Imagine this: you’re in your kitchen, ready to whip up a quick meal, but your counter space is already overflowing. Where do you put that bulky microwave? For many, the answer is the perfect spot above the stove. But choosing the right microwave oven over range can feel like a puzzle. There are so many styles, sizes, and features to consider, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
This is where we come in! We understand the frustration of not having enough kitchen real estate and the confusion that comes with picking the best appliance. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to find a microwave oven over range that fits your kitchen and your cooking needs perfectly. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a more organized and efficient space!
Our Top 5 Microwave Oven Over Range Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Oven Over Range Detailed Reviews
1. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle. This bundle isn’t just a microwave; it’s a smart kitchen helper. It comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, keeping your air fresh. This microwave offers plenty of space for your meals and makes cooking easy with its user-friendly controls.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is great for cooking and reheating meals of all sizes.
- Convenience cooking controls make it simple to heat up your food just right.
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- A charcoal filter replacement is included, ensuring your kitchen stays fresh.
- This is a GE USA AUTHORIZED product, meaning you get reliable quality.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit tight for some over-range spaces, so measure carefully.
- While convenience controls are good, some advanced users might want more customizable options.
This GE microwave bundle offers a solid combination of capacity, ease of use, and extended protection. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to add efficiency and style to their kitchen.
2. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance not only heats your food but also helps keep your kitchen air clean and bright. It’s designed to be a helpful tool for all your cooking needs.
What We Like:
- Generous Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet of space easily fits large dishes and a 12.4-inch turntable spins your food for even heating.
- 1000 Watts of Power: This microwave cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- Simple Cooking Options: Six quick menus like Popcorn, Beverage, and Reheat make cooking everyday meals a breeze.
- Speedy Cooking: Press 1, 2, or 3 for instant 1-3 minute cooking at full power.
- Smart Multi-stage Cooking: You can set it to cook at different power levels for different times, all in one go.
- Powerful Vent Fan: The 300 CFM vent fan has two speeds to suck up cooking smells and smoke, leaving your kitchen fresh.
- Built-in Light: An integrated light shines down on your stovetop, making it easier to see while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan, while effective, might be a bit noisy for some users.
- While it has one-touch options, some advanced users might want more customizable settings.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens. It offers convenience and functionality, making meal prep and cooking simpler.
3. Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power
Rating: 9.1/10
The Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave Oven in sleek black is designed to make cooking easier and faster. It offers powerful 1000-watt cooking, a large interior, and smart features like auto cook and defrost. This microwave is a great addition to any busy kitchen.
What We Like:
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: The 1000W power cooks food quickly and evenly. It’s perfect for meals that need to be ready fast.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: Its 1.7 cu. ft. size holds a lot. You can heat up leftovers or cook larger dishes with ease.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: It has special settings for veggies, snacks, and even potatoes. This makes cooking different foods simple.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: The time and weight defrost options thaw food perfectly. No more partially cooked or dried-out meat.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: The Quick +30 seconds button is super handy. Melt and soften functions are also very useful for everyday tasks.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK: This feature keeps little hands out. It adds an important layer of safety to your kitchen.
- USER-FRIENDLY ADDITIONS: It has a clear LED timer, a vent fan, and a stovetop light. These make it easy to use and helpful for cooking.
- VOLUME CONTROL: You can adjust the sound alerts. This means you won’t be bothered by loud beeps if you don’t want to be.
- OPTIMIZED DESIGN: Installing it over the range saves counter space. It also looks good and fits well in most kitchens.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto cook settings are helpful, some users might prefer more manual control for very specific cooking needs.
- The “easy clean” feature is good, but like all microwaves, regular wiping will still be needed to keep it looking its best.
This Farberware microwave offers a great balance of power, space, and convenience. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen’s cooking capabilities.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven. This stainless steel microwave is a versatile addition, making cooking and meal prep a breeze. Its smart touch panel and auto cooking features simplify even complex dishes.
What We Like:
- It has 18 auto-cook menus for easy one-touch cooking. You can make popcorn, pizza, and even cook potatoes.
- The 1.7 cu.ft. capacity is large enough to fit a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- It offers 10 different power levels, so you can heat food just right.
- The 1000W cooking power heats food quickly.
- Its 300 CFM ventilation fan powerfully removes cooking smells and smoke.
- The fan has adjustable speeds to suit your needs.
- A bright light shines on your cooktop, helping you see what you’re cooking.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the auto-cook menus require a learning curve to get perfect results every time.
- The ventilation fan, while powerful, can be a bit noisy at its highest setting.
This Midea microwave oven is a solid choice for busy kitchens. It combines smart features with ample space and powerful performance, making it a great value.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This powerful 1000-watt microwave offers a generous 1.9 cubic feet of cooking space, making it ideal for families. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your range, saving valuable counter space. With a robust 400 CFM venting system, it efficiently removes cooking odors and smoke. This microwave simplifies meal prep with its user-friendly One Touch controls and a variety of pre-programmed auto menus. Get ready for faster, easier cooking!
What We Like:
- It has 10 power settings and 30-second express cooking for quick meals.
- The pre-programmed auto menus take the guesswork out of cooking common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The cooktop LED lighting provides bright illumination for your stovetop.
- The two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan effectively clears smoke and smells.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is great for cooking larger dishes.
- It includes a child lock feature for safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation instructions are only available to view online, not printed in the box.
- While powerful, some users might prefer even more specific auto-cook options for a wider variety of foods.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone looking for a spacious and feature-rich over-the-range option. Its convenience and power make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Thinking about getting a microwave oven that hangs above your stove? These handy appliances save counter space and cook your food. Let’s explore what makes a great over-the-range (OTR) microwave.
Why Choose an Over-the-Range Microwave?
OTR microwaves are popular for a reason. They combine cooking power with ventilation. This means they can heat up leftovers, cook meals, and clear out smoke and smells from your stovetop. They are a smart choice for kitchens where space is tight.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, keep these important features in mind:
- Cooking Power (Wattage): Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most OTR microwaves range from 900 to 1200 watts. For everyday use, 1000 watts is usually plenty.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): This tells you how much food you can fit inside. Smaller families might be fine with 1.5 cubic feet. Larger families or those who cook big meals might need 2.0 cubic feet or more.
- Ventilation System: This is super important! Look for CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). A higher CFM means it sucks up more smoke and smells. Aim for at least 300 CFM. Also, check if it vents outward or recirculates air.
- Cooking Presets: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, or pizza. These make cooking easy.
- Convection Cooking: Some OTR microwaves can also bake and roast like a regular oven. This is a great feature if you want more cooking options.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature detects moisture in food and adjusts cooking time and power automatically. It helps prevent overcooking.
- Turntable: Most microwaves have a glass turntable that rotates food for even heating. Some have a large turntable, which is good for bigger dishes.
- Interior Lighting: Good lighting helps you see your food as it cooks.
Important Materials
The materials used affect durability and cleaning.
- Exterior: Stainless steel is a popular choice. It looks sleek and is generally durable. Other options include black or white enamel.
- Interior: Stainless steel interiors are easier to clean than painted interiors. They also resist stains and odors better.
- Door: Look for a sturdy door with a good handle. The window should be large enough to see inside easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make an OTR microwave better or not so good.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels solid. Hinges should be strong, and buttons should have a satisfying click.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. Look for models that mention low noise operation.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior and exterior make cleaning simple. Removable turntables are also a big plus.
- Installation: OTR microwaves can be tricky to install. Make sure you have the right tools and know-how, or plan to hire someone.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands. They often offer better quality and customer support.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your microwave matters.
- Quick Meals: For busy weeknights, OTR microwaves are perfect for reheating leftovers or cooking quick meals.
- Ventilation: The exhaust fan is a lifesaver. It keeps your kitchen air fresh while you cook.
- Space Saving: If your kitchen is small, an OTR model frees up valuable counter space.
- Multi-tasking: Some models let you set a timer for the microwave and the stovetop at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for?
A: The most important features are the cooking power (wattage) and the ventilation system (CFM). They directly impact how well your microwave cooks and how clean your kitchen air stays.
Q: How do I know if the ventilation system is good enough?
A: Look for a CFM rating of at least 300. Higher CFM means it will clear smoke and smells more effectively.
Q: Do I need convection cooking?
A: Convection cooking is a bonus feature that lets you bake and roast. If you want more cooking options beyond microwaving, it’s a great addition.
Q: How much space do I need inside the microwave?
A: Consider the size of the dishes you use. A 1.5 cubic foot model is good for smaller items, while 2.0 cubic feet or more is better for larger plates and baking dishes.
Q: What’s the difference between venting outward and recirculating?
A: Venting outward pushes smoke and smells outside your home. Recirculating filters the air and sends it back into your kitchen. Venting outward is generally more effective.
Q: Is stainless steel the best material for the inside?
A: Yes, stainless steel interiors are easier to clean and resist stains and odors better than painted interiors.
Q: How do I clean my OTR microwave?
A: Most manufacturers recommend wiping the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. The turntable can usually be washed in the dishwasher. Always check your owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: Can I install an OTR microwave myself?
A: Installation can be complex and requires electrical and mounting work. If you are not experienced, it’s best to hire a professional installer.
Q: How long do OTR microwaves usually last?
A: With proper care and use, most OTR microwaves can last 7 to 10 years.
Q: What are some common problems with OTR microwaves?
A: Common issues include fan malfunctions, uneven cooking, and control panel problems. Reading reviews can help you avoid models with frequent issues.
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.