Imagine a kitchen where every appliance has its perfect spot. Your countertops are clear, and cooking feels effortless. But where does the microwave fit in? For many, the answer is tucked neatly under the cabinets, saving precious counter space. Yet, choosing the right under-cabinet microwave can feel like navigating a maze. You want one that works well, fits your kitchen style, and doesn’t break the bank.
This is where we come in. We understand the frustration of sifting through endless models, wondering about ventilation, size, and features. You might be asking yourself: “Will it be too loud?” or “Is it easy to clean?” These are common questions, and we’re here to answer them. By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what makes a great under-cabinet microwave.
We’ll break down the key features to look for, discuss the pros and cons, and even offer some tips on installation. Get ready to transform your kitchen and find the under-cabinet microwave that’s perfect for your home.
Our Top 5 Under Cabinet Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Cabinet Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.2/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s a 1.7 cubic feet microwave that sits right over your stove, saving valuable counter space. This sleek stainless steel appliance is a powerhouse with 1000 watts, making it great for all your cooking needs.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior is spacious. It easily fits a 12.4-inch turntable, perfect for larger dishes or multiple items. You can cook a variety of meals with ease.
- Versatile Cooking Options: With 10 different power levels and 6 quick menus, this microwave handles many tasks. Popcorn, drinks, melting, reheating, and defrosting are all simple. You can even cook with different power levels in stages to get the best results.
- Speedy Cooking: Need food fast? Just press 1, 2, or 3 for 100% power for up to 3 minutes. It’s a quick way to heat up snacks or side dishes.
- Effective Vent Fan: The 300 CFM vent fan has two speeds. It powerfully removes cooking smells and smoke from your kitchen. The built-in light shines brightly on your stovetop, helping you see while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “One-Touch Auto Cooking” feature might have a learning curve for some users to find their favorite settings.
- While the vent fan is strong, some users might desire even more power for particularly smoky cooking.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a blend of capacity, convenience, and performance. It’s a smart choice for busy kitchens that need efficient cooking and ventilation.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.8/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack is a great addition to any kitchen. This microwave offers a good amount of space for everyday cooking and reheating needs. It also comes with a special protection plan to give you extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- It has a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, which is a good size for most families.
- The convenience cooking controls make it easy to heat up your favorite meals.
- You get a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, which is a fantastic bonus! This plan adds extra coverage on top of the regular warranty.
- This bundle includes a charcoal filter replacement for the microwave’s vent.
- The stainless steel design looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
- It’s from GE, a trusted brand for appliances.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are listed as 13″D x 16″W x 9″H, which might be a bit snug for some spaces. It’s important to measure your installation area carefully.
This GE microwave bundle is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable appliance with added protection. You can cook with confidence knowing you have an extended warranty and a quality microwave.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.2/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile kitchen appliance that makes cooking and reheating meals a breeze. With its 1.9 cubic feet of space, 1000 watts of cooking power, and handy auto-cooking features, this microwave oven is designed to simplify your busy life.
What We Like:
- It has many pre-programmed auto menus, like for popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 1000-watt power cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Its two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system helps keep your kitchen air fresh.
- The bright LED cooktop lighting shines a clear light on your stovetop.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is great for cooking bigger dishes.
- It includes a clock, kitchen timer, and a 30-second express cooking option.
- A child lock feature adds an extra layer of safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation instructions are only available to view online, which might not be convenient for everyone.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven offers a great combination of convenience and cooking power for any kitchen. It’s a solid choice for making meal prep faster and easier.
4. GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Black Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek black. This bundle comes with a fantastic 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. It’s a powerful and convenient appliance that makes cooking and reheating a breeze.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- 1000 watts of power cooks food quickly and evenly.
- A two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively clears smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, giving you flexibility for different dish sizes.
- Auto and time defrost options make thawing food simple.
- Convenience cooking controls are easy to use for quick meals.
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended service protection plan in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty, offering excellent value and coverage.
- It’s designed for easy installation of the charcoal filter.
What Could Be Improved:
- The charcoal filter needs periodic replacement, which is an ongoing cost.
- While it has convenience features, some advanced cooks might want more specialized settings.
This GE microwave offers a great combination of performance and protection. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable over-the-range microwave with extended warranty coverage.
5. 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 is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It boasts a large capacity and powerful 1000-watt cooking, making meal prep a breeze. This microwave also features a handy vent fan and a bright light, perfect for keeping your cooking area clear and well-lit.
What We Like:
- Spacious 1.7 cubic feet interior fits large dishes and a 12.4-inch turntable.
- 1000 watts of power cooks food quickly.
- Six one-touch auto cook menus for popular items like popcorn and leftovers.
- Speedy cooking options let you microwave at full power for 1-3 minutes with a single button press.
- Multi-stage cooking lets you set different power levels for different times in one go.
- A 300 CFM vent fan with two speeds clears smoke and smells efficiently.
- The built-in light illuminates your stovetop for safer cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the vent fan is strong, some users might prefer more speed options.
- The auto cook menus are helpful, but a few more specialized options could be useful.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a powerful and convenient appliance that simplifies cooking. It’s a solid choice for busy households looking for efficiency and ease of use.
Your Guide to Under Cabinet Microwave Ovens
Tired of your countertop looking cluttered? An under cabinet microwave oven can be a great solution. It frees up valuable counter space and keeps your kitchen looking neat. Let’s explore what makes a good under cabinet microwave.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an under cabinet microwave, a few things stand out.
1. Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually cook. Do you heat up small snacks or cook full meals? A smaller microwave might be around 0.7 cubic feet, perfect for reheating leftovers. Larger ones can be 1.6 cubic feet or more, good for families or when you bake. Measure the space under your cabinet too! You don’t want it to be too big or too small.
2. Power (Wattage)
Wattage tells you how strong the microwave is. Most under cabinet models are between 900 and 1200 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. If you want to heat things up quickly, aim for a higher wattage.
3. Ventilation and Airflow
This is super important for under cabinet microwaves. They need to pull air in to cool themselves down and push out steam and cooking smells. Look for good quality fans and filters. Some microwaves have a recirculating fan, which means it cleans the air and blows it back into the kitchen. Others vent outside, which is even better for removing smoke and smells.
4. Controls and Presets
Easy-to-use controls make a big difference. Many microwaves have simple buttons. Others have touch screens. Look for preset cooking options for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These make cooking a breeze.
5. Lighting and Turntable
A good light inside helps you see your food as it cooks. A sturdy turntable makes sure your food heats evenly. Some turntables are removable, which makes cleaning much easier.
Important Materials
Under cabinet microwaves are usually made from durable materials.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. It looks sleek and is easy to clean. It also holds up well against heat.
- Plastic: Many internal parts are made of strong, heat-resistant plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make an under cabinet microwave great or not so great.
- Build Quality: A microwave that feels solid and well-made will last longer. Wobbly parts or thin metal can be a sign of lower quality.
- Fan Strength: A strong fan is crucial for good ventilation. A weak fan can cause the microwave to overheat or not clear smells effectively.
- Ease of Cleaning: Smooth surfaces and removable parts make cleaning simple. Stubborn stains or hard-to-reach corners can be frustrating.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you prefer a quiet kitchen, check reviews for noise levels.
User Experience and Use Cases
Under cabinet microwaves are perfect for kitchens where space is tight.
- Small Kitchens: They are ideal for apartments, condos, or smaller homes.
- Busy Cooks: If you often reheat meals or need to cook quickly, the convenience is a big plus.
- Families: Larger models can handle family-sized meals.
- Entertainers: Having a microwave out of sight keeps your kitchen looking tidy when guests are over.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of an under cabinet microwave?
A: The main benefit is that it saves valuable counter space, making your kitchen look cleaner and more organized.
Q: How do I know what size microwave to buy?
A: Measure the space under your cabinet and consider how much food you typically cook. Check the microwave’s dimensions before buying.
Q: Is higher wattage always better?
A: Higher wattage generally means faster cooking, which can be very convenient.
Q: What does ventilation mean for an under cabinet microwave?
A: It means the microwave has fans to cool itself and remove steam and cooking smells from your kitchen.
Q: What’s the difference between recirculating and external venting?
A: Recirculating fans clean and return air to the kitchen. External venting pushes air outside, which is more effective for removing strong odors.
Q: Are under cabinet microwaves hard to install?
A: Installation can vary. Some are designed for easier mounting, but it’s often best to have a professional do it, especially if you need to connect to ventilation.
Q: How do I clean an under cabinet microwave?
A: Most have easy-to-clean interiors. You can usually wipe them down with a damp cloth. Removable turntables make cleaning simpler.
Q: Can I use any pot or pan in an under cabinet microwave?
A: No. You should only use microwave-safe dishes made of glass, ceramic, or certain plastics. Never use metal.
Q: How long do under cabinet microwaves usually last?
A: With proper care, they can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on the brand and how often they are used.
Q: Are there specific features I should look for if I cook a lot?
A: Yes. Look for higher wattage, a larger capacity, and useful presets for the types of food you prepare most 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.