Imagine your kitchen. Is there a bulky microwave taking up precious counter space? Or maybe you’re dreaming of a more streamlined look. Over-the-stove microwaves, also called range hoods, are a popular choice because they save space and add a powerful exhaust fan. But with so many different sizes, styles, and features, picking the right one can feel like a chore. You want a microwave that cooks your food well, vents smoke and smells effectively, and fits perfectly above your stove. It’s a big decision for your kitchen!
This guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know. You’ll learn about the different types of over-the-stove microwaves, what to look for when buying one, and how to make sure it’s a great fit for your cooking needs and your kitchen’s design. By the end, you’ll feel confident about choosing the perfect over-the-stove microwave that makes your kitchen work better and look amazing.
Let’s dive in and discover how an over-the-stove microwave can transform your cooking space.
Our Top 5 Over The Stove Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Stove Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cubic foot microwave is a real helper in the kitchen. It has a sleek stainless steel finish and powerful 1000-watt cooking. It fits perfectly over your stove, saving you counter space.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cu. ft. size is generous. It easily fits large dishes and has a 12.4-inch turntable for even heating.
- Easy Cooking Options: It offers 10 different cooking levels. There are 6 quick menus for common foods like popcorn and defrosting.
- Speedy Cooking: You can cook with the push of a button. Press 1, 2, or 3 for 1 to 3 minutes of full power.
- Smart Cooking: Multi-stage cooking lets you set different power levels. You can cook at 90% power then switch to 50% power without stopping it.
- Powerful Vent Fan: The 300 CFM vent fan quickly removes smoke and smells. It has two speeds for strong suction.
- Built-in Light: An integrated light shines down on your stovetop. This makes it easy to see while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- The manual could be clearer about some of the advanced cooking settings.
- Some users might find the touch panel a little sensitive.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers great features and makes cooking easier.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.1/10
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 power, making it a powerful tool for all your cooking needs. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your range, saving valuable counter space.
What We Like:
- Effortless cooking with pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potatoes, vegetables, pizza, snacks, bacon, frozen dinners, rice, and frozen breakfast.
- Powerful 1000-watt heating with ten adjustable power levels for precise cooking.
- Bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop for safer and more convenient cooking.
- A robust 400 CFM venting fan system effectively removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- The Turntable On/Off function provides flexibility for cooking larger dishes.
- Convenient 30-second express cooking and a child lock feature for added safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are great, some users might prefer more customization options for specific recipes.
- The installation instructions are only available online, which might be inconvenient for those who prefer a physical manual.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a fantastic combination of power, convenience, and smart features. It’s an excellent choice for busy households looking to simplify meal preparation.
3. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.7/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a powerful and versatile over-the-range microwave that makes cooking a breeze. Its sleek stainless steel design will look great in any kitchen. This microwave is packed with features to help you prepare meals quickly and easily.
What We Like:
- The One-Touch-Cook feature with 18 Auto Menus is fantastic. You can cook popcorn, pizza, and even defrost food with just one touch. It also has special settings for rice, potatoes, and softening cream cheese. It helps you make delicious meals without a lot of fuss.
- Its 1.7 cu.ft. capacity is quite large. The 12.5-inch turntable easily fits a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza. This means you can cook bigger meals for your family.
- With 1000W of cooking power and 10 different power levels, you have great control over how your food heats up. This helps you cook everything perfectly.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is very strong. It quickly removes cooking smells and smoke from your kitchen. You can adjust the fan speed to suit your needs.
- The bright cooktop light shines down on your stove. This gives you a clear view when you’re cooking on the stovetop below.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are helpful, some users might prefer more customization options for specific recipes.
- The fan speed settings, while adjustable, could offer a wider range for very specific odor control needs.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich over-the-range microwave. It offers great convenience and performance for everyday cooking tasks.
4. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.7/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS is a fantastic over-the-range microwave that brings convenience to your kitchen. This bundle also includes a 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind. It’s built with quality and ease of use in mind, making it a great addition to any home.
What We Like:
- It has a generous 1.6 cubic feet of space, perfect for heating up family meals or cooking snacks.
- The convenience cooking controls make it super easy to select the right setting for whatever you’re making.
- This bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan, which adds great value and security.
- You also get a charcoal filter replacement, so your microwave stays fresh.
- It comes from GE USA, a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are 13″D x 16″W x 9″H, which might be a bit large for very small kitchens, so measure carefully.
This GE microwave offers a great combination of capacity, convenience, and extended protection. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen experience.
5. Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance offers powerful cooking and smart features to make meal prep a breeze. Its spacious interior and user-friendly design make it a great addition to any home chef’s toolkit.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed auto menus for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 1000-watt power and 10-level settings let you cook food perfectly.
- The two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan quickly clears smoke and odors from your cooktop.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, perfect for fitting larger dishes.
- The bright LED cooktop light illuminates your cooking area.
- It comes with a 2-year US-based manufacturer warranty, which is double the usual industry standard.
- The screen touch control is easy to use.
- It has a 30-second express cooking option.
What Could Be Improved:
- The overall dimensions might be large for some kitchens.
- The internal dimensions, while spacious, might still limit extremely large items.
This Empava microwave offers a fantastic combination of power, convenience, and thoughtful features. It’s a reliable and stylish choice for any kitchen.
Choosing the Perfect Over-the-Stove Microwave: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
An over-the-stove microwave, also known as a range hood microwave, is a smart addition to any kitchen. It saves counter space and combines two handy appliances into one. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
Microwave Power (Wattage)
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves range from 900 to 1200 watts. For most families, 1000 watts is a good balance of power and efficiency.
Ventilation System
This is super important! The fan pulls smoke and smells away from your stovetop. Look for CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings. A higher CFM is better for busy kitchens. Some have charcoal filters for recirculating air, while others vent outside.
Size and Capacity
Measure the space above your stove. Microwaves come in different widths, usually 24, 27, or 30 inches. Think about what you’ll cook. A larger capacity lets you heat bigger dishes.
Convenience Features
- Sensor Cooking: This senses how much moisture is in your food and adjusts cooking time. It prevents overcooking.
- Turntable: A rotating plate cooks food more evenly.
- Preset Cooking Options: Buttons for popcorn, baked potatoes, or reheating make things easy.
- Delayed Start: Set your microwave to start cooking later.
2. Important Materials
Exterior Finish
Stainless steel is popular. It looks sleek and is easy to clean. Other options include black or white finishes. Choose a material that matches your other appliances.
Interior Coating
The inside is usually coated with enamel or a ceramic material. These are durable and easy to wipe clean. Avoid scratchy surfaces.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Brand Reputation
Stick with well-known brands. They often offer better quality and customer support. Read reviews from other buyers.
Build Quality
Feel the doors and buttons. They should feel sturdy. A well-built microwave will last longer and work better.
Noise Level
Some microwaves can be loud, especially the fan. Check reviews for noise ratings if this is a concern for you.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
An over-the-stove microwave is great for small kitchens. It frees up counter space. You can quickly reheat leftovers or cook simple meals. The vent fan helps keep your kitchen fresh while you cook on the stovetop.
Families can use it for quick snacks or to help with dinner prep. Busy individuals appreciate the convenience of sensor cooking and preset options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of an over-the-stove microwave?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space. It also combines a microwave and range hood.
Q: How powerful should my microwave be?
A: For most homes, 1000 watts is a good starting point. More watts cook food faster.
Q: What does CFM mean for the vent fan?
A: CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM is better for removing smoke and smells.
Q: Do I need a microwave that vents outside?
A: It depends on your kitchen. Outside venting is more effective. Recirculating vents use charcoal filters and are good if outside venting isn’t possible.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Measure the space above your stove. Microwaves are usually 24, 27, or 30 inches wide.
Q: Is sensor cooking worth it?
A: Yes, sensor cooking is very helpful. It cooks food perfectly by sensing moisture.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: Most interiors are easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh cleaners.
Q: Can I put metal in an over-the-stove microwave?
A: Generally, no. Metal can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Check your manual for specific instructions.
Q: How long do over-the-stove microwaves usually last?
A: With good care, they can last 7 to 10 years or more.
Q: Should I consider the noise level?
A: Yes, if you are sensitive to noise. Some models are quieter than others. Reviews often mention this.
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.