Imagine a kitchen where counter space is king. You want a microwave, but where does it go without hogging precious room? This is where the overhead microwave shines. It’s a smart solution for many kitchens, especially when space is tight. But choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle. You worry about it fitting, working well, and looking good. You might even wonder if it’s too complicated to install or use.
This post is here to help you solve that puzzle. We’ll break down what makes a great overhead microwave. You’ll learn about the different types available and what features really matter. We’ll explore how to measure your space and what to look for in terms of power and ease of use. By the end, you’ll feel confident in picking an overhead microwave that fits your kitchen and your needs perfectly.
Let’s dive in and discover how to make your kitchen work smarter, not harder, with the perfect overhead microwave.
Our Top 5 Overhead Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Overhead Microwave 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: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel microwave is a great addition to any home. It offers plenty of space for your cooking needs. Plus, this bundle comes with a special 2-year extended protection plan for extra peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits most dishes.
- Convenience cooking controls make it easy to use.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- Includes a charcoal filter replacement for better air quality.
- Sleek stainless steel design looks great in any kitchen.
- It’s from a trusted brand, GE USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
- The “behind the door grille” for the charcoal filter might require a bit of effort to access for replacement.
This GE microwave bundle offers excellent value and convenience. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience.
2. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.9/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s designed to make cooking easier and faster. This microwave oven looks good too with its stainless steel finish.
What We Like:
- It has 18 auto-cook menus. You can cook popcorn, pizza, and even potatoes with just one touch.
- The 1.7 cu.ft. size is large. It can fit big items like a rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- It has 10 power levels, so you can control the heating precisely. The 1000W power cooks food quickly.
- The 300 CFM ventilation fan is strong. It removes cooking smells and smoke effectively.
- There’s a bright light under the microwave. It helps you see your stovetop clearly while cooking.
- The smart touch panel is easy to use. You can select settings with a simple touch.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 18 auto-cook menus to be a bit overwhelming at first.
- While the ventilation is strong, the fan noise level could be a concern for some.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS microwave oven offers a lot of convenience and power. It makes preparing meals simple and efficient.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This powerful 1.9 cu.ft. microwave boasts 1000 watts of cooking power and smart features to make meal prep a breeze. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your cooktop, offering convenient access and enhanced kitchen functionality.
What We Like:
- 1000 Watts of Power: Cooks food quickly and evenly.
- One-Touch Auto Cooking: Features pre-programmed menus for popcorn, potatoes, vegetables, pizza, snacks, bacon, frozen dinners, rice, and frozen breakfasts. Just push a button!
- Bright LED Cooktop Lighting: Illuminates your stovetop for better visibility while cooking.
- Powerful 400-CFM Venting: The two-speed fan effectively removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Generous 1.9 Cu.ft. Capacity: Easily fits large dishes and can accommodate a 13.5-inch turntable.
- Turntable On/Off Function: Gives you flexibility to cook large rectangular dishes without them hitting the sides.
- Convenient Features: Includes a clock, kitchen timer, 30-second express cooking, and a child lock for safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Might Require Help: As an over-the-range unit, installation can be a two-person job.
- Limited Color Options: Currently only available in black.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven combines convenience and power, making it an excellent addition to any busy kitchen. Its smart features and spacious interior simplify cooking and cleanup.
4. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cu. ft. stainless steel microwave is a powerful addition, bringing convenience and efficiency to your cooking routine. It’s designed to be a helpful assistant for all your culinary needs.
What We Like:
- The large 1.7 cubic feet capacity easily fits big dishes and holds a 12.4-inch turntable, making it great for families or entertaining.
- It offers 10 different power levels and 6 quick-touch menus for popular items like popcorn, beverages, and defrosting, simplifying everyday cooking.
- Speedy cooking options let you set 1, 2, or 3 minutes at full power with just one button press.
- Multi-stage cooking lets you program different power levels and times for complex recipes, saving you time.
- The 300 CFM vent fan is strong and has two speeds to clear out kitchen smells and smoke, while the built-in light shines brightly on your stovetop.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, the interface might take a little time to get used to for some users.
- The vent fan’s noise level could be a concern for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic choice for busy households looking for a versatile and powerful appliance. It combines ample space with smart cooking features to make meal prep a breeze.
5. Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven. This sleek, stainless steel microwave is packed with features to make cooking and reheating a breeze. Its 1.7 cubic feet of space handles large dishes easily, and the powerful 1000-watt output cooks food quickly. The smart sensor cooking adjusts time and power for perfect results every time.
What We Like:
- It has a spacious 1.7 cu.ft. interior, perfect for big meals or multiple dishes.
- The 1000 watts of power with 10 different settings makes cooking fast and customizable.
- Sensor cooking takes the guesswork out of reheating common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 300 CFM venting fan effectively clears smoke and odors from your cooktop.
- The cooktop LED light shines brightly, making it easy to see what you’re cooking below.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is handy for very large or oddly shaped dishes.
- A 2-year US-based manufacturer warranty offers great peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The screen touch controls might take a little getting used to for some users.
- While it has many pre-programmed menus, some users might prefer more advanced custom settings.
This Empava microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and power. It’s a smart choice for busy households.
Your Guide to Overhead Microwaves: Cook Smarter, Not Harder
Overhead microwaves, also known as over-the-range microwaves, are a fantastic way to save counter space in your kitchen. They sit right above your stovetop, combining a microwave with a ventilation system. This guide will help you pick the best one for your cooking needs.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you shop for an overhead microwave, keep these important features in mind.
1. Size and Capacity
- Dimensions: Measure the space above your stove carefully. Microwaves come in different widths, usually 29 or 30 inches. Make sure it fits perfectly.
- Interior Space: Think about what you usually cook. A larger family might need a microwave with more cubic feet of space. Smaller kitchens might be fine with a compact model.
2. Wattage and Cooking Power
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage (like 1000 watts or more) means faster cooking and better defrosting.
- Even Cooking: Some microwaves have special sensors or turntables that help food cook more evenly. This is a big plus.
3. Ventilation System
- Fan Speed: A good ventilation system is crucial. Look for multiple fan speeds. This helps clear smoke and steam from your cooking.
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This measures how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM is better for strong cooking smells or heavy frying.
- Ducting Options: Some microwaves vent outside (ducted), while others recirculate air back into the kitchen (non-ducted). Ducted systems are usually more effective.
4. Convenience Features
- Preset Cooking Options: Many microwaves have buttons for popcorn, baked potatoes, or reheating. These make cooking simple.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures your food heats up evenly. Some models let you turn it off if you need to fit larger dishes.
- Child Lock: This safety feature prevents little hands from accidentally turning on the microwave.
- Interior Light: A light inside helps you see your food as it cooks.
5. Design and Finish
- Color and Style: Choose a microwave that matches your kitchen appliances. Stainless steel is popular, but other finishes are available.
- Control Panel: Some have simple buttons, while others have sleek touch screens. Pick what feels easiest for you to use.
Important Materials
Most overhead microwaves use durable materials.
- Exterior: Stainless steel is common because it’s strong and looks good. Other options include enamel-coated steel.
- Interior: The inside is usually made of metal with a special coating that’s easy to clean.
- Door: The door has a glass window so you can see your food.
Quality Matters: What Makes a Good Microwave?
Several things can make an overhead microwave better or not as good.
- Build Quality: A microwave that feels solid and well-built will last longer. Check for sturdy hinges and a good door seal.
- Even Heating: The most important thing is how well it heats your food. Test it with a few different items if possible.
- Ventilation Power: A strong fan that really clears the air is a sign of good quality.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior surface and removable parts make cleaning much easier.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for quieter models.
User Experience and Use Cases
Overhead microwaves are super useful for many people.
- Saving Space: They are perfect for small kitchens where counter space is limited. You get a microwave and a vent all in one.
- Everyday Cooking: You can reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, or make popcorn quickly.
- Stovetop Ventilation: The built-in vent hood helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh while you cook on the stove.
- Quick Meals: For busy families, they offer a fast way to prepare simple meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the main benefit of an overhead microwave?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space. It also combines a microwave with a ventilation system for your stovetop.
Q: How do I measure for an overhead microwave?
A: Measure the width of the space above your stove. Most are 29 or 30 inches wide. Also, check the height and depth.
Q: Do all overhead microwaves vent outside?
A: No. Some vent outside (ducted), and others recirculate air back into the kitchen (non-ducted).
Q: What does CFM mean for a microwave vent?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM means stronger ventilation.
Q: Is a turntable important in an overhead microwave?
A: Yes, a turntable helps your food cook more evenly. Some models allow you to turn it off.
Q: What is a good wattage for an overhead microwave?
A: A wattage of 1000 watts or higher is generally good. It means faster cooking and better defrosting.
Q: How do I clean the inside of an overhead microwave?
A: You can usually clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. Some have removable turntables for easier cleaning.
Q: Can I cook large dishes in an overhead microwave?
A: It depends on the interior size. Some models have large capacities and allow you to turn off the turntable to fit bigger items.
Q: Are overhead microwaves noisy?
A: Some can be noisy, especially the fan. It’s a good idea to check reviews for noise levels if this is important to you.
Q: What should I do if my overhead microwave isn’t heating food properly?
A: First, check that it’s plugged in and the door is fully closed. If the problem continues, it might need professional repair.
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.