Imagine this: you’re whipping up a quick dinner, and your old microwave is sputtering, taking forever, or just not cutting it anymore. Upgrading your kitchen often means looking up, and that’s where the mighty over-the-range microwave steps in. These aren’t just fancy helpers; they’re kitchen workhorses that save counter space and often boast powerful ventilation, making them a smart choice for many homes.
But let’s be honest, picking the perfect one can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many brands, features, and price points! Do you need the super-powered convection? What about the noise level of the fan? Trying to figure out which one will truly fit your cooking style and your kitchen’s needs can leave you feeling a little overwhelmed. You want a microwave that cooks food well, vents smoke effectively, and doesn’t break the bank.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’ll break down what makes a great over-the-range microwave, explore the most important features to consider, and highlight some top-rated models that stand out. By the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what you’re looking for, helping you confidently choose a microwave that will make your kitchen life easier and tastier. Let’s dive in and find the right fit for your home!
Our Top 5 Rated Over The Range Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Over The Range Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This spacious 1.9 cu.ft microwave packs a powerful 1000-watt punch, making meal prep a breeze. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your range, adding both style and functionality to your cooking space.
What We Like:
- Effortless cooking with pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potatoes, vegetables, pizza, snacks, bacon, frozen dinners, rice, and frozen breakfasts.
- Powerful 1000-watt heating with ten adjustable power settings for precise cooking.
- Convenient 30-second express cooking and a handy kitchen timer.
- Bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop for safer and easier cooking.
- A robust two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan efficiently removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- The turntable On/Off function lets you cook larger dishes without any hassle.
- Child lock feature provides peace of mind for families with young children.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a tight fit for some smaller kitchens.
- Installation instructions are only available online, which might inconvenience some users.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers impressive features for its price point. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their kitchen’s cooking capabilities.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.5/10
This GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s designed for easy use and offers plenty of space for your cooking needs. Plus, the bundle includes an extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- You get a 2-year extended protection plan, which is great for added security.
- It comes with a charcoal filter replacement for behind-the-door grilles.
- The microwave has a good 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, so you can fit most dishes inside.
- Convenience cooking controls make it simple to heat up your food.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and sleek in your kitchen.
- It’s from GE USA, a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are 13″D x 16″W x 9″H, which might be a bit large for some smaller kitchens.
- We wish it had more advanced cooking features beyond basic convenience controls.
This bundle offers excellent value with its spacious microwave and long-term protection. It’s a solid choice for busy households.
3. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave is not only a powerhouse for cooking but also comes with an amazing protection plan. You get a full manufacturer’s warranty plus an extra 2-year extended protection plan from CPS. That means peace of mind for a long time!
What We Like:
- Huge 1.9 cu. ft. capacity fits all your family’s meals.
- Special “Melt” feature makes melting butter, chocolate, and more super easy.
- Steam clean interior makes cleanup a breeze.
- Comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit.
- You get a fantastic 2-year extended protection plan on top of the regular warranty.
- It’s a GE USA authorized product, so you know you’re getting quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dimensions are important to check for your specific kitchen space.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience. You’ll love how easy it is to cook and clean, and the extended protection plan gives you extra security.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.4/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a sleek and powerful addition to any kitchen, designed to make cooking easier and faster. Its stainless steel finish adds a modern touch, while the smart touch panel and auto cooking menu simplify meal preparation. This appliance is perfect for busy households looking for convenience without sacrificing performance.
What We Like:
- The one-touch-cook feature with 18 auto menus makes cooking a breeze. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, or defrost items.
- Its large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable can fit big dishes like a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- With 1000W of power and 10-level power settings, it heats food quickly and efficiently.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system with adjustable fan speeds powerfully removes cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- A bright cooktop light provides excellent visibility for cooking on the stovetop below.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are convenient, some users might prefer more manual control options for very specific cooking tasks.
- The stainless steel finish, while attractive, can show fingerprints and may require regular cleaning to maintain its shine.
This Midea microwave offers a great blend of smart features and robust performance. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to upgrade their kitchen with a versatile and efficient over-the-range appliance.
5. COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan
Rating: 8.5/10
The COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s a powerful microwave that also helps keep your cooking area clean and fresh. This appliance offers a good balance of features for busy households.
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooking: With 1000 watts of power and 10 different power levels, you can cook and reheat food with great accuracy. The 1.34 cu. ft. capacity is roomy enough for most meals.
- Ventilation System: The integrated range hood works hard to remove smoke, smells, and moisture from your kitchen while you cook. This makes your kitchen a more pleasant place to be.
- Easy-to-Use Presets: Touch presets make common tasks like melting butter, softening ice cream, defrosting, and popping popcorn super simple. Just press a button and let the microwave do the work.
- Smart Cooking: The sensor reheat and cook mode is a real time-saver. It figures out when your food is perfectly cooked and stops automatically.
- RV Friendly: This microwave is designed to work well in RVs, making it a versatile option for travelers.
- Sleek Design: The black and stainless steel finish looks modern and stylish above your stove.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Customization on Presets: While convenient, the touch presets may not offer as much fine-tuning as manual control for some users.
- Ventilation Speed Options: The description doesn’t specify if there are multiple fan speeds for the vent, which could be a nice addition for different cooking scenarios.
This COSMO microwave oven is a solid choice for those seeking a multi-functional appliance that simplifies cooking and enhances kitchen air quality. It brings convenience and power right to your stovetop.
Choosing Your Perfect Over-the-Range Microwave
Why Over-the-Range Microwaves are Great
Over-the-range (OTR) microwaves are a smart choice for many kitchens. They save counter space. They also often include a vent fan to clear smoke and smells. This guide will help you pick the best one for your home.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size Matters
OTR microwaves come in different widths. Most are 30 inches wide to fit above standard stoves. Measure your space carefully. Also, check the height and depth. You need enough room to open the door and use it comfortably.
2. Cooking Power (Wattage)
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for microwaves with at least 900 watts. Some models go up to 1200 watts. This makes a big difference when heating up leftovers or cooking meals.
3. Venting Options
Most OTR microwaves have a fan. This fan can vent air outside your home or recirculate it through a filter. Make sure the microwave has the type of venting that works for your kitchen setup. External venting is usually more effective.
4. Sensor Cooking
Sensor cooking takes the guesswork out of heating. Sensors detect the steam and humidity. They then adjust the cooking time and power automatically. This prevents overcooking or undercooking your food.
5. Interior Capacity
Think about what you will cook. Do you need to fit a large casserole dish? OTR microwaves are measured in cubic feet. A larger capacity (like 2.0 cu. ft.) is good for families or if you cook big meals. Smaller capacities (around 1.5 cu. ft.) work well for one or two people.
6. Turntable or No Turntable
A turntable helps food cook evenly. Most OTR microwaves have one. Some newer models have a flat interior without a turntable. These can be easier to clean and fit larger dishes.
Important Materials
The exterior of most OTR microwaves is stainless steel. This looks nice and is easy to wipe clean. Some models might have a black or white finish. The interior is usually made of a durable, easy-to-clean material like enamel or ceramic. Stainless steel interiors are also available and look very sleek.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Microwave Great:
- Build Quality: A sturdy feel and smooth-operating door suggest good construction.
- Even Heating: Test it with different foods. Does it cook evenly?
- Quiet Operation: A loud fan or motor can be annoying.
- Easy Controls: Buttons should be clear and simple to understand.
- Good Lighting: A bright interior light helps you see what you’re cooking.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Ideal:
- Flimsy Construction: A wobbly unit is a sign of lower quality.
- Uneven Cooking: Hot spots and cold spots mean food isn’t cooked properly.
- Weak Venting: If smells and smoke linger, the fan isn’t strong enough.
- Confusing Controls: Too many buttons or unclear labels make it hard to use.
User Experience and Use Cases
An OTR microwave is a workhorse in the kitchen. You’ll use it for quick reheating of meals. You can also use it to defrost frozen foods. Many models have special settings for popcorn, potatoes, or beverages. The vent fan is a lifesaver when you’re frying or cooking strong-smelling foods. A good OTR microwave should be reliable and simple to use every day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the average price of an over-the-range microwave?
A: Prices can range from $200 to $800 or more, depending on the brand and features.
Q: How do I know if an OTR microwave will fit my kitchen?
A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the space above your stove. Compare these measurements to the microwave’s dimensions.
Q: Is stainless steel the best material for an OTR microwave?
A: Stainless steel is popular because it looks good and is easy to clean. However, other finishes can also be durable.
Q: What does “venting” mean for a microwave?
A: Venting refers to the fan that removes smoke, steam, and odors from your cooking area. It can vent outside or recirculate air.
Q: Are sensor cooking features worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, sensor cooking can make a big difference. It helps prevent overcooking and ensures your food is heated perfectly.
Q: How much interior space do I need?
A: Consider what you cook most often. If you heat large dishes, look for a larger capacity (2.0 cu. ft. or more).
Q: Can I install an OTR microwave myself?
A: Installation can be tricky and may require electrical work. It’s often best to have a professional install it.
Q: What is the difference between a turntable and a flatbed interior?
A: A turntable rotates food for even cooking. A flatbed interior has a stationary floor, which can be easier to clean and fit larger items.
Q: How do I clean my OTR microwave?
A: Wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth. For tougher messes, use a mild soap and water solution.
Q: Should I get a microwave with a convection feature?
A: Convection adds a heating element and fan to bake and roast. This is a great feature if you want more cooking versatility.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!