Tired of your microwave hogging precious counter space? You’re not alone! Many kitchens feel cramped, and finding a microwave that fits perfectly without getting in the way can be a real challenge. That’s where the under-cabinet microwave comes in, offering a clever solution to reclaim your countertops.
But choosing the right one isn’t always easy. There are so many styles, sizes, and features to consider! You want a microwave that cooks food well, looks good in your kitchen, and is easy to install. It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which one is best for your needs.
This guide is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a great under-cabinet microwave and what you should look for. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which model will be the perfect addition to your kitchen, making your cooking and your kitchen space much happier.
Our Top 5 Under The Cabinet Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under The Cabinet Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This spacious 1.9 cu.ft. microwave packs a powerful 1000 watts of cooking power, making it a workhorse for all your reheating and cooking needs. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your stovetop, adding both style and functionality to your cooking space.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly and evenly with 1000 watts of power.
- The one-touch auto cooking features are super handy for common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- It has a bright LED light that shines down on your cooktop, making it easy to see while you’re cooking.
- The powerful 400 CFM venting fan clears smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is great for cooking bigger dishes.
- It has a child lock to keep little ones safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- The internal dimensions might feel a bit snug for very large or oddly shaped items.
- While the auto menus are helpful, some users might prefer more manual control options.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens. It simplifies cooking with its smart features and keeps your kitchen air fresh.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel microwave is not only a powerful cooking appliance but also comes as a special bundle. You get the microwave itself, plus a 2-year extended protection plan for peace of mind. It also includes a charcoal filter replacement, which is essential for keeping your kitchen smelling fresh. This microwave is designed for convenience and makes cooking a breeze.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Convenience cooking options simplify meal preparation.
- Includes a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack for added security.
- Comes with a charcoal filter replacement, ensuring good air quality.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
- GE USA Authorized ensures you are buying from a trusted source.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a tight fit for some over-the-range installations.
- Specific details about the “convenience cooking controls” are not provided.
This bundle offers a great combination of style, functionality, and protection. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their kitchen experience.
3. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel offers a powerful and convenient way to cook and reheat your favorite foods. Its 1.7 cubic feet of space is generous enough for family-sized meals, and the 1000W of cooking power ensures your food is heated evenly and quickly. This microwave is designed to make kitchen tasks simpler with smart features and a user-friendly interface.
What We Like:
- High-Power Cooking: The 1000W output heats food fast and evenly, perfect for busy kitchens.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity fits a variety of dishes, from small snacks to larger meals.
- Multi-Functional Cooking: It has special settings for vegetables, snacks, and even a potato program, offering great flexibility.
- Advanced Defrosting: The time and weight defrost options make thawing food easy and effective.
- Rapid Cooking Features: The quick +30 seconds button and melt/soften options are super handy for everyday use.
- Child Safety Lock: This feature keeps little ones safe by preventing accidental use.
- User-Friendly Additions: An LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light add to its usefulness.
- Volume Control: You can adjust the sound of the alerts to your liking.
- Optimized Design: Installing it over the range saves valuable counter space and looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual could be clearer for some of the more advanced settings.
- While powerful, some users might find the vent fan could offer stronger suction for very smoky cooking.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a functional and stylish appliance. It truly balances power with convenience.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking for a microwave that’s just right for your small space? The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a fantastic option. It’s designed to make cooking quick and easy. This microwave is powered by 700 watts, so it heats food fast. Its compact size makes it perfect for apartments, dorm rooms, or even your office kitchen. Plus, the stainless steel finish looks great and is a breeze to clean.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful enough to cook meals quickly.
- It has ten power levels and six one-touch cooking options like popcorn and potato.
- The defrost feature works by weight or time.
- Its 0.7 cu. ft. size is ideal for small kitchens.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- It includes a clear LED display, kitchen timer, and clock.
- Interior lighting lets you see your food while it cooks.
- A child safety lock adds extra security.
- Farberware is a trusted brand for family meals.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 700 watts, it might not cook as fast as higher-wattage models.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
This Farberware microwave offers convenience and useful features in a compact package. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable countertop microwave.
5. GE GCHK07N1WWW Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.9/10
The GE GCHK07N1WWW Microwave Oven is a great choice for anyone needing a simple, reliable microwave. It’s perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or apartments where space is limited. This microwave offers 700 watts of power, enough to heat up meals quickly. It also has six auto-cooking settings, making it easy to prepare common foods. The white finish and clean design will look good on any countertop.
What We Like:
- It has a two-step child lock to keep little ones safe.
- The compact size (0.7 cu. ft.) saves counter space.
- You can install it under a cabinet with a special kit.
- It’s easy to use with one-touch controls and express cooking.
- Defrosting is simple, with automatic or manual options.
- The glass turntable cooks food evenly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt power might be a bit slow for larger meals.
- More advanced cooking modes could be a nice addition.
Overall, this GE microwave is a practical and user-friendly appliance. It’s a solid option for basic heating and cooking needs.
Finding the Perfect Under-Cabinet Microwave
Tired of your countertop being cluttered? An under-cabinet microwave can be a game-changer for your kitchen. It frees up valuable counter space and gives your kitchen a cleaner, more organized look. Let’s explore what makes a great under-cabinet microwave and how to pick the best one for your home.
Key Features to Look For
- Ventilation System: This is super important! Good under-cabinet microwaves have built-in fans to suck up smoke and smells from your stovetop. Look for powerful CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) ratings. More CFM means better ventilation.
- Lighting: A good light under the microwave helps you see what you’re cooking on the stove below. Bright, even lighting is a big plus.
- Size and Capacity: Measure the space where you plan to install it first. Microwaves come in different widths and depths. Think about what you’ll be heating – do you need room for a large casserole dish?
- Power (Wattage): Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most under-cabinet microwaves are around 1000 watts, which is plenty for most tasks.
- Control Panel: Some have simple buttons, while others have touch screens. Think about what you find easiest to use. Preset cooking options for popcorn or baked potatoes can be handy.
- Turntable: A turntable helps food cook evenly. Some models let you turn it off if you’re heating something long like a rectangular baking dish.
Important Materials
Most under-cabinet microwaves have an exterior made of stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel is popular because it’s durable and looks sleek. It’s also easier to clean fingerprints off. Inside, you’ll usually find a glass turntable and a metal or ceramic cavity.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a microwave great?
- Build Quality: A sturdy, well-built microwave will last longer. Check for solid construction and smooth-operating doors.
- Fan Power: As mentioned, a strong ventilation fan is key. If the fan is weak, it won’t do much to clear smoke.
- Even Cooking: Does the microwave heat food evenly? Poorly designed microwaves can leave cold spots.
- Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick interiors and easy-to-wipe surfaces make cleanup a breeze.
What can make a microwave less ideal?
- Weak Ventilation: If the fan isn’t powerful enough, your kitchen will fill with cooking odors.
- Uneven Heating: This can be frustrating and lead to undercooked or overcooked food.
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels cheap might not hold up over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using an under-cabinet microwave is very similar to using a countertop model. You’ll place your food inside, close the door, select your cooking time and power level, and press start. The main difference is how it’s installed. They are typically mounted directly to the underside of cabinets or a custom shelf. This saves precious counter space, making your kitchen feel more open and organized. They are perfect for smaller kitchens, or for anyone who likes a minimalist look. They are also great for reheating leftovers, cooking quick meals, or defrosting ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I install an under-cabinet microwave?
A: Installation usually involves mounting it securely to the underside of your cabinets. You’ll need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as it often involves drilling and using specific hardware. Some people hire a professional for this.
Q: Do under-cabinet microwaves come with their own ventilation?
A: Yes, most under-cabinet microwaves have built-in ventilation fans and filters. They are designed to vent air either out of your home or recirculate it after filtering.
Q: How powerful are the fans in these microwaves?
A: Fan power is measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). Higher CFM means the fan can move more air, which is better for clearing smoke and odors.
Q: What size under-cabinet microwave should I get?
A: Measure the space you have available. Common widths are 24 inches and 30 inches. Also, consider the interior capacity you need for cooking.
Q: Can I use an over-the-range microwave under a cabinet instead?
A: While possible, it’s not ideal. Over-the-range microwaves are designed to be mounted above a stove and may have different venting or mounting requirements.
Q: How do I clean an under-cabinet microwave?
A: Clean the interior with a damp cloth and mild detergent. The exterior, especially stainless steel, can be wiped down with a glass cleaner or stainless steel cleaner.
Q: Are under-cabinet microwaves noisy?
A: Like any appliance, they can make some noise. The fan and turntable will produce sounds. Check reviews for comments on noise levels.
Q: What is the average price range for an under-cabinet microwave?
A: Prices can vary widely, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $600 or more, depending on features and brand.
Q: Do I need special mounting hardware?
A: Yes, under-cabinet microwaves come with specific mounting brackets and hardware. It’s important to use what the manufacturer provides for safety and stability.
Q: Can an under-cabinet microwave be used as a primary microwave?
A: Absolutely! They function just like any other microwave and are a great space-saving solution for everyday cooking and reheating.
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!