The best 22 inch built-in microwave with trim kit offers a sleek, integrated look for modern kitchens, perfect for those seeking a clean, custom appliance installation. When selecting one, consider factors like power output, convection capabilities, sensor cooking features, and the specific trim kit dimensions for a flawless fit. Opting for the wrong model can lead to frustrating installation issues, mismatched aesthetics, or performance that doesn’t meet your culinary needs, ultimately wasting precious budget and kitchen space.
To help you make an informed decision and achieve that desired built-in finish, we’ve compiled a curated list of the top performers.
The best 22 inch built-in microwave with trim kit often features a 2.2 cu. ft. capacity for ample cooking space, such as models like the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF, which requires a separate 27 or 30 trim kit.
Another consideration is the convenience of integrated inverter technology for even cooking, found in the Panasonic NN-SN686S. Compatibility is key, as trim kits are often model-specific, like the Panasonic 30-inch Trim Kit for 2.2 cu ft models or LG’s 30 trim kits.
Best 22 Inch Built In Microwave With Trim Kit: Top Picks
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven, Best for: Upscale kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology Best for: Tech-savvy cooks | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | 30” Stainless-Steel Professional Microwave Trim Kit Best for: Custom installations | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Everyday reheating | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Panasonic 30-inch Trim Kit for Panasonic 2.2 cu ft Microwave Best for: Microwave upgrades | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best 22 inch built-in microwave with trim kit, we prioritized a blend of robust build quality, reliable real-world performance, and user safety. We evaluated cooking power, capacity, and innovative features like inverter technology as seen in select Panasonic models. Durability was assessed by considering materials and reported longevity.
Microwaves with readily available, well-integrated trim kits offering a sleek, built-in aesthetic, such as those from Frigidaire and LG, were favored. Simpler countertop models without dedicated trim kit compatibility, or those lacking essential safety features, were ruled out to ensure a superior and secure kitchen upgrade.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Precise Kitchen Cabinet Cutout Dimensions
When choosing a built-in microwave, the cutout dimensions are paramount for a flush installation. Unlike countertop models, built-ins precisely fit specific cabinet openings. For instance, the Summit Built-in Microwave (product 6) is designed for 24” spaces with specific height, width, and depth requirements.
Always double-check the manufacturer’s specifications for both the microwave unit and its corresponding trim kit to ensure a seamless integration, preventing gaps or an improperly fitted appliance.
Trim Kit Compatibility is Key
A trim kit is essential for unifying the microwave with your cabinetry, creating that sleek, built-in aesthetic. However, not all trim kits are universal. A 30” trim kit for a Panasonic 2.2 cu ft.
model (product 5) will not fit a different brand’s microwave, or even another Panasonic model if the cubic footage differs. Similarly, Frigidaire offers specific trim kits like the GMTK2768AF and GMTK3068AF for their Gallery Series ovens (product 1).
Always verify the exact microwave model number the trim kit is designed for.
1. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven,
Best for: Accommodates large dishes and multiple items.
Providing 2.2 cu. ft. of cooking capacity, this Frigidaire Gallery Series microwave allows you to prepare larger meals and reheat multiple dishes simultaneously, streamlining meal preparation.
With a width of 24 7/16 inches and a depth of 19 5/8 inches, it fits into a 24 3/4 inch cutout width. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts power and time for optimal results, and 11 power levels offer precise control for various cooking needs.
Pros
- 2.2 cu. ft. capacity for large meals
- Sensor cook technology for precise results
- 11 power levels for versatile cooking
- Child safety lock prevents unintended operation
Cons
- Trim kits are sold separately in 27″ and 30″ sizes, requiring an additional purchase for a built-in installation.
Ideal for homeowners seeking a spacious built-in microwave that handles family-sized portions. It ensures effortless cooking with its sensor technology and ample volume.
2. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology
Best for: Even cooking with seamless power delivery.
This 1200-watt Panasonic microwave features Inverter Technology and a 1.2 cubic foot capacity, ensuring a consistent stream of cooking power for thoroughly and evenly prepared food.
The 1.2 cu. ft. interior and 1480-watt power consumption deliver quick, efficient cooking. Its advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost system efficiently thaws frozen foods, and 10 power levels provide precise control.
Pros
- 1200-watt Inverter Technology for even heating
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity handles standard meals
- Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost
- 10 power levels for cooking flexibility
Cons
- The 340mm turntable diameter may limit the placement of unusually large or rectangular dishes.
Suitable for users who prioritize consistent heating and efficient defrosting in a compact, built-in microwave. It’s a good choice for everyday meals and quick defrosting.
3. 30” Stainless-Steel Professional Microwave Trim Kit
Best for: Seamless professional integration for 30″ spaces.
A 30” Stainless-Steel Professional Microwave Trim Kit is designed to provide a clean, integrated look for your built-in microwave, enhancing your kitchen’s aesthetic.
This trim kit is specifically crafted for 30-inch wide cabinet openings, ensuring a flush installation. It features auto cook, power level settings, and defrost functions, mirroring common microwave capabilities.
Pros
- Creates a professional, built-in appearance
- Designed for 30-inch wide installations
- Integrates with auto cook and defrost functions
- Durable stainless steel construction
Cons
- This is a trim kit only and does not include the microwave oven itself, necessitating a separate purchase of a compatible oven.
This trim kit is for individuals installing a 30-inch microwave who want a polished, built-in finish. It’s essential for achieving a cohesive appliance look.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Efficient cooking in a compact, powerful unit.
Boasting 1200 watts of cooking power and a 2.0 cubic foot capacity within a compact design, this GE countertop microwave ovens offers efficient performance without consuming excessive kitchen space.
The 2.0 cu. ft. interior and 1200 watts of power allow for effective cooking of larger items. It includes sensor cooking controls that automatically adjust time and power, and a weight/time defrost function.
Pros
- Powerful 1200-watt cooking performance
- Generous 2.0 cu. ft. capacity
- Sensor cooking for optimal results
- Two-step child lock for safety
Cons
- The number of programs is limited to 8, which may not suffice for very specialized cooking needs.
This GE microwave is ideal for those needing a powerful, spacious option for their built-in setup, especially families with young children due to its safety features. It excels at general cooking and reheating.
5. Panasonic 30-inch Trim Kit for Panasonic 2.2 cu ft Microwave
Best for: Achieves a high-end, integrated aesthetic.
This 30-inch Stainless Steel Microwave Trim Kit from Panasonic is engineered to deliver a seamless, built-in appearance for compatible 2.2 cu. ft. Panasonic microwave ovens.
Measuring 760mm (30″) wide and 472mm (18-9/16″) high, it requires a cabinet opening of 28-1/2″ W x 442mm (17-3/8″) H. The trim kit’s shallow 20mm (¾”) depth ensures it sits flush.
Pros
- Creates a cohesive built-in look
- Specifically sized for 30-inch openings
- Compatible with 2.2 cu. ft. Panasonic models
- Durable stainless steel finish
Cons
- Requires a minimum cabinet depth of 21 inches to accommodate the microwave and installation hardware.
This trim kit is perfect for Panasonic microwave owners wanting to achieve a sleek, integrated look. It’s vital for transforming a countertop model into a built-in appliance.
6. Summit Built-in Microwave with Trim Kit, Fits 24” spaces 1.2
Best for: Space-saving design for 24-inch cabinets.
Designed to fit perfectly into 24-inch cabinet spaces, this Summit built-in microwave delivers 1000 watts of cooking power, with an included stainless steel trim kit for a clean finish.
It requires a specific cutout of 15 3/4″ H x 22 1/2″ W x 18 1/4″ D for installation. Multiple power levels, including popcorn and pizza settings, along with weight or time defrost, offer versatile cooking options.
Pros
- 1000-watt cooking power
- Designed for 24-inch cabinet spaces
- Includes stainless steel trim kit
- Multistage cooking capability
Cons
- The 1.2 cu. ft. capacity is on the smaller side for very large meal preparations.
This Summit microwave is an excellent choice for smaller kitchens or dedicated appliance cabinets needing a 24-inch built-in solution. It’s suitable for everyday reheating and cooking tasks.
7. LG 30″ Built-In Trim Kit in Stainless Steel Black Stainless
Best for: Sophisticated look for LG microwaves.
This LG 30″ Built-In Trim Kit features a Black Stainless Steel finish, offering a sleek and contemporary upgrade to integrate your LG countertop microwave into your cabinetry.
Designed to complement LG countertop microwave models, it provides a polished, built-in appearance. The Black Stainless Steel material offers a modern aesthetic. It includes a user manual for installation guidance.
Pros
- Achieves a premium built-in aesthetic
- Modern Black Stainless Steel finish
- Compatible with LG countertop microwaves
- Enhances kitchen design
Cons
- This trim kit is brand-specific to LG microwaves and will not fit other brands.
This trim kit is for LG microwave owners who want to achieve a high-end, built-in look. It’s ideal for creating a visually integrated appliance setup in a modern kitchen.
8. Frigidaire PMBS3080BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Oven with Sensor
Best for: Spacious 2.2 cu. ft. capacity with sensor cooking.
The Frigidaire PMBS3080BF offers a substantial 2.2 cu. ft. interior space, making it easy to fit large dishes and multiple food items for efficient cooking.
With overall dimensions of 24 3/8″ W x 19 5/8″ D x 13 5/8″ H, it requires a 24 3/4″ W x 20″ D x 16 3/4″ H cutout. A 30-inch trim kit is available separately for a seamless built-in installation.
Pros
- Large 2.2 cu. ft. cooking capacity
- Accommodates sizable cookware
- Designed for built-in installation
- Integrates with optional 30″ trim kit
Cons
- The required trim kit is sold separately, adding to the overall cost of installation.
This Frigidaire microwave is perfect for families or individuals who regularly cook large meals and want a spacious, integrated appliance. It’s designed for a seamless built-in finish.
9. Samsung Microwave Oven Trim Kit, Stainless Steel, MA-TK8020TS/AA
Best for: Premium upgrade for specific Samsung models.
This Samsung Microwave Oven Trim Kit in Stainless Steel provides a premium, built-in appearance for compatible Samsung microwaves, creating a unified look in your kitchen.
Designed to fit Samsung microwave model MS19M8000AS/AA, it ensures a flush and polished installation. The jog dial controller offers precise manual defrost and power level adjustments.
Pros
- Provides a seamless built-in look
- Finished in attractive stainless steel
- Compatible with MS19M8000AS/AA model
- Enhances appliance integration
Cons
- This trim kit is only compatible with one specific Samsung microwave model, limiting its general applicability.
This trim kit is specifically for owners of the Samsung MS19M8000AS/AA microwave who want to achieve a professional, built-in style. It’s key for creating a cohesive kitchen appearance.
10. SAMSUNG 30″ Microwave Trim Kit for 1.2 Cu. Ft. Counter
Best for: Smooth transition for Samsung convection microwaves.
The SAMSUNG 30″ Microwave Trim Kit in stainless steel provides a graceful transition, transforming a Samsung 1.2 cu. ft. countertop convection microwave into a sleek, built-in unit.
This kit is designed to fit the Samsung 1.2 cu. ft. Counter Top Convection Microwave, model MC12J8035CT. It ensures a seamless, premium look with its stainless steel finish and precise dimensions.
Pros
- Achieves a seamless built-in look
- Stainless steel finish for premium appeal
- Compatible with specific Samsung convection model
- Streamlines appliance integration
Cons
- This trim kit is exclusively for the Samsung MC12J8035CT model and cannot be used with other microwaves.
This trim kit is ideal for Samsung MC12J8035CT owners who want to create a sophisticated, integrated look for their convection microwave. It’s essential for achieving a custom built-in appearance.
Trim Kit Compatibility Derails Built-In Microwave Installs
When pursuing the clean, integrated look of a best 22 inch built in microwave with trim kit, the universal truth is that the trim kit itself is the sole determinant of success or failure, not the microwave oven it’s intended to house. This seemingly obvious point is where most buyers stumble, mistaking a built-in microwave for a self-contained unit that simply needs a hole to fit into. In reality, most high-end countertop units are merely designed for built-in installation, requiring a specific, often separately purchased, trim kit to achieve that seamless aesthetic and proper ventilation.
For example, the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft.
Built-in Microwave Oven clearly states its trim kits (GMTK2768AF and GMTK3068AF) are sold separately, and their correct sizing—either 27 or 30—is crucial. Ignoring this and assuming any generic trim kit will do is a guaranteed path to disappointment.
The problem is compounded by the fact that trim kits are rarely universal. Manufacturers design them to precisely complement their own microwave models, ensuring a flush fit and adequate airflow. This means the Samsung Microwave Oven Trim Kit, MA-TK8020TS/AA, is exclusively for specific Samsung models like the MS19M8000AS/AA, and the SAMSUNG 30 Microwave Trim Kit for 1.2 Cu.
Ft. Countertop models is similarly proprietary.
While some brands, like Summit in their Built-in Microwave with Trim Kit, which fits 24” spaces, package the microwave and trim kit as a unit, this is the exception, not the rule, for the 22-inch category aiming for a professional finish.
Furthermore, brands often have multiple trim kit options for different appliance lines or sizes, adding another layer of complexity. The LG 30 Built-in Trim Kit in Stainless Steel Black Stainless, for instance, implies compatibility only with LG countertop microwaves, not with a standalone oven. Even a large-capacity powerhouse like the Frigidaire PMBS3080BF 2.2 cu.
ft. Built-In Microwave Oven with Sensor, which boasts generous internal space, still requires its specific 30 trim kit (PMTK3080AF) to integrate correctly.
The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S with Inverter Technology, a capable 1.2 cubic foot unit, can be installed built-in, but its aesthetic integration relies entirely on matching it with the correct Panasonic 30-inch Trim Kit designed for models like the NN-SN9S series.
The core, often overlooked, requirement for a successful built-in installation is verifying the trim kit’s exact model compatibility with the specific microwave oven you intend to purchase. This must be the first, not the last, check in your decision-making process. Anything less guarantees a frustrating finish that detracts from, rather than enhances, your kitchen’s design.
Therefore, if your priority is a seamless built-in look, the Summit Built-in Microwave with Trim Kit is a strong contender for those with 24” spaces, as it bundles the correct components for immediate integration.
How to Choose the Best 22 Inch Built In Microwave With Trim Kit
Capacity and interior dimensions
Prioritize internal volume by looking for microwaves that offer at least 1.6 cubic feet of space; this ensures room for larger dishes and a 14.5-inch or larger turntable for even heating. Assess interior height, aiming for a usable clearance of 8 inches or more to accommodate taller items like casseroles or pitchers without issue. For maximum versatility, select a model with ample capacity and a generous turntable diameter.
This is your best bet for accommodating diverse cooking needs.
Cooking features and power
To guarantee efficient cooking, seek a microwave with 1000 watts or higher. This power level ensures quick reheating and thorough cooking of most foods. Opt for models featuring sensor cooking presets that automatically adjust time and power based on food type, simplifying operation for everyday tasks like defrosting or steaming vegetables.
If you plan to bake or roast, a convection capability is essential, offering oven-like versatility, but for most, sensor cooking and high wattage are the core requirements.
Trim kit design and material
For a seamless built-in look, choose a trim kit with a brushed or polished stainless steel finish that complements your existing cabinetry. Ensure the ventilation system is designed for front exhaust, preventing heat buildup and damage to nearby cabinets. The trim kit’s overall aesthetic should be minimalist and clean, with a flush fit that integrates harmoniously.
This attention to detail in material and ventilation is key for a professional, integrated appearance in your kitchen.
Control panel and user interface
Opt for a touch-control panel with a clear, easy-to-read LED display for intuitive operation. Look for intuitive programming with clearly labeled buttons and readily accessible preset functions. While dial controls can be simple, touch interfaces offer a modern, sleek look and precise adjustments that are superior for navigating advanced features.
The best user experience comes from a responsive touch panel with a well-organized layout, making cooking tasks straightforward.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need to fit a microwave into a 24-inch cabinet space, look for models specifically designed for these dimensions which often come with their own trim kits.
- If you prioritize a large cooking capacity for family meals or entertaining, aim for microwaves offering 2.0 cubic feet or more.
- If you are concerned about child safety, choose a model with a built-in child lock feature.
- If you need to integrate your microwave into a specific cabinet size and want a seamless look, ensure the trim kit dimensions are compatible with both your microwave and your cabinetry.
Quick Best 22 Inch Built In Microwave With Trim Kit Buying Checklist
- Measure your cabinet opening precisely to ensure the 22-inch microwave and trim kit will fit seamlessly.
- Consider the microwave’s internal capacity based on your typical meal preparations and the size of dishes you use.
- Evaluate wattage requirements, as higher wattage generally means faster and more even cooking for your best 22 inch built in microwave with trim kit.
- Check the trim kit’s ventilation design to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating of the appliance.
- Look for user-friendly control panels with intuitive settings and clear displays for ease of operation.
- Match the finish of the trim kit to your existing kitchen appliances and cabinetry for a cohesive look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Purpose Of A Trim Kit For A Built-In Microwave?
A trim kit provides a finished, professional look for a built-in microwave by covering any gaps between the appliance and the cabinetry. It enhances the aesthetic integration, making the microwave appear as a seamless part of your kitchen design.
How Do I Determine The Correct Size Trim Kit For My Microwave?
Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for both the microwave and the trim kit. The trim kit is designed to perfectly complement a specific microwave model or series, ensuring a flush and elegant installation.
Can I Install A 22-Inch Built-In Microwave Without A Trim Kit?
While some microwaves can be installed without a trim kit, it is not recommended for a built-in application. A trim kit is essential for achieving a clean, integrated appearance and often contains important ventilation components.
Are Trim Kits Universal For 22-Inch Built-In Microwaves?
No, trim kits are generally not universal. They are specifically designed to fit particular microwave models or a range of models from the same manufacturer to ensure a proper fit and finish.
What Materials Are Typically Used For Trim Kits For Built-In Microwaves?
Trim kits for built-in microwaves are most commonly made from stainless steel, offering durability and a sleek appearance that matches professional kitchen appliances. Other finishes may be available to suit different kitchen decors.
Final Words
Investing in the best 22 inch built-in microwave with trim kit offers a sleek, integrated cooking solution that elevates your kitchen’s functionality and style. These appliances provide convenience and powerful performance, blending seamlessly with your cabinetry. Choose wisely to enjoy efficient meal preparation and a polished built-in look for years to come.