Imagine this: you’re cooking up a storm, and your countertops are already packed with ingredients and gadgets. Where does that bulky microwave go? It’s a common kitchen puzzle, and one that many homeowners face. Finding the perfect microwave that fits your space and your needs can feel like a treasure hunt, especially when you’re trying to save precious counter real estate.
That’s where overhead microwaves come in. These clever appliances mount above your stove or cooktop, freeing up your counters and adding a sleek, modern look to your kitchen. But with so many styles and features available, how do you pick the one that’s just right for you? It can be confusing to know which ones are powerful enough, easy to clean, or even fit your kitchen’s vibe.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about overhead microwaves. We’ll help you understand the different types, what to look for when you shop, and how to make sure your new appliance is a perfect fit for your cooking adventures. Get ready to discover how an overhead microwave can transform your kitchen!
Our Top 5 Overhead Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Overhead Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This 1.9 cu.ft microwave packs 1000 watts of power, making it a workhorse for all your cooking needs. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your stove, saving valuable counter space. Plus, it comes with helpful auto-cooking features to make meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking heats food fast.
- Pre-programmed auto menus simplify cooking for things like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- A strong 400 CFM venting fan clears smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop for safer cooking.
- The turntable can be turned off to fit larger dishes.
- Ten power settings and 30-second express cooking give you lots of control.
- A child lock feature adds safety for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation instructions are only available online, which might be less convenient for some.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer a model with more advanced smart technology.
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is a solid choice for busy kitchens. It offers a great combination of power, convenience, and smart features.
2. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cu. ft. stainless steel powerhouse brings speed and convenience to your cooking. With 1000 watts of cooking power, it heats food quickly and evenly. It’s a great choice for busy families who need to get meals on the table fast. Its sleek design also saves valuable counter space.
What We Like:
- It has 1000 watts of power, which cooks food fast and evenly.
- The 1.7 cu. ft. size is big enough for most dishes and even large meals.
- You can cook many different things with its special cooking options like vegetables and snacks.
- It has smart defrost settings that work by time or weight, making thawing easy.
- The Quick +30 seconds button and melt/soften features are super handy for everyday use.
- A child safety lock keeps little ones safe around the microwave.
- It has a bright LED display, a vent fan, and a light for the stovetop below.
- You can change the volume of the beeping sound to your liking.
- Mounting it over the range saves counter space and looks good in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the interface a little complex at first.
- While powerful, very dense or thick foods might still need a bit longer to cook through completely.
This Farberware microwave oven offers a fantastic blend of power, capacity, and smart features for modern kitchens. It’s a practical and stylish addition that makes meal prep 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: 9.1/10
The GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This bundle also comes with a premium 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. It’s built with quality and convenience in mind, making your cooking and cleaning tasks much simpler.
What We Like:
- You get a 2-year extended protection plan on top of the full manufacturer’s warranty, so you’re well covered.
- The 1.9 cu. ft. capacity is generous, fitting larger dishes easily.
- The melt feature is super handy for perfectly melting butter, chocolate, and more without burning.
- Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the easy-clean interior and steam clean option.
- It comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit, which is great for keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- This microwave is from GE USA, a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a bit large for some smaller kitchens.
- While the steam clean is easy, some tougher stains might still require a little scrubbing.
This GE microwave bundle offers excellent value and convenience for your kitchen. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich over-the-range microwave.
4. 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. This stylish stainless steel microwave offers a generous 1.6 cubic feet of space, perfect for heating up leftovers or cooking quick meals. It’s designed for convenience with easy-to-use controls. Plus, this bundle comes with a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, which helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
What We Like:
- It has a good size with 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for your cooking needs.
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan for extra security.
- A charcoal filter replacement is included to keep your kitchen air clean.
- It’s an over-the-range model, saving valuable counter space.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and sleek in any kitchen.
- GE is a trusted brand for kitchen appliances.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit large for some smaller kitchens.
- More specific details about the “convenience cooking controls” would be helpful.
This GE microwave bundle offers a great combination of capacity, style, and protection. It’s a solid choice for a functional and attractive kitchen upgrade.
5. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.1/10
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 ventilation, making meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 Auto Menus makes cooking simple. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, or even defrost food.
- It has a large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity. The 12.5-inch turntable fits big items like a rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- You get 10 power levels, including a strong 1000W output, so you can heat food just right.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system with adjustable fan speeds powerfully removes cooking smells and smoke from your kitchen.
- A bright cooktop light shines down on your stove, giving you a clear view while you cook.
- The Smart Touch Panel is easy to use and looks modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are helpful, some users might prefer more customizable options for advanced cooking.
- The installation process might require professional help for some homeowners.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, combining convenience and performance. It helps you cook quickly and keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend: The Overhead Microwave Buying Guide
Tired of your countertop looking like a microwave parking lot? An overhead microwave, also known as an over-the-range microwave, can be a game-changer for your kitchen. It saves precious counter space and often comes with a handy vent to clear out cooking smells. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
Why Choose an Overhead Microwave?
Overhead microwaves are smart choices for smaller kitchens. They combine a microwave with a range hood. This means you can heat up leftovers and cook meals while also ventilating your stovetop. It’s a two-in-one appliance that makes your kitchen more efficient.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep these important features in mind:
- Ventilation Power: This is crucial. Look at the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating. Higher CFM means it can clear smoke and smells faster. For most kitchens, 300-400 CFM is a good starting point.
- Microwave Wattage: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Aim for at least 900 watts for efficient heating.
- Size and Capacity: Measure the space above your stove. Also, consider how much food you usually cook. Most overhead microwaves are around 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet.
- Convection Cooking: Some models offer convection. This means they can bake and roast like a small oven, giving you more cooking options.
- Sensor Cooking: This clever feature detects steam and adjusts cooking time and power automatically. It helps prevent overcooking.
- Turntable or Recessed Turntable: A turntable spins your food for even heating. Some have a recessed design that allows you to fit larger dishes.
- Lighting: A good under-cabinet light helps you see what you’re cooking on the stovetop.
Important Materials
Most overhead microwaves use a combination of materials:
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for its durability and sleek look. It’s also easy to clean.
- Plastic: The interior and some exterior parts are often made of durable plastic.
- Glass: The door window and the turntable are made of strong glass.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make an overhead microwave better or worse:
- Build Quality: A sturdy construction means it will last longer. Check for solid doors and controls.
- Noise Level: Look for models that are not too loud, especially when the fan is on.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior and exterior make cleaning simple. Removable filters for the vent are also a plus.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often offer better customer support and more reliable products.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using an overhead microwave is super convenient. You can quickly reheat meals, pop popcorn, or defrost food. The vent fan is a lifesaver for clearing smoke when you’re frying or searing. If your model has convection, you can even bake cookies or roast vegetables. It’s perfect for busy families, small apartment dwellers, or anyone who wants a more organized kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions about Overhead Microwaves
Q: What is the main benefit of an overhead microwave?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space by mounting it above your stove.
Q: How do I know if an overhead microwave will fit my kitchen?
A: Measure the space above your stove carefully. Check the microwave’s dimensions before buying.
Q: Is the vent fan powerful enough?
A: Look for a high CFM rating. 300-400 CFM is usually good for most kitchens.
Q: What does “convection cooking” mean for a microwave?
A: It means the microwave can also bake and roast like a small oven.
Q: How important is microwave wattage?
A: Higher wattage means your food cooks faster. Aim for at least 900 watts.
Q: Can I cook large dishes in an overhead microwave?
A: Check the interior capacity (cubic feet). Some models have recessed turntables that let you fit bigger plates.
Q: How do I clean an overhead microwave?
A: Most have easy-to-clean interiors. Removable filters for the vent fan make cleaning simpler.
Q: Are overhead microwaves noisy?
A: Some are quieter than others. Reading reviews can help you find a less noisy model.
Q: What if I don’t have a vent duct in my wall?
A: Some overhead microwaves offer recirculating vents. These clean the air and send it back into the kitchen.
Q: How long do overhead microwaves typically last?
A: With good care, they can last 7-10 years, sometimes even longer.
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!