Ever wonder how your kitchen can feel both more spacious and more functional at the same time? Over-the-range microwaves are like kitchen superheroes, saving precious counter space while still delivering delicious, hot meals. But when you’re looking specifically at GE models, the sheer number of choices can feel a little overwhelming. You want a microwave that heats evenly, looks good, and fits your cooking needs, but where do you even begin?
Choosing the right GE over-the-range microwave is more than just picking a shiny appliance; it’s about finding a partner for your busy kitchen. You might be worried about installation, features you’ll actually use, or simply finding one that fits your budget. We get it! That’s why we’ve put together this guide. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer picture of what makes a GE over-the-range microwave a great buy and how to pick the perfect one for your home.
Let’s dive in and uncover the best GE over-the-range microwaves that will make your kitchen smarter and your cooking easier.
Our Top 5 Ge Over The Range Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Ge Over The Range Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle. This bundle gives you a stylish and functional microwave plus peace of mind with an extended protection plan. It’s designed to make your cooking easier and your kitchen look better.
What We Like:
- It comes with a 2-year extended protection plan, so you’re covered longer.
- You also get a charcoal filter replacement, which is great for keeping your air fresh.
- The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is good for most meals and snacks.
- It offers convenient cooking controls for simple operation.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to clean.
- This is a GE USA Authorized product, meaning quality you can trust.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit small for very large dishes.
- While convenient, more advanced features like sensor cooking are not listed.
This bundle offers a solid microwave with added protection, making it a smart choice for many kitchens.
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: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance is designed to make cooking and cleaning easier. It comes with a special bundle that includes a 2-year enhanced protection plan for extra peace of mind, on top of the regular manufacturer warranty. You’ll be cooking delicious meals in no time with this reliable microwave.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity holds large dishes.
- Special melt feature makes melting butter, chocolate, and more super easy.
- Steam clean interior makes wiping up messes a breeze.
- It’s a GE USA authorized product, so you know you’re getting quality.
- You get a 2-year extended protection plan plus the manufacturer’s warranty for total peace of mind.
- The recirculating charcoal filter kit is included, so it’s ready to go.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (16 5/16 H x 29 7/8 W x 15 9/16 D) might be large for very small kitchens.
This GE microwave offers a great combination of features and protection. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to add convenience and style to their kitchen.
3. GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel appliance does more than just heat food; it cooks, air fries, and even offers convection baking. It’s a powerful and versatile addition to any home chef’s arsenal, making meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- Powerful Performance: The convection feature lets you bake and roast, giving you more cooking options.
- Air Fry Ready: Enjoy crispy, healthier fried foods right in your microwave.
- Spacious Interior: With 1.7 cu. ft. of space, you can easily fit larger dishes.
- Convenient Size: It fits perfectly over your range, saving counter space.
- Complete Package: This bundle includes the microwave, a charcoal filter kit, and a fantastic 2-year extended protection plan on top of the standard manufacturer warranty.
- User-Friendly: GE appliances are known for their ease of use, and this model is no exception.
What Could Be Improved:
- Initial Setup: While generally easy, some users might find the initial installation slightly more involved due to the over-the-range mounting.
- Learning Curve for Convection: Mastering the convection and air fry features might take a little practice for those new to these cooking methods.
This GE Profile microwave bundle offers incredible value and advanced cooking capabilities. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their kitchen’s functionality and style.
4. GE JVM6175SKSS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM6175SKSS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance is packed with smart features to make cooking easier and faster. Plus, this bundle includes an extra layer of protection with a premium 2-year extended service plan, giving you peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- 1000 watts of power cook food quickly.
- Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for perfect results.
- Weight and time defrost options make meal prep simple.
- “Add 30 seconds” button is super handy for quick reheating.
- Powerful two-speed, 300-CFM venting system clears smoke, steam, and odors.
- Turntable On/Off feature gives you flexibility for different dishes.
- It comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit.
- You get a full manufacturer’s warranty plus a 2-year extended protection plan, so it’s well-covered.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation process might require professional help for some users.
- While the venting is good, some users might prefer a more powerful external exhaust option.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value with its advanced features and extended protection. It’s a smart addition to any busy kitchen.
5. GE PVM9005SJSS Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The GE PVM9005SJSS Microwave Oven is a stylish and powerful addition to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish not only looks great but also makes cleaning up after meals a breeze. This over-the-range model offers ample space with its 2.1 cubic feet capacity and a generous 14.25-inch turntable, making it easy to heat up large dishes or multiple items at once. With 1050 watts of cooking power, it efficiently handles all your reheating and cooking needs.
What We Like:
- The 2.1 cu ft. capacity is spacious enough for family-sized meals.
- Its 400 CFM vent system effectively clears smoke and odors from your cooktop.
- Automatic cooking and sensor features take the guesswork out of meal preparation.
- The convenient three-option touch controls offer quick and easy access to common functions.
- Syncing the microwave’s clock, surface light, and vent with your range adds a touch of smart kitchen integration.
- The stainless steel exterior is attractive and simple to wipe clean.
- A filter kit is included, so you have everything you need to get started.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1050-watt power, while good, might be slightly less powerful than some higher-end models.
- The exterior dimensions require a specific cabinet width of 30 inches, so check your measurements.
This GE microwave oven combines good looks with practical features to simplify your cooking routine. It’s a solid choice for busy households looking for reliable performance and convenient operation.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect Over-the-Range Microwave
So, you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen with a new over-the-range microwave? That’s a smart move! These appliances do more than just heat up leftovers. They can be the workhorse of your kitchen, helping you cook, vent, and even add style. Let’s break down what you need to know to pick the best one for your home.
Key Features to Look For
What makes a microwave great?
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Wattage: This is how powerful your microwave is. Higher wattage (like 1000 watts or more) means faster cooking.
- Capacity: How much food can you fit inside? Microwaves come in different sizes, from compact to extra-large. Think about how many people you usually cook for.
- Ventilation System: This is super important for an over-the-range model. Look for strong CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings. This tells you how well it can clear smoke and smells from your stovetop.
- Cooktop Lighting: Most have a light under the microwave to illuminate your stove. Some offer brighter LED lights.
- Sensor Cooking: This is a cool feature! The microwave senses the moisture from your food and adjusts the cooking time and power automatically. No more guessing!
- Turntable: A rotating plate helps food cook evenly. Some microwaves have a large turntable for bigger dishes.
- Convection Cooking: Some high-end models have a convection feature, which uses a fan to circulate hot air. This allows you to bake and roast, not just microwave.
Important Materials
What is it made of?
The materials used affect how durable and easy to clean your microwave is.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice because it looks sleek and is strong. It resists fingerprints better than some other finishes.
- Enamel or Painted Interiors: These are common and easy to wipe down.
- Glass Turntable: This is standard and easy to remove for cleaning.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a microwave good or not so good?
A few things can make a big difference in your microwave’s performance and how long it lasts.
- Build Quality: A sturdy, well-built microwave feels solid. Doors that close smoothly and controls that are easy to use are signs of good quality.
- Ventilation Power (CFM): As mentioned, higher CFM is better for clearing your kitchen air.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. Check reviews to see if people complain about noise.
- Durability of Controls: Buttons that feel cheap or get stuck can be annoying. Touch panels are often sleek but ensure they are responsive.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have better quality control and customer service.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use it?
Think about your daily cooking habits.
- Quick Meals: If you mostly reheat food or make quick snacks, a basic model with good wattage will be perfect.
- Family Cooking: For larger families, a bigger capacity microwave with sensor cooking is very helpful.
- Stovetop Ventilation: If you do a lot of cooking on the stovetop, a powerful vent system is a must.
- Creative Cooking: If you want to do more than just microwave, consider a convection model. You can bake cookies or roast vegetables!
- Easy Cleaning: Look for models with easy-to-clean interiors and removable turntables.
Choosing the right over-the-range microwave makes your kitchen work better and easier. Take your time, consider these points, and you’ll find a microwave you’ll love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best wattage for an over-the-range microwave?
A: Most people find that 1000 watts or higher is ideal. This ensures your food heats up quickly and evenly.
Q: How important is the CFM rating for the vent?
A: It’s very important! A higher CFM rating means the vent will remove smoke, steam, and odors more effectively from your kitchen.
Q: Can I install an over-the-range microwave myself?
A: While some people do, it’s often recommended to have a professional install it. They need to be securely mounted and properly vented.
Q: What is sensor cooking and how does it work?
A: Sensor cooking uses built-in sensors to detect the moisture released from food. The microwave then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level for perfect results.
Q: Do I need a turntable in my microwave?
A: A turntable helps food cook more evenly by rotating it during the cooking cycle. It’s a standard feature that most people find very useful.
Q: What’s the difference between a microwave and a convection microwave?
A: A regular microwave uses microwaves to heat food. A convection microwave also has a fan that circulates hot air, allowing you to bake, roast, and broil like a conventional oven.
Q: How do I clean the vent filter?
A: Most vent filters are removable. You can usually wash them with warm, soapy water. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Q: What are common problems with over-the-range microwaves?
A: Common issues can include vent fan problems, uneven cooking, or control panel malfunctions. Good quality and proper installation help prevent these.
Q: How much space do I need above my stove for an over-the-range microwave?
A: Most manufacturers recommend at least 18 inches of clearance between the stovetop and the bottom of the microwave. Always check the specific installation guide.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves hard to keep clean?
A: Stainless steel is generally easy to clean. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and a mild cleaner usually does the trick. Some finishes are more resistant to fingerprints than others.
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!