Tired of your kitchen feeling a little cramped? You’re not alone. Many of us dream of a more open and functional kitchen space, but finding the right appliances can feel like a puzzle. That’s where the over-the-stove microwave, also known as a range hood microwave, comes in. It’s a clever solution that saves valuable counter space and adds a powerful ventilation system to your cooking area.
But let’s be honest, picking the perfect one isn’t always easy. With so many brands, features, and sizes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want a microwave that cooks your food evenly, vents smoke and smells effectively, and looks great in your kitchen. The wrong choice can lead to frustration and a less enjoyable cooking experience.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know. We’ll explore the different types of over-the-stove microwaves, what features to look for, and how to make sure it fits perfectly in your kitchen. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to choose a microwave that not only cooks your meals but also makes your kitchen a more efficient and pleasant place to be.
Our Top 5 Over Stove Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over Stove Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.9/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven, model EM044K6CE-SS, is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This stainless steel microwave boasts a large 1.7 cubic feet capacity, making it ideal for cooking family-sized meals. It also features a powerful 300 CFM vent fan to keep your kitchen air fresh and a bright light to illuminate your stovetop. With 1000 watts of cooking power and one-touch auto cooking options, this microwave makes preparing your favorite dishes quick and easy.
What We Like:
- The generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and 12.4-inch turntable fit large dishes easily.
- One-touch auto cooking menus simplify preparing common items like popcorn and reheating leftovers.
- 10 cooking levels and multi-stage cooking allow for precise meal preparation.
- The 1000-watt output cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- The 300 CFM vent fan with a 2-speed setting effectively removes cooking odors and fumes.
- The integrated cooktop light provides good visibility for stovetop cooking.
- Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 10-minute default time for 90% power a bit long for certain tasks.
- The vent fan speed options are limited to two.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a solid choice for those seeking convenience and power in their kitchen appliances. It simplifies cooking and keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave not only looks great but also makes cooking a breeze. It’s a fantastic addition for anyone looking for a reliable and convenient way to heat up meals, cook snacks, or defrost food. Plus, this bundle comes with a valuable extended protection plan, giving you peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits most dishes.
- Convenience cooking controls make it easy to use.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for extra security.
- Includes a charcoal filter replacement for better air quality.
- The stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to your kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
This GE microwave bundle offers a solid combination of features and protection. It’s a smart choice for a functional and stylish kitchen upgrade.
3. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.6/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers smart features and powerful performance to make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Its sleek stainless steel design will also look good in your home.
What We Like:
- It has 18 auto menus for one-touch cooking. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, or defrost food. It even has settings for rice, potatoes, and softening cream cheese. This makes cooking many different dishes quick and simple.
- The microwave has a large 1.7 cu.ft capacity. This means it can fit big items like a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza. The 12.5-inch turntable helps cook food evenly.
- With 1000 watts of power and 10 different power levels, you can adjust the cooking intensity. This is useful for various heating needs.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system has adjustable fan speeds. It powerfully removes smoke and smells from your stovetop.
- A bright light under the microwave shines on your cooktop. This lets you see clearly while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the smart touch panel takes a little getting used to.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS microwave is a versatile and powerful appliance. It makes everyday cooking tasks much more efficient and convenient.
4. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.8/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, 1.7 Cu. Ft. in sleek stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s designed to make cooking and reheating quick and easy. This microwave packs a punch with 1000 watts of power, meaning your food cooks evenly and fast. It also has a generous 1.7 cubic feet of space, so you can heat up large dishes or multiple items at once.
What We Like:
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: The 1000W power cooks food quickly and evenly. It’s great for busy kitchens.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity fits all sorts of dishes, from small snacks to big meals.
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL COOKING: It has special settings for vegetables, snacks, and even potatoes. This makes cooking different foods simple.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: The time and weight defrost options make thawing food easy and effective.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: The +30 seconds button and melt/soften options are super handy for everyday use.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK: This feature keeps your kitchen safe by preventing accidental use.
- USER-FRIENDLY ADDITIONS: The LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light add to its usefulness.
- VOLUME CONTROL: You can adjust the sound alerts to your liking.
- OPTIMIZED DESIGN: Installing it over the range saves valuable counter space and looks great.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, the 1550W input might be a consideration for some electrical setups.
- The vent fan, while useful, might not be as powerful as dedicated range hoods for very heavy cooking.
This Farberware microwave oven is a powerful and space-saving choice that brings convenience and versatility to your cooking routine.
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: 9.1/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave is a powerful and convenient addition to any home. It offers a generous 1.9 cubic feet of space, perfect for cooking a variety of foods. Plus, with the included premium 2-year extended protection pack, you get extra peace of mind. This bundle ensures you have a reliable appliance for years to come.
What We Like:
- The 1.9 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes easily.
- The melt feature makes cooking with butter, caramel, chocolate, and marshmallows simple and worry-free.
- The easy-clean interior with steam clean technology makes cleanup a breeze.
- It comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit for better ventilation.
- You get a full manufacturer’s protection plan *plus* an additional 2-year extended protection plan, making it a truly protected purchase.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and stylish in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
- The sensor cooking feature, while helpful, might require a slight learning curve for some users.
This GE microwave bundle offers great features and exceptional protection. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a dependable and user-friendly over-the-range microwave.
Choosing the Best Over-the-Stove Microwave: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
An over-the-stove microwave, also known as a range hood microwave, is a smart addition to any kitchen. It saves counter space and often acts as a ventilation system for your stovetop. Finding the right one can make cooking easier and your kitchen look better. Let’s explore what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
- Ventilation Power: This is crucial. Look for a microwave with strong CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) ratings. Higher CFM means it pulls more smoke, grease, and odors away from your cooking area. Some have multiple fan speeds for different cooking needs.
- Microwave Power (Wattage): Most over-the-stove microwaves range from 900 to 1100 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. If you do a lot of reheating or quick meals, aim for 1000 watts or more.
- Size and Capacity: Measure the space above your stove. Microwaves come in different widths (usually 30 inches) and depths. Check the interior capacity (measured in cubic feet) to ensure it fits your dinner plates and larger dishes.
- Convection Cooking: Some models offer convection baking. This means they have a heating element and a fan that circulates hot air, allowing you to roast or bake as well as microwave.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture level. It takes the guesswork out of reheating and cooking.
- Turntable: Most microwaves have a rotating turntable. This ensures even heating. Some have a large turntable that can fit bigger dishes.
- Lighting: A good under-microwave light is essential for illuminating your stovetop. Look for bright, energy-efficient LED lights.
Important Materials
The outer shell is usually made of **stainless steel** or **painted metal**. Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and gives a modern look. Painted metal is more budget-friendly but can chip or scratch over time.
The interior is typically **enamel-coated metal** or **stainless steel**. These materials are easy to wipe clean. Some high-end models might have ceramic interiors, which are very durable and resist scratches.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Factors that Improve Quality:
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive.
- Fan Noise Level: Check reviews for how loud the fan is. A quieter fan is more pleasant to use.
- Ease of Cleaning: Removable, dishwasher-safe turntables and smooth interior surfaces make cleaning much easier.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often offer better quality and customer service.
Factors that Reduce Quality:
- Cheap Plastics: Flimsy plastic parts, especially around the control panel or door, can break easily.
- Weak Ventilation: If the fan isn’t powerful enough, your kitchen will still fill with smoke and odors.
- Uneven Cooking: Some microwaves don’t heat food evenly, leaving cold spots.
- Short Lifespan: Lower-quality models may break down sooner than expected.
User Experience and Use Cases
An over-the-stove microwave is perfect for small kitchens where every inch of counter space counts. It’s a convenient spot for reheating leftovers, cooking quick meals, or defrosting ingredients. The ventilation system helps keep your kitchen air fresh while you cook on the stovetop below.
Families use them for after-school snacks and quick dinners. Busy professionals appreciate the speed and convenience for meal prep. Even experienced cooks find them useful for tasks like melting butter or softening cream cheese.
The user experience is generally positive if you choose a model with intuitive controls and effective ventilation. A good under-cabinet light makes cooking on the stovetop much safer and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between a microwave and a range hood?
A: An over-the-stove microwave combines the functions of both. It microwaves food and also acts as a ventilation hood to remove smoke and smells from your stovetop.
Q: Do I need to vent my over-the-stove microwave outside?
A: Some microwaves recirculate air through charcoal filters, while others can be vented outside. Outside venting is more effective at removing smoke and odors.
Q: How do I know if the CFM is high enough?
A: For most electric stoves, 100-200 CFM is good. For gas stoves, which produce more heat and fumes, aim for 200-400 CFM or higher.
Q: Can I install an over-the-stove microwave myself?
A: Installation can be tricky. It often involves mounting it securely to cabinets and connecting it to an electrical outlet. Some people hire professionals for this.
Q: How much space do I need above my stove?
A: Most over-the-stove microwaves are around 16-18 inches tall. You’ll need at least 24 inches of clearance between the stovetop and the bottom of the microwave for safe cooking.
Q: What is sensor cooking and why is it useful?
A: Sensor cooking uses humidity sensors to detect when food is cooked. It automatically adjusts the time and power, preventing over or undercooking.
Q: Are convection microwaves worth the extra cost?
A: If you enjoy baking or roasting and want to save space, a convection microwave can be a great investment. It offers more cooking versatility.
Q: How do I clean the grease filter?
A: Most grease filters are metal and can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand with hot, soapy water.
Q: What is the average lifespan of an over-the-stove microwave?
A: With proper care, an over-the-stove microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years.
Q: Which brands are considered reliable for over-the-stove microwaves?
A: Popular and reliable brands include Whirlpool, GE, Samsung, LG, and Panasonic. It’s always good to read recent reviews for specific models.
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.