Imagine a kitchen where your counter space is finally free, and cooking smells are whisked away with a simple push of a button. That’s the magic an over-the-range microwave can bring! But stepping into the world of these handy appliances can feel a bit overwhelming. So many brands, so many features – it’s easy to get lost in the options and wonder which one is truly the best fit for your kitchen and your cooking habits.
Choosing an over-the-range microwave isn’t just about picking a box that heats food. It’s about finding a powerful fan that clears out smoke and steam, an efficient cooking tool, and an attractive addition to your kitchen’s look. Many people struggle with figuring out the right size, the best ventilation power, and the features that will actually make their lives easier, not more complicated. You want something that works well without costing a fortune or taking up too much space.
If you’re tired of cluttered counters and want to upgrade your kitchen’s functionality and style, this guide is for you! We’re going to break down everything you need to know about over-the-range microwaves. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing an appliance that perfectly matches your needs. Let’s dive in and discover how to find your ideal kitchen workhorse!
Our Top 5 Above Stove Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Above Stove Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. GE JVM3160RFSS 30″ OTR Microwave
Rating: 9.3/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS is a 30-inch over-the-range microwave that offers a generous 1.6 cubic feet of cooking space. It packs a powerful 1000 watts for quick and efficient cooking. This microwave also doubles as a range hood with a 300 CFM fan to clear smoke and odors, and it features bright LED lighting for your stovetop. Plus, it makes installation a breeze with its easy mount design.
What We Like:
- Ample 1.6 cu ft capacity is great for larger dishes.
- 1000 watts of power cooks food fast.
- Convenience cooking controls make operation simple.
- Auto and time defrost options provide flexibility.
- Turntable On/Off feature gives you more control.
- The 300-CFM venting system effectively removes steam and smells.
- LED lighting illuminates your cooktop.
- Easy mount installation saves time and hassle.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern.
- Charcoal filter replacement is straightforward behind the door grille.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer on some advanced features.
- Some users might prefer more advanced sensor cooking options.
This GE microwave is a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen. It combines powerful cooking with effective ventilation and user-friendly features.
2. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven, model EM044K6CE-SS. This sleek stainless steel microwave is designed to be a powerful and convenient addition to your cooking space. It offers ample room for your meals and handy features to make cooking easier.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior easily fits large dishes and has a 12.4-inch turntable to ensure even cooking.
- 1000 Watts of Power: This microwave cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- One-Touch Auto Cooking: Six quick menus like Popcorn, Beverage, and Defrost take the guesswork out of common cooking tasks.
- Speedy Cooking Options: Use the 1-3 minute settings for instant power when you’re in a hurry.
- Multi-stage Cooking: You can set it to cook at different power levels for different amounts of time in one go, saving you steps.
- Powerful Vent Fan: The 300 CFM, 2-speed vent fan effectively removes cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- Integrated Light: The light under the microwave shines brightly on your stovetop, making cooking safer and easier.
What Could Be Improved:
- The overall dimensions might be large for some smaller kitchen spaces.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for those seeking both performance and ease of use in their kitchen. It brings convenience and power right over your stove.
3. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.6/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK is a 1.7 cubic feet over-the-range microwave that offers a lot of cooking power and convenience for your kitchen. Its sleek black design looks great above your stove, and it comes with a powerful fan and light to help with cooking and cleaning. This microwave makes everyday cooking tasks easier with its smart features.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior and 12.4-inch turntable easily fit large dishes, making it a helpful kitchen assistant for any meal.
- 1000 Watts of Power: This microwave cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- Easy-to-Use Presets: Six quick menus, including Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost, take the guesswork out of common cooking tasks.
- Speedy Cooking Options: You can quickly cook for 1, 2, or 3 minutes at full power with just a few button presses.
- Multi-stage Cooking: This feature lets you set different power levels and times for a single cooking cycle, saving you time and effort.
- Powerful Vent Fan: The 300 CFM vent fan with two speeds effectively removes cooking smells and smoke from your kitchen.
- Built-in Light: The light under the microwave provides good lighting for your stovetop.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan, while powerful, could be quieter for some users.
- While the auto-cook menus are convenient, some more advanced or customizable options might be desired by experienced cooks.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone looking for a feature-rich and powerful addition to their kitchen. It simplifies cooking and keeps your kitchen fresh.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.6/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is a powerful and convenient addition to any kitchen. It offers a spacious 1.9 cubic feet of cooking space, perfect for families or those who love to cook. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly and efficiently. This microwave makes cooking easier with its one-touch options and auto-cooking features.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed auto menus for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza, making cooking simple.
- The 1000-watt power and ten different power settings give you control over your cooking.
- The 30-second express cooking button is handy for quick reheating.
- The bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop for better visibility.
- The powerful 400 CFM venting fan system effectively removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- The turntable can be turned off, allowing you to fit larger dishes inside.
- The child lock feature adds an extra layer of safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation instructions are only available online, which might be inconvenient for some users.
- While the dimensions are provided, it’s always helpful to see a visual guide for installation.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a solid choice for those seeking a large, feature-rich appliance. Its smart cooking options and strong ventilation make it a great value.
5. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.5/10
Meet the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, a sleek stainless steel over-the-range microwave that simplifies your kitchen tasks. Its generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and smart touch panel make cooking and ventilation a breeze. This microwave is designed to be a helpful addition to any busy kitchen.
What We Like:
- It offers 18 one-touch auto-cook menus for easy preparation of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes.
- The large 1.7 cu.ft. interior easily fits big items, including a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza, thanks to its 12.4-inch turntable.
- With 1000W of power and 10 adjustable power levels, you can precisely control heating for all your cooking needs.
- The powerful 300 CFM ventilation system with multiple fan speeds effectively removes cooking odors and smoke from your kitchen.
- A bright built-in cooktop light illuminates your stovetop, providing a clear view for safe cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup of the smart touch panel a bit complex.
- While powerful, the 300 CFM ventilation might not be sufficient for extremely heavy cooking or open kitchens.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic option for those seeking a feature-rich and spacious over-the-range microwave. It brings convenience and efficiency to your cooking routine.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Above-Stove Microwave
Why Choose an Above-Stove Microwave?
An above-stove microwave, also called an over-the-range microwave, is a smart choice for many kitchens. It saves counter space. It also often includes a vent to clear smoke and smells from your cooking. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, check for these important things:
- Ventilation Power: Look at the CFM (cubic feet per minute). Higher CFM means it pulls more air out. A good range is 300 CFM or more for most kitchens.
- Cooktop Lighting: Most have a light under the microwave to see your stove. Some have brighter LEDs.
- Cooking Power (Wattage): Higher wattage (like 1000 watts) cooks food faster.
- Capacity: Measure your biggest dishes. Microwaves range from about 1.0 to 2.2 cubic feet.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature senses how much moisture is in your food. It adjusts cooking time automatically. It helps prevent overcooking.
- Turntable: A rotating plate cooks food more evenly. Some models let you turn this off for larger dishes.
- Control Panel: Some have simple buttons. Others have touch screens. Choose what feels easy for you.
Important Materials
Most above-stove microwaves have an exterior made of stainless steel or coated metal. Stainless steel looks nice and is strong. It can show fingerprints. Other finishes might be easier to clean. The inside is usually a durable enamel or stainless steel. These are easy to wipe down.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Microwave Great?
- Strong Venting System: A powerful fan and good filters remove smells and smoke well.
- Even Cooking: A good turntable and even heat distribution cook your food perfectly every time.
- User-Friendly Controls: Easy-to-understand buttons and clear displays make using it a breeze.
- Durable Build: Solid construction means it will last longer.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Good?
- Weak Venting: If the fan isn’t strong, smoke and smells will stay in your kitchen.
- Uneven Cooking: Food might be hot in some spots and cold in others.
- Confusing Controls: If you can’t figure out how to use it, it’s frustrating.
- Cheap Materials: Parts that feel flimsy might break easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
An above-stove microwave is great for reheating leftovers quickly. You can also cook simple meals like popcorn or baked potatoes. Many models have special buttons for things like melting butter or defrosting meat. The vent is a big help when you’re frying or sautéing. It keeps your kitchen smelling fresh. Families often use them for quick snacks and after-school meals.
Think about how you cook. Do you need a powerful vent? Do you cook a lot of different things? Answering these questions will help you find the best above-stove microwave for your home.
10 FAQs About Above-Stove Microwaves
Q1: What is the main benefit of an above-stove microwave?
A1: The main benefit is that it saves valuable counter space in your kitchen.
Q2: How do I know if the vent power is good enough?
A2: Look for a CFM rating of 300 or higher. This means it will pull out more smoke and smells.
Q3: What does “wattage” mean for a microwave?
A3: Wattage is the cooking power. Higher wattage, like 1000 watts, cooks food faster.
Q4: Should I get a microwave with a turntable?
A4: Yes, a turntable helps cook your food more evenly. You can often turn it off if you have a large dish.
Q5: What is sensor cooking?
A5: Sensor cooking uses moisture to figure out how long to cook your food. It helps prevent overcooking.
Q6: How do I measure for the right size microwave?
A6: Measure your largest plates or dishes to make sure they fit inside. Also, check the height, width, and depth needed in your kitchen space.
Q7: What is the best material for the outside of the microwave?
A7: Stainless steel looks nice and is strong, but it can show fingerprints. Other finishes might be easier to clean.
Q8: Will an above-stove microwave really help with cooking smells?
A8: Yes, if it has a good vent system (high CFM), it will pull smoke and smells away from your cooking area.
Q9: Are touch screens better than buttons for the control panel?
A9: It depends on your preference. Some people find touch screens sleek and easy to use, while others prefer the feel of physical buttons.
Q10: How often should I clean the filters in my above-stove microwave vent?
A10: You should clean or replace the filters regularly, usually every 1-3 months, depending on how often you cook and the type of filters.
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.