Imagine your kitchen. Where does your microwave live? If it’s taking up precious counter space, you’re not alone. Many of us face this common kitchen dilemma. Finding the perfect over-the-stove microwave oven can feel like a puzzle. You want something that cooks your food fast, but also looks good and fits your budget. It’s a lot to think about!
Choosing an over-the-stove microwave can be tricky. There are so many brands, sizes, and features. Will it be powerful enough? Does it vent air well? How will it look with your other appliances? These questions can make the shopping process feel overwhelming. You want to get it right the first time, so you don’t end up with a microwave that doesn’t work for you.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great over-the-stove microwave oven. You’ll learn about the important features to look for, how to understand wattage, and what to consider for ventilation. By the end, you’ll feel confident in picking the best microwave for your kitchen. Let’s dive in and find the perfect fit!
Our Top 5 Over The Stove Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Stove Microwave Oven 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 powerful and convenient addition to any kitchen. With 1000 watts of cooking power and a spacious 1.9 cubic feet of interior space, it handles all your reheating and cooking needs with ease. Its sleek design and smart features make meal preparation simpler and faster.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000 Watt Cooking: Heats food quickly and evenly.
- User-Friendly Auto Menus: Takes the guesswork out of cooking common items like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza with pre-programmed settings.
- Generous 1.9 Cu.ft Capacity: Fits large dishes and family-sized meals comfortably.
- Bright LED Cooktop Lighting: Illuminates your stovetop for safe and easy cooking.
- Effective 400 CFM Venting System: Removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Turntable On/Off Option: Gives you flexibility for cooking different types of food, especially larger items.
- Convenient 30-Second Express Cooking: Quickly heats or reheats food with a single touch.
- Child Lock Feature: Provides safety for households with young children.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Instructions: While English instructions are available online, some users might prefer a physical manual included.
This microwave oven offers a great balance of power, capacity, and smart features. It makes everyday cooking tasks more efficient and enjoyable.
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
Get ready to upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave is more than just a cooking appliance; it’s a bundle designed for peace of mind. It comes with a generous 1.9 cubic feet of space, perfect for family meals. Plus, you get an extended warranty, so you’re covered for a long time. This microwave makes cooking easier and your kitchen look better.
What We Like:
- Generous Capacity: The 1.9 cu. ft. size easily fits large dishes and multiple servings.
- Worry-Free Melting: The special melt feature takes the guesswork out of melting butter, chocolate, and other goodies.
- Easy Cleanup: The steam clean interior makes wiping away messes a breeze.
- Exceptional Protection: You get a full manufacturer’s warranty PLUS a 2-year extended protection plan. This means your investment is well-protected.
- Complete Kit: The bundle includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit, so you have everything you need to get started.
- Sleek Design: The stainless steel finish looks modern and professional in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dimensions: While standard for over-the-range microwaves, the depth might be a consideration for very small kitchens.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value with its large capacity, helpful features, and outstanding warranty coverage. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish addition to their kitchen.
3. 30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The ThermoMate 30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It boasts a generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for families. With 1000 watts of cooking power and 11 adjustable power levels, you can easily control how your food cooks. Plus, its sleek stainless steel design looks great above your stove.
What We Like:
- The 1000 watts of power and 11 power levels give you great control over cooking.
- One-touch cooking buttons and 9 auto-cook programs make meal prep simple.
- The large 1.9 cu. ft. capacity fits plenty of food, and the removable rack is handy.
- The 400 CFM ventilation system effectively removes smoke and odors, and the LED light brightens your stovetop.
- Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for perfectly heated food.
- The removable glass turntable ensures even heating by rotating food 360°.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the internal dimensions are listed, it would be helpful to see the exact usable space without the turntable.
- The external dimensions are provided, but sometimes a diagram showing clearance needs for installation is useful.
This ThermoMate microwave oven offers a blend of power, convenience, and smart features. It’s an excellent choice for busy kitchens that need a reliable and spacious over-the-range microwave.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.3/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a smart addition to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great above your stove. This microwave makes cooking easy with its smart touch panel and auto cooking features. It’s built to handle your everyday cooking needs.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 Auto Menus simplifies cooking. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, or even cook a potato.
- Its large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable can fit big items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- With 1000W of power and 10-level settings, it heats food quickly and precisely.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is powerful. It removes cooking smells and smoke effectively.
- The bright cooktop light lets you see clearly while you cook on the stove below.
- The Smart Touch Panel is intuitive and easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many auto menus, some users might prefer more customizable options for advanced cooking.
- The 300 CFM ventilation is good, but some very heavy cooking might still leave a faint odor.
This Midea microwave oven offers convenience and power. It’s a solid choice for busy home cooks who want to save time in the kitchen.
5. GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven White Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in classic white. This powerful microwave makes cooking and cleaning a breeze, and it comes with an extra-long protection plan for your peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Peace of Mind Purchase: This bundle includes a full manufacturer’s warranty PLUS a 2-year extended CPS Enhanced Protection Plan. You’re covered for a long time!
- Spacious and Powerful: With a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts of cooking power, you can heat up large meals quickly and efficiently.
- Clean Air, Always: The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively removes smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen, keeping the air fresh.
- Smart Defrosting: Auto and time defrost options make it easy to thaw frozen foods perfectly. No more guesswork!
- Easy Operation: Convenience cooking controls make it simple to select cooking times and power levels.
- Simple Maintenance: The turntable can be turned on or off, and replacing the charcoal filter is a snap, located conveniently behind the door grille.
What Could Be Improved:
- Venting Filter Replacement: While easy to install, the charcoal filter will need to be replaced periodically, which is an ongoing cost.
- Limited Color Options: This bundle specifically comes in white. If you have a different kitchen color scheme, this might not be the perfect fit visually.
This GE microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens, offering great features and excellent protection. It’s a bundle that delivers both performance and long-lasting value.
Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend: The Over-the-Stove Microwave Oven
Tired of your countertop looking like a microwave showroom? An over-the-stove microwave oven, also known as a range hood microwave, might be your perfect solution. It’s a smart appliance that cooks your food and also helps clear the air in your kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes these handy helpers great.
Why Choose an Over-the-Stove Microwave?
This type of microwave saves valuable counter space. It sits right above your stove, so you have more room for prepping your meals. It also acts as a ventilation system. This means it can suck up smoke, steam, and cooking smells, making your kitchen a more pleasant place to be.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features:
Ventilation Power
- CFM Rating: This tells you how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM means it’s better at clearing out smoke and smells. Aim for at least 100 CFM for a small kitchen, and 200 CFM or more for larger spaces.
- Vent Type: Some microwaves vent outside your home (ducted). Others recirculate the air back into your kitchen with a filter (ductless). Ducted is usually more effective.
Cooking Features
- Wattage: This is how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage (like 1000 watts or more) cooks food faster.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s steam. It helps prevent overcooking or undercooking.
- Turntable: A rotating plate ensures your food cooks evenly. Most have this, but some larger models might not.
- Preset Cooking Options: Buttons for popcorn, baked potatoes, or defrosting make cooking simple.
Convenience and Design
- Lighting: Good under-cabinet lighting is crucial for seeing what you’re cooking on the stovetop.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for smooth surfaces and removable, dishwasher-safe turntables.
- Size: Measure the space above your stove carefully. Microwaves come in different widths, usually 30 inches.
Important Materials
Most over-the-stove microwaves have an exterior made of stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel looks sleek and is durable, but it can show fingerprints. Painted metal is easier to clean for some. The interior is usually enameled metal or stainless steel. Enameled interiors are generally easier to wipe clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud, especially the fan. Check reviews for noise ratings. A quieter fan is a definite plus.
- Ventilation Effectiveness: This is a big one. A microwave that doesn’t vent well won’t make your kitchen air much cleaner.
User Experience and Use Cases
These microwaves are great for busy families. You can reheat leftovers quickly, defrost frozen meals, or even cook a full meal using the preset options. The ventilation is a lifesaver when you’re frying bacon or stir-frying.
Imagine this: you’re making dinner. The microwave is above your stove, working quietly. It’s cooking your food while also pulling away the steam and smells from your frying pan. Your kitchen stays fresh and clean. This makes cooking a more enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if an over-the-stove microwave will fit my kitchen?
A: Measure the width of the space above your stove. Most standard models are 30 inches wide. Also, check the height requirements for installation.
Q: What’s the difference between ducted and ductless ventilation?
A: Ducted microwaves send air outside your home. Ductless microwaves filter the air and blow it back into the kitchen.
Q: How powerful should the fan be?
A: Look for a CFM rating. Higher CFM means better ventilation. 100-200 CFM is a good range.
Q: How do I clean my over-the-stove microwave?
A: Wipe down the interior and exterior regularly. Removable turntables can often go in the dishwasher.
Q: Do I need to install it myself?
A: Installation can be tricky. Many people hire a professional to ensure it’s mounted securely and vented correctly.
Q: Are they as good as regular microwaves?
A: Yes, they offer the same cooking power and features as countertop models, plus the added benefit of ventilation.
Q: How much noise do they make?
A: Noise levels vary. Check product reviews to find quieter models.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses steam to automatically set the right cooking time and power for your food.
Q: Can I use it if I don’t have a vent to the outside?
A: Yes, many models offer ductless ventilation, which uses filters to clean the air.
Q: Are they hard to use?
A: No, they are designed to be user-friendly with simple controls and helpful preset options.
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!