Imagine a kitchen where your countertop space is free, and a powerful appliance hums quietly, ready to heat your leftovers or cook your dinner. That’s the magic of an above-range microwave! But finding the perfect one can feel like a puzzle. So many brands, so many features, and you just want something that works well and looks good.
Choosing an above-range microwave isn’t just about picking a box that heats food. It’s about finding the right fit for your kitchen’s size, your cooking habits, and your budget. You might worry about installation, power, or even how it will look with your cabinets. This can make the shopping process a bit overwhelming, right?
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a great above-range microwave. We’ll break down the important things to look for, like size, power, and special features. This will help you feel confident when you’re ready to buy. Let’s dive in and find the perfect microwave for your kitchen!
Our Top 5 Above Range Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Above Range Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.6/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking (EM044K6CE-SS) is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. Its stainless steel finish looks great, and it packs a lot of power and features for its size. This microwave is designed to make cooking and meal prep easier, whether you’re reheating leftovers or whipping up a quick snack.
What We Like:
- The large 1.7 cubic feet capacity easily fits bigger dishes, and the 12.4-inch turntable ensures even cooking.
- It has 10 different cooking power levels, including 6 handy one-touch auto-cooking menus for common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The quick-start feature lets you cook at full power for 1 to 3 minutes with just a few button presses.
- Multi-stage cooking lets you set up different power levels and times for a single cooking cycle, saving you time.
- The 300 CFM vent fan effectively removes cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- An integrated light shines brightly on your stovetop, making it easier to cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, some users might find the control panel a bit busy at first.
- The vent fan, while powerful, can be a little noisy on its highest setting.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a solid choice for busy households. It offers convenience, power, and helpful features that simplify everyday cooking tasks.
2. 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 awesome package includes the microwave and a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack. It’s designed for easy everyday use, making cooking and reheating a breeze.
What We Like:
- This microwave has a good size with its 1.6 cu. ft. capacity. It fits a lot of food.
- It comes with convenient cooking controls that are simple to figure out.
- You get a charcoal filter replacement, which is handy for keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended service protection plan. This gives you extra peace of mind.
- It’s a GE USA AUTHORIZED product, so you know it’s made by a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit tight for some kitchen spaces, so measure carefully.
- While convenient, over-the-range microwaves can sometimes be a bit high to reach for shorter individuals.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and added security with its extended protection plan. It’s a solid choice for making your kitchen tasks quicker and easier.
3. 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 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance brings convenience and power to your cooking. Its smart touch panel and auto-cook features make meal prep a breeze. You’ll love how it fits right over your stove, saving valuable counter space.
What We Like:
- The one-touch-cook feature is amazing. It has 18 auto menus, so you can easily make popcorn, pizza, or even defrost food. Cooking yummy meals is now quick and simple.
- Its large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable easily fit a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza. No more struggling to fit your food inside.
- With 1000W of power and 10 different power levels, you can heat up anything just right.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is super strong. It quickly 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 helps you see clearly while you’re cooking on the stove below.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto-cook menus are great, some users might want more advanced customization options for specific recipes.
- The installation process for over-the-range microwaves can sometimes be tricky and might require professional help for some.
This Midea microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It blends smart technology with powerful performance, making cooking and ventilation effortless.
4. 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 and smart features that make meal prep a breeze. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your range, adding both style and function to your cooking space.
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooking: 1000 watts and ten power settings give you control for perfect results.
- Effortless Meals: Pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and more take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Bright Cooktop Light: The LED light illuminates your stovetop for safer and more convenient cooking.
- Strong Ventilation: A two-speed, 400-CFM fan efficiently removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Generous Capacity: The 1.9 cu.ft. interior easily fits large dishes, and the turntable can be turned off for bulky items.
- Convenient Features: Includes a clock, kitchen timer, 30-second express cooking, and a child lock for added safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Complexity: While instructions are available, over-the-range installations can be challenging for some users.
- Noise Level: The venting fan, while powerful, might be noticeable during operation.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a fantastic combination of power, convenience, and smart features. It’s a great addition for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine and enhance their kitchen’s functionality.
5. 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 fantastic addition to any kitchen. This 1.7 cubic feet microwave is black and boasts 1000 watts of power. It’s designed to sit over your stove, saving counter space. This microwave makes cooking and meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior is spacious. It easily fits a 12.4-inch turntable, perfect for large dishes or multiple items.
- 10 Cooking Levels: With 1000 watts of power, you get 6 quick menus for popular foods like popcorn, beverages, and defrosting. This makes cooking simple.
- Speedy Cooking: You can cook at 100% power for 1, 2, or 3 minutes with just a few button presses. This is great for quick snacks.
- Multi-stage Cooking: This feature lets you set different power levels and times for one cooking cycle. You can microwave at 90% for 10 minutes, then switch to 50% for 5 minutes.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: The powerful 2-speed vent fan removes cooking smells and smoke. The built-in light helps you see your cooking surface clearly.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Quick Menu Options: While there are 6 quick menus, some users might want more pre-set options for specific dishes.
- Ventilation Power: While 300 CFM is good, very heavy cooking might still produce some lingering odors for some kitchens.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven offers a great blend of convenience and functionality for busy kitchens. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking experience.
Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend: The Above-Range Microwave Buying Guide
An above-range microwave is more than just a place to reheat leftovers. It’s a powerful cooking tool that saves counter space and often replaces your range hood. Choosing the right one can make your kitchen more efficient and enjoyable. Let’s dive into what you need to know!
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an above-range microwave, keep these important features in mind:
Cooking Power (Wattage)
- What it is: This tells you how fast your microwave heats food.
- Why it matters: Higher wattage means quicker cooking. Most microwaves range from 700 to 1200 watts.
- Recommendation: Aim for 900 watts or higher for good performance.
Capacity (Cubic Feet)
- What it is: This is the internal size of the microwave.
- Why it matters: A larger capacity fits bigger dishes, like a whole chicken or a casserole.
- Recommendation: Consider your typical meal sizes. 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet is a common and versatile size.
Ventilation System
- What it is: This is how the microwave clears smoke, steam, and smells from your stovetop.
- Why it matters: A good ventilation system keeps your kitchen fresh. Look for options like:
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This measures how much air it moves. Higher CFM is better.
- Fan Speeds: Multiple fan speeds let you adjust to different cooking needs.
- Ducting Options: Some vent outside (ducted), while others recirculate air with filters (ductless).
- Recommendation: If you cook a lot, a powerful ducted system is ideal.
Convection Cooking
- What it is: This feature allows the microwave to bake and roast like a regular oven.
- Why it matters: It adds versatility, letting you brown meats or bake cookies.
- Recommendation: If you want more cooking options, convection is a great addition.
Sensor Cooking
- What it is: These sensors detect moisture and humidity to automatically adjust cooking time and power.
- Why it matters: It helps prevent overcooking or undercooking your food.
- Recommendation: Sensor cooking makes meal preparation much easier.
Presets and One-Touch Options
- What it is: Buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, or pizza.
- Why it matters: They simplify cooking for popular items.
- Recommendation: These are convenient for quick meals.
Important Materials
The materials used in an above-range microwave affect its durability and look.
Exterior Finish
- Stainless Steel: Popular for its sleek look and durability. It resists fingerprints well on some models.
- Black or White Enamel: Classic and affordable. These can show smudges more easily.
- Fingerprint-Resistant Finishes: A great choice if you want easy cleanup.
Interior Coating
- Ceramic Enamel: Durable, easy to clean, and resists scratches.
- Stainless Steel: Also durable and easy to clean.
- Painted Metal: Less durable and can chip or scratch over time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make one microwave better than another.
Build Quality
- What it is: How well the microwave is put together.
- Why it matters: A well-built microwave lasts longer and works more reliably. Check for sturdy doors and controls.
- Improvement: Solid construction, good hinges, and responsive buttons.
- Reduction: Wobbly doors, sticky buttons, or thin plastic.
Brand Reputation
- What it is: How well-known and trusted a brand is.
- Why it matters: Established brands often have better customer service and product warranties.
- Improvement: Brands known for reliable appliances.
- Reduction: Lesser-known brands with few reviews.
Noise Level
- What it is: How loud the microwave is when it runs.
- Why it matters: A quieter microwave is more pleasant to use.
- Improvement: Quieter fan and turntable motors.
- Reduction: Loud humming or rattling sounds.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your microwave greatly influences your choice.
Everyday Reheating and Cooking
- Use Case: For quick meals, heating up leftovers, or making popcorn.
- What to look for: Good wattage, easy-to-use presets, and a simple interface.
Advanced Cooking and Meal Prep
- Use Case: Baking, roasting, or cooking more complex dishes.
- What to look for: Convection cooking, sensor cooking, and larger capacity.
Kitchen Aesthetics
- Use Case: Matching your microwave to your kitchen’s style.
- What to look for: Stainless steel or other finishes that complement your cabinets and appliances.
Small Kitchen Solutions
- Use Case: Maximizing space.
- What to look for: Compact models with efficient ventilation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Above-Range Microwaves
Q: What is the most important feature to look for?
A: The most important feature depends on your needs, but cooking power (wattage) and ventilation are crucial for performance.
Q: How do I know if I need a ducted or ductless microwave?
A: If you have an exhaust vent that goes outside your home, choose a ducted model. If not, a ductless model with filters is your option.
Q: Are convection microwaves worth the extra cost?
A: If you enjoy baking or want more cooking versatility, yes, they can be worth it. They act like a second oven.
Q: How much space do I need above my stove for a microwave?
A: Most above-range microwaves are designed to fit standard cabinet widths, usually 30 inches. Always measure your space before buying.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can easily clean it by heating a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes. The steam loosens grime, making it easy to wipe away.
Q: What does CFM mean for a microwave?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM means stronger ventilation.
Q: Can I use metal in my microwave?
A: Generally, no. Metal can cause sparks and damage your microwave. Some microwaves have special racks for certain metal items, but check your manual.
Q: How long do above-range microwaves usually last?
A: With good care, most above-range microwaves last between 7 to 15 years.
Q: What is the difference between a countertop microwave and an above-range microwave?
A: An above-range microwave mounts over your stove and often includes a range hood. A countertop microwave sits on your counter.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a handle or a push-button door?
A: This is a personal preference. Handles are traditional, while push-button doors can offer a sleeker look.
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.