Imagine this: you’re whipping up a quick meal, and your stovetop is a hive of activity. But where do you put that popcorn bag or reheat those leftovers? If your kitchen feels a little cramped, or if you’re dreaming of a cleaner countertop, then the over-the-stove microwave might be your kitchen hero. These clever appliances can be a real game-changer, freeing up valuable counter space and adding a sleek look to your cooking area.
But let’s be honest, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle. Do you need a powerful fan for your cooking smells? How much cooking power is *enough*? What about fitting it all above your stove without it looking out of place? These are the questions that can make your head spin, and we know how frustrating it is to feel overwhelmed by choices when you just want a functional kitchen.
That’s where we come in! This guide is designed to cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what you really need to know about over-the-stove microwaves, from their handy features to what to look for before you buy. By the end, you’ll feel confident in finding an over-the-stove microwave that fits your cooking style, your kitchen, and your budget, so you can get back to what you love – cooking delicious meals!
Our Top 5 Over The Stove Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Stove Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.9/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking is a kitchen game-changer. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great above any stove. This microwave is built to handle all your cooking needs.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior easily fits large dishes and a 12.4-inch turntable. It’s perfect for family meals or big cooking projects.
- 10 Cooking Levels & Quick Menus: With 1000 watts of power, it cooks food fast. Plus, six one-touch auto-cook menus make cooking popcorn, heating drinks, or defrosting food super simple.
- Speedy Cooking: Need food fast? Press buttons 1, 2, or 3 for 100% power cooking for 1 to 3 minutes. It’s great for quick snacks.
- Multi-stage Cooking: You can set it to cook at different power levels for different times. This helps food cook evenly and saves you from watching it constantly.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: The powerful vent fan clears cooking smells and smoke. The built-in light shines brightly on your stovetop, making cooking easier.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan, while powerful, might be a bit loud for some users.
- The auto-cook menus are convenient, but sometimes manual adjustments are still needed for perfect results.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven offers a great blend of power, capacity, and smart features. It’s a solid addition to any kitchen looking for efficiency and style.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This spacious 1.9 cu.ft microwave makes cooking a breeze with its powerful 1000 watts and convenient one-touch features. It’s designed to fit perfectly over your stove, giving you more counter space and adding a sleek look to your kitchen.
What We Like:
- It boasts pre-programmed auto menus for all your favorite foods like popcorn, pizza, and frozen dinners.
- The 1000-watt power and ten different power settings give you great control over cooking.
- A bright LED light under the microwave illuminates your cooktop, making meal prep safer and easier.
- The 400 CFM venting fan effectively removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is super helpful for cooking larger dishes.
- The 30-second express cooking feature is perfect for quick reheating.
- A child lock adds an extra layer of safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the internal dimensions are generous, some users might prefer an even larger capacity.
- The installation instructions are available online, but some might prefer a physical manual included.
This microwave offers a great combination of power, convenience, and thoughtful features for any home chef. It’s a solid choice for making your kitchen tasks simpler and more enjoyable.
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
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle. This bundle includes the microwave and a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack for extra peace of mind. It’s a great choice for busy families and anyone who loves to cook.
What We Like:
- This microwave has a good size, 1.6 cu. ft., so it can fit many dishes.
- It comes with convenience cooking controls that make heating up food easy.
- You get a 2-year extended protection plan for free, which is a fantastic bonus.
- It includes a charcoal filter replacement to keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
- The stainless steel design looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
- It’s made by GE USA, a trusted brand.
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.
- The control panel might take a little practice to learn all the features.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value with its capacity, convenience features, and extended protection plan. It’s a solid addition to any modern kitchen.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.9/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great above your stove. This microwave makes cooking easier with its smart features and powerful performance.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature is super handy. It has 18 auto menus for things like popcorn, pizza, and even potatoes. You can cook a lot of different foods easily.
- It has a large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity. The 12.5-inch turntable fits 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 system is strong. It quickly gets rid of cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- A bright light under the microwave helps you see what you’re cooking on the stovetop.
- The Smart Touch Panel is easy to use and looks modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are great, some users might wish for more customization options beyond the presets.
- The ventilation fan, while powerful, can be a bit noisy on its highest setting.
This Midea microwave is a solid choice for busy households. It offers convenience, power, and effective ventilation, making meal prep a breeze.
5. GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven White Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in classic white. This bundle comes with peace of mind thanks to an extended 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, adding to the already included full manufacturer protection. It’s a smart choice for busy families.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Powerful 1000 watts cooks food quickly and evenly.
- A two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively clears smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen.
- The turntable On/Off feature gives you control over how your food cooks.
- Auto and time defrost options make preparing frozen foods a breeze.
- Convenience cooking controls simplify operation for everyday tasks.
- Includes a charcoal filter for easy odor control.
- The extended 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan offers extra security.
What Could Be Improved:
- The white color might show smudges more easily than darker options.
- Installation instructions for the venting system could be clearer for some users.
This GE microwave is a reliable addition to any kitchen, offering both performance and excellent value. The included extended protection plan makes it an even more secure purchase.
Your Guide to Over-the-Stove Microwaves: Cook Smarter, Save Space!
An over-the-stove microwave, also known as a range microwave, is a fantastic way to add cooking power and convenience to your kitchen. It sits right above your stovetop, saving valuable counter space. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
What to Look For: Key Features
1. Size and Capacity
- **Width:** Most are 30 inches wide, fitting standard stove openings. Measure your space first!
- **Interior Volume:** Measured in cubic feet, this tells you how much food fits inside. A family might need 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet. A single person could get by with 1.0 to 1.4 cubic feet.
2. Wattage and Cooking Power
- Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for good performance. Some models go up to 1200 watts, which is super quick.
3. Ventilation System
- This is super important! It pulls smoke, steam, and smells from your stove.
- **CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute):** This number shows how much air it can move. Higher CFM is better for strong cooking smells. Aim for at least 200 CFM for good ventilation.
- **Ducting:** Some vent outside (ducted), others recirculate air with filters (non-ducted). Ducted is more powerful.
- **Fan Speeds:** Multiple speeds let you adjust to how much smoke you’re making.
4. Cooking Presets and Features
- **Sensor Cooking:** This is a smart feature. It senses moisture and adjusts cooking time automatically. No more guessing!
- **Reheat and Defrost:** Most have these. Sensor reheat is a big plus.
- **Turntable:** Keeps food cooking evenly. Some have a larger turntable for bigger dishes.
- **Child Lock:** A safety feature to keep little hands out.
5. Lighting
- A good light helps you see what you’re cooking on the stove below. Look for bright LED lights.
Materials That Matter
Most over-the-stove microwaves have exteriors made of stainless steel or coated metal. Stainless steel looks sleek and is durable. Coated metal can come in different colors. The interior is usually a non-stick enamel or stainless steel. Non-stick interiors are easier to clean.
What Makes a Quality Microwave (and What Doesn’t)
Quality Boosters:
- Strong Ventilation: A powerful fan that really clears the air.
- Even Cooking: A good turntable and consistent wattage.
- Intuitive Controls: Easy-to-understand buttons and a clear display.
- Durable Build: Sturdy construction that feels solid.
Quality Reducers:
- Weak Ventilation: Smells and steam linger in your kitchen.
- Uneven Cooking: Some parts of your food are hot, others are cold.
- Flimsy Feel: The microwave shakes or feels cheap.
- Confusing Controls: You have to read the manual every time you use it.
User Experience and Use Cases
These microwaves are perfect for anyone who wants to save counter space. They’re great for small kitchens or anyone who likes a clean, uncluttered look.
- Busy Families: Quickly reheat leftovers or cook meals with sensor presets.
- Apartment Dwellers: Maximize limited kitchen space.
- Home Cooks: The ventilation helps keep the kitchen fresh while you’re frying or sautéing.
- Anyone Who Loves Convenience: Having a microwave right where you cook is super handy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Over-the-Stove Microwaves
Q: What is the most important feature to consider?
A: The ventilation system is crucial. It keeps your kitchen air clean.
Q: How do I know if it will fit my stove?
A: Measure the width of your stove’s opening. Most are 30 inches.
Q: What does CFM mean?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. More CFM is better.
Q: Should I get a ducted or non-ducted model?
A: Ducted microwaves vent outside and are more effective. Non-ducted recirculate air with filters.
Q: Is sensor cooking really helpful?
A: Yes, sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power. It makes cooking easier and more accurate.
Q: How much wattage do I need?
A: At least 900 watts is recommended for good cooking speed.
Q: Are these microwaves hard to clean?
A: Most have non-stick interiors and are easy to wipe down. Stainless steel exteriors wipe clean easily.
Q: What if I don’t have an outside vent?
A: You can use a non-ducted model. Make sure it has good filters.
Q: Do they cook food as well as regular microwaves?
A: Yes, when you choose a model with good wattage and features, they cook just as well.
Q: Are they noisy?
A: Fan noise varies. Look for reviews that mention noise levels if this is a concern for you.
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!