Imagine a kitchen where every appliance has its perfect spot. The microwave, a kitchen workhorse, often hogs valuable counter space. But what if there was a way to reclaim that space and make your kitchen look sleeker? That’s where the magic of a wall-mounted microwave comes in.
Choosing the right wall-mounted microwave can feel like a maze. You worry about fitting it, how it will look, and if it will actually work well. Many people find it confusing to compare different models and features. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices out there. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate this decision.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great wall-mounted microwave. You’ll learn about the different types, what features to look for, and how to pick one that fits your kitchen’s style and your cooking needs. By the end, you’ll feel confident about choosing a microwave that works for you and makes your kitchen feel more open and organized.
Our Top 5 Wall Mounted Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Wall Mounted Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.1/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile kitchen appliance designed to simplify your cooking. With its 1.9 cubic feet capacity and 1000 watts of power, it can handle a variety of meals, from quick snacks to full dinners. The sleek design fits perfectly over your range, adding both style and functionality to your kitchen.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-Watt Cooking: Heats and cooks food quickly and evenly.
- One-Touch Auto Cooking: Pre-programmed menus for popcorn, potatoes, vegetables, pizza, snacks, bacon, frozen dinners, rice, and frozen breakfast make cooking simple.
- Strong Venting System: The 400 CFM fan effectively removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Bright LED Cooktop Lighting: Illuminates your stovetop for safer and easier cooking.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.9 cu.ft. capacity and 13.5-inch turntable accommodate large dishes, and the turntable can be turned off for oddly shaped items.
- Convenient Features: Includes a clock, kitchen timer, 30-second express cooking, and a child lock for added safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation May Require Assistance: Over-the-range microwaves can be heavy and complex to install.
- Noise Level of Fan: While effective, the 400 CFM fan might be noticeable during operation.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven offers a fantastic combination of power, convenience, and thoughtful features for any busy kitchen. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking experience.
2. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF is a spacious built-in microwave that can handle all your cooking needs. Its large 2.2 cubic feet of space means you can fit big dishes or several items at once. This makes meal prep quick and easy. The microwave also has smart sensors that figure out the best cooking time and power for your food. This helps your food taste great every time.
What We Like:
- Generous 2.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes and multiple items.
- Smart sensors automatically adjust power and time for perfect results.
- Sleek built-in design enhances your kitchen’s look.
- Fits standard cabinet openings with its thoughtful dimensions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Trim kit is sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Cutout dimensions are specific, so measure carefully before purchasing.
This Frigidaire microwave offers a blend of capacity and smart technology for efficient cooking. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen experience.
3. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.4/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This 1.7 cubic feet microwave offers a spacious interior and a powerful 1000-watt output, making it a reliable helper for all your cooking needs. Its sleek white design fits nicely above your stove, and it comes packed with features to simplify meal prep.
What We Like:
- The large capacity is great for cooking bigger meals or heating up leftovers.
- It has a 12.4-inch turntable, which is big enough for most dishes.
- You get 10 different cooking levels, so you can cook food just right.
- There are 6 quick menus for common foods like popcorn, drinks, and defrosting.
- Speedy cooking lets you microwave at full power for 1 to 3 minutes with just one button press.
- Multi-stage cooking allows you to set two different power levels and times for a single cooking session.
- The 300 CFM vent fan is strong and helps clear out smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- The built-in light shines on your stovetop, making it easier to cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan, while strong, might be a bit loud for some users.
- The auto-cook menus are helpful, but a few more options could be useful.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a solid choice for anyone looking for convenience and performance in their kitchen. It handles everyday cooking tasks efficiently and adds a helpful ventilation system to your stovetop.
4. Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave is packed with features to make cooking a breeze. Its spacious 1.7 cu.ft. interior handles large dishes with ease, and the powerful 1000-watt heating ensures quick and even cooking. The intuitive screen touch controls and sensor cooking take the guesswork out of meal prep, while the 300 CFM venting fan keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
What We Like:
- The 1.7 cu.ft. interior is very spacious for cooking big meals.
- Sensor cooking and pre-programmed auto menus simplify cooking for items like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 1000-watt power with 10 adjustable levels gives you great control.
- The 300 CFM venting fan effectively removes cooking odors and smoke.
- Cooktop LED lighting provides a bright view of your stove below.
- The Turntable On/Off option is useful for larger or oddly shaped dishes.
- A 2-year US-based manufacturer warranty offers excellent peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The overall dimensions might be a bit large for some smaller kitchens.
- While the auto menus are helpful, some users might prefer more manual control customization.
This Empava microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience, power, and smart features for modern cooks. It’s a reliable appliance that makes everyday cooking simpler and more enjoyable.
5. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance offers smart cooking features and powerful performance, making meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- The One-touch-cook feature with 18 Auto Menus simplifies cooking. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, defrost food, soften cream cheese, cook rice, bake potatoes, and more. It helps you create delicious meals quickly.
- Its 1.7 cu.ft. capacity is generous. The 12.5-inch turntable fits large items like a rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza with ease.
- With 10 power levels and 1000W of cooking power, you can adjust the heat for all your different cooking needs.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system boasts strong suction. It effectively removes cooking fumes and odors, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh. You can also adjust the fan speeds.
- A bright cooktop light illuminates your stovetop. This gives you a clear view for safe and efficient cooking underneath.
- The Smart Touch Panel is intuitive and easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a slightly larger capacity for very large family meals.
- While the ventilation is effective, some very heavy cooking might still leave a faint odor.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and power. It makes everyday cooking tasks simpler and more enjoyable.
Finding Your Perfect Wall-Mounted Microwave: A Smart Kitchen Upgrade
Tired of your countertop feeling cramped? A wall-mounted microwave might be just the thing to free up space and add a sleek touch to your kitchen. These microwaves hang above your stove or in a cabinet, giving you more room to chop veggies or prepare your favorite meals. Let’s dive into what makes a great wall-mounted microwave and how to pick the best one for your home.
Why Choose a Wall-Mounted Microwave?
Wall-mounted microwaves, also called over-the-range microwaves, are a fantastic choice for many kitchens. They offer a clean look and can even replace your old range hood. This means you get a microwave and ventilation all in one! They are perfect for smaller kitchens where counter space is precious. They also bring a professional feel to your cooking area.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a wall-mounted microwave, keep these important features in mind:
1. Size and Capacity
- Dimensions: Microwaves come in different widths. Measure the space where you plan to install it. Standard sizes are 30 inches wide. Make sure it fits!
- Interior Capacity: This is measured in cubic feet. A larger capacity microwave can fit bigger dishes and more food. Think about what you usually cook. Do you reheat leftovers or cook full meals? For a family, a bigger one is better. For one or two people, a smaller one might be enough.
2. Wattage and Cooking Power
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most good microwaves have at least 1000 watts. This will heat your food quickly and evenly.
3. Ventilation System
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This is how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM is better for removing smoke and smells from your cooking. Look for at least 300 CFM for good ventilation.
- Ducting Options: Some microwaves vent outside (ducted), while others recirculate air with charcoal filters (non-ducted). Ducted is usually more effective.
4. Sensor Cooking and Reheating
- Sensor Technology: This is a smart feature. The microwave senses the humidity of your food and adjusts cooking time automatically. It prevents overcooking or undercooking. It makes cooking much easier.
5. Other Handy Features
- Turntable: A rotating plate that cooks food evenly. Most microwaves have this.
- Presets: Buttons for common foods like popcorn or baked potatoes. These take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Child Lock: A safety feature to prevent little hands from turning it on.
- Lighting: A light to see your stovetop below.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave can affect its durability and look.
- Exterior: Most wall-mounted microwaves have a stainless steel exterior. Stainless steel looks modern and is easy to clean. Some also come in black or white finishes.
- Interior: The inside is usually made of painted metal or ceramic enamel. Ceramic enamel is tougher and easier to wipe clean. It resists scratches and stains well.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: A sturdy construction means the microwave will last longer. Check if the door closes smoothly and the buttons feel solid.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for models with lower decibel ratings.
- Ease of Cleaning: A microwave that’s easy to wipe down inside and out will save you time and effort. Removable turntables and smooth interior surfaces help.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have better quality control and customer support. Reading reviews can help you find a reliable brand.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a wall-mounted microwave is usually very straightforward.
- Everyday Cooking: They are great for reheating meals, cooking frozen dinners, and steaming vegetables.
- Stovetop Ventilation: The built-in fan is very useful. It keeps your kitchen air fresh while you cook on the stove.
- Space Saving: This is the biggest win. It frees up valuable counter space. This makes your kitchen feel bigger and more organized.
- Easy Installation: While professional installation is often recommended, many are designed for straightforward DIY installation if you’re comfortable with basic home repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the average size of a wall-mounted microwave?
A: The most common width for wall-mounted microwaves is 30 inches. However, you can find them in slightly smaller or larger sizes.
Q: How powerful should a wall-mounted microwave be?
A: For good cooking performance, aim for a microwave with at least 1000 watts. This ensures your food heats quickly and evenly.
Q: What is CFM and why is it important for ventilation?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the microwave’s fan can move. A higher CFM is better at removing cooking smoke and smells from your kitchen.
Q: What’s the difference between ducted and non-ducted ventilation?
A: Ducted ventilation sends smoke and smells outside your home. Non-ducted ventilation uses charcoal filters to clean the air and recirculate it back into the kitchen. Ducted is generally more effective.
Q: Is sensor cooking really worth it?
A: Yes, sensor cooking can be very helpful. It automatically adjusts cooking time based on the food’s moisture, preventing overcooking and ensuring better results.
Q: How do I clean the inside of a wall-mounted microwave?
A: Most interiors can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild detergent. For tough stains, you can heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: Can I install a wall-mounted microwave myself?
A: Installation involves electrical work and mounting it securely. While some DIYers can do it, professional installation is often recommended for safety and proper function.
Q: What are the benefits of stainless steel?
A: Stainless steel exteriors look very modern and are quite durable. They are also relatively easy to clean and resist fingerprints better than some other finishes.
Q: How large of a dish can fit inside a typical wall-mounted microwave?
A: The size of a dish that can fit depends on the interior capacity. Larger capacity microwaves can accommodate bigger plates and casserole dishes.
Q: What should I do if my microwave isn’t heating food properly?
A: First, check the power setting and ensure the door is closed securely. If the problem persists, consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for troubleshooting advice.
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!