Ever feel like your kitchen is missing something? Maybe it’s a sleek appliance that cooks your food fast *and* keeps your air fresh. That’s where the mighty microwave with a vent hood comes in! It’s a superhero for small kitchens, doing double duty to save space and make cooking easier.
But let’s be honest, picking the right one can feel like solving a puzzle. You want it to look good, work well, and fit your budget. It’s easy to get lost in all the features and confusing terms. You might worry about getting one that’s too loud, doesn’t suck up smoke well, or just doesn’t fit your kitchen’s style.
Don’t sweat it! This post is here to clear the air and guide you through the world of microwave vent hoods. We’ll break down what to look for, explain those confusing terms, and help you find the perfect fit for your cooking space. Get ready to upgrade your kitchen and say goodbye to cooking smells!
Our Top 5 Microwave With Vent Hood Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave With Vent Hood Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the sleek and powerful BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cubic feet stainless steel appliance is designed to make your cooking easier and faster. It fits perfectly over your stove, saving valuable counter space. Its 1000-watt power and smart features handle all your reheating, defrosting, and cooking needs.
What We Like:
- Generous Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior is large enough for big meals. It easily fits a 12.4-inch turntable, so you can heat up family-sized dishes.
- Easy Cooking Options: With 10 cooking levels and 6 quick menus, cooking is simple. Just press a button for popcorn, beverages, or to melt and soften ingredients.
- Speedy and Smart Cooking: Get food ready in minutes with 100% power for 1, 2, or 3 minutes. Multi-stage cooking lets you set different power levels for one cooking cycle, saving you time.
- Effective Venting: The 300 CFM vent fan is strong. It removes smoke and smells from your kitchen. The built-in light shines brightly on your stovetop.
- Stylish Design: The stainless steel finish looks modern and professional in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While simple tasks are easy, mastering the multi-stage cooking might take a little practice.
- Vent Fan Noise: Some users might find the highest fan setting a bit loud.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a blend of capacity, convenience, and style. It’s a solid choice for busy households.
2. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance is designed for convenience and performance, making meal prep a breeze. Plus, it comes with an amazing bundle that includes a premium 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Generous Capacity: The 1.9 cu. ft. size handles large dishes and family meals easily.
- Effortless Melting: The special melt feature takes the guesswork out of melting butter, chocolate, and more.
- Easy Cleaning: The steam clean option makes wiping away messes super simple.
- Extended Protection: You get a full manufacturer’s warranty plus an extra 2-year CPS enhanced protection plan. This means you’re covered for a total of 4 years!
- Complete Kit: The bundle includes everything you need, like a recirculating charcoal filter kit.
- Sleek Design: The stainless steel finish looks great in any modern kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation: While it’s an over-the-range model, professional installation might be needed for some users.
- Sensor Accuracy: Some users may find the sensor cooking times need slight adjustments at first.
This GE microwave offers a great combination of features, capacity, and fantastic extended protection. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen looking for reliability and ease of use.
3. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.7/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This microwave offers great convenience and style. It cooks food quickly and efficiently. The stainless steel finish looks modern and sleek. This bundle also comes with an extra layer of peace of mind thanks to the extended protection plan.
What We Like:
- It’s a GE USA authorized product. This means you get quality you can trust.
- You get a 2-year extended protection plan. This plan is in addition to the regular warranty.
- It includes a charcoal filter replacement. This helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
- The microwave has a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity. This is plenty of space for most meals.
- It offers convenient cooking controls. These make it easy to heat up your food.
- The stainless steel design looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are 13″D x 16″W x 9″H. Some users might need a larger microwave.
- The description doesn’t mention specific cooking features like sensor cooking.
This GE microwave bundle offers excellent value with its spacious capacity and added protection. It’s a reliable choice for everyday cooking needs.
4. COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan
Rating: 9.0/10
The COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers powerful cooking and efficient ventilation, all in a sleek black and stainless steel design. This microwave is designed to make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- 1000 Watts of Power: Cooks food quickly and evenly with 10 power levels for perfect results every time.
- Generous 1.34 cu. ft. Capacity: Plenty of space for all your meals, from small snacks to larger dishes.
- Integrated Range Hood: The powerful vent fan effectively removes smoke, odors, and moisture, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- Convenient Touch Presets: Easily melt, soften, defrost, or pop popcorn with simple one-touch buttons.
- Sensor Reheat and Cook Mode: This smart feature detects when your food is done and automatically stops cooking, preventing overcooking.
- RV Friendly: Its compact size and 120V/60Hz requirements make it suitable for recreational vehicles.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 24-inch width is standard, some kitchens might benefit from slightly more compact options.
- The user manual could offer more detailed troubleshooting tips for advanced users.
This COSMO microwave oven is a fantastic blend of power, convenience, and style. It’s a smart choice for upgrading your kitchen’s functionality.
5. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cu. ft. stainless steel model packs a punch with its 1000W of cooking power. It’s designed to be space-efficient and powerful, making it a great addition to any busy household. This microwave offers a variety of features to simplify your cooking tasks.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly and evenly with 1000W power.
- The large 1.7 cu. ft. interior fits many different dishes.
- It has many cooking options like vegetables, snacks, and potatoes.
- Defrosting is easy with time and weight settings.
- The Quick +30 seconds and melt/soften features are very handy.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- It includes a bright LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light.
- You can adjust the volume of the alerts.
- Its over-the-range design saves valuable counter space and looks good.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1550W input power is higher than some microwaves, which might affect energy use for some.
- While it offers many functions, some users might find the sheer number of options a bit overwhelming at first.
This Farberware microwave is a smart choice for those seeking both performance and space-saving solutions. It brings convenience and power to your kitchen.
The Smart Choice: Your Guide to Microwave Range Hoods
Are you looking to save space in your kitchen? A microwave range hood might be the perfect solution. It’s a microwave that also acts as a vent hood for your stove. This smart appliance cooks your food and clears out steam and smells from your cooking. Let’s explore what makes a good microwave range hood.
What to Look For: Key Features
1. Ventilation Power (CFM)
This tells you how much air the vent hood can move. More CFM means it’s better at clearing smoke and odors. For most home cooks, 100-300 CFM is usually enough. If you do a lot of heavy cooking, like frying, you might want something with higher CFM.
2. Size and Capacity
Microwave range hoods come in different sizes. The width is usually around 30 inches, which fits over most standard stoves. The inside capacity is measured in cubic feet. Think about how much food you usually cook. A larger capacity is good for families or if you reheat big meals.
3. Cooking Features
Beyond just reheating, look for helpful cooking features. Many have sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts cooking time. Other useful settings include defrost, popcorn, and preset cooking options for common foods.
4. Lighting
A good light under the microwave helps you see your stovetop better. Some have bright LED lights, which are energy-efficient and last a long time.
5. Filter Type
Most range hoods have filters to catch grease. You’ll find two main types: charcoal filters and metal filters. Metal filters are usually washable and reusable. Charcoal filters need to be replaced every few months. Check which type the microwave comes with and how easy it is to clean or replace.
Materials That Matter
The main material for the exterior is usually stainless steel. Stainless steel looks sleek and is easy to clean. Some models might use painted metal. For the interior, ceramic or porcelain enamel is common. These surfaces are durable and easy to wipe down.
What Makes a Difference: Quality Boosters and Reducers
Quality Boosters:
- Quiet Operation: A good microwave range hood won’t be too loud. Check reviews for comments on noise levels.
- Even Cooking: Look for microwaves that distribute heat well. This ensures your food cooks evenly.
- Durable Build: Sturdy construction means your appliance will last longer.
Quality Reducers:
- Weak Ventilation: If the CFM is too low, it won’t clear your kitchen effectively.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons or a complicated interface can be frustrating.
- Poor Lighting: A dim light under the microwave is not very helpful.
Making the Most of It: User Experience and Use Cases
Microwave range hoods are great for smaller kitchens or apartments where space is limited. They combine two essential appliances into one. This makes your kitchen feel less cluttered. You can use it to quickly reheat leftovers, pop popcorn, or cook simple meals. The vent hood part is essential for removing cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen air fresh. Some people use the microwave for defrosting ingredients before they start cooking on the stove. Others use it to steam vegetables or bake potatoes.
When you choose a microwave range hood, think about your cooking habits and kitchen size. A little research will help you find an appliance that makes your kitchen time easier and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in a microwave range hood?
A: The main Key Features include strong ventilation power (CFM), the right size and capacity for your needs, useful cooking features like sensor cooking, good lighting for your stovetop, and an easy-to-clean filter type.
Q: What materials are typically used for microwave range hoods?
A: The exterior is usually made of stainless steel or painted metal. The interior is often ceramic or porcelain enamel for easy cleaning.
Q: How can I tell if a microwave range hood is good quality?
A: Good quality is shown by quiet operation, even cooking, and a durable build. Poor quality might mean weak ventilation, hard-to-use controls, or dim lighting.
Q: What are some common use cases for a microwave range hood?
A: They are perfect for small kitchens, reheating food, cooking quick meals, and venting cooking odors and smoke. They save space by combining two appliances.
Q: What does CFM mean for ventilation?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the vent hood can move to clear smoke and smells from your kitchen.
Q: How often do I need to clean or replace the filters?
A: Metal filters can usually be washed and reused. Charcoal filters need to be replaced, often every few months, depending on how much you cook.
Q: Are microwave range hoods difficult to install?
A: Installation can vary. Some are designed for easier DIY installation, while others might require professional help, especially if you need to connect to external venting.
Q: Can I use the microwave and the vent hood at the same time?
A: Yes, you can use both the microwave and the vent hood simultaneously. This is one of their main benefits.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect the moisture and humidity released by food as it cooks. It then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level for optimal results.
Q: Are there different types of venting for microwave range hoods?
A: Yes, there are two main types: recirculating (ductless), which uses filters to clean the air before sending it back into the kitchen, and vented (ducted), which pushes the air outside your home.
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!