Tired of your kitchen counter feeling cramped? Imagine reclaiming that valuable space, where your toaster and coffee maker used to battle for room. That’s the magic an under-cabinet microwave can bring to your home. It’s a smart way to add a modern convenience without sacrificing precious countertop real estate.
But choosing the perfect one isn’t always easy. You might wonder about installation, the right size, or how much power you actually need. It’s a big decision, and we know you want to get it right. You want a microwave that fits your kitchen’s style and your cooking habits.
This guide is here to help! We’ll break down everything you need to know about under-cabinet microwaves. By the end, you’ll feel confident picking the best option for your kitchen. Get ready to discover how to make your cooking space more functional and stylish.
Our Top 5 Under Cabinet Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Cabinet Microwave Ovens 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: 8.8/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s designed for convenience and offers great value, especially with the included extended protection plan. This microwave helps you cook and reheat food quickly and easily.
What We Like:
- You get a GE USA AUTHORIZED product.
- It includes a 2-year extended protection plan, which is a great bonus.
- A charcoal filter replacement is included, keeping your air fresh.
- It has a good 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, fitting most dishes.
- Convenience cooking controls make it easy to use.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit small for very large items.
- The description doesn’t mention specific advanced cooking features.
This bundle offers a reliable and well-protected microwave for your daily cooking needs. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a dependable over-the-range option.
2. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.3/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It makes cooking and reheating food a breeze with its smart features and powerful performance. This stainless steel microwave looks great above your stove and helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
What We Like:
- The One-touch-cook feature with 18 Auto Menus takes the guesswork out of cooking. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, bake potatoes, and even soften cream cheese with just a touch.
- Its generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.5-inch turntable easily fit large items like a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- With 1000W of cooking power and 10-level power settings, you have the flexibility to heat food perfectly, whether you need a gentle warm-up or rapid cooking.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system with adjustable fan speeds powerfully removes cooking odors and fumes, keeping your kitchen air clean and fresh.
- A bright cooktop light provides excellent visibility for cooking on the stovetop below.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto menus are convenient, some users might prefer more customizable options for advanced cooking.
- The learning curve for all the smart touch panel features might take a little time for some users to master.
This Midea microwave oven is a smart and efficient choice for busy kitchens. It combines powerful cooking capabilities with helpful auto features, making meal preparation simpler and more enjoyable.
3. GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven White Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This white microwave is a great addition to any home, offering powerful cooking and efficient ventilation. Plus, it comes with an excellent protection plan for your peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Great Protection: This bundle includes a full manufacturer’s warranty and an extra 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan. This means your microwave is covered for a total of 2 years beyond the standard warranty, giving you extra security.
- Spacious Interior: With a 1.6 cubic foot capacity, you can easily heat up large meals or cook for your family.
- Powerful Cooking: It cooks food quickly and evenly with 1000 watts of power.
- Clean Air: The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively removes smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen, keeping the air fresh.
- Easy to Use Controls: Convenience cooking controls make operating the microwave quick and simple. You can also choose to turn the turntable on or off, which is helpful for different types of dishes.
- Smart Defrosting: Auto and time defrost options automatically set the right time and power level for perfect defrosting, or you can set it manually.
- Simple Maintenance: Replacing the charcoal filter is easy, as it’s located behind the door grille.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: This specific bundle is only available in white.
- Ventilation Power: While 300-CFM is good, some may prefer a higher CFM for very heavy cooking.
This GE microwave offers a great combination of performance and protection. It’s a solid choice for busy kitchens looking for reliable and easy-to-use cooking.
4. GE GCST14S1WWW Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.5/10
The GE GCST14S1WWW Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen, dorm room, or apartment. It offers 1,100 watts of power and a 1.4 cubic foot capacity, making it perfect for everyday cooking tasks. This microwave comes in a clean white finish and includes helpful features like child-lock technology and auto-cooking settings.
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooking: With 1100 watts, this microwave heats and cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.4 cubic foot capacity fits larger dishes and meals.
- Even Cooking: The glass turntable rotates food for consistent cooking results.
- Smart Cooking: Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for perfect meals.
- Easy Defrosting: Weight and Time Defrost options make thawing food simple.
- Safety First: The two-step child lock prevents accidental use, giving you peace of mind.
- User-Friendly: Instant On express cooking and simple controls make operation a breeze.
- Compact Design: It fits easily on countertops without taking up too much space.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Auto Settings: While it has 7 auto cooking settings, some users might prefer more variety.
- Basic Appearance: The all-white design is simple and might not appeal to everyone looking for a more modern look.
This GE microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It balances power and capacity with helpful features, making it a great value for its price point.
5. GE JEM3072SHSS Microwave Oven 700 Watts
Rating: 9.4/10
The GE JEM3072SHSS Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It packs a punch with 700 watts of power, making it great for heating up leftovers or cooking quick meals. Its compact size means it won’t hog your precious counter space, and the sleek stainless steel finish looks super stylish. Plus, you can even install it under your cabinets for even more space-saving!
What We Like:
- The 700-watt power heats food quickly and evenly.
- Its small 0.7 cubic feet size is perfect for tight kitchens.
- You can place it on the counter or mount it under a cabinet.
- One-touch controls and quick cooking options make it super easy to use.
- You can choose between automatic or manual defrost for perfectly thawed food.
- The stainless steel and black glass design looks really modern and clean.
- Safety features like a child lock and cooking alarms offer peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be a bit small for larger families or big dishes.
- While powerful for its size, it might not be the best choice for very heavy-duty cooking.
This GE microwave is a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable and stylish countertop appliance. It offers great functionality without taking up too much room.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Under Cabinet Microwave Ovens
Are you looking to save counter space in your kitchen? An under cabinet microwave oven is a fantastic solution! It keeps your countertops clear and your cooking area organized. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
Why Choose an Under Cabinet Microwave?
These microwaves mount neatly above your stove or sink. This frees up valuable counter space. It also gives your kitchen a cleaner, more streamlined look. Plus, they often come with helpful features like built-in ventilation and lighting.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Capacity
- Width: Measure the space where you plan to install it. Standard sizes are often around 30 inches wide.
- Interior Capacity: This is measured in cubic feet. Smaller kitchens might only need 1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet. Larger families might want 2.0 cubic feet or more.
2. Ventilation System
- Recirculating: These models filter and recirculate air within the kitchen. They are easier to install.
- Venting (Ducting): These models push smoke and steam outside your home. They offer better air quality but require a duct system.
- Fan Speed: Look for multiple fan speeds to handle different cooking messes.
3. Wattage
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most under cabinet microwaves range from 900 to 1200 watts. 1000 watts is a good balance for most needs.
4. Controls and Features
- Digital Touchpads: These are easy to clean and offer precise control.
- Preset Cooking Options: Buttons for popcorn, baked potatoes, or reheating are very handy.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature adjusts cooking time and power automatically based on the food’s moisture.
- Child Lock: A safety feature to prevent accidental use.
- Built-in Lighting: Lights under the microwave illuminate your stovetop.
Important Materials
Most under cabinet microwaves have an outer casing made of stainless steel. Stainless steel is durable and looks great in modern kitchens. The interior is usually a ceramic enamel or stainless steel. Ceramic enamel is easy to wipe clean. Stainless steel interiors are very durable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better materials and have more reliable products.
- Build Quality: A sturdy feel, smooth-gliding door, and well-made buttons suggest better quality.
- Warranty: A longer warranty period can indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
Reducing Quality:
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels lightweight or has a wobbly door might not last long.
- Poor Ventilation: If the fan is weak, it won’t effectively clear smoke and odors.
- Limited Features: A microwave with very basic functions might be frustrating for some users.
User Experience and Use Cases
An under cabinet microwave is perfect for anyone wanting a clutter-free kitchen. Families can use them for quick meals and reheating leftovers. Busy individuals appreciate the convenience of sensor cooking and preset options. Homeowners who love to cook will find the built-in ventilation and lighting very useful for their stovetop.
Many people find these microwaves easy to use after a quick look at the manual. The controls are usually straightforward. Cleaning is also simple, especially with non-stick interior surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I measure for an under cabinet microwave?
A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening where the microwave will go. Also, check for necessary electrical outlet placement.
Q: Do under cabinet microwaves come with ventilation?
A: Yes, they always come with a ventilation system. You can choose between recirculating or ducted systems.
Q: Can I install an under cabinet microwave myself?
A: Installation can be tricky, especially if you need to connect ductwork. Many people hire a professional for safety and proper installation.
Q: What is the difference between recirculating and ducted ventilation?
A: Recirculating filters air and sends it back into the kitchen. Ducted systems push smoke and steam outside your home through vents.
Q: How much power (wattage) do I need?
A: For most tasks like reheating and simple cooking, 1000 watts is sufficient. Higher wattage cooks food faster.
Q: Are under cabinet microwaves noisy?
A: Noise levels can vary. Check product reviews for information on fan and operational noise.
Q: How do I clean an under cabinet microwave?
A: Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild detergent. The exterior can be cleaned with a stainless steel cleaner or a damp cloth.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect the moisture level of food and automatically adjusts cooking time and power for perfect results.
Q: How long do under cabinet microwaves typically last?
A: With proper care and use, an under cabinet microwave can last between 7 to 15 years.
Q: Are they more expensive than countertop microwaves?
A: Generally, yes, they can be more expensive due to the added ventilation features and installation requirements.
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!