Imagine this: you’re craving crispy fries, but your oven is already busy baking a cake. Or maybe you need to reheat leftovers quickly before guests arrive. In these moments, a regular microwave just doesn’t cut it. That’s where the magic of an over-the-range microwave, also known as an over oven microwave, comes in!
Choosing the right over-the-range microwave can feel like a puzzle. There are so many features to consider – size, power, ventilation, and even fancy extras like sensor cooking. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up with a microwave that doesn’t quite fit your kitchen or your cooking style. You want something that makes your life easier, not harder.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to make that decision a breeze. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the basics to picking out the perfect model for your home. By the end, you’ll feel confident about choosing an over-the-range microwave that will transform your kitchen experience.
Our Top 5 Over Oven Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over Oven Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. 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. With 1000 watts of cooking power and a spacious 1.9 cubic feet of interior space, it handles everything from reheating leftovers to cooking full meals. Its over-the-range design saves valuable counter space, and the integrated ventilation system keeps your kitchen air fresh.
What We Like:
- It has many pre-programmed auto menus for easy cooking of common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 1000-watt power and ten different power levels give you great control over your cooking.
- The 400-CFM venting fan efficiently removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- The bright LED cooktop lighting makes it easy to see what you’re cooking on the stovetop.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is handy for fitting larger dishes inside.
- It includes convenient features like a 30-second express cook button and a child lock for safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, the user interface might take a little time to get used to for some users.
- The installation instructions are only available online, which might be less convenient for those who prefer a physical manual.
This microwave oven offers a great balance of power, convenience, and smart features for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for busy households looking for an efficient and reliable appliance.
2. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.5/10
The GE JVM7195SKSS is a fantastic over-the-range microwave that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its spacious 1.9 cu. ft. capacity easily fits large dishes. Plus, the special melt feature lets you melt butter, chocolate, and more without burning them. Cleaning is also super simple thanks to the easy-clean interior and steam clean option. This bundle also includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit, so you’re ready to go right out of the box. You’ll also get peace of mind with an extended 2-year protection plan, adding to the already included manufacturer’s warranty.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity is great for families and large meals.
- The melt feature is a lifesaver for delicate ingredients.
- Steam clean makes tidying up quick and easy.
- The included 2-year extended protection plan offers extra security.
- It comes with a charcoal filter kit for better ventilation.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a bit large for smaller kitchens.
- Some users might prefer more advanced smart features.
This GE microwave is a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It’s a smart investment for any kitchen, especially with the added protection.
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
The GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This bundle offers more than just a microwave; it provides peace of mind with its extended protection plan and includes a handy charcoal filter. Its sleek stainless steel finish makes it look great above your stove, and its 1.6 cubic feet capacity is perfect for cooking everyday meals.
What We Like:
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra security.
- It comes with a charcoal filter replacement for the behind-the-door grille, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- The microwave offers convenient cooking features to make meal prep easier.
- The stainless steel design looks modern and is easy to keep clean.
- It’s an authorized GE USA product, meaning you’re getting a quality appliance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit compact for very large dishes.
- While convenient, the controls are not specified, so we can’t comment on their ease of use.
This GE microwave bundle is a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable appliance with added protection. It’s designed to make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Midea MOR17BSA-SS Over-the-Range Microwave. This sleek stainless steel appliance is designed to make cooking and ventilation a breeze. Its generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and powerful 1000W heating will handle all your cooking needs.
What We Like:
- Effortless Cooking with Auto Menus: Enjoy delicious meals with 18 one-touch auto menus. You can easily cook popcorn, pizza, defrost food, soften cream cheese, make rice, bake potatoes, and much more. It makes creating favorite dishes simple and fast.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and a large 12.5-inch turntable easily fit big items like a rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza. No more struggling to fit your food inside.
- Powerful Ventilation: With 300 CFM strong suction power and adjustable fan speeds, this microwave effectively removes cooking smells and smoke from your kitchen. Your kitchen stays fresh and clean.
- Versatile Power Settings: Ten different power levels, including a powerful 1000W output, let you control the heating precisely. This means you can handle all your cooking and reheating tasks perfectly.
- Bright Cooktop Light: A bright light shines down on your stovetop, giving you a clear view of your cooking. This makes it safer and easier to prepare meals.
- User-Friendly Smart Touch Panel: The smart touch panel makes operating the microwave intuitive and easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be more detailed in explaining some of the advanced features.
- While the stainless steel looks great, it can show fingerprints easily.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both convenience and performance. It simplifies cooking and keeps your kitchen air fresh.
5. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek white offers a generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and a powerful 1000-watt cooking performance. Its over-the-range design saves valuable counter space, making it a smart choice for any kitchen. With features like Auto Reheat and Multi-Stage Cooking, preparing meals becomes quick and easy. The Melt/Soften feature is great for ingredients like butter and chocolate. Plus, the Child Safety Lock adds peace of mind for families. The bright LED display makes it easy to see cooking times and settings.
What We Like:
- It cooks food fast and evenly with its 1000W power.
- The 1.7 cu. ft. size fits a lot of food, perfect for families.
- It has many cooking options like Auto Cook and a special Potato program.
- Defrosting is easy with time and weight settings.
- The +30 seconds button is super handy for quick reheating.
- The Melt/Soften feature works great for things like butter.
- A Child Safety Lock keeps little hands out.
- It includes a useful vent fan and a light for the stovetop below.
- You can adjust the volume of the alerts.
- It saves space by being installed over the range.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, some users might find the control panel a bit busy at first.
- The vent fan, while efficient, might not be as powerful as a dedicated range hood for very smoky cooking.
This Farberware microwave is a solid appliance that offers power and convenience. It’s a great addition for busy kitchens looking for a space-saving and versatile cooking solution.
The Smart Shopper’s Guide to Over-the-Range Microwaves
So, you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen with a new microwave that sits right above your stove. That’s a great choice for saving counter space! Over-the-range microwaves are super handy. They cook your food, heat up leftovers, and often have a vent to clear out smoke and smells from your cooking. Let’s dive into what makes a good one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important things in mind:
- Wattage: This is how powerful your microwave is. More watts mean faster cooking. Aim for at least 900 watts for good performance.
- Capacity: Think about how much food you usually cook. Microwaves come in different sizes. A larger family might need a bigger one, while a single person might be fine with a smaller one.
- Venting System: Most over-the-range microwaves have a fan to pull smoke and smells away from your stove. Check if it vents out the back, top, or recirculates air. Make sure it matches your kitchen setup.
- Cooktop Light: A light underneath the microwave helps you see what you’re cooking on the stove. Some have different brightness settings.
- Turntable: A rotating plate inside helps your food cook evenly. Most microwaves have this.
- Preset Cooking Options: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, or pizza. These can make cooking easier.
- Sensor Cooking: This is a cool feature. The microwave senses the humidity from the food and cooks it perfectly without you having to guess the time.
Important Materials
What your microwave is made of matters for how long it lasts and how it looks.
- Exterior: Most are made of stainless steel. This is strong, looks nice, and is easy to clean. Some might have plastic parts.
- Interior: The inside is usually a ceramic enamel or stainless steel. Ceramic enamel is easy to wipe clean. Stainless steel interiors are also durable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a microwave better, and others can make it less good.
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Improved Quality:
- Solid Build: A microwave that feels sturdy and well-made will last longer.
- Quiet Operation: A loud fan or motor can be annoying. Look for reviews that mention quietness.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: Buttons that are clear and responsive make using the microwave a breeze.
- Good Venting Power: A strong fan that really clears the air is a big plus.
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Reduced Quality:
- Flimsy Construction: If parts feel weak or wobbly, it might not hold up well.
- Uneven Cooking: If your food doesn’t cook evenly, the microwave might not be powerful or well-designed.
- Difficult Cleaning: A surface that stains easily or is hard to reach can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your microwave will shape your experience.
- Everyday Heating: Reheating leftovers, warming up drinks, or melting butter are common uses. A good microwave does these quickly and evenly.
- Cooking: Many people use them to cook vegetables, bake potatoes, or even make simple meals. Preset buttons and sensor cooking help here.
- Ventilation: The fan is a lifesaver for clearing smoke and odors from your stove. This keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
- Convenience: Having a microwave above your stove means you don’t lose valuable counter space. It’s always within easy reach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for in an over-the-range microwave?
A: The most important feature is often considered to be the wattage, as higher wattage means faster cooking. However, the venting system is also crucial for its function above a stove.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves better than others?
A: Stainless steel exteriors are popular because they are durable and look sleek. They are also easier to clean than some other materials, but they can show fingerprints.
Q: How do I know if the venting system will work for my kitchen?
A: Check if the microwave vents out the back, top, or recirculates air. Make sure this matches your kitchen’s setup. You might need to consult your kitchen’s ventilation system or a professional if you’re unsure.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” mean?
A: Sensor cooking means the microwave uses sensors to detect the moisture released from food. It then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level for optimal results.
Q: Is a turntable necessary?
A: A turntable helps food cook more evenly by rotating it. While not strictly necessary, most users find it improves the cooking quality.
Q: How much capacity do I need?
A: Capacity is measured in cubic feet. Consider how much food you typically cook or reheat. For a family, a larger capacity (around 1.7 to 2.0 cu. ft.) might be better. For one or two people, a smaller one (around 1.0 to 1.5 cu. ft.) is usually enough.
Q: How can I tell if a microwave is well-built?
A: A well-built microwave will feel solid, with no loose parts. The door should open and close smoothly, and the buttons should feel responsive.
Q: What are the benefits of an over-the-range microwave?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space. They also often include a ventilation fan and a cooktop light, adding more functionality to your kitchen.
Q: How loud are over-the-range microwaves typically?
A: This can vary. Some are quieter than others. Reading reviews can give you an idea of how noisy a particular model is.
Q: Can I use my over-the-range microwave as a primary cooking appliance?
A: While they are versatile, over-the-range microwaves are best for reheating, quick cooking, and simple meals. For complex cooking, a traditional oven is usually preferred.
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.