Tired of your countertop looking cluttered? Imagine reclaiming that precious space, making your kitchen feel bigger and more organized. Many of us dream of a tidier kitchen, and one of the smartest ways to achieve this is by choosing an under-cabinet microwave.
But let’s be honest, picking the perfect under-cabinet microwave can feel overwhelming. You want one that fits your space, has the right features, and looks good, but there are so many choices! It’s easy to get lost in all the technical details and confusing jargon. This can lead to frustration and a feeling like you’re making a guess instead of a smart purchase.
This post is here to help! We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the best under-cabinet microwave for your kitchen. You’ll learn about key features, what to look for in terms of size and power, and even some tips for installation. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to enjoy a more spacious and functional kitchen.
Our Top 5 Under Cabinet Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Cabinet 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: 9.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave offers a generous 1.6 cubic feet of cooking space, making it ideal for heating up leftovers, cooking meals, or making popcorn. It comes with convenient cooking controls that are easy to understand and use. Plus, this bundle includes a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, which is important for keeping your microwave smelling fresh.
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What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits most dishes.
- Includes a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- Comes with a charcoal filter replacement.
- Easy-to-use convenience cooking controls.
- Stylish stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
- GE USA Authorized for reliable quality.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Specific dimensions are provided (13″D x 16″W x 9″H), but it’s always good to double-check if it fits your specific cabinet space before purchasing.
This GE microwave bundle is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-packed over-the-range microwave. The included extended protection plan makes it an even better value.
2. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a large 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and a powerful 1000W cooking output. This microwave makes meal prep quick and easy with its smart features. Its stainless steel finish looks good and fits well in most kitchens.
What We Like:
- It cooks food fast and evenly with 1000W of power.
- The 1.7 cu. ft. size holds many different dishes.
- You can cook vegetables, snacks, and even potatoes easily.
- It has smart defrosting that uses time and weight.
- The +30 seconds button and melt/soften features are super handy.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- It has a bright LED display and a helpful vent fan and light for your stove.
- You can adjust the sound volume for alerts.
- Installing it over the range saves valuable counter space.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan could be stronger for heavy cooking smells.
- Some users might find the control panel a bit busy at first.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for busy households. It combines power, capacity, and smart features to make cooking a breeze.
3. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.5/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It makes cooking and meal prep a breeze with its smart features and powerful performance. This stainless steel microwave oven is designed to be both stylish and functional, fitting perfectly above your stovetop.
What We Like:
- It has 18 auto-cook menus. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, or even defrost food. It also has special settings for rice, potatoes, and softening cream cheese.
- The microwave has a large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity. This means you can fit big items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza inside.
- It offers 10 different power levels, with a strong 1000W output. This lets you cook and heat food perfectly for any recipe.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is powerful. It quickly removes smoke and smells from your kitchen with adjustable fan speeds.
- A bright light shines on your cooktop. This helps you see clearly while you’re cooking on the stove below.
- The smart touch panel is easy to use. It makes selecting cooking options simple and quick.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are helpful, some users might find the need for more advanced customization options beyond the pre-set programs.
- The fan noise level, even on lower settings, could be a consideration for those who prefer a very quiet kitchen environment.
This Midea microwave oven is a great choice for busy households. It offers convenience, power, and smart features to simplify your cooking experience.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.6/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile kitchen appliance. It boasts 1000 watts of cooking power and a spacious 1.9 cubic foot capacity, making it ideal for families and busy households. This microwave simplifies cooking with its one-touch operation and a variety of pre-programmed auto menus. It also features a strong 400 CFM venting system to keep your kitchen air fresh.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking power heats food quickly.
- Generous 1.9 cu.ft. capacity fits large dishes and multiple servings.
- Convenient pre-programmed auto menus for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 400 CFM venting system effectively removes smoke and odors.
- Bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop.
- The Turntable On/Off function is great for cooking oversized items.
- It includes a clock, kitchen timer, and a 30-second express cook feature.
- A child lock provides extra safety for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer more advanced sensor cooking options.
- The design, while functional, might not fit every kitchen aesthetic.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable and feature-rich over-the-range microwave. It offers excellent value and simplifies daily cooking tasks.
5. GE GCHK07N1WWW Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
The GE GCHK07N1WWW Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, dorm room, or apartment. This 700-watt microwave offers 0.7 cubic feet of space, making it perfect for heating up leftovers, popping popcorn, or quickly cooking meals. Its compact size doesn’t sacrifice power, ensuring your food is cooked efficiently. The sleek white design with black glass adds a modern touch to your countertop. Plus, with helpful features like auto-cooking settings and a child lock, this microwave is both convenient and safe for the whole family.
What We Like:
- The TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK is a great safety feature that keeps little hands from turning it on by accident.
- It’s COMPACT YET POWERFUL, fitting easily on most countertops while still delivering 700 watts of cooking power.
- The FLEXIBLE INSTALLATION option means you can even hang it under a cabinet to save even more counter space.
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS make it super easy to use, with Instant On express cooking and helpful cooking complete alarms.
- You get EASY AUTO OR MANUAL DEFROST, so you can thaw meats perfectly.
- The SOLID, SLEEK DESIGN looks good in any space.
- The GLASS TURNTABLE ensures your food cooks evenly every time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 auto cooking settings, more advanced presets could be helpful for specific foods.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for cooking larger dishes or multiple items at once.
Overall, this GE microwave is a reliable and user-friendly appliance that offers great value. It’s a smart choice for anyone needing a compact and efficient microwave for their home or living space.
Under Cabinet Microwaves: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
Tired of your countertop looking like a microwave showroom? An under cabinet microwave is the answer! It saves precious counter space and gives your kitchen a clean, modern look. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
1. Key Features to Look For
When picking an under cabinet microwave, think about what you’ll use it for most.
Size Matters
- Dimensions: Measure the space you have before you shop. Microwaves come in different widths and depths. You need to make sure it fits snugly.
- Capacity: How much food do you usually heat? Small microwaves are good for reheating leftovers. Larger ones can handle family-sized meals and baking dishes.
Power and Performance
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most under cabinet models range from 900 to 1200 watts.
- Cooking Presets: Many microwaves have buttons for popcorn, potatoes, or defrosting. These make cooking easier.
- Venting Options: This is super important! Most under cabinet microwaves have a built-in fan and light. You need to know if it vents out of your house or recirculates air inside your kitchen. Check your existing setup.
Ease of Use
- Control Panel: Is it easy to read and use? Some have touch controls, while others have knobs. Think about what you prefer.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures food cooks evenly. Some models allow you to turn it off if you have a large rectangular dish.
2. Important Materials
The materials used affect how the microwave looks and lasts.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. It’s durable, looks sleek, and is easy to clean. It resists fingerprints too.
- Painted Steel: This is a more budget-friendly option. It comes in various colors but can scratch or chip over time.
- Interior: Look for a smooth, easy-to-clean interior. Ceramic or enamel coatings are common and work well.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make an under cabinet microwave great or not so great.
Quality Boosters
- Strong Venting: A powerful fan that effectively removes smoke and odors is a huge plus. It keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are noisy. A quieter model makes your kitchen a more pleasant place.
- Durable Build: A well-built microwave feels solid. It won’t rattle when it’s running.
- Good Lighting: A bright light under the microwave helps you see what you’re cooking on the stovetop.
Quality Reducers
- Weak Venting: If the fan isn’t strong enough, smoke and smells will stay in your kitchen.
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels cheap might not last long.
- Confusing Controls: If the buttons are hard to figure out, using it will be frustrating.
- Poorly Placed Controls: Some control panels are hard to reach or see when the microwave is installed.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How does an under cabinet microwave fit into your life?
- Saving Space: The biggest win is freeing up your countertops. This is perfect for small kitchens or for people who like a minimalist look.
- Convenience: It’s right above your stove, making it easy to heat up food while you cook.
- Aesthetics: It blends in with your cabinetry, creating a seamless and attractive kitchen design.
- Family Use: Parents can easily reheat snacks for kids. Busy cooks can quickly warm up dinner.
- Apartment Living: These are ideal for apartments where space is often limited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main advantage of an under cabinet microwave?
A: The main advantage is that it saves valuable counter space, giving your kitchen a cleaner and more organized look.
Q: How do I know if an under cabinet microwave will vent properly in my kitchen?
A: You need to check if your current range hood vents air outside or recirculates it. Under cabinet microwaves have specific venting requirements, so match the microwave’s venting type to your kitchen’s setup.
Q: What does wattage mean for a microwave?
A: Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means your food will cook faster.
Q: Are under cabinet microwaves hard to install?
A: Installation can be tricky. It often involves mounting it securely to the underside of your cabinets. Some people hire a professional to ensure it’s done safely and correctly.
Q: Can I still use my stovetop with an under cabinet microwave above it?
A: Yes, absolutely! The microwave is designed to be installed above the stovetop. It usually has a light and fan to help with cooking on the range below.
Q: What are the most common materials for under cabinet microwaves?
A: The most common materials are stainless steel and painted steel. Stainless steel is more durable and resists fingerprints.
Q: How do I measure for an under cabinet microwave?
A: Measure the width, depth, and height of the space where you plan to install it. Make sure to account for any cabinet overhangs or obstructions.
Q: Are there microwaves that vent both outside and recirculate air?
A: Yes, some models offer convertible venting, meaning you can choose whether to vent outside or recirculate the air based on your kitchen’s setup.
Q: What is a good wattage for general use?
A: For general use like reheating leftovers and cooking simple meals, a microwave with 900 to 1000 watts is usually sufficient.
Q: How do I clean the inside of an under cabinet microwave?
A: You can clean the inside by wiping it with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tougher stains, you can heat a bowl of water with lemon juice or vinegar for a few minutes, then wipe down the interior.
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.