As I need to replace my appliances, I’d prefer to buy ones that integrate with Home Assistant, whether they offer full control or just expose useful sensors. Controlling a microwave via voice with “100 Alexa commands” (see model linked below) is probably more of a marketing gimmick than a real benefit, since you still have to interact with the food anyway. But I’d still rather have the option than not, and I’m sure I’ll find some interesting ways to use the smart features.
1.4 cu.ft. Alexa-Enabled Inverter Microwave, 1200W
Smart options have recently improved, but are still quite limited. Most are for “over-the-range” models or built-ins that open like regular ovens. I am replacing a countertop model that is built-in via a 30 inch (76cm) trim kit. While it appears the model above has no compatible trim kit, Panasonic is insane if they think I would by a ~$300-500 trim kit “frame” for a ~$330 microwave.
A nice built-in one I found is:
KitchenAid KMBT730SPS - Built-In More-in-One Convection Microwave Oven
However this one would likely require some modification to the kitchen cabinet, and the internal cavity of the microwave is more or less half of my current one making it significantly less versatile.
Whirlpool has a seemingly identical model for a lower price… but obviously has same issues:
Surprisingly Samsung only has a single smart countertop microwave… and it is a 100% no go for me.
Samsung Countertop Microwave MC12DB8700CKAA
LG has nothing as well… or maybe this model that only has “Smart Diagnosis” features - whatever that means (but probably quite useless):
LG MSER2090D - 2.0 cu. ft. NeoChef™ Countertop Microwave with Smart Inverter and Sensor Cooking
To complicate matters, I also need to replace the conventional oven, which sits right below the microwave. Aesthetically, it would be best if the two matched, so it may make more sense to focus on finding a suitable smart oven (the more useful upgrade) and then choose whatever “smart-ish” microwave the same vendor offers. Also, if both are smart, it’s best for them to be from the same vendor so they can be managed through the same app (local here is probably just a dream).
Since I’m looking for products available in the US market, I’m hoping others in the US can share their research and recommendations. I’d especially appreciate feedback on microwaves, but ovens are also relevant since many of the “nice-to-have” features (e.g., air fry) overlap. That way, I can choose a better oven and go more basic on the microwave.