Imagine this: you’re cooking dinner, and your kitchen counter is already overflowing with ingredients. Where do you put the microwave? Many people face this problem! Choosing an overhead microwave can be tricky. You want one that fits your space, cooks your food perfectly, and looks good in your kitchen. But there are so many choices, it’s easy to feel lost.
This guide is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a great overhead microwave. You’ll learn about different features, sizes, and how to pick the best one for your needs. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident about finding the perfect overhead microwave that makes your kitchen work better and saves you valuable counter space. Let’s dive in and find the right fit for your home!
Our Top 5 Overhead Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Overhead Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.0/10
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, making quick meals a breeze. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your range, adding both style and functionality to your cooking space. You’ll love the convenience of its one-touch cooking features and powerful ventilation system.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking capability heats food quickly.
- Generous 1.9 cu.ft. capacity easily fits large dishes.
- Pre-programmed auto-cook menus simplify cooking common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- A bright LED cooktop light illuminates your stovetop.
- The 400 CFM venting system efficiently removes smoke and odors.
- Turntable On/Off option lets you cook bigger meals without rotation.
- User-friendly controls and a 30-second express cook button.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation instructions are only available to view online, not printed.
- The 1.9 cu.ft. size might be too large for very small kitchens.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a smart addition to any kitchen, offering power and convenience for all your cooking needs. It makes meal prep faster and your kitchen cleaner.
2. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, with its 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and 1000W of power, brings efficiency and style to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel design not only looks good but also saves valuable counter space by mounting right over your stove. This microwave is built for busy households, offering a range of features to make cooking and reheating a breeze.
What We Like:
- The 1000W cooking power heats food quickly and evenly.
- Its large 1.7 cu. ft. interior fits many dishes, from small snacks to big meals.
- It offers many cooking options like vegetables, snacks, and even a special potato program.
- The auto cook and auto reheat features make meal preparation simple.
- Weight and time defrost settings work well to thaw frozen foods.
- The Quick +30 seconds button is handy for fast heating.
- Melt and soften functions are great for butter, cheese, and ice cream.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out of mischief.
- The bright LED display and timer are easy to read.
- It includes a vent fan and stovetop light, improving kitchen convenience.
- You can adjust the volume of the alert sounds.
- The over-the-range design is space-saving and looks modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup of the vent fan a bit tricky.
- The user manual could offer more in-depth explanations for advanced features.
This Farberware microwave is a strong contender for anyone looking for a powerful, feature-rich, and space-saving appliance.
3. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave offers a spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for heating up meals or cooking snacks. It comes with convenient cooking controls to make your kitchen tasks easier. Plus, this bundle includes a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, essential for keeping your microwave fresh.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Convenience cooking controls simplify meal prep.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- Includes a charcoal filter replacement for optimal performance.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to clean.
- It’s from GE USA, a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are listed as 13″D x 16″W x 9″H, which might be a bit specific and could be simplified for easier understanding of its size.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to replace their old microwave or add a reliable appliance.
4. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel. This bundle comes with a fantastic 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. It’s designed to make your cooking easier and your kitchen look modern.
What We Like:
- Extended Protection: You get a 2-year extended protection plan on top of the regular manufacturer’s warranty. This means your microwave is covered for a total of 4 years!
- Generous Capacity: The 1.9 cu. ft. size is big enough to heat up large dishes or multiple items at once.
- Melt Feature: This special setting makes melting butter, chocolate, and other ingredients simple and worry-free. No more burnt chocolate!
- Easy Cleaning: The interior has a steam clean option, which makes wiping away messes a breeze.
- Included Filter: The bundle includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit, so you can set up the vent system right away.
- Stylish Design: The stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size for Small Kitchens: While the capacity is a pro for many, it might be a bit large for very tiny kitchens.
- Installation: Like most over-the-range microwaves, installation might require some DIY skills or a professional.
This GE microwave is a smart addition to your kitchen, offering great features and excellent protection. It’s built to handle your everyday cooking needs with ease.
5. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.2/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s packed with features that make cooking and meal prep a breeze. This stainless steel microwave not only looks sleek but also offers powerful performance and smart technology to simplify your life.
What We Like:
- Effortless cooking with 18 Auto Menus for things like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes. You can quickly whip up delicious meals.
- Generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity fits large items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza thanks to its 12.5-inch turntable.
- 1000W of power and 10-level settings allow for precise heating and cooking.
- A strong 300 CFM ventilation system with adjustable fan speeds effectively clears smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- A bright cooktop light provides excellent visibility for cooking on your stovetop below.
- The Smart Touch Panel is intuitive and easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The auto menus might require some experimentation to get perfect results for every dish.
- While powerful, some users might prefer even more cooking presets or customizable options.
This Midea microwave oven is a smart choice for busy households. It combines convenience, power, and thoughtful features to enhance your cooking experience.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Overhead Microwave
Overhead microwaves, also known as microwave range hoods, offer a smart solution for kitchens where space is tight. They combine a microwave oven with a range hood, helping to cook your food and clear out cooking smells and smoke from your stovetop. This guide will help you pick the right one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an overhead microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Microwave Power (Wattage): Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most overhead microwaves range from 900 to 1200 watts. A 1000-watt microwave is a good balance for most everyday cooking needs.
- Ventilation Power (CFM): This stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the range hood can move. For electric stoves, aim for at least 100 CFM. For gas stoves, you’ll need more, around 150 CFM or higher, because they produce more heat and smoke.
- Ventilation Type:
- Ducted: This is the most effective. It pushes smoke and smells outside your home through a vent. You need a hole in your wall or ceiling for this.
- Non-ducted (Recirculating): This type filters the air and blows it back into your kitchen. It’s easier to install but not as good at removing odors and smoke. It needs charcoal filters that you replace often.
- Size and Capacity: Measure the space above your stove carefully. Overhead microwaves come in standard widths like 24, 27, 30, and 36 inches. The interior capacity, measured in cubic feet, determines how much food you can fit inside. A 1.6 cubic foot model is usually enough for most families.
- Control Panel: Some have simple buttons, while others have touch screens. Look for easy-to-read displays and controls that make sense to you.
- Lighting: Good under-cabinet lighting is essential for your stovetop. Check if the light is bright enough and covers your cooking area well.
Important Materials
The materials used in an overhead microwave affect its look and how well it holds up.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. It’s durable, easy to clean, and gives a modern look. It resists rust and fingerprints well on some models.
- Enamel or Painted Metal: These are often found on less expensive models. They can be easy to clean but might scratch or chip over time.
- Glass: The door window is usually tempered glass for safety. The control panel might also have a glass surface, especially on touch models.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain aspects make an overhead microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built unit feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should feel responsive. Cheaply made models might feel flimsy.
- Fan Noise: A powerful fan is great, but it can be loud. Look for models that mention noise levels (measured in sones). Lower sones mean a quieter fan.
- Even Cooking: The microwave should cook food evenly. Some cheaper models might have hot spots. Good brands often have better cooking technology.
- Ease of Cleaning: Smooth surfaces and removable filters make cleaning much simpler. A non-stick interior can also be a plus.
- Durability: High-quality components mean the microwave will last longer. Look for warranties that suggest the manufacturer stands by their product.
User Experience and Use Cases
Overhead microwaves are great for people who want to save space.
- Small Kitchens: They are perfect for apartments or smaller homes where counter space is limited. You get a microwave and a range hood in one appliance.
- Convenience: You can easily reheat leftovers, cook meals, or defrost food without needing a separate appliance on your counter. The range hood also keeps your kitchen smelling fresh while you cook.
- Family Meals: They can handle everyday cooking tasks for families, like heating up pasta or making popcorn.
- Easy Installation (for non-ducted): If you can’t vent outside, a non-ducted model is much simpler to install.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the main benefit of an overhead microwave?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space by combining a microwave and a range hood.
Q: How do I know if I need a ducted or non-ducted vent?
A: If you can easily vent air outside your home, ducted is better. If not, a non-ducted model works, but you’ll need to change filters.
Q: What does CFM mean for the range hood?
A: CFM means Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM is better for removing smoke and odors.
Q: Is a higher wattage microwave always better?
A: Higher wattage means faster cooking. A good wattage like 1000 watts is usually enough for most tasks.
Q: How do I measure for the right size overhead microwave?
A: Measure the width of the space above your stove. Also, check the height and depth to make sure it fits.
Q: Are stainless steel overhead microwaves hard to clean?
A: Stainless steel is generally easy to clean. Some models have fingerprint-resistant coatings that help.
Q: What should I do if my overhead microwave cooks unevenly?
A: Try turning or stirring your food halfway through cooking. If it’s a consistent problem, the microwave might have an issue.
Q: How noisy are overhead microwaves?
A: Some can be noisy, especially on higher fan settings. Look for models that mention their noise level in sones; lower is quieter.
Q: How often do I need to change the charcoal filters in a non-ducted microwave?
A: You usually need to change them every 3 to 6 months, depending on how often you use the microwave and cook.
Q: Can I install an overhead microwave myself?
A: Non-ducted models are often easier for DIY installation. Ducted models usually require more complex work, like cutting holes for ventilation, so professional help might be needed.
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!