Imagine this: you’re in your kitchen, ready to whip up a quick meal. You reach for the microwave, but it’s just… *there*. Taking up precious counter space. Does that sound familiar? Many of us face this exact problem. Finding the perfect above-stove microwave can feel like a treasure hunt with too many confusing choices.
You want a microwave that cooks your food fast, looks good, and doesn’t break the bank. But sifting through all the different brands, sizes, and features can be overwhelming. You might worry about installation, power, or if it will even fit your kitchen’s style. It’s a big decision that affects your daily cooking routine!
Don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down exactly what you need to know to pick the best above-stove microwave for your home. You’ll learn about the most important features to look for, understand what makes some models stand out, and discover how to find one that fits your needs and your budget. Get ready to transform your kitchen and make cooking a breeze!
Our Top 5 Above Stove Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Above Stove Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.5/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great, and it packs a lot of power with 1000 watts. This microwave is designed to make cooking easier and faster.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior easily fits large dishes and has a 12.4-inch turntable for even cooking.
- 10 Cooking Levels: You get 6 handy pre-set menus for common tasks like popcorn and defrosting, plus 10 power levels for custom cooking.
- Speedy Cooking: Simply press 1, 2, or 3 for instant 1-3 minute cooking at full power.
- Multi-stage Cooking: This feature lets you set different power levels and times for one cooking cycle, saving you time and effort.
- Powerful Vent Fan: The 300 CFM fan effectively removes cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh. The built-in light is a nice bonus for cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer for some of the advanced features.
- While the vent fan is strong, it can be a bit noisy on its highest setting.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid performer that offers great convenience and power for busy kitchens. It’s a smart choice for upgrading your cooking experience.
2. GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Black Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.6/10
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 designed for modern kitchens.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- 1000 Watts of cooking power heats food quickly.
- A two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively removes smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen.
- You can turn the turntable On or Off, giving you flexibility for different dishes.
- Auto and time defrost options make thawing food simple and efficient.
- Convenience cooking controls are easy to understand and use.
- The bundle includes a 2-year premium extended service protection plan, adding great value.
- It’s an authorized GE USA product, ensuring quality and support.
What Could Be Improved:
- The charcoal filter needs to be replaced, which is an ongoing cost.
This GE microwave offers a great combination of power, features, and extended protection. It’s a reliable addition that makes cooking and kitchen cleanup a breeze.
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: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance is more than just a microwave; it’s a smart cooking companion. It offers a generous 1.9 cubic feet of space, perfect for family-sized meals. Plus, you get peace of mind with a bundled 2-year extended protection plan in addition to the full manufacturer warranty. This means your investment is covered for a total of 4 years!
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What We Like:
- Generous Capacity: The 1.9 cu. ft. size easily fits large dishes and multiple items.
- Smart Melting: The special melt feature takes the guesswork out of melting butter, chocolate, and more.
- Easy Cleaning: The interior features steam clean, making cleanup a breeze.
- Complete Protection: You receive a 2-year extended protection plan from CPS on top of the manufacturer’s warranty, giving you a full 4 years of coverage.
- Included Filter: The recirculating charcoal filter kit is included, so you can install it right away.
- Stylish Design: The stainless steel finish looks great in any modern kitchen.
- Sized Right: Its dimensions (16 5/16 H x 29 7/8 W x 15 9/16 D) fit well over most standard ranges.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Complexity: Over-the-range microwaves can sometimes be tricky to install, so professional installation might be needed for some.
- Limited Color Options: This model is only available in stainless steel, which might not match all kitchen decors.
This GE microwave bundle offers fantastic value with its large capacity, helpful features, and extended warranty. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their kitchen’s cooking capabilities and enjoy worry-free ownership.
4. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, with its spacious 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and powerful 1000W cooking, is designed to make your kitchen tasks easier and faster. Its sleek stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen, and its over-the-range design maximizes your counter space. This microwave is packed with features for all your cooking needs.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly and evenly with 1000W of power.
- The large 1.7 cu. ft. interior holds many different dishes.
- You can cook many things with its special cooking options like vegetables and snacks.
- It has smart defrosting that works by time or weight.
- The Quick +30 seconds button and melt/soften features are very handy for busy days.
- The child safety lock keeps little ones safe.
- It has a clear LED timer, a helpful vent fan, and a light for your stovetop.
- You can change how loud the beeps are.
- It saves space by mounting over your stove and looks good doing it.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer for some features.
- The vent fan power could be stronger for heavy cooking smells.
This Farberware microwave is a smart addition to any kitchen, offering both power and space-saving convenience.
5. 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. It combines convenience with powerful features, making cooking and ventilation a breeze. This sleek stainless steel appliance is designed to simplify your life.
What We Like:
- It has 18 auto-cook menus for easy cooking. You can make popcorn, pizza, and even cook potatoes with just one touch.
- The large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable fit big items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- With 1000W of power and 10 power levels, you can heat food just right.
- The 300 CFM ventilation fan quickly clears out smoke and smells from your stove.
- It has adjustable fan speeds to tackle different cooking messes.
- A bright light shines on your cooktop, so you can see everything clearly while you cook.
- The smart touch panel is easy to use and understand.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup a bit complex.
- While powerful, the fan can be a little noisy on its highest setting.
This Midea microwave is a smart choice for busy households. It offers excellent cooking and ventilation performance, making it a valuable kitchen appliance.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Above Stove Microwave
Finding the right microwave that fits above your stove can make your kitchen feel bigger and work better. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
Why Choose an Above Stove Microwave?
These microwaves are smart choices for kitchens where counter space is precious. They combine cooking power with ventilation. This means you get a microwave and a range hood in one appliance. This saves space and adds convenience.
Key Features to Look For
- Ventilation Power: This is super important. Look for the Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) rating. Higher CFM means it sucks up smoke and smells better. Aim for at least 300 CFM for most kitchens.
- Microwave Wattage: This tells you how fast it heats food. Most good microwaves have 900 to 1200 watts. More watts mean quicker cooking.
- Size and Capacity: Measure the space above your stove carefully. Microwaves come in different widths, usually 30 inches. Also, check the interior cubic feet. A larger family might need a bigger one.
- Presets and Cooking Functions: Many microwaves have buttons for popcorn, reheating, or cooking specific foods. Some even have sensor cooking. This adjusts time and power automatically.
- Lighting: A good light under the microwave helps you see what you’re cooking on the stovetop. Some have two light settings.
- Easy-to-Clean Filters: The filters catch grease. You need to clean them. Removable and dishwasher-safe filters make this task easier.
Important Materials
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. It looks sleek and is durable. It resists fingerprints well, but some models do better than others.
- Plastic: Some interior parts might be plastic. Look for sturdy, heat-resistant plastic.
- Glass Turntable: This part rotates your food for even heating. It should be easy to remove and wash.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes an above stove microwave great?
- Strong Ventilation: A powerful fan that really clears the air makes a big difference.
- Even Cooking: A good microwave heats food all the way through without hot or cold spots.
- User-Friendly Controls: Buttons that are easy to understand and use make cooking simple.
- Quiet Operation: A microwave that doesn’t make too much noise is a plus.
What can make an above stove microwave less good?
- Weak Ventilation: If the fan is weak, your kitchen will still get smoky.
- Uneven Heating: Food that isn’t heated evenly is frustrating.
- Complicated Controls: Too many confusing buttons can be a problem.
- Cheaply Made Parts: Parts that feel flimsy might break easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
Above stove microwaves are perfect for busy families. You can reheat leftovers quickly while dinner cooks below. They are great for making popcorn for movie nights. For smaller kitchens, they are a lifesaver, giving you more counter space for food prep.
Some people use them to melt butter or steam vegetables. Others rely on them for defrosting meat before cooking. The convenience of having a microwave right where you cook is undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of an above stove microwave?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space while providing cooking and ventilation for your stovetop.
Q: How do I know if the ventilation is good enough?
A: Look for the Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) rating. Higher CFM means better ventilation. Aim for at least 300 CFM.
Q: What is a good wattage for a microwave?
A: A good wattage range is between 900 and 1200 watts for fast and efficient cooking.
Q: How do I measure the space for my microwave?
A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the cabinet space above your stove. Most are 30 inches wide.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect moisture and automatically adjust cooking time and power for perfect results.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves hard to keep clean?
A: Stainless steel looks nice, but some models show fingerprints more than others. Look for “fingerprint-resistant” finishes.
Q: How often do I need to clean the vent filters?
A: You should clean them regularly, usually every 1-3 months, depending on how often you cook.
Q: Can I use my above stove microwave as a regular microwave?
A: Yes, it works just like a countertop microwave for heating and cooking food.
Q: What if my microwave doesn’t heat evenly?
A: Make sure the food is centered on the turntable and try using the “defrost” setting for thicker items before cooking.
Q: Are these microwaves difficult to install?
A: Installation involves mounting it to the wall and connecting it to a power source and sometimes your home’s ventilation system. Professional installation is often recommended.
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!