Ever stare at your kitchen ceiling and wonder if that bulky appliance above your stove is doing its job? If you’re nodding, you’re not alone. Many of us have a microwave that also acts as a range hood, but choosing the *right* one can feel like navigating a maze. You want something that zaps your leftovers perfectly, but also sucks up smoke and smells without making a racket.
The struggle is real! There are so many types, sizes, and features to consider. Do you need a powerful fan? What about the size? And how do you know if it will actually clear the air in your kitchen? It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin. But don’t worry, we’re here to make it easy.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the key features, explain the jargon, and help you find a microwave range hood that’s a perfect fit for your cooking style and your kitchen. Get ready to say goodbye to kitchen fumes and hello to a smarter cooking experience!
Our Top 5 Microwave With Range Hood Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave With Range Hood Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This spacious 1.9 cu.ft. microwave packs a powerful 1000 watts for quick cooking. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your range, adding both style and functionality to your cooking space. It’s built for convenience and efficiency.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed auto menus for many foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 1000-watt power heats food quickly and evenly.
- It features a powerful 400 CFM venting fan to keep your kitchen air fresh.
- The bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop for safer cooking.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is great for cooking large dishes.
- It includes a 30-second express cooking option for when you’re in a hurry.
- A child lock feature keeps little hands safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation instructions are only available online, which might be inconvenient for some.
- While it has many auto menus, some users might prefer more customization options.
This microwave is a solid choice for busy households. It offers many helpful features to make meal preparation easier and more enjoyable.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This stainless steel beauty is more than just a microwave; it’s a smart addition to your home. This bundle comes with a special 2-year extended protection plan, so you can cook with confidence. Plus, it includes a charcoal filter replacement for cleaner air. It offers plenty of space for your meals and makes cooking simple with its easy-to-use controls.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits most dishes.
- Convenience cooking presets make meal prep a breeze.
- Easy-to-use controls are simple for everyone.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for peace of mind.
- Includes a charcoal filter for a fresher kitchen.
- Sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
- While it has convenience cooking, some advanced features might be missing for expert chefs.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly over-the-range microwave.
3. COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven. This stylish black and stainless steel appliance offers a generous 1.34 cubic feet of space and a powerful 1000 watts of cooking power. It’s designed to be both a microwave and a vent fan, helping to keep your kitchen clean and fresh.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000 watts and 10 power levels let you cook anything perfectly.
- The 1.34 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes.
- The integrated vent fan removes smoke, smells, and moisture from your cooking.
- Convenient touch presets make tasks like melting, softening, and defrosting super easy.
- Sensor reheat and cook mode takes the guesswork out of cooking. It knows when your food is done!
- It’s RV friendly, adding flexibility for travelers.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exterior dimensions are 23.8 inches wide, so measure your space carefully.
This COSMO microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It combines powerful cooking with smart features and helpful ventilation.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.6/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This sleek stainless steel appliance makes cooking and reheating a breeze with its smart touch panel and helpful auto cooking menu. It’s designed to simplify your meal prep, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 Auto Menus is a lifesaver! You can easily make popcorn, pizza, defrost food, soften cream cheese, and cook rice or potatoes. It helps you create delicious meals quickly and without fuss.
- Its generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable are perfect for larger items. You can fit a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza with ease.
- With 1000W of cooking power and 10 different power levels, you can customize your heating needs for any dish.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system powerfully removes cooking smells and smoke. It has adjustable fan speeds to keep your kitchen fresh.
- A bright cooktop light illuminates your stovetop below, giving you a clear view while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are helpful, some users might prefer more advanced customization options for specific recipes.
- The stainless steel finish, while stylish, can show fingerprints and may require frequent wiping to maintain its shine.
This Midea microwave oven is a smart and capable appliance that simplifies cooking. It’s a great choice for busy households looking for efficiency and convenience.
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: 9.3/10
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 comes bundled with a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. This bundle includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit, ensuring your kitchen stays fresh. You get a full manufacturer’s warranty plus an additional 2 years of extended protection from CPS, totaling a fantastic 4 years of coverage. This oven is designed to make your cooking easier and your kitchen look better.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Special “Melt” feature makes melting butter, chocolate, and more a breeze without burning.
- Easy-clean interior with a handy steam clean option saves you scrubbing time.
- Comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit for better air quality.
- Excellent protection: includes the full manufacturer warranty plus a 2-year extended CPS warranty.
- Stylish stainless steel design fits into most modern kitchens.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are quite specific, so measure your space carefully before buying.
- While it has sensor cooking, some users might prefer more manual control options for certain tasks.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and convenience for your kitchen. The extended warranty provides excellent long-term security for your investment.
Your Guide to Microwave Range Hoods: Cook and Clear the Air!
Tired of your kitchen smelling like last night’s dinner? A microwave range hood combo is a super smart way to save space and keep your kitchen fresh. It’s a microwave that also acts as a vent for your stove. Let’s find the best one for you!
What to Look For: Key Features
1. Venting Power: CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
This tells you how much air the hood can move. More CFM means it’s better at clearing smoke and smells. For most home cooks, 100-200 CFM is great. If you cook a lot of smoky or greasy food, aim for 200-300 CFM or higher. This is a really important number!
2. Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in different sizes. Measure the space above your stove where it will go. Also, think about how much food you usually cook. A 1.6 cubic foot microwave is pretty standard and fits most dishes. Smaller families might be fine with a 1.1 cubic foot model.
3. Filter Type
Most range hoods have filters to catch grease. Look for charcoal filters for recirculating vents (when air is cleaned and sent back into the kitchen). If you have an outdoor vent, metal mesh filters are common. You’ll need to clean or replace these filters to keep the hood working well.
4. Lighting
A good light under the microwave helps you see what you’re cooking on the stove. Some models have LED lights, which are bright and save energy. Others use regular bulbs.
5. Control Type
You can find microwaves with simple buttons or fancy touch screens. Buttons are usually easy to use. Touch screens can look modern but might be harder to clean if they get greasy.
Materials Matter
Most microwave range hoods are made of stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel looks sleek and is strong. It can get fingerprints, so some people prefer models with a special coating. Painted metal is also durable and comes in different colors.
What Makes a Microwave Range Hood Great (or Not So Great)
Quality Boosters:
- Strong CFM: A higher CFM number means better air cleaning.
- Durable Filters: Easy-to-clean or replace filters help the hood work its best.
- Good Lighting: Bright lights make cooking safer and easier.
- Quiet Operation: Some hoods are much louder than others. Look for reviews that mention noise levels.
Quality Reducers:
- Low CFM: If the CFM is too low, smoke and smells will stay in your kitchen.
- Hard-to-Clean Filters: This makes maintenance a chore.
- Weak Lights: You won’t be able to see your stovetop well.
- Flimsy Construction: The unit should feel solid and well-built.
User Experience and Use Cases
A microwave range hood is perfect for small kitchens or apartments where space is tight. It’s a two-in-one appliance, so you don’t need a separate vent hood. Home cooks love how it helps keep their kitchen smelling clean, even after frying or sautéing. Families can easily reheat leftovers, cook quick meals, and vent their stove all at once. It makes cooking a breeze!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is CFM and why is it important for a microwave range hood?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the range hood can pull out of your kitchen. A higher CFM means it’s better at removing smoke, steam, and odors from your cooking.
Q: Do I need to vent my microwave range hood outside?
A: Not always. Some microwave range hoods can recirculate air through filters, sending it back into the kitchen. If you can’t vent outside, make sure it has good charcoal filters. Venting outside is usually more effective.
Q: How often should I clean or replace the filters?
A: It depends on how much you cook. For metal filters, clean them every 1-3 months. For charcoal filters, you usually replace them every 6-12 months. Check your manual for specific advice.
Q: Can I put a microwave range hood over any stove?
A: Yes, you can put it over most electric or gas stoves. Make sure there is enough space between the stovetop and the bottom of the microwave. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe distances.
Q: Are microwave range hoods noisy?
A: Some can be. The noise level is often measured in sones. Lower sone numbers mean quieter operation. Reading reviews can help you find a quieter model.
Q: What is the difference between a microwave range hood and a regular microwave?
A: A microwave range hood has a built-in ventilation system to remove cooking fumes and odors from your stovetop. A regular microwave does not have this feature.
Q: How much space do I need above my stove for a microwave range hood?
A: Typically, you need at least 24 inches of clearance between the stovetop and the bottom of the microwave. Always check the product’s installation manual for exact measurements.
Q: What are the benefits of a microwave range hood?
A: The main benefits are saving space by combining two appliances, improving kitchen air quality, and providing a convenient way to cook and vent simultaneously.
Q: Can I use the microwave and the vent fan at the same time?
A: Yes, most microwave range hoods are designed so you can use the microwave and the vent fan at the same time. This is very convenient.
Q: How do I choose the right size microwave range hood?
A: Measure the width of your stove and the space above it. Microwave range hoods usually come in standard widths like 30 inches. Ensure the height fits your cabinet space.
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!