-Watt output, represents a strong contender for fulfilling the demands of modern kitchens.
What to Look for in a 20 Inch Wide Microwave
Capacity and interior space
For your 20-inch wide microwave, capacity is paramount. Aim for microwaves offering between 0.9 and 1.6 cubic feet of interior space to accommodate most standard dishes and casserole pans. A turntable diameter of 12 to 13.5 inches is optimal, ensuring even cooking for items up to 13 inches in diameter.
Consider models with a removable rack if you frequently need to cook taller items or multiple dishes simultaneously; otherwise, a standard bottom with a fixed turntable provides reliable performance. Choose the 1.6 cubic feet option with a 13.5-inch turntable for maximum versatility.
Power and cooking presets
Ample power is essential for efficient cooking. Select a microwave with a wattage between 900 and 1100 watts for rapid and even heating. Look for intuitive sensor cooking options for common tasks like popcorn, reheating leftovers, or steaming vegetables, which automatically adjust cooking time.
A variety of defrost settings, including both weight-based and time-based, are crucial for convenience and food safety. Opt for 1100 watts with comprehensive sensor cooking and both defrost types for the best all-around performance.
Design and installation features
The design and installation of your 20-inch wide microwave depend on your kitchen layout. For countertop placement, ensure the dimensions allow for adequate ventilation space around the unit. If considering a built-in look, verify the model is compatible with your cabinet or wall space according to manufacturer specifications.
Over-the-range models require a choice between recirculating venting, which filters air back into the kitchen, or external ducting for more powerful exhaust. Prioritize built-in compatibility with recirculating venting for a clean, integrated appearance without major renovations.
Control panel and user interface
A clear and responsive control panel enhances user experience. Look for a digital display that is easy to read, even from a distance, and buttons that offer satisfying tactile feedback when pressed. While not essential for all users, smart features like app connectivity or voice control can offer added convenience, allowing remote operation or access to extended recipe libraries.
For most users, a model with a bright digital display and well-labeled, responsive buttons provides the most direct and satisfying interaction. Invest in a model with advanced smart features if you desire cutting-edge convenience.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have young children, choose a model with a two-step child lock feature for added safety.
- If you frequently reheat leftovers or cook large dishes, look for a microwave with a larger capacity, around 2.0 to 2.2 cubic feet and 1200+ watts.
- If you prioritize even cooking and preserving food’s natural flavor and nutrients, consider a microwave with Smart Inverter or Cyclonic Inverter technology.
- If you need a microwave for basic reheating, defrosting, or cooking convenience foods, a model with pre-programmed buttons for common items is ideal.
Quick Best 20 Inch Wide Microwave Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space: Confirm the exact dimensions available for a 20-inch wide microwave, including depth and height clearance.
- Assess Wattage Needs: Determine if 900-1100 watts is sufficient for your typical heating and cooking tasks.
- Consider Capacity: Decide if the interior volume (0.9-1.6 cu. ft.) meets your needs for meal sizes and quantities.
- Evaluate Turntable Size: Ensure the turntable diameter (12-13.5 inches) can accommodate your commonly used dishes.
- Check Installation Type: Verify if the model is designed for countertop placement or if it requires specific integration.
- Review Preset Functions: Look for cooking presets and defrost options that align with your most frequent uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Cooking Functions Are Typically Found On 20-Inch Wide Microwaves?
Twenty-inch wide microwaves commonly feature essential cooking functions like popcorn and reheat, alongside specialized presets for vegetables and beverages. Many also include convenient time-based and weight-based defrost options for greater versatility in meal preparation.
How Do Wattage Levels Affect Cooking Performance In A 20-Inch Microwave?
Higher wattage, generally ranging from 900 to 1100 watts for these units, translates to faster and more even cooking or reheating. This increased power directly impacts how quickly food is heated through, ensuring efficient preparation.
What Is The Typical Interior Capacity Of A 20-Inch Wide Microwave?
The interior capacity for a 20-inch wide microwave usually falls between 0.9 to 1.6 cubic feet, offering a balance of space for common meal sizes. This range accommodates everyday reheating and basic cooking tasks effectively.
Are There Different Installation Types For 20-Inch Wide Microwaves?
Yes, 20-inch wide microwaves are primarily available as countertop models for flexible placement. Some designs may also offer built-in capabilities or be intended for over-the-range installation, depending on the specific model.
What Should I Consider Regarding The Turntable Size In A 20-Inch Microwave?
The turntable in a 20-inch wide microwave typically measures 12 to 13.5 inches in diameter, designed to rotate standard dinner plates. Ensuring your most frequently used dishes fit comfortably on the turntable is key for even heating.
Final Words
Selecting the best 20 inch wide microwave can significantly enhance your kitchen’s functionality, offering convenience for everyday tasks. These compact yet capable units provide efficient heating, versatile cooking options, and a space-saving design. Investing in the right model ensures satisfying meal prep and delicious results.
