Imagine a kitchen where your countertops are clear and your cooking gadgets are right where you need them. Sounds dreamy, right? But finding the perfect microwave that fits neatly under your cabinets can feel like a treasure hunt with a confusing map.
Many people want this sleek look, but they run into problems. Microwaves come in all shapes and sizes, and what looks good online might not fit your kitchen space or your style. You worry about installation, power, and if it will even work well. It’s a big decision, and you want to get it right without the headache.
This post is here to help you conquer that challenge. We’ll break down what makes a great under-cabinet microwave, what features to look for, and how to pick one that will make your kitchen both beautiful and super functional. Get ready to discover your ideal kitchen helper!
Our Top 5 Microwave Under Cabinet Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Under Cabinet 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: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle. This sleek stainless steel microwave offers plenty of space for all your cooking needs. Plus, it comes with a special bundle that includes a 2-year extended protection plan and a charcoal filter replacement. This makes it a smart and convenient choice for any home chef.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits most dishes.
- Convenience cooking controls make meal prep easy.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for peace of mind.
- Includes a charcoal filter replacement, which is important for ventilation.
- Stylish stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
- It is GE USA authorized, so you know you are getting a quality product.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
- The description doesn’t detail specific convenience cooking presets.
This GE microwave bundle provides both functionality and long-term value. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and well-protected over-the-range microwave.
2. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.3/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking is a big helper in your kitchen. It sits right over your stove, saving you counter space. This microwave is black and uses 1000 watts to cook your food fast. It’s also great for getting rid of cooking smells.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: It has a big inside space, measuring 15.4 inches deep, 29.9 inches wide, and 16.4 inches high. This means you can fit large dishes inside. The 12.4-inch turntable helps cook food evenly.
- 10 Cooking Levels & Quick Menus: With 1000 watts of power, it cooks food quickly. It has 6 special buttons for common foods like popcorn, drinks, melting butter, reheating leftovers, and defrosting frozen items.
- Speedy Cooking: You can press 1, 2, or 3 to cook at full power for 1, 2, or 3 minutes. This is super handy when you’re in a hurry.
- Multi-stage Cooking: This feature lets you set different power levels for different times. For example, you can cook at 90% power for 10 minutes and then switch to 50% power for 5 minutes, all in one go.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: The fan has two speeds and is strong. It pulls smoke and smells out of your kitchen. The light under the microwave shines down on your stove, making it easy to see what you’re cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description doesn’t mention if the vent fan blows air outside or just recirculates it.
- No information is given about how noisy the vent fan is.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for many kitchens, offering convenience and power for your cooking needs.
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 functional addition to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel design complements modern decor, while its powerful 1000-watt performance handles all your cooking needs. This microwave is designed to be your helpful kitchen assistant, making meal prep quicker and easier.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet of space easily fits large dishes and has a 12.4-inch turntable, so you can cook bigger meals.
- 10 Cooking Levels & Quick Menus: It offers 10 power levels and 6 handy presets for common foods like popcorn, beverages, and defrosting.
- Speedy Cooking Options: You can instantly cook at full power for 1, 2, or 3 minutes with just a few button presses.
- Multi-stage Cooking: This feature lets you set different power levels for different times in one cooking cycle, saving you time.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: The strong fan quickly removes cooking smells and smoke, and the built-in light shines on your stovetop.
What Could Be Improved:
- User Interface: Some users might find navigating through all the cooking options a little tricky at first.
- Noise Level: The vent fan, while effective, can be a bit loud when running at its highest setting.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for those seeking convenience and performance. It simplifies everyday cooking tasks and helps keep your kitchen fresh.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.5/10
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. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern. This microwave can handle all your cooking needs.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 Auto Menus is super handy. You can easily make things like popcorn, pizza, or even cook a potato. It makes preparing meals quick and simple.
- It has a big 1.7 cu.ft. capacity. This means you can fit large items inside, like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza on its 12.5-inch turntable.
- The microwave offers 10 different power levels, including a powerful 1000W output. This lets you heat or cook food exactly how you want it.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is strong. It effectively gets rid of cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh. You can also adjust the fan speed.
- A bright light shines on your cooktop. This gives you a clear view of your cooking, making it safer and easier.
- The Smart Touch Panel is easy to use. It has clear buttons for all the functions.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are great, some users might want more customization options for specific recipes.
- The ventilation fan, even on lower settings, can be a bit noisy for some kitchens.
This Midea microwave is a solid choice for busy households. It offers convenience and power in one stylish package.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.4/10
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 cooking power. It makes cooking easy with pre-programmed auto menus for all your favorites, from popcorn to frozen dinners. Plus, its sleek design fits perfectly over your stove, giving you more counter space.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking heats food quickly.
- Generous 1.9 cu.ft capacity fits large dishes.
- One-touch auto menus simplify cooking for common items.
- Bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop.
- Strong 400-CFM venting fan keeps your kitchen air fresh.
- Turntable On/Off function gives you flexibility for different cookware.
- Child lock feature provides extra safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation instructions are only available online, not printed.
- The control panel might seem a bit complex at first.
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is a solid choice for busy kitchens. It offers convenience and power for all your cooking needs.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Under Cabinet Microwave
Why Choose an Under Cabinet Microwave?
An under cabinet microwave saves counter space. It keeps your kitchen looking neat. This type of microwave attaches to the wall beneath your cabinets. It’s a smart choice for smaller kitchens.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in different sizes. Measure the space where you want to put it. Think about how much food you usually cook. Small microwaves are good for one or two people. Larger ones work well for families.
2. Wattage and Power
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most under cabinet microwaves have 900 to 1200 watts. More watts cook food quicker and more evenly. For busy kitchens, aim for higher wattage.
3. Venting Options
Some under cabinet microwaves have built-in vents. These vents pull out smoke and smells. They can vent air up into a cabinet or out through an outside wall. Check if the vent direction works for your kitchen setup.
4. Controls and Presets
Look for easy-to-use controls. Buttons should be clear. Many microwaves have preset cooking options. These are for things like popcorn or baked potatoes. They make cooking simple.
5. Lighting and Turntable
A good light inside helps you see your food. A turntable spins your food. This helps it cook evenly. Make sure the turntable is easy to remove for cleaning.
Important Materials
Under cabinet microwaves are usually made of stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel looks nice and is durable. It’s also easy to clean. Plastic is lighter and often cheaper. Choose a material that fits your style and budget.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Microwave Better?
- Strong Construction: A well-built microwave lasts longer.
- Even Heating: The microwave should cook food all the way through.
- Quiet Operation: A noisy microwave can be annoying.
- Easy Cleaning: Smooth surfaces and removable parts make cleaning simple.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Good?
- Flimsy Parts: Cheap materials can break easily.
- Uneven Cooking: Cold spots in food are a sign of poor heating.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons make it hard to use.
- Poor Venting: If the vent doesn’t work well, your kitchen will fill with smoke.
User Experience and Use Cases
An under cabinet microwave is perfect for people who want more counter space. It’s great for small apartments or tiny homes. Families can use it for quick meals. Busy professionals find it handy for reheating lunches.
Imagine this: you’re making breakfast. You can toast bread on the counter. Your oatmeal heats up in the microwave above. Everything is within easy reach. This saves time and makes cooking more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best size for an under cabinet microwave?
A: The best size depends on your needs. Measure your space first. Then, think about how much food you cook. Common sizes are around 24 inches wide.
Q: Do under cabinet microwaves need special installation?
A: Yes, they often need to be mounted securely. Some come with mounting kits. You might need help from someone handy.
Q: How do I clean an under cabinet microwave?
A: Wipe the inside and outside with a damp cloth. Remove the turntable and wash it in the sink. For tough spots, use a mild soap.
Q: Can I use any microwave under the cabinet?
A: No. You need a microwave designed for under cabinet mounting. They have special features like venting and mounting brackets.
Q: How much do under cabinet microwaves cost?
A: Prices vary. Basic models might cost around $200. High-end models can cost $500 or more.
Q: What is the average lifespan of an under cabinet microwave?
A: With good care, an under cabinet microwave can last 5 to 10 years.
Q: Are under cabinet microwaves noisy?
A: Some are quieter than others. Check reviews for comments on noise levels.
Q: What is venting, and why is it important?
A: Venting removes smoke and steam from your cooking. It keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
Q: What is wattage, and how does it affect cooking?
A: Wattage is the microwave’s power. Higher wattage means food cooks faster and more evenly.
Q: Can I install an under cabinet microwave myself?
A: Some installations are simple. Others require electrical work or drilling. If you’re unsure, hire a professional.
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.