Imagine this: you’re craving a quick, hot meal, but your old microwave is sputtering its last breath. Or maybe you’re setting up a new kitchen and need a workhorse that fits perfectly above your stove. Choosing a new over-the-counter microwave oven can feel like a maze. So many brands, so many features, and what does “venting” even mean? It’s easy to get lost in the jargon and end up with something that’s too big, too small, or just doesn’t do what you need it to.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to cut through the confusion and help you find the perfect over-the-counter microwave oven for your home. We’ll talk about what really matters, from size and power to helpful features that make cooking a breeze. By the end, you’ll feel confident knowing exactly what to look for and how to pick the best microwave to heat up your leftovers, pop your popcorn, and become a real kitchen helper.
Our Top 5 Over The Counter Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Counter Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.7/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers powerful 1000-watt cooking and a spacious 1.9 cubic feet of interior space. This microwave makes cooking simple with its one-touch auto-cooking features and a variety of pre-programmed settings. It also includes a bright LED cooktop light and a strong venting system to keep your kitchen fresh.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking heats food quickly.
- Large 1.9 cu.ft. capacity fits big dishes.
- Easy auto-cooking menus for popcorn, pizza, and more.
- Bright LED cooktop light helps you see while cooking below.
- Strong 400-CFM venting fan keeps your kitchen air clean.
- Turntable can be turned off for larger rectangular dishes.
- User-friendly with 10 power settings and a clock.
- Child lock feature adds safety for families.
- Quick 30-second express cooking is convenient.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation instructions are only available online, not printed in the box.
- Some users might prefer a slightly more compact design for smaller kitchens.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven blends power and convenience. It’s an excellent choice for busy households that need a reliable and feature-rich over-the-range microwave.
2. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave is a fantastic addition for busy families and home cooks. It offers plenty of space at 1.9 cubic feet, perfect for heating up large meals or popping popcorn. Plus, you get extra peace of mind with an extended protection plan.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals with ease.
- The melt feature takes the guesswork out of softening butter, chocolate, and more.
- Steam clean makes tidying up a breeze.
- It comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit right in the box.
- You get a full manufacturer’s warranty PLUS a 2-year extended protection plan, making this a really secure purchase.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and professional in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (16 5/16 H x 29 7/8 W x 15 9/16 D) might require careful measurement for some cabinet spaces.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich over-the-range oven.
3. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a kitchen powerhouse. This stainless steel appliance packs a lot of features into a compact 1.0 cubic foot space. It’s more than just a microwave; it’s an air fryer, a broiler, and a convection oven all in one. This makes it a super versatile tool for anyone’s kitchen, especially in smaller spaces like dorm rooms or apartments.
What We Like:
- The Air Fry Mode makes your favorite snacks crispy and healthier. It cooks food faster with less oil.
- The Convection Mode uses a special rack to circulate air. This ensures your food cooks evenly and gets a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- You can Broil food right in the microwave. It radiates heat to sear and caramelize your meals to perfection, just like a grill.
- Preset Controls are super handy. Just pick what you’re cooking, like fries or nuggets, and the microwave does the rest for perfectly cooked results.
- The Two-Step Child Lock adds safety for families with young children. It prevents accidental use.
- It’s Compact yet Powerful, with 1,050 watts of power. It fits easily on your countertop or in a dorm room.
- The Glass Turntable rotates your food. This means everything cooks evenly throughout the cycle.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many functions, some users might find the learning curve for all the modes a bit steep at first.
- The 1.0 Cu. Ft. size, while compact, might be too small for very large meals or for families who cook a lot.
This GE microwave oven is a fantastic all-in-one solution for busy lives and small kitchens. It offers convenience and versatility that’s hard to beat.
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 with its sleek stainless steel finish is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It combines powerful cooking capabilities with smart features to make meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature is a real time-saver. It has 18 Auto Menus for things like popcorn, pizza, and even defrosting. You can easily cook a variety of foods.
- Its 1.7 cu.ft. capacity is generous. The 12.5-inch turntable fits large items like a rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza with ease.
- With 1000W of power and 10-level settings, it heats food quickly and efficiently. You can adjust the power for different cooking needs.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system works hard. It powerfully sucks up cooking fumes and odors, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- The bright cooktop light shines down on your stove. This gives you a clear view while you’re cooking on the stovetop.
- The Smart Touch Panel is intuitive and easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are great, some users might prefer more customization options for specific recipes.
- The installation of over-the-range microwaves can sometimes be tricky and might require professional help.
This Midea microwave oven offers excellent performance and convenience for busy households. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen.
5. Sharp 1.5 Cu. Ft. 1100W Over-the-Counter Microwave in Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Sharp 1.5 Cu. Ft. 1100W Over-the-Counter Microwave in Stainless Steel. This microwave offers plenty of space for all your cooking needs. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. It’s designed to fit conveniently over your counter, saving valuable counter space. This microwave makes heating up meals and snacks a breeze.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.5 cu. ft. capacity is great for larger dishes.
- Powerful 1100 watts cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Keep Warm Plus feature keeps your food hot for up to 30 minutes.
- Defrost Center makes defrosting meats simple and accurate.
- The 7-digit, 2-color LCD display is easy to read and use.
- Stylish stainless steel design enhances your kitchen’s look.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 55 lbs, it might require two people for installation.
- While the dimensions are listed, users might want to double-check their specific over-the-counter cabinet space.
This Sharp microwave is a fantastic addition to any busy kitchen. Its thoughtful features and powerful performance make it a reliable choice for everyday cooking.
Your Guide to Picking the Best Microwave Oven
Microwave ovens are kitchen superstars. They heat up leftovers fast. They can also cook meals quickly. Choosing the right one makes your kitchen life easier. This guide helps you find the perfect microwave for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
1. Wattage: Power for Speed
Microwaves have different power levels. This is measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves range from 700 to 1200 watts. For everyday use, 900-1000 watts is a good choice. If you cook a lot or need to heat things quickly, aim for 1100 watts or more.
2. Size and Capacity: How Much Can It Hold?
Microwaves come in different sizes. Small ones are good for one person. Medium ones work for small families. Large ones are great for bigger households or for cooking larger dishes. Measure the space where you plan to put the microwave. Also, think about the size of the plates and bowls you use. Capacity is usually measured in cubic feet. A 0.7 to 1.0 cubic foot microwave is good for most people.
3. Preset Cooking Programs: Easy Buttons
Many microwaves have special buttons for common foods. These include popcorn, baked potato, and defrost. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking. They set the time and power level for you. This makes using the microwave very simple.
4. Turntable: Even Heating
A turntable rotates your food. This helps it cook evenly. Most microwaves have one. Some larger or more advanced models might not, but they often have special wave technology for even heating.
5. Control Panel: Easy to Use
Look for a control panel that is easy to understand. Buttons should be clearly labeled. Digital displays are helpful. Some people prefer simple dial controls, while others like touchpads.
Important Materials
1. Interior Coating: Easy Cleaning
The inside of the microwave is important. Many have a ceramic enamel coating. This is tough and easy to wipe clean. Stainless steel interiors look nice but can be harder to clean. Plastic interiors are common in budget models.
2. Exterior Finish: Style and Durability
The outside of your microwave can be stainless steel, black, white, or other colors. Stainless steel is popular and looks modern. It can show fingerprints, though. Other finishes are usually easier to keep clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
1. Build Quality: Sturdy and Reliable
A well-built microwave feels solid. The door should open and close smoothly. The buttons should feel responsive. Cheaply made microwaves might feel flimsy. They might also break down sooner.
2. Brand Reputation: Trustworthy Names
Some brands are known for making good appliances. Reading reviews can tell you a lot about a brand’s quality. A good brand often means better customer service too.
3. Noise Level: Quiet Operation
Some microwaves can be quite noisy when they run. If you are sensitive to noise, look for models that are described as quiet. Reviews often mention how loud a microwave is.
User Experience and Use Cases
1. Quick Meals and Snacks
Microwaves are perfect for reheating leftovers. They are also great for making quick snacks like popcorn. If you are always in a hurry, a powerful microwave is a must.
2. Simple Cooking
Beyond reheating, you can cook many things in a microwave. Baked potatoes, steamed vegetables, and even some simple cakes can be made. Preset buttons make these tasks much easier.
3. Small Kitchens and Dorm Rooms
Compact microwaves are ideal for small kitchens. They save counter space. They are also a popular choice for dorm rooms or small apartments where space is limited.
4. Busy Households
For families with busy schedules, a microwave is a lifesaver. It allows everyone to heat their food quickly. This saves time and reduces stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best wattage for a microwave?
A: For most people, 900-1000 watts is a good balance of power and efficiency. Higher wattage (1100+ watts) cooks faster.
Q: How do I know what size microwave I need?
A: Measure your counter space. Also, think about the size of dishes you usually heat. Capacity is in cubic feet (e.g., 1.0 cu. ft. is medium size).
Q: Are preset buttons really helpful?
A: Yes, they make cooking common items like popcorn or potatoes very easy. They set the right time and power automatically.
Q: Do I need a turntable?
A: A turntable helps food cook more evenly. Most microwaves have them, and they are very useful.
Q: What is the best interior material for a microwave?
A: Ceramic enamel is a great choice. It is durable and very easy to clean.
Q: How important is brand reputation?
A: A good brand often means better quality and reliability. Reading reviews can help you choose a trustworthy brand.
Q: Can a microwave cook a full meal?
A: Yes, many microwaves can cook simple meals, steam vegetables, or bake potatoes. They are great for quick cooking.
Q: Are microwaves noisy?
A: Some can be. If noise bothers you, look for models that are described as quiet in their reviews.
Q: What does “over the counter” mean for a microwave?
A: This usually refers to microwaves that sit on your countertop. It’s the most common type you buy in stores.
Q: How long does a microwave oven usually last?
A: With good care, a microwave oven can last 7-10 years or even longer.
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!