Imagine this: you’re craving a quick meal, but your kitchen feels cramped. You look at your stovetop, then at your microwave, and wonder if there’s a way to have both without sacrificing precious counter space. It’s a common kitchen dilemma, especially in smaller homes or apartments.
Choosing a range top microwave can feel like a puzzle. You want something that cooks your food efficiently, looks good in your kitchen, and doesn’t break the bank. But with so many features and styles out there, it’s easy to get lost. You might worry about installation, performance, or if it’s truly the right fit for your cooking needs. This is where we come in.
This post is here to clear up all the confusion. We’ll break down what makes a range top microwave a great addition to your kitchen and guide you through the important things to consider. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident in picking the perfect range top microwave that fits your space and your cooking style, making meal prep a breeze.
Our Top 5 Range Top Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Range Top Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cu. ft. microwave is a stylish and powerful addition, featuring a sleek stainless steel finish. It’s designed to make cooking and meal prep easier and more efficient for busy households.
What We Like:
- The large 1.7 cubic feet capacity easily fits big dishes and multiple servings, thanks to its 12.4-inch turntable.
- It offers 10 different power levels and 6 quick-cook menus for common items like popcorn and frozen meals.
- Speedy cooking options let you microwave food at 100% power for 1, 2, or 3 minutes with a single button press.
- Multi-stage cooking lets you set two different cooking times and power levels at once, saving you time.
- The strong 300 CFM vent fan effectively removes cooking smells and smoke, while the built-in light helps you see clearly while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan, while powerful, might be a bit loud for some users.
- The control panel could be more intuitive for users who prefer simpler operations.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a capable and stylish over-the-range option. It brings convenience and performance to your kitchen, making daily cooking tasks a breeze.
2. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.0/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a large capacity and smart features that make cooking easier.
What We Like:
- This microwave comes with 18 auto-cook menus. You can make popcorn, pizza, and even cook potatoes with just one touch. It also has a defrost and soften function for cream cheese.
- The 1.7 cu.ft. capacity is roomy. It can hold a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza easily. The 12.5-inch turntable spins your food evenly.
- You have 10 power levels to choose from. This lets you heat food just right. The 1000W output power cooks food quickly.
- The ventilation system is strong. Its 300 CFM suction power removes smoke and smells from your kitchen. You can adjust the fan speed too.
- A bright light shines on your cooktop. This helps you see what you’re cooking below.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and sleek. It fits in with most kitchen styles.
- The smart touch panel is easy to use and understand.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 18 auto-cook menus overwhelming at first.
- While the ventilation is strong, some very strong cooking smells might still linger slightly.
This Midea microwave oven is a smart choice for busy cooks. It simplifies meal preparation and keeps your kitchen fresh.
3. 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 stainless steel bundle is a smart choice for busy households. It offers plenty of space for your meals and comes with a special protection plan. You’ll also get a charcoal filter, which helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
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, giving you extra peace of mind.
- It comes with a charcoal filter replacement for the behind-the-door grille.
- The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is good for cooking and reheating most foods.
- It has convenient cooking controls that are easy to understand.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are 13″D x 16″W x 9″H, which might be a bit large for some smaller kitchens.
- While it has convenience controls, some users might prefer more advanced features.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and protected appliance.
4. Frigidaire FFMV1846VB 30″ Black Over the Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity
Rating: 8.7/10
The Frigidaire FFMV1846VB 30″ Black Over the Range Microwave is a sleek and spacious addition to any kitchen. Its 1.8 cubic feet of capacity means you can easily heat up large meals or multiple dishes at once. The black finish gives it a modern look that fits well with most kitchen decor. This microwave is designed to sit above your stove, saving valuable counter space and providing convenient ventilation for your cooking area.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.8 cu. ft. capacity fits big meals.
- The 30-inch width offers ample cooking space.
- Sleek black design looks good in any kitchen.
- Over-the-range placement saves counter space.
- Easy to operate for quick cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific features are not detailed in the provided information.
- Performance details are not available for a full assessment.
This Frigidaire microwave offers a good amount of space and a stylish appearance. It’s a solid choice for busy kitchens needing efficient cooking and smart design.
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: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel microwave offers a spacious 1.9 cubic feet of cooking room. It makes melting butter, caramel, chocolate, and marshmallows a breeze with its special melt feature. Cleaning is super easy thanks to its steam clean interior. Plus, this bundle comes with a 2-year extended protection plan in addition to the full manufacturer’s warranty, giving you extra peace of mind. It’s designed for convenience and built to last.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes.
- Special melt feature takes the guesswork out of melting.
- Steam clean makes wiping up messes simple.
- Comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit.
- Includes a 2-year extended protection plan for extra security.
- It’s an authorized GE USA product.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (16 5/16 H x 29 7/8 W x 15 9/16 D) might require careful measurement for your specific kitchen space.
This GE microwave bundle offers great features and excellent protection. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen looking for both style and functionality.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Range Top Microwave
Are you looking for a way to save space in your kitchen? A range top microwave could be the perfect solution! This handy appliance combines the power of a microwave with a ventilation system that sits above your stove. It helps clear smoke and smells while cooking your food. Let’s dive into what makes a good range top microwave.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a range top microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Microwave Power (Wattage): More watts mean faster cooking. Most models offer between 900 and 1100 watts. A higher wattage will heat your food more quickly and evenly.
- Ventilation Power (CFM): This stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. Look for at least 300 CFM to effectively clear smoke and steam from your stovetop. Some high-end models go much higher.
- Cooking Presets: These are buttons for common foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, or pizza. They take the guesswork out of cooking times and power levels.
- Turntable: A rotating glass plate inside the microwave ensures your food cooks evenly. Most range top microwaves have one. Make sure it’s large enough for your plates.
- Sensor Cooking: This smart feature detects moisture and adjusts cooking time and power automatically. It helps prevent overcooking or undercooking.
- Lighting: Good lighting under the microwave helps you see what you’re cooking on the stove. Some models have bright LED lights.
- Filters: Look for easy-to-clean filters. Charcoal filters help remove odors, while mesh filters capture grease. You’ll need to clean or replace these regularly.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a range top microwave affect its durability and how it looks.
- Stainless Steel: This is the most popular material. It’s strong, looks sleek, and resists fingerprints. It’s also easy to wipe clean.
- Plastic: The inside of the microwave is usually made of plastic. High-quality plastic is durable and won’t warp from heat.
- Glass: The door window and turntable are made of glass. Tempered glass is strong and safe for kitchen use.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a range top microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive. Poorly made units can feel flimsy.
- Noise Level: Microwaves can be loud. Check reviews for information on how noisy the fan and microwave operation are. Quieter models make for a more pleasant cooking experience.
- Ease of Cleaning: The interior and exterior should be easy to wipe down. Removable filters that are dishwasher safe are a big plus.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often make more reliable products. They also tend to offer better customer support if you have problems.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product. Look for at least a one-year warranty on parts and labor.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Using a range top microwave is usually straightforward.
- Saving Space: The biggest benefit is freeing up counter space. You get a microwave and a vent in one appliance.
- Convenience: You can quickly heat leftovers, defrost food, or cook simple meals. The ventilation helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh while you cook on the stove.
- Versatility: Many range top microwaves also offer convection cooking. This means they can bake and roast like a small oven.
- Installation: Installation can be a bit tricky. You might need to hire a professional to ensure it’s mounted securely and properly vented.
Frequently Asked Questions About Range Top Microwaves
Q: What is a range top microwave?
A: A range top microwave is an appliance that mounts above your stove. It works as both a microwave and a kitchen vent. It helps remove smoke and smells from your cooking.
Q: Why would I want a range top microwave?
A: They save valuable counter space. You get two appliances in one spot. It’s a great choice for smaller kitchens.
Q: How powerful should the microwave be?
A: Look for at least 900 watts. More watts mean your food cooks faster and more evenly.
Q: What does CFM mean for ventilation?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM means better smoke and smell removal.
Q: Are range top microwaves hard to clean?
A: Most are designed for easy cleaning. Look for models with removable, dishwasher-safe filters. The interior and exterior should wipe clean easily.
Q: Do I need a special hood for a range top microwave?
A: No, the range top microwave itself acts as the hood and ventilation system.
Q: Can I use it for baking?
A: Some models have convection features. This allows them to bake and roast like a small oven.
Q: What if my stove is wider than the microwave?
A: It’s best if the microwave is at least as wide as your stovetop. This ensures good ventilation coverage.
Q: How long do range top microwaves usually last?
A: With proper care, they can last 7 to 10 years or more. Regular cleaning and maintenance are important.
Q: Is installation difficult?
A: Installation can be complex. It often requires mounting to a wall stud and connecting to a power source and ventilation duct. Many people hire a professional for this.
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.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!