Imagine this: you’re trying to cook a quick meal, but your countertop is already overflowing with appliances. Or maybe you’re dreaming of a sleek, modern kitchen with more usable space. That’s where the magic of an over-the-range microwave comes in. These handy gadgets do more than just reheat leftovers; they can be the unsung heroes of your kitchen, saving precious counter space and adding a professional touch to your cooking area.
But let’s be honest, choosing the perfect over-the-range microwave can feel like a culinary puzzle. With so many features, sizes, and styles, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You might be wondering about ventilation power, cooking functions, or even how it will fit your existing cabinets. These are real concerns that can make the decision process a bit stressful.
This guide is here to turn that stress into excitement! We’ll break down what makes a great over-the-range microwave, demystifying the jargon and highlighting the features that truly matter. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your ability to pick a microwave that not only fits your kitchen but also makes your cooking life easier and more enjoyable.
Our Top 5 Microwave Ovens Over The Range Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Ovens Over The Range 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 punch with 1000 watts of cooking power. It makes meal prep a breeze with its one-touch cooking options and smart auto-cooking features. Plus, it fits perfectly over your stove, saving valuable counter space.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking heats food quickly.
- 1.9 cu.ft capacity easily fits large dishes and family meals.
- Pre-programmed auto menus simplify cooking common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The bright LED cooktop light illuminates your stovetop for better visibility.
- A powerful 400 CFM venting fan keeps your kitchen air fresh.
- The turntable can be turned off, allowing you to cook larger rectangular dishes.
- Easy-to-use controls and a handy kitchen timer.
- Includes a child lock for safety.
- Simple installation instructions are provided.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer more advanced smart features.
- The 120V – 60Hz voltage is standard but worth noting.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich appliance that simplifies cooking. It combines convenience and power, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
2. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cubic feet microwave is a real helper. It fits right over your stove, saving you counter space. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. You can cook, reheat, and defrost food easily with this microwave. It’s designed to make cooking quicker and simpler.
What We Like:
- Spacious Interior: The 1.7 cubic feet capacity is large. It easily fits a 12.4-inch turntable, so you can cook big meals or multiple dishes.
- Easy Cooking Options: It has 10 different power levels and 6 quick menus for things like popcorn, reheating, and defrosting. This makes everyday cooking a breeze.
- Fast Cooking: You can cook food at full power for 1 to 3 minutes by just pressing a number. It’s super quick for busy days.
- Smart Cooking: The multi-stage cooking feature lets you set different power levels and times at once. This saves you time and effort.
- Powerful Vent and Light: The 300 CFM vent fan sucks up smoke and smells from your cooking. The built-in light shines brightly on your stovetop.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve: While there are many features, it might take a little time to learn all the different cooking settings.
- Ventilation Noise: Some users might find the vent fan a bit noisy when it’s on its highest setting.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a smart addition to any kitchen. It offers great features for busy cooks and looks good doing it.
3. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave not only cooks your food quickly but also comes with a fantastic bundle. You get the microwave itself, plus a 2-year extended protection plan. This plan adds extra peace of mind on top of the standard warranty. It also includes a charcoal filter replacement, which is important for keeping your kitchen air fresh. This microwave is designed for convenience and will be a great addition to your cooking routine.
What We Like:
- It’s from GE USA, a trusted brand.
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan for extra security.
- A charcoal filter replacement is included, helping to keep your kitchen smelling good.
- The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is a good size for most meals.
- It has convenient cooking controls that are easy to use.
- The over-the-range design saves counter space.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit tight for very large dishes.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for everyday cooking needs.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.7/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This over-the-range microwave oven makes cooking and reheating simple. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great above your stove. Plus, it offers smart features that help you cook a variety of foods quickly and easily.
What We Like:
- The one-touch-cook feature is super handy. It has 18 auto menus, so you can cook things like popcorn, pizza, and even potatoes with just a press of a button.
- It has a large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity. This means it can easily fit a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- The 1000W cooking power heats food up fast.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is powerful. It sucks up smoke and smells, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- The adjustable fan speeds let you control how much air it pulls.
- A bright cooktop light shines down on your stove, so you can see what you’re doing.
- The 10-level power settings give you control over how your food is heated.
- The smart touch panel is easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the auto-cook menus require a little trial and error to get perfect results.
- While the ventilation is strong, for very heavy cooking, some might desire even more power.
This Midea microwave is a smart and efficient choice for busy kitchens. It simplifies meal preparation and keeps your cooking space clean and bright.
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 crisp white. This microwave is not just a cooking appliance; it’s a bundle of convenience and protection, designed to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- Peace of Mind Included: You get a full manufacturer’s warranty AND a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan. That’s extra security for your investment!
- Spacious Cooking: The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is roomy enough for family-sized meals, and it heats food fast with 1000 watts of power.
- Fresh Kitchen Air: The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system powerfully sucks up smoke, steam, and smells, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- Smart Defrosting: Auto and time defrost features take the guesswork out of thawing frozen foods, giving you perfect results every time.
- Easy Operation: Convenience cooking controls make using the microwave quick and simple for everyday tasks.
- Simple Maintenance: Replacing the charcoal odor filter is easy, thanks to its behind-the-door grille design.
What Could Be Improved:
- Turntable Control: While it’s nice to have the option, some users might prefer the turntable to be on by default for more even heating.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value with its generous capacity, powerful features, and exceptional protection plan. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen looking for efficiency and durability.
The Smart Kitchen Upgrade: Over-the-Range Microwaves
Are you looking to make your kitchen more efficient and stylish? An over-the-range microwave could be the perfect solution. These handy appliances combine the convenience of a microwave with a built-in ventilation system, saving valuable counter space. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Let’s dive in!
What to Look For: Key Features
Power Levels and Wattage
Microwaves cook food using power, measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for models with at least 900 watts for good performance. Many microwaves offer multiple power levels, letting you adjust the cooking intensity for different foods.
Capacity and Size
Think about what you usually cook. Do you heat up frozen dinners or reheat leftovers? Or do you need to cook larger dishes? Microwaves come in different sizes, measured in cubic feet. A standard size is around 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet. Make sure it fits your space and your cooking needs.
Ventilation System
This is a big deal for over-the-range models! The ventilation system helps remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors from your kitchen. Look for options like:
- Exhaust Fan Speeds: More speeds give you better control.
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): A higher CFM means the fan moves more air, making it more effective.
- Ducting Options: Some vent outside, while others recirculate air with charcoal filters.
Cooking Presets and Smart Features
Many microwaves have special buttons for common tasks like popcorn, baked potatoes, or defrosting. Some newer models even have “smart” features. These can connect to your phone for remote control or offer guided cooking instructions.
Turntable and Interior Light
A turntable helps food cook evenly by rotating it. Most models have one. An interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
Materials Matter
Exterior Finishes
Most over-the-range microwaves come in stainless steel, black stainless steel, or white. Stainless steel is popular for its modern look and durability. Black stainless steel offers a sleek, fingerprint-resistant option. White is a classic choice that fits well in many kitchens.
Interior Linings
The inside of the microwave is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel interiors are easier to clean and more durable than painted ones. They also tend to reflect microwaves better, leading to more even cooking.
What Makes a Quality Microwave?
Factors That Improve Quality
- Brand Reputation: Well-known appliance brands often use better parts and have stricter quality control.
- Sturdy Construction: The microwave should feel solid and well-built. Check the door, hinges, and control panel.
- Effective Ventilation: A powerful and quiet fan makes a big difference in your kitchen air quality.
- Even Cooking: Food should be heated thoroughly without hot or cold spots.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Cheap Materials: Thin plastic parts or flimsy hinges can break easily.
- Weak Ventilation: A noisy fan that doesn’t clear the air is frustrating.
- Uneven Cooking: Food that’s partially cold and partially hot is a sign of a poorly designed microwave.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons or a hard-to-read display can make using the microwave a chore.
User Experience and Use Cases
An over-the-range microwave is perfect for small kitchens where counter space is limited. It frees up your countertops for food prep. The ventilation system is a lifesaver for busy cooks who want to keep their kitchen smelling fresh. Families can use it for quick meals and snacks. Busy professionals can reheat lunches or dinners in a flash.
Imagine this: you’re cooking dinner, and the stovetop is busy. You can use the microwave above to warm up a side dish or melt butter without taking up precious counter space. The fan kicks on, clearing away cooking smells. It’s a seamless part of your kitchen workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of an over-the-range microwave?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space and combining a microwave with a ventilation system for your stovetop.
Q: How much wattage do I need in an over-the-range microwave?
A: Aim for at least 900 watts for efficient cooking.
Q: What does CFM mean for a microwave’s ventilation?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. A higher CFM means the fan moves more air, clearing out smoke and odors better.
Q: Do all over-the-range microwaves vent outside?
A: No, some vent outside, while others recirculate air using charcoal filters.
Q: Is stainless steel a good material for the interior of a microwave?
A: Yes, stainless steel interiors are durable and easier to clean than painted ones.
Q: How important are cooking presets?
A: Cooking presets are helpful for quickly cooking common items like popcorn or potatoes. They make using the microwave more convenient.
Q: Can I cook large dishes in an over-the-range microwave?
A: It depends on the capacity. Check the cubic feet measurement to ensure it fits your needs for larger items.
Q: How do I know if the ventilation is good?
A: Look for a high CFM rating and multiple fan speeds. Read reviews to see what other users say about its effectiveness.
Q: Are smart features worth the extra cost?
A: Smart features can add convenience, like controlling the microwave from your phone. Consider if these features fit your lifestyle and budget.
Q: How do I clean the interior of an over-the-range microwave?
A: Most interiors can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Stainless steel interiors are generally the easiest to maintain.
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!