Imagine a kitchen where cooking is faster and your counter space stays clear. That’s the promise of a good over-the-range microwave. But with so many choices, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle. Do you need a super-powered fan? How much space do you really need inside? These questions can make shopping for a new microwave feel overwhelming.
Choosing the right over-the-range microwave is important for many kitchens. It’s not just about heating up leftovers; it’s about ventilation, cooking power, and fitting your space. Many people get stuck trying to figure out which features matter most and which ones are just extra bells and whistles. It’s easy to feel lost in all the technical terms and different brands.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great over-the-range microwave. You’ll learn about the key things to look for, from how well it vents smoke to how easy it is to use. By the end, you’ll feel confident about finding a microwave that fits your needs and your budget, turning your kitchen into a more efficient and enjoyable space.
Our Top 5 Rated Over The Range Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Over The Range Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This 1.9 cubic foot microwave boasts 1000 watts of power, making it a strong performer for all your cooking needs. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your stove, adding both style and functionality to your cooking space.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking heats food quickly and evenly.
- Convenient One-Touch auto-cooking menus take the guesswork out of preparing common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- A strong 400 CFM venting system effectively removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop, making cooking safer and easier.
- The Turntable On/Off function offers flexibility for cooking larger dishes that might not fit on the turntable.
- Ten power settings and a 30-second express cook option give you precise control.
- A child lock feature provides peace of mind for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto-cooking menus are helpful, some users might prefer more customization options for specific recipes.
- The installation instructions are online, which might be less convenient for those who prefer a physical manual.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for busy households seeking efficiency and ease in the kitchen. It delivers impressive power and user-friendly features for everyday cooking.
2. Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control
Rating: 9.3/10
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 1000 watts of power and 10 adjustable power levels handle everything from quick reheating to full meals. The intuitive screen touch control and sensor cooking take the guesswork out of preparing popular dishes like popcorn, pizza, and frozen dinners.
What We Like:
- Spacious 1.7 Cu.ft. Interior: Fits larger dishes thanks to the generous space and the turntable on/off option.
- Powerful 300 CFM Venting: Effectively removes smoke and odors from your cooktop.
- Smart Sensor Cooking: Takes the guesswork out of cooking with pre-programmed menus for common foods.
- Bright LED Cooktop Lighting: Illuminates your cooking surface for better visibility.
- Generous 2-Year Warranty: Provides peace of mind with a warranty that’s double the industry standard.
- User-Friendly Controls: Features include 30-second express cooking and a child lock for safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: Only available in silver, which might not match all kitchen decors.
- Installation Requirements: Like most over-the-range microwaves, it requires proper installation and venting setup.
This Empava microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens. It combines convenience, power, and smart features for an enhanced cooking experience.
3. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.0/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking is a stylish and powerful addition to any kitchen. Its stainless steel finish looks great above your stove. This microwave is designed to make cooking and meal prep easier with its smart features and large capacity.
What We Like:
- This microwave has a large capacity, measuring 1.7 cubic feet. It easily fits big dishes and has a 12.4-inch turntable to cook food evenly.
- It offers 10 different cooking levels, including 6 quick menus for common tasks like popping popcorn, heating drinks, and defrosting.
- The 1000-watt power lets you cook food fast. You can even press buttons 1, 2, or 3 for 100% power for 1 to 3 minutes.
- Multi-stage cooking lets you set different power levels and times for one cooking cycle. This saves you time and effort.
- The built-in 300 CFM vent fan has two speeds to remove cooking smells and smoke. An under-microwave light shines down on your stovetop.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the vent fan a bit loud on its highest setting.
- The digital display could be larger or brighter for easier reading in some lighting conditions.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens. It offers convenience and power to help you get meals on the table quickly.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.4/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven in stainless steel is a kitchen workhorse. It makes cooking and reheating meals a breeze with its smart features. This microwave is designed to fit over your stove, saving valuable counter space. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The one-touch-cook feature with 18 auto menus takes the guesswork out of cooking. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, or even bake a potato.
- It has a generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity, which is big enough for a whole chicken or a large pizza. The 12.5-inch turntable ensures even cooking for all your dishes.
- With 1000W of power and 10-level settings, you can heat food quickly and precisely.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system powerfully removes cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh. You can adjust the fan speed too.
- A bright cooktop light illuminates your stovetop, making it safer and easier to cook.
- The smart touch panel is easy to read and simple to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 18 auto menus to be a bit limited if they cook very specific or complex recipes.
- While the ventilation is strong, some very heavy-duty cooking might still leave a slight odor.
Overall, the Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers great convenience and power for everyday cooking needs.
5. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle. This sleek stainless steel microwave is designed to make cooking and reheating meals a breeze. It fits perfectly over your range, saving valuable counter space. Plus, this bundle comes with a special 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, so your microwave stays fresh and clean.
What We Like:
- It has a good size, 1.6 cubic feet, which is great for most meals.
- The convenience cooking controls make it easy to heat up different foods.
- You get a 2-year extended protection plan, which is a fantastic bonus.
- The bundle includes a charcoal filter, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- It’s a GE product, so you know it’s from a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The listed dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit tight for very large dishes.
- While it has convenience controls, some users might prefer more advanced cooking presets.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience for your kitchen. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable over-the-range microwave with added protection.
Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend: Over-the-Range Microwave Buying Guide
An over-the-range microwave is a super handy appliance. It saves counter space and often acts as a vent hood for your stove. Choosing the right one can make cooking and kitchen cleanup much easier. Let’s dive into what you need to know.
1. Key Features to Look For
Powerful Cooking
Microwaves have wattage. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for good performance. Some powerful models go up to 1200 watts.
Ventilation Power
These microwaves double as vent hoods. Check the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). Higher CFM means it can clear smoke and smells from your kitchen faster. Aim for at least 300 CFM.
Sensor Cooking
Sensor cooking takes the guesswork out of reheating. It senses the moisture in food and adjusts cooking time and power automatically. This prevents overcooking or undercooking.
Turntable vs. Recessed Turntable
A turntable spins food for even heating. Some models have a recessed turntable, which means it sits lower. This can give you more usable space for larger dishes.
Convenience Features
Look for things like:
- Quick Cook Buttons: For common items like popcorn or baked potatoes.
- Child Lock: Keeps little hands from accidentally turning it on.
- Interior Light: Lets you see your food cooking.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Many have non-stick coatings.
2. Important Materials
Exterior
Most over-the-range microwaves have stainless steel exteriors. This material is durable and looks sleek. Some are also available in black or white finishes.
Interior
The inside is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel interiors are more durable and easier to clean. They resist stains and odors better.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should have a good feel. Higher-end models often use better materials and have more robust construction.
Noise Level
Some microwaves can be quite noisy, especially the fan. Check reviews for information on noise levels. A quieter appliance makes for a more pleasant kitchen experience.
Ease of Installation
Installing an over-the-range microwave can be tricky. It needs to be mounted securely to the wall and connected to your home’s ventilation. Some models are designed for easier DIY installation, while others might require professional help.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Cooking and Reheating
These microwaves are perfect for quickly reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking frozen meals. The sensor cooking feature is a big help here.
Stove Ventilation
The vent hood function is essential for removing cooking fumes and grease. It helps keep your kitchen air fresh and clean. Make sure the vent system is powerful enough for your cooking habits.
Saving Space
The primary benefit is saving precious counter space. This is especially important in smaller kitchens. Everything is neatly tucked away above the stove.
Choosing the right over-the-range microwave involves balancing power, features, and your kitchen’s needs. A good one will be a workhorse for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature in an over-the-range microwave?
A: The most important features are powerful wattage for cooking and good CFM for ventilation. These ensure your food cooks well and your kitchen stays fresh.
Q: How do I know if the CFM is high enough?
A: For most kitchens, a CFM of 300 or higher is recommended. If you do a lot of high-heat cooking or frying, you might want even more.
Q: Are stainless steel interiors worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, stainless steel interiors are easier to clean and more durable than painted metal. They resist scratches and stains better.
Q: Can I install an over-the-range microwave myself?
A: It depends on your comfort with tools and electrical work. Many people hire a professional for safe and proper installation.
Q: What does sensor cooking do?
A: Sensor cooking automatically detects the steam or humidity released by food and adjusts the cooking time and power to cook it perfectly.
Q: How much counter space does an over-the-range microwave save?
A: It frees up all the counter space that a countertop microwave would occupy, usually a good amount of valuable real estate.
Q: Is a turntable necessary?
A: A turntable is highly recommended for even cooking. Without it, food might cook unevenly, with some parts being hot and others cold.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of an over-the-range microwave?
A: Most over-the-range microwaves last between 7 to 10 years with regular use and proper care.
Q: How do I clean the vent filter?
A: Most filters can be removed and washed with warm, soapy water. Always check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Q: Are there over-the-range microwaves that don’t require venting to the outside?
A: Yes, some models have “recirculating” vents. These have charcoal filters to clean the air and blow it back into the kitchen. They are not as effective as external venting.
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.