A built-in microwave drawer can keep your island’s countertop clear while making reheating and cooking easy to reach. The five options below are drawer-style models designed for built-in installation, but they differ in capacity, controls, cooking features, and cabinet dimensions. Before choosing one, compare the listed cutout measurements with your cabinetry and confirm the installation requirements for the exact model.
Quick Comparison
| Microwave | Capacity | Power | Standout feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sharp SMD2470ASY 24-Inch Microwave Drawer | 1.2 cu. ft. | 950 watts | Concealed angled control panel |
| Sharp SMD2420MS 24-Inch Microwave Drawer | 1.2 cu. ft. | Not specified | Sensor Cook and control lock |
| GASLAND 30-Inch Microwave Drawer | 1.2 cu. ft. | 1,000 watts | Sensor cooking and one-touch opening |
| Hamilton Beach 23.5-Inch Built-In Drawer Microwave | 1.1 cu. ft. | Not specified | Flat-bed interior without a turntable |
| COSMO Haven Collection 24-Inch Microwave Drawer | 1.2 cu. ft. | 1,000 watts | 11 power levels and defrosting rack |
Our Picks: Best Built In Microwave For Island reviews
Sharp SMD2470ASY: A Drawer Microwave with Concealed Controls
The Sharp SMD2470ASY is a 24-inch built-in microwave drawer with a 1.2-cubic-foot interior and 950 watts of cooking power. Its drawer format places the opening at counter level, which can be a useful alternative to a countertop microwave when you want to keep your island surface clear.
The control panel stays concealed until the drawer opens, then angles up for access. The automatic drawer system is designed to open smoothly and close hands-free. Inside, Sharp says there is room for a 4-quart casserole dish or a 20-ounce beverage, making the capacity suitable for common reheating and cooking tasks.
This model may suit you if you prefer a less visible control panel and want a roomy interior. Its listed standard cutout is 22 1/8 inches wide, 15 9/16 inches high, and 23 1/2 inches deep; the flush-mount cutout is different, so check which installation style your kitchen plan requires. The product description does not list sensor cooking, and its 950-watt output is lower than the 1,000-watt options here.
Pros:
- 1.2-cubic-foot interior with stated room for a casserole dish
- Concealed control panel angles for access when open
- Automatic drawer system is designed for hands-free closing
- Standard and flush-mount cutout dimensions are provided
Cons:
- 950 watts is less power than the 1,000-watt models in this lineup
- Sensor cooking is not listed in the supplied specifications
Verdict: Choose the SMD2470ASY if its concealed controls and 1.2-cubic-foot capacity fit your priorities, but confirm the cutout carefully and compare its power level with the alternatives.
Sharp SMD2420MS: Sensor Cooking in a 24-Inch Drawer
The Sharp SMD2420MS is another 24-inch drawer microwave with a 1.2-cubic-foot capacity. It is described for installation in islands, peninsulas, walls, or under a counter, so it is a direct option to consider when planning an island installation.
Its Sensor Cook feature detects food moisture to determine cooking time. The automatic drawer opens with a button press and can be closed with a gentle nudge, while the angled touch panel is positioned for access. A control lock helps prevent accidental operation, and the model is described as ADA-compliant.
The listed product dimensions are 23 5/8 inches wide, 15 1/16 inches high, and 23 7/16 inches deep. Its standard and flush-mount cutouts differ, so don’t rely on the “24-inch” label alone when planning cabinetry. Cooking wattage is not specified in the supplied product information, which makes power comparisons with the other models difficult.
Pros:
- Installation is described for islands, peninsulas, walls, and under-counter locations
- Sensor Cook adjusts cooking time based on food moisture
- Automatic drawer operation and angled touch controls
- Control lock and ADA-compliant design are listed features
Cons:
- Cooking wattage is not provided in the supplied specifications
- Standard and flush-mount cutout dimensions are not the same
Verdict: The SMD2420MS is a strong fit to investigate if you want sensor cooking and an island-ready drawer format, provided its exact cutout dimensions work for your project.
GASLAND 30-Inch Microwave Drawer: High Power and Sensor Modes
This GASLAND drawer microwave is listed as a 30-inch built-in island model, with a 1.2-cubic-foot interior and 1,000 watts of cooking power. It is the highest-wattage option among the products here that list their power, and it offers 10 adjustable power levels for different cooking tasks.
Its sensor cooking and sensor reheating modes are designed to adjust time and power based on food conditions. Other listed functions include time and weight defrost, multi-stage cooking, and presets for popcorn, beverages, melting, and softening. A one-touch opening feature and Start/+30 Sec function are intended to make quick use straightforward.
The 30-inch designation makes this a different size class from the 24-inch Sharp and COSMO options, so it may work best when the island design is being planned around the appliance. The supplied information does not include product or cutout dimensions, so you’ll need to verify those details before committing to a cabinet opening. Its feature set is extensive, but it may be more than you need if you mainly reheat simple meals.
Pros:
- 1,000 watts of cooking power and 10 power levels
- Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat functions are included
- Time and weight defrost plus multi-stage cooking
- Child lock and UL Listed certification are specified
Cons:
- Product and cutout dimensions are not included in the supplied information
- Its 30-inch size may not suit plans made for a 24-inch drawer
Verdict: Consider the GASLAND if you want 1,000 watts and a broad set of sensor and cooking modes, but confirm its installation dimensions before designing your island around it.
Hamilton Beach 23.5-Inch Drawer Microwave: Turntable-Free Design
The Hamilton Beach is a built-in drawer microwave with a 1.1-cubic-foot capacity and a listed width of 23.5 inches. It is designed for under-counter or in-wall installation, including kitchen island layouts, and is described as fitting a standard 24-inch-wide cavity.
Its flat-bed interior has no turntable, leaving a flat cooking surface rather than a rotating glass plate. That layout may be useful for fitting certain dishes, though you should still check the usable interior dimensions against the cookware you plan to use. The model also has a one-touch electric drawer, touchscreen controls, and a white LED display.
At 1.1 cubic feet, it has slightly less stated capacity than the 1.2-cubic-foot alternatives. The supplied product details do not list wattage, sensor cooking, or cutout height and depth, so compare the full installation requirements before ordering. Its standard-cavity fit is useful information, but it does not replace checking your cabinet measurements.
Pros:
- Designed for island, under-counter, or in-wall installation
- Flat-bed interior has no turntable
- One-touch electric drawer and touchscreen controls
- Listed as fitting a standard 24-inch-wide cavity
Cons:
- 1.1-cubic-foot capacity is smaller than the 1.2-cubic-foot options
- Wattage and complete cutout dimensions are not provided in the supplied details
Verdict: The Hamilton Beach is worth considering if you want a turntable-free interior and a listed 24-inch cavity fit, as long as its capacity and installation measurements suit your needs.
COSMO Haven Collection: 1,000 Watts in a 24-Inch Drawer
The COSMO Haven Collection drawer microwave combines a 1.2-cubic-foot capacity with 1,000 watts of power. Its matte black finish gives it a different look from the stainless steel options, which may be appealing if you’re coordinating the appliance with other finishes in your kitchen.
Eleven power levels provide a range of settings, while presets cover melting, softening, popcorn, and beverages. For defrosting, the model offers timed or weight-based options and includes a defrosting rack. Its listed exterior dimensions are 23.87 inches wide, 24.5 inches deep, and 15 inches high; it requires a 120V/60Hz electrical supply according to the provided details.
This model may suit you if you want a 24-inch-class drawer with 1,000 watts and straightforward preset options. The supplied information does not list sensor cooking, and its exterior depth is worth checking against your island cabinetry. COSMO also lists a one-year limited warranty, but make sure the product’s installation instructions and electrical requirements work for your setup.
Pros:
- 1.2-cubic-foot capacity and 1,000 watts of power
- 11 power levels and four automatic cooking options
- Timed and weight-based defrost settings with a rack included
- Matte black finish and listed exterior dimensions
Cons:
- Exterior depth is 24.5 inches, so check the available cabinet space
- Sensor cooking is not listed in the supplied specifications
Verdict: Pick the COSMO if its matte black finish, 1,000-watt output, and listed dimensions suit your kitchen, especially if you value multiple power levels and defrost options.
How to Choose a Built-In Microwave for an Island
Measure the Cabinet Cutout, Not Just the Appliance Width
A microwave described as 24 inches wide does not necessarily fit every 24-inch cabinet opening. Compare the appliance’s product dimensions with its standard or flush-mount cutout dimensions. For an island, also check the available depth and height, and allow for any installation clearances specified by the manufacturer. The Sharp models list separate standard and flush-mount measurements, while the supplied details for some other options do not include a complete cutout specification.
Choose a Drawer Style That Works for Your Layout
Drawer microwaves open from the front and load from above, unlike a typical countertop model with a side-hinged door. Think about where the drawer will sit in relation to nearby cabinets, walkways, and work areas. The Sharp SMD2420MS and GASLAND are specifically described for island installation; the Hamilton Beach is described for islands and under-counter placement. Regardless of the model, confirm the installation instructions and plan the surrounding cabinetry before purchase.
Match Capacity to Your Cookware
Most options here list a 1.2-cubic-foot interior, while the Hamilton Beach lists 1.1 cubic feet. Capacity alone does not tell you whether a particular casserole dish or plate will fit, so check the internal dimensions when available. Sharp lists interior dimensions for the SMD2470ASY and describes it as large enough for a 4-quart casserole dish. For other models, measure your usual cookware and compare it with the manufacturer’s full specifications.
Compare Power and Cooking Features
Higher wattage can be a helpful point of comparison, but wattage is not listed for every model in this selection. The SMD2470ASY is rated at 950 watts, while the GASLAND and COSMO are listed at 1,000 watts. The Sharp SMD2420MS adds Sensor Cook, and the GASLAND lists both Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat. If you mainly warm leftovers, a simpler control setup may be enough; if you often cook varied foods, sensor functions and adjustable power levels may be more useful.
Consider the Controls and Safety Features
Look at how the controls are positioned and what features will help in your household. The Sharp SMD2470ASY has a concealed panel that angles up when opened, while the SMD2420MS has angled touch controls and a control lock. The GASLAND lists a child lock, and the COSMO has 11 power levels. Choose a layout you can reach and understand comfortably, especially since an island installation may place the controls in a busy part of the kitchen.
Check Electrical and Installation Requirements
Built-in appliances need more than an opening that looks the right size. Review the installation manual for electrical requirements, ventilation or clearance instructions, mounting details, and any other requirements before work begins. The COSMO listing specifies 120V/60Hz; electrical details for the other models are not provided here, so confirm them with the manufacturer documentation. If you are replacing an existing appliance, do not assume the old cutout or wiring will work for a new model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a built-in microwave drawer be installed in a kitchen island?
Yes, several models in this selection are described for island installation. The Sharp SMD2420MS and GASLAND specifically mention islands, and the Hamilton Beach is described for island and under-counter use. Always confirm the exact model’s installation instructions and cutout requirements before planning the cabinetry.
What size microwave drawer should I choose for an island?
Start with the cabinet opening you have or plan to build, then compare it with the microwave’s product and cutout dimensions. The products here include 23.5-inch and 24-inch-class models, as well as a model listed as 30 inches. Those labels are not a substitute for measuring the required width, height, and depth.
Are all the microwaves in this list 1.2 cubic feet?
No. Four models list a 1.2-cubic-foot capacity, while the Hamilton Beach lists 1.1 cubic feet. If you regularly use large plates or casserole dishes, check the internal dimensions as well as the stated capacity.
Which models list sensor cooking?
The Sharp SMD2420MS lists Sensor Cook. The GASLAND lists Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat. Sensor cooking is not listed in the supplied information for the Sharp SMD2470ASY, Hamilton Beach, or COSMO models.
Does a drawer microwave need a turntable?
Not every model uses one. The Hamilton Beach is described as having a flat-bed interior without a turntable. The supplied information does not specify the interior design for every other model, so check the individual product details if a turntable-free cooking surface matters to you.
What should I check before ordering?
Confirm the exact cutout dimensions, installation style, electrical requirements, and clearance instructions. Also make sure the microwave’s interior can accommodate your usual dishes. For a new island build, share the manufacturer’s installation information with your cabinet installer or electrician before work begins.
Final Recommendation
For an island installation, the Sharp SMD2420MS stands out for its stated island compatibility, sensor cooking, and control lock. The GASLAND is a compelling alternative if you want 1,000 watts and more listed cooking modes, while the COSMO offers 1,000 watts in a 24-inch-class design with a matte black finish. The best choice depends on your cutout, cooking habits, and preferred controls, so verify the manufacturer’s full installation requirements before buying.