The KitchenAid Low Profile Microwave and its counterpart from Whirlpool both solve the same problem - saving space over your range - but they do so for entirely different homeowners. KitchenAid's models are premium, design-forward appliances with advanced features like convection cooking and high-quality materials, while Whirlpool focuses on delivering reliable performance and essential functions at a more budget-friendly price point.
Here’s what you need to know to decide which of these popular appliances from KitchenAid or Whirlpool is the right fit for your kitchen.
KitchenAid Low Profile Microwave
The KitchenAid Low Profile Microwave Hood Combination is engineered for homeowners who see their appliances as part of their kitchen's design. It combines a space-saving profile with powerful features often found in larger microwaves, making it a go-to for modern kitchens where both style and performance are critical.
- What it is: A premium, compact over-the-range microwave designed to integrate seamlessly under standard cabinetry while offering advanced cooking capabilities.
- Key features: Features a 400 CFM high-performance vent system, convection cooking capability on some models, sensor cooking functions, a turntable-free flat interior for easy cleaning and larger dishes, and whisper-quiet operation.
- Price: Typically ranges from $300 to $500.
- Style: Sleek and modern with a minimalist aesthetic. It often features a print-shield stainless steel finish, hidden controls, and a smooth, integrated door design.
- Materials/Construction: Built with high-quality stainless steel and durable internal components, giving it a solid feel and a polished, premium appearance.
- Pros: Excellent ventilation power. Space-saving low profile fits where traditional over-the-range microwaves can't. Advanced features like convection baking open up more cooking possibilities. Sleek design elevates the look of a kitchen. Turntable-free design is easy to clean.
- Cons: Carries a higher price tag. Fewer finish options compared to more mass-market brands. Advanced features might be more than what a casual user needs.
The KitchenAid Low Profile Microwave is ideal for design-conscious homeowners who want a high-performance appliance with a luxury feel and are willing to invest in premium features.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/major-appliances/microwaves/over-the-range/kmls311hss.html
Whirlpool Low Profile Microwave
Whirlpool's low profile microwave offers a practical and reliable solution for homeowners who need a solid, functional appliance that gets the job done without a fuss. It prioritizes value, durability, and ease of use, making it a dependable workhorse for busy family kitchens.
- What it is: An affordable and dependable over-the-range microwave with a space-saving design focused on core functionality and usability.
- Key features: Includes sensor cooking, multiple power levels, effective 3-speed ventilation fans (often up to 400 CFM matching KitchenAid), and user-friendly tap-to-open door mechanism. Most models include a standard glass turntable.
- Price: Generally ranges from $200 to $400, making it very accessible.
- Style: Functional and straightforward. The design is clean and simple, available in standard finishes like stainless steel, black, or white to match common appliance suites.
- Materials/Construction: Made with sturdy, durable materials meant to withstand daily use. While well-built, the finish and feel are more utilitarian than luxurious.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price. Reliable performance for everyday reheating and cooking tasks. Widely available and easy to purchase. Simple, intuitive controls are easy for anyone to use. Fits tight, compact spaces perfectly.
- Cons: Lacks premium features like convection cooking. The design is functional but less stylish than KitchenAid's models. Materials are solid but do not feel as high-end.
The Whirlpool Low Profile Microwave is for the practical consumer seeking a reliable, no-frills appliance that frees up counter space and performs its core functions perfectly.
Shop this product: whirlpool.com/kitchen/microwaves/over-the-range/wml55011hs.html
KitchenAid vs. Whirlpool Low Profile Microwave Comparison
Price & Value
There's a clear difference here. Whirlpool is the value leader, with pricing typically starting around $100-$200 less than KitchenAid. For that lower price, you get a dependable microwave that handles all the essentials, making it a great choice for budget-conscious renovations or anyone who just needs a solid appliance.
KitchenAid positions itself as a premium step-up. The higher cost reflects its superior build quality, more sophisticated design, and advanced features like convection cooking and quieter performance. The value in a KitchenAid is for those who will use these extra features and appreciate the aesthetic upgrade it brings to their kitchen.
Style & Aesthetics
Style is where KitchenAid truly sets itself apart. Its low profile microwaves feature a sleek, minimalist design with integrated handles, concealed touch controls, and clean lines that blend seamlessly into modern kitchens. The stainless steel finish is often treated to resist fingerprints, keeping it looking polished.
Whirlpool’s design is practical and utilitarian. It looks clean and functions well, but it doesn't aim to be a design statement. Its controls are more prominent and its overall look is more traditional, intended to match a wide range of kitchen styles without being the focal point.
Materials & Construction
Both microwaves are built to last, as you'd expect from two reputable brands. However, the KitchenAid model feels more substantial. Its high-grade stainless steel construction and tightly assembled components give it a heft and sturdiness that feels premium. You can feel the quality when you open the door or interact with the controls.
Whirlpool produces a solidly built appliance as well, but the materials prioritize durability over a luxury feel. The steel may seem slightly thinner, and plastic components are more common. It's a workhorse built for longevity, just without the premium tactile experience of the KitchenAid.
Performance & Features
For basic microwave tasks - reheating, defrosting, popping popcorn - both perform admirably. Both often feature helpful sensor cooking modes that automatically adjust time and power, and both offer surprisingly powerful and effective 400 CFM ventilation systems, which are excellent for their compact size.
The key differences are in the extras. Many KitchenAid Low Profile models offer convection cooking, essentially turning the microwave into a small second oven capable of browning and crisping food. Many also feature a turntable-free design, which utilizes a flat interior and a hidden stirring mechanism to heat food evenly, making the space easier to clean and accommodating larger rectangular dishes. Whirlpool typically sticks to a standard microwave-and-turntable setup.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both appliances are excellent choices for saving space, but they are built for different users and budgets.
Choose the KitchenAid Low Profile Microwave if:
- A sleek, modern aesthetic is a top priority for your kitchen design.
- You want advanced features like convection cooking or a turntable-free interior.
- You're willing to invest more for premium build quality and a quieter appliance.
- You want powerful ventilation in a very compact package.
Choose the Whirlpool Low Profile Microwave if:
- You are remodeling on a strict budget and need the best value.
- You need a straightforward, reliable appliance for daily reheating and defrosting.
- Simple, easy-to-use controls are more important than advanced cooking modes.
- You prioritize function and durability over a high-end, luxury feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the KitchenAid and Whirlpool low profile microwaves?
The primary difference comes down to features, design, and price. KitchenAid offers a premium product with a sleek, modern look, higher-end materials, and advanced features like convection cooking. Whirlpool provides a reliable, budget-friendly option with a focus on core functions and practical, durable design.
Which low profile microwave is better?
Neither is definitively "better" - they excel for different needs. If "better" means more features and a more stylish design, KitchenAid is the winner. If "better" means providing reliable, essential performance for the best price, then Whirlpool is the clear choice.
Do both models have the same ventilation power?
Surprisingly, yes. Many comparable low profile models from both brands offer a powerful 400 CFM ventilation system, which is very effective at removing smoke, steam, and odors from the cooktop below. This makes both excellent choices for small kitchens where efficient ventilation is key.
What does "low profile" actually mean for a microwave?
A low profile microwave is shorter than a standard over-the-range model, typically around 10-11 inches in height versus the traditional 16-17 inches. This compact size allows it to be installed in spaces with lower cabinets, providing more clearance over the cooktop without sacrificing interior capacity for most plates and dishes.
Does the KitchenAid low profile microwave have a turntable?
Many of KitchenAid's newest low profile models have a flat, turntable-free design. This design uses a special system to distribute microwave energy evenly without a rotating plate, which makes the interior easier to clean and allows you to fit larger or rectangular-shaped dishes inside.
Is a KitchenAid microwave more reliable than a Whirlpool?
Both brands have a strong reputation for reliability, as Whirlpool Corporation actually owns KitchenAid. KitchenAid models are often built with more premium components which may contribute to a longer lifespan, but Whirlpool appliances are known for being durable workhorses. Both are considered reliable choices.
How much space do I need for a low profile microwave?
Most low profile microwaves are designed to fit in a standard 30-inch wide space above a range. The key advantage is the height. Always check the specific model's installation guide, but they generally work well with standard 12-to-15 inch deep upper cabinets.
Are these microwaves easy to install?
For an experienced DIYer, installation is manageable and similar to a standard over-the-range microwave. However, because it involves drilling into cabinets and potentially handling wiring, professional installation is recommended to ensure it's secure, level, and properly vented.
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