Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Samsung are the three main popular brands when it comes to low-profile microwaves. So, what is the best low-profile microwave on the market?
Continue reading till the end to see the detailed review of each microwave.
In A Hurry? Check Out Our Top Picks Directly Below:
The best budget-friendly and value-for-money low-profile microwave is the one from Whirlpool because it offers great features at a reasonable price. However, if you are looking for a low-profile microwave with more powerful ventilation, low-profile microwaves by Samsung or KitchenAid are the right choice.
| [Editor’s Pick] | [Runner Up] | [Style and Power Pick] |
| Whirlpool | KitchenAid | Samsung |
| Check Price (At Whirlpool.com) | Check Price (At kitchenaid.com) |
Our Review Process In Brief:
We have selected three low-profile microwave models (of the same internal capacity) from each brand and have reviewed them here in this post.
As you would see ahead, we have stated the specs, dimensions, and features of each low-profile microwave. But overall, they are very similar to each other.
So to further simplify the decision-making journey for you, we have mainly considered the following core factors for these low-profile microwaves:
- The Overall Design And Looks
- The Price Of The Product
- Any Special Feature That Makes The Product Stand Out
We have tried our best to objectively and honestly review the products so that you don’t have to devote a ton of time when deciding on the right pick for you. So, without further ado, let’s jump right in!
General Specs:
Low-Profile Microwave By Whirlpool
1.1 cu. ft. low-profile microwave by Whirlpool is a compact space-saving microwave suitable for over-the-range space in your kitchen.
Dimensions
| Height | Width | Depth |
| 10-5/16 inches | 29-7/8 inches | 18 inches |
Specs:
- The microwave comes with ten power levels so that you can cook your favorite dish in the right way.
- The microwave is powered by 1000 watts of cooking power for better cooking.
- The turntable inside the microwave is dishwasher safe, so you don’t need to worry about cleaning.
- There is a tap-to-open door facility that makes the operation of the device quite easy.
Features:
- The microwave has a low-profile and space-saving design.
- The microwave is powered by three-speed fans and 400 CFM motor class for better venting performance.
- Also, the controls are hidden behind the microwave door, giving the microwave a modern look and feel.
- The Whirlpool low-profile microwave is available in three colors: black, gray, and white.
What I Like:
The first thing I like about the Whirlpool low-profile microwave is the idea of concealed control buttons. The more modern a device, the simpler and more classy it looks. And Whirlpool has just tried to achieve the same with its low-profile microwave.
When we compare this specialty, the KitchenAid low-profile microwave has the same feature.
Side note: KitchenAid and Whirlpool belong to the same Whirlpool family brand, so you’ll find a lot of similarities between them. Check out this guide to learn more about the difference between KitchenAid and Whirlpool low-profile microwaves.
But the Samsung low-profile microwave lacks this feature of concealed controls; instead, all of its controls and buttons are present on the exterior. Although it’s not a big issue, it can be an important factor if you like to geek out about the aesthetics of things.
The next best thing about the Whirlpool low-profile microwave is the price. On the one hand, KitchenAid and Samsung low-profile microwaves are available at a steep cost of over $600. But the Whirlpool microwave (400 CFM) is available for $450. This makes the Whirlpool low-profile microwave the best-friendly pick.
What I Didn’t Like:
The only main issue I have is the microwave’s ventilation capacity. Typically, the more the CFM value, the better will be the airflow and, thus, effective ventilation.
Unfortunately, with a 400 CFM value, the Whirlpool has the lowest ventilation capability compared to the KitchenAid and the Samsung low-profile microwave.
Who Should Buy It And Why:
If you are looking for a budget-friendly low-profile microwave from a trustworthy and popular brand like Whirlpool, and ventilation is not a big issue for you, then the low-profile whirlpool microwave is the perfect option for you.
Low-Profile Microwave By KitchenAid
Another low-profile microwave is the 1000-watt over-the-range hood combination by KitchenAid.
Dimensions
| Height | Width | Depth |
| 10-1/4 inches | 30 inches | 18 inches |
Specs:
- The microwave has a 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 1000-watt cooking power.
- There is a 12-inch recessed turntable that keeps rotating while the food is being cooked. It is designed to maximize the internal space for holding the cookware.
- The quick access buttons are located on the exterior, which you can operate with a touch.
- Also, the KitchenAid low-profile microwave has presets for all the common cooking options.
Features:
- The microwave is compact enough for the under-cabinet region with a low profile design and height of 10.3 inches.
- It comes with a 500 CFM motor class to suck the unwanted smoke and grease produced while cooking.
- The microwave has in-built four-speed fan controls whose speed you can control as per your needs.
- The microwave is equipped with two LED lights and a night light feature for a better cooking experience in the dark.
What I Like:
The first thing I like the most about this microwave is the 500 CFM ventilation system.
When looking for low-profile microwaves with a hood combination, their ventilation capacity is also an essential factor. The more cubic feet per minute (CFM) a microwave has, the more effectively it can vent out steam, grease, and bad odors.
The next best thing is the availability of a dual LED light feature that ensures you always have enough light in the cooktop area while cooking. Also, the microwave includes a night light feature for ease of cooking during the night time.
When comparing, Whirlpool has a relatively weak lighting feature, to be honest. And Samsung also has only one single LED light slot beneath the microwave, unlike KitchenAid, which comes with two LED Task lights.
What I Didn’t Like:
The only main complaint with the KitchenAid microwave is the cost. Compared to the Whirlpool Low-Profile microwave, the KitchenAid microwave is relatively expensive. It would have been better if it was slightly less expensive.
But the product’s price is justified because you can’t ignore the enhanced ventilation power and more speed fans.
Who Should Buy It And Why:
If you want a low-profile microwave with long-term quality and performance, budget is not a big issue – then the KitchenAid low-profile microwave is worth a try.
Low-Profile Microwave By Samsung
The third brand that makes low-profile microwaves is Samsung. And the model we are reviewing here is the one with 550 CFM venting power and 1.1 cu. Ft capacity.
Dimensions
| Microwave | Width | Height | Depth |
| Outside | 29 7/8″ | 10 3/4″ | 19 1/8″ |
| Cavity | 18 1/2″ | 6 15/16″ | 14 15/16″ |
Specs:
- It is made up of black stainless steel material.
- The door of the microwave is in the form of a recessed handle.
- It has a glass touch control and a Mono LCD Display.
- The inside cavity of the microwave is made up of ceramic enamel.
Features:
- It has a 550 CFM suction capacity that ensures the removal of unwanted steam and odors efficiently.
- Its low-profile and space-saving design enables you to place it in the same place where you could place an under-cabinet hood.
- It is packed with 1000W output power that enables you to cook food faster, and you don’t have to worry about large dishes.
- The LED lighting facility is also available, giving you a good cooking experience with a light spread across the cooktop.
What I Like:
The thing I like the most about the Samsung low-profile microwave is its highest CFM value ventilation capability. We have already stressed the importance of CFM value in ventilation, so we hope you know why Samsung’s low-profile microwave outperforms the other two microwaves in the ventilation aspect.
The next best thing about the Samsung low-profile microwave is that it is made of fingerprint-resistant material.
The microwave has a special fingerprint-resistant finish that prevents the chances of ugly smudges and the appearance of fingerprint marks. I also like the slim and compact design of the Samsung low-profile microwave.
What I Didn’t Like:
Price is my major concern because it is the most expensive low-profile microwave on this list. Also, it is not as feature-rich as Whirlpool or KitchenAid.
That said, we shouldn’t forget it offers the highest CFM value of 550 and comes from a Reputable brand like Samsung.
Who Should Buy It And Why:
So if your priority is buying a top-end low-profile microwave from a reputable worldwide brand like Samsung, and you are ready for the higher price tag, you can go for it.
The Final Breakdown
| Comparison | Whirlpool | KitchenAid | Samsung |
| Ventilation | 400 CFM | 500 CFM | 550 CFM |
| Height | 10-5/16 inches | 10-1/4 inches | 10 3/4 inches |
| Cost | $469* | $679* | $779.99* |
| Color Options | Black, Gray, and White | Black, Gray, and White | Black, Gray |
| Light Facility | Available | Available | Available |
| Capacity | 1.1 cu.ft. | 1.1 cu.ft. | 1.1 cu.ft. |
Overall, there are a lot of similarities between all three microwaves. In short, if you want the best features but are fine with the low ventilation – the whirlpool low–profile microwave is for you.
But for the best ventilation effectiveness, you can go with KitchenAid or Samsung, with a more expensive price tag. Either way, ultimately, everything depends on your set of priorities and budget.
We highly recommend checking out our low-profile microwave buyer’s guide to ensure whether or not they are the right fit for you.
