Making the correct choice between KitchenAid and Whirlpool low-profile microwaves can be challenging, especially when the devices are so similar. You have come to the right place because this article will help you figure out the key differences.
Key Takeaways:
The main difference between KitchenAid and Whirlpool low-profile microwaves is the number of fans and CFM. The KitchenAid low-profile model comes with 4-speed fans and a 500 CFM motor class; on the other hand, the Whirlpool is powered with 3-speed fans and a 400 CFM motor class.
Continue reading to find out how these low-profile models compare against each other and what sets them apart.
KitchenAid vs. Whirlpool: How We’ll Compare Them
Before starting our heads-up comparison between the low-profile microwaves, to be fair, we must compare apples to apples.
So we have selected these two models for comparison.
Whirlpool Low-Profile Microwave WML75011HV
KitchenAid Low Profile Microwave KMLS311HSS
We crowed the Whirlpool best choice for its higher CFM! Air extraction is vital to keeping a fresh-smelling home.
KitchenAid is still an awesome choice if you’re looking for a well-rounded low-profile microwave and looking to save a few bucks.
And our comparisons will be based on the top 5 following factors:
- Ventilation
- Design
- Features
- Cost
- Brand
Ventilation: CFM & Fans
The ventilation capacity of a microwave is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). Note that the bigger the CFM value, the more airflow.
Whirlpool 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
The Whirlpool Low-profile model uses a 400 CF motor class. It also helps in removing smoke or bad odor from the kitchen easily. In terms of ventilation, the low-profile whirlpool microwave is powered by three-speed fans.
KitchenAid 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
KitchenAid’s low-profile microwave comes with a 500 CFM motor. And it can manage the exhaust needs of high-temperature cooking methods like pan-searing and stir-frying, so you can be as daring as you want in the kitchen.
Cooking with high heat in your home can cause lingering smells, so here are a few highly relevant essential guides you should read after this article:
Prevent Cooking Smells From Traveling In An Open Concept Kitchen
Stop Smoke From Coming Through Doors, Windows, And Other Openings
Prevent Cooking Oil From Burning (Smoke Point Chart Included)
The KitchenAid Low profile microwave is powered by four-speed fan controls and thus offers a strong ventilation output.
How They Compare
| Low-profile Microwave Type | CFM | Fans |
| Whirlpool (Model: WML75011HV) | 400 | 3 |
| KitchenAid (Model: KMLS311HSS) | 500 | 4 |
A more CFM value results in faster extraction. And this ultimately results in more effective ventilation. Also, we can’t ignore the power of fans and how they facilitate removing unwanted odor and smoke.
So it is clear that KitchenAid is a winner when compared in terms of ventilation.
Design
The design of microwaves also plays an essential role when considering the best product. Why? Because, after all, microwaves are also meant to enhance the aesthetics of the kitchen.
And not only aesthetics -the low-profile microwaves that take up less space and offer similar efficiency and performance are good to buy.
Whirlpool 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
| Dimensions: | Value: |
| Height | 10-5/16 in. |
| Width | 29-7/8 in |
| Depth | 18.0 in |
KitchenAid 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
| Dimensions: | Value: |
| Height | 10 1/4 in. |
| Width | 30 in. |
| Depth | 18 in. |
How They Compare
Regarding actual dimensions, KitchenAid and Whirlpool Low-profile microwaves are almost similar except for the color! The KitchenAid model has a grayish-silver color. On the other hand, The Whirlpool model comes in black.
But overall, there is no significant difference in the design of both microwaves, so we could consider this a tie!
Note that low-profile microwaves usually stick out slightly further from the cabinet (depending on the cabinet depth), irrespective of the model.
Features
Low-profile microwaves are some of the latest released products in the microwave industry, so you can expect them to be loaded with many modern features.
Whirlpool 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
- Comes with a low-profile compact design.
- It has a touchscreen tap-to-open door feature that offers excellent ease of use.
- Whether wide plates or tall glasses, the low-profile 1.1 cu. ft. whirlpool microwave is spacious enough for everything.
- It also comes with a LED lighting feature that provides a better cooktop cooking experience and works well as a nightlight.
KitchenAid 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
- Like the Whirlpool model, this kitchen aid model also has a compact design.
- For ease of use, it comes with exterior quick-access buttons.
- The lighting feature is also available with microwave along with the nightlight setting.
- It comes with a 12″ turntable, and this microwave is also 1.1 cu. Ft. – offering enough capacity to hold various cookware.
How They Compare
Overall, both low-profile microwaves have similar features that serve the same purposes. So it’s a tie!
Cost
Usually, low-profile microwaves are on the high end of the spectrum when it comes to cost. So you have to expect their prices to be above $400.
Whirlpool 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
The cost of a Whirlpool low-Profile microwave is $609.
KitchenAid 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
The cost of the Kitchen low-profile microwave is $673.60.
How They Compare
The cost of KitchenAid model is slightly more expensive than the Whirlpool. But the difference is not much – almost around $70.
Brand
Brand trust also plays a significant factor when choosing a good quality and high-end budget appliance like a low-profile microwave.
As a general rule, the more trustworthy the brand, the better quality the products will be and will likely last longer. So let’s see a quick overview of each brand of low-profile microwave.
Whirlpool 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
An American multinational corporation, Whirlpool makes and sells appliances for the home.
It’s headquartered in Benton Charter Township, Michigan, in the United States. Whirlpool Corporation is one of the industry leaders in home appliances, with popular brands including Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, etc.
KitchenAid 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel
Whirlpool Corporation owns the American kitchen equipment brand KitchenAid. The Hobart Manufacturing Firm founded the company to manufacture stand mixers in 1919.
Originally owned by Dart and Kraft, the company was purchased by Whirlpool Corporation in 1986.
Since then, the company has expanded the KitchenAid brand to include everything from dishwashers to double-oven ranges and small appliances to cookware. For premium quality kitchen appliances, KitchenAid is one of the top choices.
How They Compare
Interestingly, KitchenAid and Whirlpool belong to the same Whirlpool family of brands. So once again, it’s a tie.
The Final Breakdown
In short, apart from ventilation specs and cost, there’s no significant difference between the KitchenAid and the Whirlpool low-profile microwave.
So how can you decide which low-profile microwave to choose?
- If your budget is slightly low and you are okay with a bit of limiting ventilation – go with the Whirlpool low-profile microwave.
- However, if you want a low-profile microwave with a strong and effective ventilation system and ready for its price – you can choose KitchenAid.
Apart from KitchenAid and Whirlpool, Samsung also makes a low-profile microwave with 400 CFM.
Not sure whether low-profile microwaves are for you? Check out our low-profile microwave buyer’s guide here.
