Imagine a kitchen where smoke from your sizzling pan disappears like magic, and your countertops stay clear of bulky appliances. Sounds dreamy, right? But for many home cooks, that dream feels far away. Choosing an over-the-stove microwave with a vent can be a real headache. You want good ventilation to keep your kitchen fresh, but you also need a microwave that cooks your food well. It’s a tough balance to strike!
That’s where we come in. We know how confusing it can be to sort through all the different models, features, and fan strengths. You might be wondering, “Will this vent actually clear the smoke?” or “Is this microwave powerful enough?” We’ve been there, and we’re here to help you avoid the common pitfalls. By the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what makes a great over-the-stove microwave with a vent, so you can pick one that fits your kitchen and your cooking needs perfectly.
Our Top 5 Over Stove Microwave With Vent Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over Stove Microwave With Vent Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.8/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking in sleek stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers a generous 1.7 cubic feet of space, making it perfect for cooking meals of all sizes. With 1000 watts of power and various cooking options, this microwave oven is designed to make your cooking experience easier and faster.
What We Like:
- The large 1.7 cu. ft. capacity easily fits big dishes and a 12.4-inch turntable.
- It has 10 different power levels, including quick menus for popcorn, drinks, and reheating.
- Speedy cooking is a breeze with 100% power for 1-3 minutes using just the number keys.
- Multi-stage cooking lets you set different power levels and times for one cooking cycle.
- The 300 CFM vent fan is strong and has two speeds to clear out cooking smells and smoke.
- An under-microwave light helps you see your stovetop clearly.
- The stainless steel finish looks great and is easy to wipe clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, some users might find the initial learning curve for multi-stage cooking a bit tricky.
- The vent fan, while powerful, could potentially be a bit loud for some kitchen environments.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven combines a large capacity with smart cooking features and an effective ventilation system. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a reliable and versatile appliance.
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, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Black, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-BK is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It helps you cook faster and cleaner. This microwave offers a lot of space for your food. It also has a strong fan to keep your kitchen smelling fresh. You can cook many different kinds of food with its easy-to-use settings.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet of space fits plenty of food, and the 12.4-inch turntable spins it all evenly.
- 10 Cooking Levels & Quick Menus: With 1000 watts of power and 6 handy presets like Popcorn and Defrost, cooking is a breeze.
- Speedy Cooking: Use the 1, 2, or 3 buttons for instant 100% power cooking for up to 3 minutes.
- Multi-stage Cooking: You can set it to cook at different power levels for different amounts of time all at once.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: The powerful fan clears out smoke and smells, and the light shines brightly on your stovetop.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan, while powerful, might be a bit loud for some users.
- The control panel could be more intuitive for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven makes cooking and kitchen cleanup easier. It’s a solid choice for busy households.
3. 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. This stainless steel beauty is more than just a microwave; it’s a convenient cooking companion. This bundle also comes with an extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind. Plus, you get a charcoal filter replacement, which helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
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 added security.
- Includes a charcoal filter replacement for odor control.
- Sleek stainless steel design looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
- User interface could be more intuitive for some.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience.
4. GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Black Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek black. This bundle comes with an extra layer of peace of mind thanks to the 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, adding to the already included full manufacturer warranty. It’s designed to make cooking and meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Powerful 1000 watts quickly heats and cooks food.
- A two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively clears smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen.
- The turntable On/Off option gives you control over how your food cooks.
- Auto and time defrost options make thawing food simple and efficient.
- Convenience cooking controls are easy to use for quick operation.
- The included charcoal filter is easy to replace for continued odor removal.
- You get a comprehensive 2-year extended service protection plan in addition to the standard manufacturer warranty, offering excellent value and security.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer about advanced features.
- Installation may require professional help for some users.
This GE microwave bundle offers a great combination of performance and protection. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen looking for convenience and reliability.
5. 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 fantastic addition to any kitchen. It makes cooking and reheating meals a breeze with its smart features and powerful performance. This microwave is designed to simplify your cooking experience, helping you create delicious food quickly and without fuss.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 Auto Menus is super convenient. You can easily make popcorn, heat up pizza, defrost food, soften cream cheese, cook rice, or bake a potato with just a touch. It lets you make tasty dishes fast and easily.
- Its large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable are big enough for a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- With 10-level power settings, including a powerful 1000W output, you can heat your food exactly how you need it.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system with adjustable fan speeds is strong. It effectively removes cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- A bright cooktop light shines down on your stove, giving you a clear view while you’re cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are great, some users might want more specific custom cooking options.
- The stainless steel finish, while stylish, can show fingerprints easily and requires regular wiping.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS offers a great blend of smart technology and practical power. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a reliable and user-friendly over-the-range microwave.
The Smart Choice: Your Over-the-Stove Microwave Buying Guide
So, you want a microwave that sits right above your stove? That’s a smart move! These microwaves, also called over-the-range microwaves, save you counter space and help clear out cooking smells. Let’s find the perfect one for your kitchen.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop, keep an eye out for these important features.
A. Venting Power
- CFM Rating: This tells you how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM means it can clear out smoke and smells faster. Look for at least 300 CFM.
- Ventilation Type:
- Vented: This is best! It blows air outside your home. You’ll need a duct.
- Recirculating (Ductless): This blows air back into your kitchen after filtering it. It works, but not as well as venting outside. Make sure it has good filters.
B. Cooking Power
- Wattage: More wattage means faster cooking. Most good microwaves have 900 to 1200 watts.
C. Size and Capacity
- Width: Most are 30 inches wide. Measure your space to be sure.
- Interior Capacity: This is how much food fits inside. It’s measured in cubic feet. A 1.6 to 2.0 cubic feet size is usually good for families.
D. Special Cooking Modes
- Sensor Cooking: This is a cool feature! It senses when food is done and stops cooking. It takes the guesswork out of it.
- Convection Cooking: Some microwaves can also bake and roast like a regular oven. This is great if you have a small kitchen.
- Turntable: A rotating plate helps food cook evenly.
E. Other Handy Features
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Non-stick or ceramic interiors make cleaning simple.
- Built-in Lighting: A light helps you see your stove.
- Control Panel: Look for clear buttons and a digital display.
2. Important Materials
The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how it looks.
- Exterior: Stainless steel is popular because it looks sleek and is durable. Other options include black or white finishes.
- Interior: Stainless steel or ceramic interiors are common. Ceramic is easier to wipe clean.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a microwave better, and others can make it worse.
- Build Quality: A sturdy design means it will last longer. Check if the door feels solid and the buttons are well-made.
- Brand Reputation: Trusted brands often make better products. Read reviews from other buyers.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. Look for models that mention quiet operation.
- Ease of Installation: If you’re installing it yourself, check if the instructions are clear.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your microwave.
- Busy Families: Sensor cooking and quick reheat buttons are lifesavers. A large capacity is good for cooking family meals.
- Small Kitchens: An over-the-range microwave saves precious counter space. Convection features mean you might not need a separate small oven.
- Serious Cooks: Powerful fans and good venting help keep your kitchen fresh when you’re cooking up a storm.
Your Questions Answered: Over-the-Stove Microwave FAQs
Here are some common questions people ask about over-the-stove microwaves.
Q: What is the main benefit of an over-the-stove microwave?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space. It also has a built-in vent to remove smoke and smells from your stove.
Q: What does CFM mean for a microwave vent?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It shows how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM means it vents better.
Q: Do I need a special duct for an over-the-stove microwave?
A: If you get a vented model, yes, you need a duct to send the air outside. Recirculating models don’t need an outside duct.
Q: How powerful should my microwave be?
A: Most good microwaves have between 900 and 1200 watts. This is enough for most cooking and reheating needs.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect steam and humidity from your food. It then adjusts the cooking time and power automatically to cook your food perfectly.
Q: Can an over-the-stove microwave replace my regular oven?
A: Some models have convection cooking. These can bake and roast, but they are usually smaller than a full-sized oven.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: Many microwaves have easy-to-clean interiors like ceramic or stainless steel. You can usually wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Q: Are over-the-stove microwaves hard to install?
A: Installation can be tricky because you need to mount it securely and connect the vent. Some people hire a professional.
Q: What’s the difference between vented and recirculating?
A: Vented microwaves blow air outside. Recirculating microwaves filter the air and blow it back into the kitchen.
Q: How much space do I need for an over-the-stove microwave?
A: Most are 30 inches wide. You also need to make sure there is enough clearance above your stove for it to fit and operate safely.
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.