Ever felt like your kitchen counter is a battlefield for appliances? You want more space, but you also need that microwave handy. It’s a common kitchen dilemma! Many people struggle to find an overhead microwave that fits their needs and their kitchen style. It can be confusing to know which one will actually save you space and cook your food well.
This post is here to help you conquer that kitchen clutter. We’ll dive into what makes a great overhead microwave and what you should look for. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a much clearer picture of how to choose the perfect overhead microwave for your home. Get ready to reclaim your counter space!
Our Top 5 Overhead Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Overhead Microwave 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: 9.4/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This bundle goes above and beyond by including a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, which is essential for keeping your microwave fresh and clean. It offers convenient cooking options and a generous 1.6 cubic feet of space, making it ideal for reheating leftovers, cooking meals, or just warming up a snack.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Convenience cooking controls make meal prep simple.
- Includes a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- Comes with a charcoal filter replacement for better air quality.
- Attractive stainless steel finish complements modern kitchens.
- The behind-the-door grille design is practical.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dimensions are for the grille area, not the full unit, which can be confusing.
- The description mentions “convenience cooking controls” but doesn’t detail specific presets.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value, combining a reliable appliance with extended coverage. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a functional and stylish upgrade for their kitchen.
2. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, 1.7 Cu. Ft. in stainless steel is a kitchen workhorse. It offers powerful 1000W cooking and a generous 1.7 cu. ft. interior, making it ideal for busy households. Its over-the-range design saves valuable counter space, and the sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: The 1000W output cooks food quickly and evenly.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes and multiple servings.
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL COOKING: It has special settings for vegetables, snacks, potatoes, and auto cook.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: Time and weight defrost options make thawing simple.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: The Quick +30 seconds button and melt/soften functions are super handy.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK: This feature provides peace of mind in homes with kids.
- USER-FRIENDLY ADDITIONS: The LED display, vent fan, and stovetop light add extra convenience.
- VOLUME CONTROL: You can adjust the sound alerts to your liking.
- OPTIMIZED DESIGN: Installing it over the range frees up counter space and looks modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the vent fan a bit noisy on higher settings.
- The touch controls could be more responsive for some users.
This Farberware microwave is a strong contender for anyone needing a reliable and space-saving cooking solution. It balances power, capacity, and user-friendly features effectively.
3. 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 meal prep simple with its one-touch controls and helpful auto-cooking features. This microwave also keeps your stovetop clear and bright.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed settings for many common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 1000-watt power and ten adjustable power levels let you cook food perfectly.
- The 400 CFM venting fan quickly removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- The bright LED cooktop lighting helps you see your food while you cook on the stove.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is great for cooking large dishes.
- The 30-second express cooking button is handy for quick reheating.
- A child lock feature adds safety for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- The internal dimensions might be a bit snug for very large or awkwardly shaped items.
- While it has many auto-cook features, some users might prefer more manual control over every setting.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a good balance of convenience and power for most home cooks. It’s a solid choice for busy kitchens.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.1/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is an over-the-range microwave that makes cooking and ventilation a breeze. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen, and its 1.7 cubic feet of space can handle large meals. This microwave is designed to simplify your cooking experience with smart features and powerful performance.
What We Like:
- One-Touch Cooking: It has 18 auto-cook menus, so you can easily make popcorn, pizza, or even defrost food. You can also soften cream cheese or cook rice and potatoes with just a touch. This makes cooking delicious meals quick and simple.
- Spacious Interior: The 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 favorite dishes inside.
- Powerful Ventilation: With 300 CFM of suction power and adjustable fan speeds, it effectively removes cooking smells and smoke from your kitchen. Your kitchen stays fresh and clean.
- Bright Cooktop Light: A bright light illuminates your stovetop, giving you a clear view while you cook below.
- Adjustable Power: You can choose from 10 different power levels, including a powerful 1000W output. This lets you control how your food heats up.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer for some of the advanced settings.
- The touch panel, while smart, can sometimes be a little too sensitive.
Overall, the Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience, power, and style.
5. FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity
Rating: 8.7/10
The FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a large 1.8 cubic foot capacity, perfect for cooking family meals. With 1000 cooking watts, it heats food quickly and evenly. The sleek stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to clean. This microwave also features a child lock to keep little ones safe.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.8 cu. ft. capacity holds larger dishes.
- Powerful 1000 cooking watts ensure fast and efficient heating.
- Ten different power levels give you control over cooking.
- The child lock feature provides added safety in the kitchen.
- It comes with 27 touch pad buttons for easy operation.
- The Venting Type is Non Ducted, making installation simpler for some.
- Auto Defrost takes the guesswork out of thawing frozen foods.
What Could Be Improved:
- The recirculating kit is sold separately, adding an extra cost.
- It only has 2 fan speeds (105/300 CFM).
This Frigidaire microwave offers good value with its spacious interior and user-friendly features. It’s a solid choice for busy households needing a reliable and efficient cooking appliance.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Overhead Microwave
Overhead microwaves, also known as over-the-range microwaves, are super handy for kitchens. They save counter space and often have a built-in vent to clear smoke and smells. Picking the right one can make your cooking life much easier.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an overhead microwave, keep these important things in mind:
- Ventilation Power: The vent is crucial. Look for CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings. Higher CFM means it can clear more air faster. Some have recirculating vents if you can’t vent outside.
- Cooking Power (Wattage): Microwaves range from 700 to 1200 watts. More watts mean faster cooking. Most people find 900-1000 watts is a good balance.
- Size and Capacity: Measure the space above your stove! Microwaves come in different widths, usually 27 or 30 inches. Think about how much food you usually cook. A 1.5 to 2.0 cubic foot capacity is common.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture. It helps prevent over or undercooking.
- Turntable: Most overhead microwaves have a turntable that rotates food for even heating. Some have a larger or optional turntable.
- Convenience Features: Look for presets for popcorn, baked potatoes, or defrosting. Child lock is also a good safety feature.
Important Materials
The materials used affect how durable and easy to clean your microwave is.
- Exterior: Stainless steel is popular because it looks nice and is durable. Other options include painted metal or plastic. Stainless steel can show fingerprints easily.
- Interior: Most interiors are made of painted metal or ceramic enamel. Ceramic enamel is easier to wipe clean and resists scratches better than painted metal.
- Ventilation: The fan and filter are usually made of metal. Good quality filters can be cleaned or replaced.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your microwave work better or worse.
What Makes a Microwave Better?
- Stronger Ventilation: A higher CFM vent clears your kitchen air more effectively.
- Even Heating: Good microwaves heat food evenly without hot spots. Sensor cooking helps with this.
- Easy Controls: Buttons that are easy to read and use make cooking simpler.
- Durable Build: A solid construction means it will last longer.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Good?
- Weak Ventilation: If the vent isn’t strong enough, smoke and smells will linger.
- Uneven Cooking: Food that’s cooked unevenly is frustrating.
- Flimsy Construction: Parts that feel cheap might break easily.
- Hard-to-Clean Surfaces: If the interior or exterior is difficult to wipe down, it becomes a chore.
User Experience and Use Cases
Overhead microwaves are designed to be used daily.
Everyday Cooking
You can reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, or make quick snacks. The convenience of having it right above your stove is a big plus.
Ventilation Benefits
When you’re frying or sautéing, the vent helps remove steam and grease. This keeps your kitchen air cleaner and your cabinets from getting greasy. The built-in light also helps you see what you’re cooking on the stovetop.
Space Saving
For smaller kitchens, an overhead microwave frees up valuable counter space. It’s a smart choice for maximizing your kitchen’s layout.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature of an overhead microwave?
A: The most important feature is usually the ventilation power. A good vent clears smoke and smells from your kitchen.
Q: How do I know if an overhead microwave will fit?
A: Measure the space above your stove. Most overhead microwaves are 27 or 30 inches wide. Also, check the height and depth.
Q: What does CFM mean for a microwave vent?
A: CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM means a stronger vent.
Q: Do I need to vent my overhead microwave outside?
A: It’s best to vent outside for maximum effectiveness. However, some models have recirculating vents that filter air and send it back into the kitchen if outside venting isn’t possible.
Q: What wattage is best for an overhead microwave?
A: Most people find 900-1000 watts is a good balance for fast and efficient cooking.
Q: Are sensor cooking features worth it?
A: Yes, sensor cooking can improve your results by automatically adjusting cooking time and power, helping to prevent over or undercooking.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my overhead microwave?
A: You can usually clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough messes, microwave a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: How often should I clean or replace the vent filter?
A: Check your owner’s manual. Most filters should be cleaned monthly or replaced every 6-12 months, depending on how often you use the vent.
Q: Can I use metal in an overhead microwave?
A: Generally, no. Metal can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Always check your microwave’s manual for specific guidelines.
Q: What are the benefits of stainless steel for an overhead microwave?
A: Stainless steel looks sleek and is durable. However, it can show fingerprints easily, so you might need to wipe it down more often.
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.