Ever stood in your kitchen, staring at the empty spot above your stove, wondering what kind of microwave magic should go there? It’s a common kitchen dilemma! Many homeowners face this question when they’re setting up a new kitchen or upgrading their old appliances. Choosing a microwave over the stove, also known as an over-the-range microwave, can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands, sizes, and features to consider, and it’s easy to get lost in the choices.
This decision isn’t just about picking a pretty appliance; it’s about finding one that fits your cooking style, your kitchen space, and your budget. Do you need extra power for quick meals? Do you want it to look sleek and modern, or is simple and functional more your speed? Figuring out the best fit can save you frustration and money in the long run. You want an appliance that works hard for you and makes cooking and cleaning easier, not harder.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about over-the-range microwaves. We’ll explore the different types available, what features are truly useful, and how to measure your space correctly. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what to look for, helping you confidently pick the perfect microwave over your stove. Let’s dive in and find the right one for your kitchen!
Our Top 5 Microwave Over Stove Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Over Stove Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This spacious 1.9 cu.ft. microwave offers 1000 watts of cooking power and smart features to make meal prep a breeze. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your cooktop, adding both style and function to your cooking space.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed auto menus for many common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza. This makes cooking simple.
- The 1000-watt power and ten power settings let you control cooking precisely.
- The 30-second express cooking button is handy for quick reheating.
- The bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stove below.
- The powerful 400-CFM venting fan quickly removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is great for fitting larger dishes.
- It includes a clock and kitchen timer to help you manage your cooking time.
- The child lock feature adds safety for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation instructions are only available online, which might be inconvenient for some users.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both convenience and power. You’ll find it makes cooking and cleaning up much easier.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.1/10
This GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack brings convenience and peace of mind to your kitchen. It’s a powerful microwave that also comes with extra protection for your investment. You get a reliable GE microwave and an extended service plan, making it a smart choice for your home.
What We Like:
- It’s a GE USA authorized product, so you know it’s made by a trusted brand.
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan, which adds extra security beyond the standard warranty.
- You also get a charcoal filter replacement, which is great for keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is a good size for most families.
- It has easy-to-use controls for quick cooking.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit compact for very large dishes.
- More detailed information on the “convenience cooking controls” could be helpful for users wanting to explore all its features.
This bundle offers excellent value with its reliable microwave and extended protection. It’s a solid option for anyone looking for a new over-the-range microwave.
3. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave is more than just a cooking appliance; it’s a smart addition to your home. It comes bundled with a fantastic 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. You’ll also get a full manufacturer’s warranty, so you’re covered in every way. This microwave is designed to make your cooking easier and your kitchen look better.
What We Like:
- Extended Protection: You get a 2-year extended service plan on top of the regular manufacturer’s warranty. This means you’re covered for a total of 4 years!
- Generous Capacity: With 1.9 cu. ft. of space, you can easily heat up large meals or cook for your whole family.
- Smart Melting Feature: The melt function takes the guesswork out of melting butter, chocolate, caramel, and marshmallows. No more burnt messes!
- Easy Cleaning: The interior is designed for easy cleaning, and the steam clean option makes tough messes disappear with just water and steam.
- Complete Package: The bundle includes everything you need, even a recirculating charcoal filter kit for your ventilation.
- Stylish Design: The stainless steel finish looks great in any modern kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation: Like most over-the-range microwaves, professional installation might be recommended for optimal setup.
- Size Consideration: While the 1.9 cu. ft. is large, ensure it fits your specific over-the-range space.
This GE microwave bundle offers excellent value with its large capacity, smart features, and outstanding warranty protection. It’s a reliable and stylish choice for any kitchen.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.8/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, bringing convenience and power right above your stovetop. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great, and the smart touch panel makes cooking a breeze. With a generous 1.7 cubic feet of space, it can handle family-sized meals, and the powerful 1000-watt cooking ensures your food is heated quickly and evenly.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 Auto Menus is super handy. You can easily make popcorn, cook a potato, or even defrost ingredients without guessing.
- It has a large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity, so it fits big items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza on its 12.5-inch turntable.
- 10 power levels, including a powerful 1000W output, let you control the heating for all your cooking needs.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is strong. It quickly sucks up smoke and smells from your stove, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- A bright light under the microwave shines down on your cooktop, making it easy to see what you’re cooking.
- The smart touch panel is user-friendly and makes selecting cooking options simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are great, some users might want even more specific presets or the ability to save their own custom cooking cycles.
- The ventilation fan, while powerful, could potentially be a bit loud on its highest setting for some kitchens.
Overall, this Midea over-the-range microwave oven offers a great combination of capacity, power, and smart features that make everyday cooking and kitchen cleanup much easier.
5. FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity
Rating: 8.6/10
The FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a generous 1.8 cu. ft. of space, perfect for cooking family meals. With 1000 cooking watts, it heats food quickly and evenly. The sleek stainless steel design looks modern and stylish above your stovetop. Plus, it has a handy child lock to keep little ones safe.
What We Like:
- It has a large 1.8 cu. ft. capacity, so you can fit big dishes inside.
- 1000 cooking watts means your food will be ready faster.
- The 300 CFM fan effectively clears smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- It includes a helpful child lock feature for safety.
- The stainless steel finish looks very nice and is easy to clean.
- It offers 10 different power levels for precise cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The recirculating kit is sold separately, which is an extra cost.
- It’s a non-ducted venting type, which might not be ideal for all kitchens.
- The fan has only two speeds (105/300 CFM), so there isn’t much in-between.
This microwave offers a good balance of features and performance for its price. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen’s functionality and style.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Microwave Over Stove
Why a Microwave Over Stove?
A microwave over stove, often called a range hood microwave, is a super handy appliance. It saves space in your kitchen. It cooks your food and helps clear out cooking smells and smoke. It’s a two-in-one helper!
Key Features to Look For
1. Size Matters
Measure your space carefully. Microwaves over stoves come in different widths, usually 30 inches. Make sure it fits perfectly between your cabinets.
2. Wattage Power
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for good performance. Some go up to 1200 watts!
3. Venting Options
Some microwaves vent outside, which is the best for clearing smoke. Others recirculate air with charcoal filters. Check which one works for your kitchen setup.
4. Cooking Presets
Many have buttons for common foods like popcorn or potatoes. This makes cooking easy. Some even have sensor cooking, which adjusts time and power automatically.
5. Interior Light and Turntable
A good light helps you see your food. A turntable makes sure your food cooks evenly. Most have these, but check the size of the turntable.
6. Ease of Cleaning
Look for a smooth interior that wipes clean easily. Some have removable filters that you can wash.
Important Materials
Most microwaves over stoves have a stainless steel exterior. This looks nice and is durable. The inside is usually a simple enamel or ceramic coating. These are easy to clean.
Factors That Affect Quality
What Makes it Great:
- Strong fan for good ventilation.
- Even heating and cooking.
- Easy-to-use controls.
- Quiet operation.
- Durable build.
What Can Be Better:
- Weak ventilation fans.
- Uneven cooking.
- Confusing buttons.
- Loud noise.
- Cheap-feeling materials.
User Experience and Use Cases
These appliances are great for small kitchens. They are perfect for busy families who need to cook quickly. You can reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, or even bake simple things. The ventilation helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh while you cook.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main purpose of a microwave over stove?
A: It cooks food and also acts as a range hood to remove smoke and smells from your stovetop.
Q: How wide are most microwaves over stoves?
A: Most are 30 inches wide to fit standard kitchen spaces.
Q: Is a higher wattage always better?
A: Yes, higher wattage usually means your food cooks faster and more evenly.
Q: What’s the difference between external venting and recirculating?
A: External venting pushes smoke and smells outside your home. Recirculating uses filters to clean the air and send it back into the kitchen.
Q: Do I need to install it myself?
A: Installation can be tricky. Many people hire a professional to ensure it’s mounted securely and vented correctly.
Q: How do I clean the inside of the microwave?
A: Wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Some interiors are non-stick and easier to clean.
Q: Are there microwaves over stoves that are quiet?
A: Yes, some models are designed to be quieter than others. Check product reviews for noise levels.
Q: Can I cook complex meals in it?
A: While great for reheating and simple cooking, it’s not designed for gourmet meals. It’s best for quick meals and snacks.
Q: How long do these appliances usually last?
A: With good care, most microwaves over stoves can last 7 to 10 years.
Q: Should I look for specific brands?
A: Many reputable brands make good microwaves over stoves. Reading reviews for specific models is more helpful than just looking at brands.
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.
Hello, I’m Muzammil Siddiqui, the mind behind ChairsFly.com.. With a deep passion for chairs and a wealth of expertise, I created this platform to share my insights, experiences, and knowledge about everything chair-related. From ergonomic solutions to stylish designs, my goal is to guide you in finding the perfect seat for your needs. Let’s embark on this journey of comfort and elegance together!