Does your kitchen feel a little cramped? Many of us struggle to find enough counter space. That’s where the microwave over the range steps in, a true kitchen hero for saving valuable real estate. But choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle. You want something that cooks your popcorn perfectly, but also vents your cooking smells efficiently. It’s a big decision, and the sheer number of models can be overwhelming.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there, staring at endless product descriptions and trying to figure out what “CFM” really means for your kitchen. This post is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what makes a great over-the-range microwave, what features truly matter, and how to pick the perfect one for your cooking style and your kitchen’s needs. Get ready to transform your kitchen with the right appliance!
Our Top 5 Microwave Over The Range Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Over The Range Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This spacious 1.7 cubic foot microwave is designed to be your kitchen helper. It fits over your stove, saving valuable counter space. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. This microwave makes cooking and reheating meals a breeze.
What We Like:
- Large 1.7 cu. ft. capacity fits plenty of food.
- 1000 watts of power cooks food fast.
- 10 cooking levels and 6 quick menus simplify cooking.
- Speedy cooking options let you cook for 1, 2, or 3 minutes with just a press.
- Multi-stage cooking lets you set different power levels and times at once.
- The 300 CFM vent fan clears smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- The bright light illuminates your stovetop for safer cooking.
- The 12.4-inch turntable cooks food evenly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan could be quieter on its highest setting.
- Some users might find the control panel a little complex at first.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid addition to any kitchen. It offers great features for everyday cooking needs.
2. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.6/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, with its sleek stainless steel finish, offers a powerful 1000W cooking performance and a generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity. This appliance is designed to fit perfectly over your stove, saving valuable counter space while adding a modern touch to your kitchen. It’s packed with features to make cooking easier and more efficient for busy households.
What We Like:
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: The 1000W power cooks food quickly and evenly, great for any kitchen.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: The 1.7 cu. ft. size fits large dishes and family-sized meals.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: It has special settings for vegetables, snacks, and even potatoes, making meal prep simple.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: Time and weight defrost options thaw food perfectly.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: The +30 seconds button and melt/soften options are super handy for quick needs.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK: This feature keeps little hands safe.
- USER-FRIENDLY ADDITIONS: An LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light add convenience.
- VOLUME CONTROL: You can adjust the sound alerts to your liking.
- OPTIMIZED DESIGN: Installing it over the range saves space and looks good.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan might be a bit noisy for some users.
- While it has many features, some might find the learning curve for advanced settings a bit steep initially.
This Farberware microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering power, space, and smart features for everyday cooking. It’s a practical choice for families looking for efficiency and style.
3. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.2/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic over-the-range microwave that makes cooking a breeze. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. This microwave is packed with features to help you cook all sorts of meals quickly and easily.
What We Like:
- It has 18 auto-cooking menus that let you cook things like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes with just one touch.
- The large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity means you can fit big items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza inside.
- You get 10 different power levels, including a powerful 1000W output, so you can heat your food just right.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system with adjustable fan speeds really sucks up cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- A bright light under the microwave helps you see what you’re cooking on the stovetop below.
- The smart touch panel is easy to use and makes selecting your cooking options simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are helpful, some users might want more customization options for specific recipes.
- The 300 CFM ventilation is good, but for very heavy cooking, some might desire even stronger airflow.
This Midea microwave is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich appliance. It simplifies meal preparation and keeps your kitchen air clean.
4. GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven White Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in classic white. This bundle not only brings you a spacious and powerful microwave but also peace of mind with an exceptional extended protection plan. It’s designed to make cooking and kitchen ventilation a breeze.
What We Like:
- GE USA AUTHORIZED & Extended Protection: You get the full manufacturer’s protection plus an extra 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan. That’s double the peace of mind!
- Generous Capacity: The 1.6 cu. ft. size is perfect for cooking family meals or heating up leftovers.
- Powerful 1000 Watts: This microwave cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Effective Venting: The 300-CFM venting system with two speeds clears smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen.
- Convenient Features: The turntable on/off option and auto/time defrost make cooking simple.
- Easy Filter Replacement: Swapping out the charcoal odor filter behind the door grille is straightforward.
- Bundle Includes Essentials: Everything you need, including the microwave and the premium 2-year service protection plan, is in the box.
What Could Be Improved:
- The color is limited to white, which might not match all kitchen decors.
- While the venting is effective, the highest CFM might be insufficient for extremely heavy cooking.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience for any kitchen. It’s a smart choice for reliable performance and extended protection.
5. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave offers a generous 1.9 cubic feet of space, perfect for families and busy cooks. Its smart sensor cooking adjusts time and power, making meal prep a breeze. Plus, the melt feature takes the guesswork out of melting butter, chocolate, and more. Cleaning is simple with its easy-clean interior and steam clean option. This bundle also comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit and, importantly, a 2-year extended protection plan in addition to the full manufacturer warranty for peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Large 1.9 cu. ft. capacity handles big meals.
- Sensor cooking makes meals perfect every time.
- Melt feature is great for snacks and baking.
- Easy-clean interior and steam clean simplify cleanup.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for extra security.
- Stylish stainless steel design looks good in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dimensions might be larger than some smaller kitchens can accommodate.
- The charcoal filter kit is for recirculating installations, so check your vent type.
This GE microwave bundle offers a fantastic combination of capacity, features, and protection. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Over-the-Range Microwave Companion
Why Choose an Over-the-Range Microwave?
An over-the-range microwave is a smart choice for many kitchens. It saves valuable counter space. This frees up room for cooking and preparing food. It also acts as a ventilation system for your stovetop. This helps remove smoke and cooking smells.
Key Features to Look For
1. Ventilation Power
Check the fan’s power. This is measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). Higher CFM means it can clear the air faster. Look for at least 300 CFM for good performance. Some models have multiple fan speeds. This lets you adjust the power for different cooking needs.
2. Cooking Power
Microwave power is measured in watts. Higher watts cook food faster. Most good microwaves are between 900 and 1200 watts. More watts mean quicker reheating and cooking.
3. Size and Capacity
Measure the space above your stove. Microwaves come in different widths, usually 30 inches. Inside capacity is measured in cubic feet. A larger capacity can fit bigger dishes. Think about what you usually cook. A family might need a larger microwave than a single person.
4. Sensor Cooking
Sensor cooking is a great feature. It automatically adjusts cooking time and power. It senses the food’s moisture. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking. It makes meal preparation easier.
5. Convection Cooking (Optional)
Some microwaves have a convection feature. This means they have a heating element and a fan. It can bake, roast, and broil food. It’s like having a second oven. This adds versatility to your cooking options.
6. Interior Lighting and Turntable
Good interior lighting helps you see your food while it cooks. A turntable ensures even cooking. It rotates the food. Make sure the turntable is easy to clean.
Important Materials
Most over-the-range microwaves have stainless steel exteriors. Stainless steel is durable and looks good in most kitchens. The interior is usually made of coated metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel interiors are easier to clean. They also resist scratches better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Durable stainless steel construction.
- Powerful and quiet fan motor.
- Intuitive and easy-to-use control panel.
- Even and consistent heating.
- Reliable sensor cooking technology.
Reducing Quality:
- Flimsy plastic parts.
- Weak fan that doesn’t vent well.
- Confusing control buttons.
- Uneven cooking or hot spots.
- Parts that break easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
An over-the-range microwave is very convenient. You can reheat leftovers quickly. You can cook popcorn for a snack. You can defrost frozen foods. Many people use them to melt butter or chocolate. The ventilation fan is essential for removing steam and odors while cooking on the stovetop. It helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
Installation
Installation is usually straightforward. You’ll need to mount it to the wall and connect it to your electrical outlet. Some models vent externally, while others recirculate air. Make sure you choose the right venting option for your kitchen.
Choosing the right over-the-range microwave can make a big difference in your kitchen. Consider your cooking habits and kitchen space. This guide will help you find the perfect one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for?
A: The most important feature is good ventilation power (CFM). It keeps your kitchen air clean while you cook.
Q: How do I know what size microwave I need?
A: Measure the space above your stove. Most are 30 inches wide. Also, consider how much food you usually cook to choose the interior capacity.
Q: Is sensor cooking really helpful?
A: Yes, sensor cooking is very helpful. It cooks food perfectly without you having to guess the time or power.
Q: What does CFM mean?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM means better ventilation.
Q: Can I bake or roast in an over-the-range microwave?
A: Some models have a convection feature. This allows you to bake, roast, and broil, similar to a regular oven.
Q: How much power (watts) should my microwave have?
A: Most good microwaves are between 900 and 1200 watts. Higher watts cook food faster.
Q: What is the best material for an over-the-range microwave?
A: Stainless steel exteriors are durable and stylish. Stainless steel interiors are easier to clean and more resistant to scratches.
Q: How does the ventilation system work?
A: The fan pulls smoke and steam from your stovetop. It can either push the air outside your home (external venting) or filter and recirculate it back into the kitchen (recirculating).
Q: Are over-the-range microwaves difficult to install?
A: Installation is generally manageable. It involves mounting the unit and connecting it to power. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, hiring a professional is an option.
Q: What are some common ways people use these microwaves?
A: People use them for reheating, cooking popcorn, defrosting, melting ingredients, and steaming vegetables. The vent fan is crucial for removing cooking odors and steam.
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.