Imagine this: you’re cooking a delicious meal, and you need to quickly reheat some leftovers or melt some butter. You reach up to your microwave, but it’s old, clunky, and doesn’t quite fit your kitchen’s style. Sound familiar? For many of us, the microwave that hangs above the stove is a workhorse, but choosing a new one can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many brands, features, and sizes to consider, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want something that cooks well, looks good, and makes your life easier, but where do you even start?
That’s exactly why we’re diving deep into the world of above-range microwave ovens. This isn’t just about heating food; it’s about finding a kitchen essential that blends power, convenience, and a touch of style. We understand the frustration of picking the wrong appliance, so we’ve put together this guide to help you cut through the confusion. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great above-range microwave and how to pick the perfect one for your home.
Get ready to discover the key features to look for, understand different cooking functions, and learn how to match a microwave to your kitchen’s layout and your cooking habits. Let’s make your next microwave purchase a breeze!
Our Top 5 Above Range Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Above Range Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This powerful 1000-watt microwave offers a spacious 1.9 cubic feet of cooking space, making it ideal for families or busy households. Its sleek design fits conveniently over your stove, saving valuable counter space. With one-touch cooking and a 400 CFM venting system, it simplifies meal preparation and keeps your kitchen air fresh.
What We Like:
- It has 9 pre-programmed auto menus for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 1000-watt power and ten different power settings give you great control over cooking.
- The cooktop LED light shines brightly on your stovetop, making cooking easier.
- A two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan effectively removes smoke and odors.
- The turntable can be turned on or off, which is handy for large dishes.
- It includes useful features like a clock, kitchen timer, 30-second express cooking, and a child lock for safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation instructions are only available online, which might be less convenient for some users.
- While generally user-friendly, some complex cooking tasks might require consulting the manual.
This microwave is a solid choice for anyone looking for a feature-rich and powerful over-the-range option. It combines convenience and performance to make cooking a breeze.
2. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel is a real kitchen workhorse. It boasts a powerful 1000W cooking output, perfect for busy households. With a generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, it easily handles everything from reheating leftovers to cooking family meals. Its over-the-range design is a smart space-saver, and it comes packed with features to make cooking easier and safer.
What We Like:
- It cooks food fast and evenly with its 1000W power.
- The large 1.7 cu. ft. interior fits big dishes.
- You can cook veggies, snacks, or even potatoes with special settings.
- Defrosting is simple with time and weight options.
- The +30 seconds button and melt/soften features are super handy.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- It has a bright LED display, a helpful vent fan, and a light for the stovetop.
- You can adjust the sound alerts to your liking.
- Its over-the-range design saves valuable counter space.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan power could be stronger for some kitchens.
- Some users might find the control panel a bit busy at first.
This Farberware microwave is a great addition to any kitchen, offering power and convenience. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking experience.
3. 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
The GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a generous 1.6 cubic feet of cooking space. This microwave makes heating up leftovers or cooking quick meals a breeze. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern. Plus, this bundle comes with a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan, giving you extra peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, which is important for keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
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What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is perfect for most kitchen needs.
- Convenience cooking controls make it easy to heat and cook food.
- The included 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan offers great value.
- Comes with a charcoal filter replacement for better air quality.
- The stainless steel design looks stylish in any kitchen.
- It’s an authorized GE USA product, ensuring quality.
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What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are listed as 13″D x 16″W x 9″H, which might be a bit compact for very large dishes.
This GE microwave bundle offers a solid combination of capacity, convenience, and extended protection. It’s a smart choice for those looking for a reliable and stylish over-the-range microwave.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, a 1.7 cu.ft. over-the-range microwave that makes cooking a breeze. Its sleek stainless steel design and smart touch panel add a modern touch to any kitchen. With 1000 watts of power and a robust 300 CFM ventilation system, this microwave is ready for all your culinary adventures.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 auto menus takes the guesswork out of cooking. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, defrost food, soften cream cheese, cook rice, potatoes, and much more. This makes preparing delicious meals quick and simple.
- Its generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable are perfect for fitting large items like a rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- With 10 power levels, including a powerful 1000W output, you can customize the heating for all your needs.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system with adjustable fan speeds effectively clears your kitchen of cooking odors and smoke.
- A bright cooktop light illuminates your stovetop, providing a clear view while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer more advanced smart features beyond the auto-cook menus.
- While the stainless steel looks great, it may require frequent cleaning to maintain its shine.
This Midea microwave is a fantastic addition for anyone looking for convenience and power in their kitchen. It truly simplifies everyday cooking tasks.
5. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS, a spacious 1.9 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave. This stainless steel beauty makes cooking and reheating a breeze. It comes with a special bundle that includes a 2-year extended protection plan on top of the manufacturer’s warranty, giving you extra peace of mind. You’ll also get a recirculating charcoal filter kit. This microwave is designed to make your life easier, from its easy-clean interior to its handy melt feature.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity fits plenty of food.
- The melt feature is perfect for safely melting butter, chocolate, and more.
- Steam clean makes tidying up super simple.
- Comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit for better air circulation.
- The included 2-year extended protection plan offers excellent value and security.
- It’s an authorized GE USA product, ensuring quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
This GE microwave bundle is a smart addition to any kitchen, combining great features with excellent protection. You get a reliable appliance that’s easy to use and maintain, plus the added bonus of extended coverage.
Choosing the Best Above-Range Microwave Oven
An above-range microwave oven is a smart choice for any kitchen. It saves valuable counter space and cooks your food quickly. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect microwave for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an above-range microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Size and Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually cook. A family might need a larger one, while a single person might be fine with a smaller unit. Look at the cubic feet (cu. ft.) to understand its size.
- Wattage: Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most above-range microwaves are between 900 and 1200 watts. A higher wattage is generally better.
- Ventilation: This is super important for a microwave that sits over your stove. It needs to vent smoke, steam, and smells away from your cooking area.
- Recirculating: These microwaves pull air through a filter and blow it back into the kitchen. They don’t need to be vented outside.
- Venting to the Outside: These are better because they remove smoke and smells completely. They need a duct to send the air outside your home.
- Cooking Presets: Many microwaves have special buttons for common foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, or pizza. These make cooking easier.
- Turntable: A turntable rotates your food as it cooks. This helps food cook more evenly. Some microwaves have a sensor that turns off the turntable if it’s not needed.
- Child Lock: This safety feature prevents little ones from accidentally turning on the microwave.
- Sensor Cooking: This technology senses the humidity of the food and adjusts the cooking time and power automatically. This prevents over or undercooking.
Important Materials
The materials used in an above-range microwave affect its durability and how easy it is to clean.
- Exterior: Most microwaves have a stainless steel exterior. Stainless steel looks sleek and is easy to wipe clean. Some models have a painted finish. Painted finishes can be more prone to scratches.
- Interior: The inside of the microwave is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel interiors are more durable and easier to clean than painted ones.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things can make your microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave will feel sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. The buttons should feel responsive.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with trusted brands. They often have better quality control and offer good warranties.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud when they are running. Check reviews to see if a particular model is known for being quiet.
- Ease of Cleaning: A microwave with a smooth interior and a removable turntable is much easier to clean. Non-stick interiors are a big plus.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your microwave will shape your experience.
- Everyday Cooking: For quick meals, reheating leftovers, or making popcorn, most microwaves will do the job.
- Advanced Cooking: If you plan to use the microwave for more complex tasks like steaming vegetables or cooking frozen meals, look for sensor cooking and specific presets.
- Ventilation Needs: If you cook a lot of greasy or smoky foods, a microwave with strong external venting is a must. If your kitchen isn’t set up for external venting, a recirculating model with good filters will be your best bet.
- Kitchen Aesthetics: Consider how the microwave will look in your kitchen. Stainless steel is a popular choice because it matches many kitchen styles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between recirculating and externally vented microwaves?
A: Recirculating microwaves filter the air and blow it back into the kitchen. Externally vented microwaves send smoke and steam outside your home through a duct. Externally vented ones are better for clearing the air.
Q: How much wattage do I need in an above-range microwave?
A: Most above-range microwaves have between 900 and 1200 watts. A higher wattage cooks food faster.
Q: Is stainless steel a good material for a microwave?
A: Yes, stainless steel exteriors are stylish and easy to clean. Stainless steel interiors are also more durable and easier to wipe down than painted interiors.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” mean?
A: Sensor cooking uses technology to detect the humidity of your food. It then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power for best results.
Q: Why is the ventilation system so important for an above-range microwave?
A: It’s important because it removes smoke, steam, and cooking odors from your kitchen. This keeps your kitchen air fresh and clean.
Q: How do I know what size microwave to buy?
A: Think about how much food you cook. Larger families might need a bigger microwave, while individuals may be fine with a smaller one. Check the cubic feet (cu. ft.) to see its capacity.
Q: Should I look for a turntable in my microwave?
A: Yes, a turntable helps cook food more evenly by rotating it. Some have a sensor to turn it off when not needed.
Q: What are “cooking presets”?
A: Cooking presets are special buttons on the microwave for common foods like popcorn or potatoes. They make cooking specific items easier.
Q: Are there safety features I should look for?
A: A child lock is a good safety feature. It stops children from turning the microwave on by accident.
Q: How can I tell if a microwave is good quality?
A: Look for a sturdy build. The door should open and close smoothly. The buttons should work well. Also, check brand reviews for reliability.
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!