Tired of greasy fumes taking over your kitchen every time you cook? Imagine a kitchen where your savory stir-fries don’t leave a lingering cloud, and your morning bacon sizzles without filling the air with smoke. That’s the dream, right? But when it comes to achieving that fresh kitchen air, choosing the right over-the-stove microwave with a vent can feel like navigating a maze.
Many of us face the same frustration: a powerful stove creating delicious meals, but also a lot of cooking smells and grease. Finding a microwave that also acts as a capable hood vent can be tricky. You want something that heats your leftovers perfectly *and* keeps your kitchen smelling clean. It’s a big decision, and with so many models boasting different features, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about over-the-stove microwaves with vents. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for, what features truly matter, and how to pick the perfect one for your kitchen. Get ready to say goodbye to smoky kitchens and hello to a more enjoyable cooking experience!
Our Top 5 Over Stove Microwave With Vent Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over Stove Microwave With Vent Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel microwave is more than just a cooker; it’s a helpful kitchen assistant. Its large capacity and powerful features make preparing meals a breeze, from quick snacks to elaborate dinners. It sits conveniently over your stove, saving valuable counter space while adding a sleek touch to your cooking area.
What We Like:
- Generous Space: The 1.7 cubic feet interior easily fits large dishes, and the 12.4-inch turntable ensures even cooking.
- Easy Cooking Options: Six one-touch auto cooking programs, like popcorn and reheat, simplify meal preparation.
- Speedy Heating: Use the 100% power level for 1 to 3 minutes with just a press of a button for super fast heating.
- Smart Cooking: Multi-stage cooking lets you set different power levels and times for one cooking session, like 90% power for 10 minutes then 50% power for 5 minutes.
- Powerful Ventilation: The 300 CFM vent fan quickly removes cooking smells and smoke, and the built-in light illuminates your stovetop.
- Multiple Power Settings: Ten different cooking power levels give you control over how your food is cooked.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be larger than some compact kitchens can accommodate.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced customization options for cooking.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen that needs both style and functionality. It simplifies cooking tasks and keeps your kitchen air fresh.
2. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.8/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It makes cooking and meal prep a breeze with its smart features and ample space.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 Auto Menus is super handy. You can cook popcorn, pizza, defrost food, soften cream cheese, rice, and potatoes with just a touch. It makes creating delicious meals easy and fast.
- Its large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable can easily fit big items like a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- With 10 power levels and a powerful 1000W output, you can adjust the heating for all your cooking needs.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system with adjustable fan speeds really works well to get rid of cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- The bright cooktop light shines down on your stove, giving you a clear view of what you’re cooking below.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the stainless steel looks great, it can show fingerprints easily and might need frequent wiping to stay spotless.
- Some users might find the initial setup or learning all the auto menus a little tricky at first.
Overall, this Midea microwave is a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a powerful and user-friendly appliance.
3. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.1/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s a full-sized microwave with a 1.6 cubic foot capacity. This means you can fit larger dishes inside. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern. Plus, this bundle comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for extra peace of mind. It also includes a charcoal filter replacement for the ventilation system.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for cooking larger meals.
- Convenience cooking features make meal preparation simple.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- Includes a charcoal filter replacement, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- Sleek stainless steel design complements most kitchen decors.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit large for some kitchens.
- Specific control details aren’t provided, making it hard to judge ease of use without seeing it.
This GE microwave bundle offers a good balance of capacity and convenience. The included extended warranty makes it a solid choice for those seeking reliability.
4. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.8/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, 1.7 Cu. Ft. in sleek stainless steel is a kitchen workhorse. It brings serious power and smart features to your cooking routine, all while saving valuable counter space. With 1000 watts of cooking power, it heats and cooks food quickly and evenly. Its generous 1.7 cubic feet of interior space means you can fit larger dishes, making it ideal for families or busy weeknights. This microwave is designed to make your life easier with its intuitive controls and handy cooking presets.
What We Like:
- It cooks food fast with 1000 watts of power.
- The large 1.7 cu. ft. interior holds plenty of food.
- It has many cooking options like auto cook and a potato program.
- Defrosting is simple with time and weight settings.
- The quick +30 seconds button is super handy.
- Melt and soften features make cooking easier.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- The bright LED display is easy to read.
- It saves space by fitting over your stove.
- The vent fan and stovetop light are useful additions.
- You can adjust the volume of the alerts.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the vent fan a bit loud.
- The exterior stainless steel can show fingerprints.
This Farberware microwave oven is a strong choice for anyone looking for a powerful and space-saving appliance. It offers a great balance of features and performance for everyday kitchen 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 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave offers a generous 1.9 cubic feet of space, perfect for cooking family meals. It comes bundled with a premium 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind. Plus, it includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit, making installation a breeze.
What We Like:
- Big 1.9 cu. ft. capacity fits all your dishes.
- Melt feature makes melting butter, chocolate, and more super easy.
- Steam clean interior makes cleaning up a snap.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- GE USA Authorized, so you know it’s a trusted brand.
- Includes a charcoal filter kit for better air flow.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
- The extended protection plan is an added cost, though valuable.
This GE microwave is a solid choice for any kitchen, offering great features and the added benefit of extended protection. It’s a reliable appliance that will make cooking and reheating a more enjoyable experience.
Your Guide to a Better Kitchen: Over-the-Range Microwaves with Vents
Why Choose an Over-the-Range Microwave with a Vent?
An over-the-range microwave with a vent is a smart choice for any kitchen. It saves counter space. It also helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh. This type of microwave cooks your food. It also removes smoke and steam from your stove. It’s like two appliances in one!
Key Features to Look For
1. Ventilation Power
This is super important. Look at the Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) number. A higher CFM means it pulls more air. For most kitchens, 300-400 CFM is good. If you cook a lot of greasy or smoky food, aim for 400 CFM or more.
2. Size and Fit
Measure the space above your stove. Microwaves come in different widths, usually 30 inches. Make sure it fits perfectly. Check the height too. You want enough room to cook comfortably.
3. Cooking Power (Wattage)
More wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 900 and 1200 watts. 1000 watts is a good middle ground. It cooks food evenly.
4. Sensor Cooking
This is a neat feature. It senses how much moisture is in your food. Then, it adjusts the cooking time and power. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking.
5. Interior Capacity
Think about what you cook. Do you reheat large plates? Do you make casseroles? Most microwaves have a capacity of around 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet. This is usually enough for most families.
6. Turntable Size
A larger turntable can fit bigger dishes. Check the diameter. A 12-inch or 13-inch turntable is common and works well.
7. Lighting and Fan Speeds
Good lighting under the microwave helps you see while you cook on the stove. Multiple fan speeds let you control how much air is pulled out.
Important Materials
Most microwaves are made of stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel looks sleek and is easy to clean. It also resists fingerprints. Painted metal is a bit cheaper. Both are durable.
What Makes a Microwave Great (or Not So Great)?
Quality Boosters:
- Strong Ventilation: A powerful fan makes a big difference.
- Even Cooking: Microwaves that heat food evenly are the best.
- Easy Controls: Simple buttons and a clear display make it user-friendly.
- Durable Build: A well-made microwave lasts longer.
Quality Reducers:
- Weak Ventilation: If the fan isn’t strong, your kitchen will still get smoky.
- Uneven Heating: Food that’s hot in some spots and cold in others is frustrating.
- Flimsy Parts: A door that feels loose or buttons that stick can be annoying.
- Difficult Cleaning: A microwave that’s hard to wipe down is a pain.
User Experience and Use Cases
An over-the-range microwave is perfect for busy families. You can heat up leftovers while you make dinner on the stove. It’s great for popcorn lovers. It also helps keep your kitchen air clean. If you have a small kitchen, this is a space saver. It makes cooking more convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How do I know if the vent will work with my stove?
A1: Check if your stove is vented outside (recirculating) or if it needs an outside vent. Most microwaves can be set up for either. You might need a special kit for outside venting.
Q2: What is CFM and why is it important?
A2: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM means better smoke and steam removal.
Q3: Can I install it myself?
A3: Some people can install it. But it’s often best to have a professional do it. It involves electrical work and mounting it securely.
Q4: How do I clean the grease filter?
A4: Most grease filters are metal. You can usually wash them with hot, soapy water. Some are dishwasher safe.
Q5: What’s the difference between recirculating and external venting?
A5: Recirculating vents blow air back into the kitchen after filtering it. External venting blows air outside your home.
Q6: How much power (wattage) do I need?
A6: For everyday cooking, 900-1000 watts is usually enough. Higher wattage cooks food faster.
Q7: What size microwave should I get?
A7: Measure the space above your stove. Most are 30 inches wide. Make sure it fits well.
Q8: Are stainless steel microwaves better?
A8: Stainless steel looks nice and is easy to clean. It also resists smudges better than some other finishes.
Q9: What is sensor cooking?
A9: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect moisture. It then automatically sets the cooking time and power for best results.
Q10: How long do these microwaves usually last?
A10: With good care, an over-the-range microwave can last 7-10 years or more.
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!