Tired of your countertop looking cluttered? Imagine a kitchen where your microwave slides neatly into place, freeing up valuable counter space. That’s the magic of an under-cabinet microwave! But with so many models out there, finding the perfect one can feel like a puzzle.
Many people struggle to figure out which under-cabinet microwave is best for their kitchen. You want one that fits, works great, and looks good too. It’s easy to get lost in all the features and sizes. This guide is here to help you cut through the confusion.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll cover the important features, how to measure, and what makes a good under-cabinet microwave. Get ready to transform your kitchen and make cooking a breeze!
Our Top 5 Under Cabinet Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Cabinet Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle. This package includes not only a stylish and functional microwave but also a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan. It’s designed to make your cooking easier and give you peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Convenient Cooking: This microwave offers easy-to-use controls for all your cooking needs.
- Ample Capacity: The 1.6 cu. ft. size is great for heating up meals or cooking small dishes.
- Built-in Filter: It comes with a charcoal filter replacement, which helps keep your kitchen air fresh.
- Extended Protection: The 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan adds extra security for your investment.
- Stylish Design: The stainless steel finish looks sleek in any kitchen.
- Authorized Seller: You’re buying from a GE USA authorized dealer.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Dimensions: While dimensions are provided, some users might want more detailed installation guides.
- Limited Color Options: The bundle is only available in stainless steel.
This GE microwave bundle offers a great combination of functionality and protection. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their kitchen experience.
2. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cu. ft. stainless steel microwave is a powerful and versatile addition to any home chef’s arsenal. It offers a generous cooking space and smart features to make meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior easily fits larger dishes, and the 12.4-inch turntable ensures even cooking. It’s like having an extra helper in the kitchen.
- 10 Cooking Levels & Quick Menus: With 1000 watts of power and 6 handy presets for popcorn, beverages, melting, reheating, and defrosting, you can cook your favorite foods perfectly.
- Speedy Cooking: Need food fast? Just press 1, 2, or 3 for instant 100% power cooking for up to 3 minutes.
- Multi-stage Cooking: This smart feature lets you set two different power levels and times for one cooking cycle, saving you time and effort.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan: The powerful two-speed vent fan effectively clears smoke and smells from your kitchen. It also has a built-in light to illuminate your stovetop.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 1000-watt power is good, some might prefer an even higher wattage for faster cooking.
- The “one-touch auto cooking” is helpful, but a wider variety of specific auto-cook options could be beneficial for some users.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for those seeking functionality and style. It brings convenience and efficiency to your cooking experience.
3. GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven White Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in classic white. This bundle offers more than just a powerful microwave; it includes a fantastic 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack for extra peace of mind. It’s a smart choice for busy households.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes.
- 1000 watts of power cooks food quickly.
- The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system clears smoke and smells.
- Turntable On/Off lets you control how food cooks.
- Auto and time defrost make getting ready to cook easy.
- Convenience cooking controls are simple to use.
- The bundle includes a full manufacturer’s protection plan plus an additional 2-year extended plan.
- Easy charcoal filter replacement keeps your kitchen fresh.
What Could Be Improved:
- The white color might show smudges more easily than darker options.
- Installation of the oven itself is not included in this bundle.
This GE microwave bundle provides great cooking power and excellent protection for your investment. It’s a reliable addition to any kitchen.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.8/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel design looks modern. This microwave makes cooking and heating food super simple.
What We Like:
- It has 18 Auto Menus for easy cooking. You can make popcorn, pizza, or even cook potatoes with just one touch.
- The large 1.7 cu.ft. capacity fits big dishes. A 12.5-inch turntable holds a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- You get 10 different power levels, including a strong 1000W output. This means you can heat food just right.
- The 300 CFM ventilation fan is powerful. It removes cooking smells and smoke quickly, keeping your kitchen fresh.
- A bright light shines on your stovetop. This helps you see clearly while you cook below.
- The Smart Touch Panel is easy to use. It makes selecting your cooking options a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the auto menus take a little getting used to.
- While the ventilation is strong, it might be a bit noisy for some.
This Midea microwave oven is a practical and powerful appliance. It simplifies meal prep and keeps your kitchen air clean.
5. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper! This stylish black microwave is designed to make cooking easier and faster. It fits perfectly over your stove, saving valuable counter space. With its large capacity and powerful features, it’s ready for any culinary challenge.
What We Like:
- Spacious Interior: The 1.7 cubic feet of space easily fits large dishes and has a 12.4-inch turntable to ensure even cooking.
- Convenient Auto Cook Options: Six one-touch menus for popcorn, drinks, melting, reheating, and defrosting make everyday cooking a breeze.
- Quick Cooking Power: The 1000-watt output cooks food fast. Simply press 1, 2, or 3 for instant 1-3 minute cooking at full power.
- Smart Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by setting the microwave to cook at different power levels for different durations all at once.
- Effective Venting System: The 300 CFM vent fan with two speeds quickly removes cooking smells and smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh. The built-in light illuminates your stovetop for safer cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While simple to use, mastering the multi-stage cooking might take a little practice for some users.
- Vent Fan Noise Level: While powerful, the vent fan can be a bit noisy on its highest setting, which is common for many over-the-range microwaves.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both convenience and performance. It simplifies meal preparation and helps keep your cooking space clean and well-lit.
Your Guide to Under Cabinet Microwaves: Smart Cooking, Smart Space
Looking for a microwave that saves counter space and cooks your food perfectly? An under cabinet microwave might be just what you need. These handy appliances mount right under your kitchen cabinets, freeing up valuable counter real estate. Let’s dive into what makes a great under cabinet microwave and how to choose the best one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Ventilation: This is super important. Most under cabinet microwaves have built-in fans that vent smoke and steam from your stovetop. Make sure the fan is powerful enough for your cooking habits. Look for CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings. A higher CFM means better ventilation.
- Size and Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Measure the space under your cabinets before you buy. You’ll want a microwave that fits comfortably without looking too cramped or too small. Capacity is measured in cubic feet. Think about how much food you usually heat up. A family might need a larger capacity than a single person.
- Power Levels and Presets: Most microwaves offer different power levels. This lets you cook delicate foods gently or heat up leftovers quickly. Preset cooking options are also handy. They can cook common foods like popcorn or baked potatoes with just a touch of a button.
- Lighting: A good light under the microwave illuminates your stovetop. This helps you see what you’re cooking and makes your kitchen safer.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures your food cooks evenly. Some larger microwaves might have an option to turn this off.
- Control Panel: Some control panels are simple and easy to use. Others have lots of buttons and settings. Choose one that feels comfortable for you. Digital displays are usually clearer than older analog dials.
Important Materials
The materials used in an under cabinet microwave affect its durability and appearance.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for microwave exteriors. It looks sleek and is easy to clean. Stainless steel is also strong and lasts a long time.
- Plastic: Some internal parts and even exterior accents might be made of plastic. High-quality plastic is durable.
- Glass: The turntable is usually made of glass. It’s easy to wash and withstands heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make an under cabinet microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The doors should open and close smoothly. The buttons should be responsive. Poorly made microwaves can feel flimsy and break easily.
- Fan Noise: A quiet fan is a big plus. You don’t want your microwave to be so loud that it drowns out conversations or makes cooking unpleasant.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for smooth surfaces inside and out. Removable and dishwasher-safe turntables make cleaning much easier. Microwaves with many nooks and crannies can be harder to keep clean.
- Installation: Some microwaves are easier to install than others. If you’re not handy with tools, you might want to choose a model that is simpler to mount.
User Experience and Use Cases
Under cabinet microwaves are designed for convenience.
- Saving Space: Their main benefit is freeing up counter space. This is perfect for smaller kitchens or for people who like a minimalist look.
- Stovetop Cooking: The built-in ventilation and lighting make them ideal for use over a stovetop. You can easily heat things up while you cook your main meal.
- Quick Meals: They are great for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or quickly preparing simple meals.
- Family Use: Larger capacity models can handle family-sized portions. Easy-to-use controls are good for all family members.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main advantage of an under cabinet microwave?
A: The main advantage is that it saves valuable counter space in your kitchen.
Q: Do all under cabinet microwaves vent air?
A: Most under cabinet microwaves have built-in ventilation systems to remove smoke and steam from your stovetop.
Q: How do I know what size microwave to buy?
A: Measure the space under your cabinets carefully before you shop. Also, consider how much food you usually heat at once.
Q: What does CFM mean for a microwave fan?
A: CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM means the fan is more powerful.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves worth the extra cost?
A: Stainless steel looks nice, is durable, and is easy to clean, which many people find worth the investment.
Q: How important is the turntable in a microwave?
A: A turntable helps your food cook evenly by rotating it. This is important for most cooking and reheating.
Q: Can I use an under cabinet microwave if I don’t have a stovetop underneath it?
A: Yes, you can install an under cabinet microwave even if there isn’t a stovetop below it. You’ll just need to ensure it’s securely mounted and has proper ventilation if needed.
Q: How do I clean my under cabinet microwave?
A: Clean the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. Many turntables are dishwasher safe. Wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth.
Q: Are under cabinet microwaves difficult to install?
A: Installation can vary. Some models are designed for easier DIY installation, while others might require professional help.
Q: What should I do if my microwave’s fan is too loud?
A: Check your user manual for fan settings. If the noise persists, it might be a sign of a fan issue, and you may need to contact the manufacturer.
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!