Imagine this: you’re standing in your kitchen, ready to whip up a quick meal, but your old microwave is just… not cutting it. It takes forever to heat things up, it’s too small, and it doesn’t even have that cool sensor cooking feature. Sound familiar? Many of us face this exact kitchen dilemma when it’s time to upgrade our over-the-range microwave.
Choosing a new over-the-range microwave can feel like navigating a maze. You want something that cooks fast, looks good, and fits perfectly above your stove. But with so many brands, sizes, and features, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You might worry about getting the wrong size, a model that’s too complicated, or one that just doesn’t perform well.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what makes a great over-the-range microwave. We’ll break down the important features, explain what they mean, and help you figure out which one is the perfect fit for your kitchen and your cooking style. Get ready to discover the microwave that will make your meal prep a breeze!
Our Top 5 Rated Over Range Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Over Range Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.2/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile kitchen appliance that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. With its 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly. This microwave fits conveniently over your stove, saving valuable counter space. It’s designed for everyday use and can handle a variety of cooking tasks.
What We Like:
- It has 1000 watts of power, so it cooks food fast.
- Many pre-programmed buttons make cooking easy. You can cook popcorn, potatoes, vegetables, pizza, and more with just one touch.
- The 400 CFM fan helps clear smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- The LED light under the microwave shines brightly on your stovetop.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is great for cooking larger dishes.
- It has a child lock feature for safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The internal dimensions might be a bit tight for very large or bulky items.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced customization options for cooking times and power levels.
Overall, this BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for most kitchens. It offers good power and helpful features to simplify your cooking routine.
2. 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
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel microwave not only looks great but also offers fantastic cooking convenience. Plus, this special bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan for your peace of mind. It even comes with a charcoal filter replacement, so you’re ready to go right away!
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for all your heating and cooking needs.
- Convenience cooking features make meal prep a breeze.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- Includes a charcoal filter replacement for better air quality.
- Sleek stainless steel design that complements any kitchen.
- It’s from GE USA, a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dimensions are listed as 13″D x 16″W x 9″H, which might be a bit confusing as the depth is usually the largest measurement.
- The “convenience cooking controls” are mentioned, but specific types of controls aren’t detailed.
This GE microwave bundle offers a great combination of style, function, and protection. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their kitchen experience.
3. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS Over-the-Range Microwave. This spacious 1.9 cu. ft. microwave is packed with features to make cooking easier. It’s a bundle that includes the microwave itself and a premium 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind. Plus, it’s from a GE USA Authorized seller, which means you get the manufacturer’s full protection on top of the extended plan.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- The melt feature is super handy for melting butter, chocolate, and more without burning.
- Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the easy-clean interior and steam clean option.
- It comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit, making installation simple.
- The bundle includes a 2-year premium extended service protection plan, adding great value and security.
- It’s built by GE, a trusted brand for kitchen appliances.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific dimensions are provided, but some users might prefer a quick visual guide.
- While the features are great, detailed user reviews on specific cooking results would be helpful.
This GE microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens, offering convenience and durability. The included extended protection plan makes this bundle an even better deal.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, a sleek stainless steel over-the-range microwave that makes cooking a breeze. Its spacious 1.7 cu.ft. interior and 12.5-inch turntable can handle even your largest dishes, like a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza. The smart touch panel and auto-cooking menu with 18 presets, including popcorn, pizza, and defrost, mean you can whip up delicious meals quickly and easily.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity fits large meals.
- 18 Auto Menus simplify cooking with one-touch options.
- 1000W power heats food quickly and efficiently.
- 300 CFM ventilation powerfully removes kitchen odors.
- Bright cooktop light improves visibility while cooking below.
- 10-level power settings offer great cooking control.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user interface might take a little getting used to for some.
- While powerful, the 300 CFM ventilation might not be enough for very heavy cooking.
This Midea microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both style and serious cooking power. It simplifies meal preparation and keeps your kitchen air fresh.
5. FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity
Rating: 8.6/10
The FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a spacious 1.8 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for heating up leftovers or cooking meals. With 1000 cooking watts, it heats food quickly and evenly. The sleek stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to clean.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.8 cu. ft. capacity holds large dishes.
- Powerful 1000 cooking watts heats food fast.
- Ten power levels offer great cooking control.
- Auto Defrost takes the guesswork out of thawing.
- Child Lock feature keeps little ones safe.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system helps clear smoke and steam from your cooktop.
- It’s easy to use with 27 touch pad buttons.
What Could Be Improved:
- The recirculating kit is sold separately, which is an extra cost.
- It is designed for non-ducted venting, which might not be ideal for all kitchens.
This Frigidaire microwave is a solid choice for those needing a reliable and powerful over-the-range option. It makes cooking and reheating simple and efficient.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Over-the-Range Microwave
An over-the-range (OTR) microwave is a popular kitchen appliance. It saves counter space and often doubles as a vent hood for your stove. Picking the right one can make your cooking experience much better. This guide will help you find the perfect OTR microwave for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
Power Levels and Wattage
Microwaves have different power levels. Wattage is how strong the microwave is. Most OTR microwaves range from 900 to 1200 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for microwaves with multiple power settings. This gives you control for different foods.
Capacity and Size
OTR microwaves come in various sizes. They are measured in cubic feet. Small kitchens might need a compact model (around 1.0-1.7 cu. ft.). Larger families might prefer a bigger one (1.9-2.2 cu. ft.). Make sure the microwave fits above your stove. Measure the space carefully.
Ventilation System
This is a big deal for OTR microwaves. They usually have a fan to clear smoke and smells. Check the fan’s power. It’s measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). A higher CFM means better ventilation. Some have recirculating vents if you can’t vent outside. Others have external vents.
Cooking Presets and Sensor Cooking
Many microwaves have preset buttons for common foods like popcorn or baked potatoes. Sensor cooking is even better. It detects moisture and adjusts cooking time. This prevents overcooking or undercooking.
Convenience Features
Look for features like a turntable that rotates food. This ensures even heating. A child lock is good for safety. Interior lighting helps you see your food. Easy-to-clean interiors are a lifesaver.
Important Materials
Exterior Finish
Most OTR microwaves have stainless steel exteriors. This looks sleek and is durable. Other options include black, white, or custom panel finishes. Stainless steel is easy to clean but can show fingerprints.
Interior Material
The inside is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel interiors are more durable and easier to wipe clean. Painted interiors can chip over time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built microwave feels solid. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive. Cheaper models might feel flimsy.
Brand Reputation
Trusted brands often make better quality appliances. They usually offer better warranties and customer service. Research brands before you buy.
Noise Level
Some microwaves are louder than others. Check reviews for comments on noise. A quieter microwave is more pleasant to use.
User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Cooking
For quick meals, reheating leftovers, or making popcorn, an OTR microwave is very handy. The preset buttons make it simple.
Beyond Simple Tasks
More advanced models can bake, broil, or even convection cook. These can replace some of your other kitchen appliances. They are great for small kitchens or for those who want to do more with their microwave.
Ventilation Needs
If you cook a lot of greasy or smoky foods, a powerful vent is essential. Make sure the CFM rating matches your cooking habits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for in an OTR microwave?
A: The most important features are the ventilation system (CFM) and the wattage. These directly affect how well it removes smoke and how quickly it cooks.
Q: How do I know what size OTR microwave I need?
A: Measure the space above your stove. Also, consider how much food you usually cook. Standard sizes are around 30 inches wide.
Q: Is stainless steel a good material for an OTR microwave?
A: Yes, stainless steel is durable and looks good. However, it can show fingerprints, so some people prefer smudge-proof stainless steel.
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 better ventilation for your kitchen.
Q: Can an OTR microwave really replace my range hood?
A: Yes, most OTR microwaves have built-in vent fans that act as range hoods. Some have filters that recirculate air if you can’t vent outside.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect the moisture level of food. It then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power for perfect results.
Q: Are expensive OTR microwaves always better?
A: Not always. While higher-end models offer more features and better build quality, you can find a great OTR microwave at a mid-range price point by focusing on essential features like power and ventilation.
Q: How do I clean an OTR microwave?
A: Most interiors can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable turntables and grease filters should be cleaned regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: What is the average lifespan of an OTR microwave?
A: With proper care and maintenance, an OTR microwave can last between 7 to 15 years.
Q: Should I buy an OTR microwave with a convection feature?
A: If you want more cooking versatility and plan to use your microwave for more than just reheating, a convection feature is a great addition. It allows you to bake and roast.
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.