How Deep Is a Microwave? | Cabinet Fit Answers

A microwave’s depth typically runs 12–20 inches with the door closed, depending on the type—and open-door depth is much larger.

Most people measure a microwave wrong the first time. They check the closed-door depth, order the unit, and then discover the door can’t swing open in the space they had. The real number that matters depends on where you’re putting it—counter, over the range, or in a cabinet—and whether you’re measuring with the door shut or open. The answer to how deep is a microwave changes by category, and knowing the right measurement before you shop saves a return trip.

Standard Depths by Microwave Type

Manufacturers build each microwave category around typical kitchen dimensions, and depth ranges stay fairly consistent within each type. These are the closed-door depths you’ll see on spec sheets, though every model varies slightly.

Closed-door depth is what most listings and dimension guides quote first, but it’s only half the story. The open-door depth—how far the door reaches when you pull it down or to the side—is the number that determines whether the unit fits your physical space.

• Compact microwaves: 12–16 in. deep closed; 23–30 in. with the door open.
• Countertop microwaves: 16–20 in. deep closed; 34–39 in. with the door open.
• Over-the-range microwaves: 15–18 in. deep closed; 27–45 in. open depending on model.
• Built-in microwaves: 20–25 in. deep closed; 30–35 in. open.

Low-profile over-the-range models run shallower in height at about 10 in. but still land near 18 in. deep. Built-ins come in 24, 27, or 30 in. widths, with depth staying in that 20–25 in. band.

Measuring Depth the Right Way

Depth is measured front to back, not diagonally, and you should take it three ways before committing to an installation. The closed-door measurement gives you the appliance’s footprint, but the cutout and clearance numbers decide whether it actually fits.

For countertop placement, measure the closed-door depth first, then measure the open-door swing. A microwave that sits fine on the counter can still hit a cabinet or wall when the door drops open, so give that swing room. For over-the-range and built-in units, you need the cutout depth inside the cabinet plus clearance behind and above the unit.

One microwave, four different depth figures—which is why checking the model’s own installation sheet beats trusting a generic size.

Cabinet Clearance Rules You Can’t Skip

Over-the-range and built-in microwaves live inside fixed openings, so the cabinet dimensions control everything. The manufacturer’s installation guide for your specific model is the final authority, and those guides include hard minimums and maximums.

Ignoring these cabinet limits is the fastest way to end up with a microwave that won’t seat properly against the wall.

Confusing appliance depth with open-door depth is the most common fitting mistake, along with forgetting to check whether a depth figure includes the handle or runs to the back of the console. When you’re shopping for a tight counter space, look for models around 14 inches deep that skip the extra handle protrusion—a roundup of tested 14-inch depth microwaves shows which compact units actually fit shallow counters.

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