Tired of a cluttered kitchen counter? Imagine reclaiming that precious space, all while adding a sleek, functional appliance that cooks your meals and ventilates your stovetop. That’s the magic of a white over-the-range microwave. But choosing the perfect one can feel like navigating a maze of features and styles. You want something that looks good, works great, and fits your budget, but where do you even begin?
We get it. The sheer number of white over-the-range microwaves on the market can be overwhelming. You might be wondering about the best brands, the essential features you actually need, or how to make sure it will even fit above your stove. It’s easy to feel stuck, unsure if you’re making the right choice for your kitchen and your family’s needs.
Fear not! This guide is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll break down everything you need to know to find a white over-the-range microwave that you’ll love. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your decision, ready to upgrade your kitchen with a smart, stylish, and practical addition. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect white over-the-range microwave for your home!
Our Top 5 White Over The Range Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 White Over The Range Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power
Rating: 9.1/10
The Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave Oven is a powerful and convenient addition to any busy kitchen. It cooks food quickly and evenly with its 1000-watt power. This microwave offers a large 1.7 cubic feet of space, so you can heat up a variety of meals. It has many easy-to-use cooking options, like special settings for vegetables, snacks, and potatoes. You can also defrost food by weight or time, which is very handy. Plus, it has quick cook features like a +30 second button and options to melt or soften ingredients.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking power heats food fast.
- Large 1.7 cu. ft. capacity fits big dishes.
- Many cooking presets like Veggies, Snack Menu, and Potato.
- Smart Defrost by time or weight makes thawing easy.
- Quick +30 seconds and Melt/Soften functions save time.
- Child Safety Lock keeps little ones safe.
- Built-in vent fan and stovetop light are useful.
- Adjustable volume control for alerts.
- Over-the-range design saves counter space.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the beep volume a bit loud even on the highest setting.
- The vent fan could be more powerful for very smoky cooking.
This Farberware microwave is a great choice for families needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance. It makes cooking and reheating meals simple and efficient.
2. GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven White Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
The GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in classic white is a practical addition to any kitchen. It’s designed to make cooking and reheating meals simple and efficient. This bundle also includes a Premium 2-Year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cubic feet of space handles family-sized meals.
- Over-the-range design saves valuable counter space.
- Simple controls make it easy for everyone to use.
- The bright white finish fits well in most kitchen decors.
- The included 2-year protection plan offers great value.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific cooking presets were not detailed in the provided information.
- Advanced features like convection cooking are not mentioned.
This GE microwave offers a straightforward and reliable way to heat your food. The included protection plan adds significant value, making it a sensible purchase for your home.
3. FORNO Scalo 30-Inch Over-the-Range Microwave
Rating: 8.9/10
The FORNO Scalo 30-Inch Over-the-Range Microwave in a clean white finish, accented with beautiful antique brass, is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. It offers a generous 1.6 cubic feet of space, perfect for handling family-sized meals and all your cooking needs. The intuitive touch control panel and bright LED lighting make using it a breeze, while the powerful ventilation system keeps your kitchen fresh.
What We Like:
- Spacious 1.6 cu.ft interior easily fits large dishes and multiple items.
- Quick and simple cooking with convenient Speed Cooking options and auto menus.
- Powerful two-speed ventilation (105/300 CFM) effectively removes smoke and odors.
- Flexible installation options for the ventilation system to fit your kitchen layout.
- Smudge-resistant white exterior stays looking clean with minimal effort.
- Stylish antique brass handle adds a touch of elegance and stays cool to the touch.
- Bright LED lighting illuminates both the interior and your cooktop.
- Energy-efficient design contributes to a comfortable kitchen environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- The antique brass accents are plastic, which might not appeal to everyone seeking solid metal hardware.
- While the ventilation is effective, the highest CFM might be overkill for very small kitchens.
This FORNO Scalo microwave blends style and practicality, making kitchen tasks easier and more enjoyable. It’s a solid choice for those seeking both performance and a touch of classic design.
4. GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It helps you cook and reheat food quickly and easily. This microwave offers helpful features that make cooking a breeze.
What We Like:
- It has Auto and Time Defrost. These settings help you thaw frozen food perfectly, either by choosing a food type or setting a specific time.
- The electronic and convenience cooking controls are very user-friendly. You can quickly select cooking times and power levels.
- It provides cooktop lighting. This brightens up your stove below, making it easier to see while you cook.
- There’s even an optional nightlight setting for the cooktop light. This adds a soft glow to your kitchen at night.
- The 1.6 cubic feet of space is good for most meals and dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the pre-programmed settings a bit basic. More advanced customization options could be beneficial.
- While the electronic controls are easy, a touch screen interface might feel more modern to some.
This GE microwave is a solid choice for its ease of use and practical features. It effectively handles everyday cooking needs.
5. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cubic feet microwave offers ample space for all your cooking needs. Its sleek white design fits perfectly over your stove, and it comes packed with features to make cooking easier.
What We Like:
- The large 1.7 cubic feet interior easily fits family-sized meals and has a 12.4-inch turntable to spin your food.
- It has 10 different power levels and 6 quick menus for popular items like popcorn, beverages, and defrosting.
- You can cook food quickly with the speedy cooking option, which lets you set 1 to 3 minutes at 100% power.
- The multi-stage cooking feature lets you set two different power levels and times for one cooking cycle.
- The 300 CFM vent fan efficiently clears smoke and smells from your kitchen, and the built-in light helps you see while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exterior is white, which might show smudges more easily than other colors.
- While it has many features, some advanced users might want even more customization options.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and powerful performance. It’s a great choice for busy households looking to simplify meal preparation.
Your Guide to a Sparkling White Over-the-Range Microwave
Why Choose a White Over-the-Range Microwave?
Over-the-range microwaves are a smart choice for many kitchens. They save counter space by fitting right above your stove. A white model can make your kitchen feel brighter and cleaner. It’s a classic color that matches many kitchen styles. This guide helps you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size Matters: Capacity and Dimensions
- Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Small ones are good for reheating. Larger ones can cook more food at once. Think about how much you cook.
- Dimensions: Measure the space above your stove carefully. Make sure the microwave will fit with enough room around it. Check the height, width, and depth.
2. Power and Performance: Wattage and Cooking Options
- Wattage: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. More watts are generally better.
- Cooking Presets: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods. You can press popcorn, pizza, or potato. This makes cooking easy.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature senses how much moisture is in your food. It adjusts the cooking time automatically. It helps prevent overcooking.
- Turntable: A turntable spins your food. This helps it cook evenly. Some microwaves have a large turntable.
3. Ventilation is Key
- Ventilation Type: Over-the-range microwaves often have a fan. This fan pulls smoke and smells from your stove. It can vent outside or recirculate air.
- Fan Speed: More fan speeds give you better control. Higher speeds clear the air faster.
- Grease Filters: These filters catch grease from cooking. You need to clean or replace them. Look for easy-to-clean filters.
4. Easy to Use and Clean
- Control Panel: A simple, easy-to-read control panel is best. Buttons should be clear.
- Interior Light: A light inside helps you see your food while it cooks.
- Easy-Clean Interior: Some interiors are made with special coatings. These coatings make them easier to wipe clean.
Important Materials
Most microwaves have a stainless steel or enamel interior. Stainless steel is durable and looks good. Enamel is usually cheaper and easy to clean. The exterior is often painted metal. White finishes can be glossy or matte. Glossy finishes can show fingerprints more easily. Matte finishes hide them better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Microwave Great
- Sturdy Build: A well-built microwave feels solid. Its door should open and close smoothly.
- Even Cooking: The best microwaves cook food evenly. There are no cold spots.
- Effective Ventilation: A powerful fan that really clears the air is a big plus.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves can be noisy. Quieter models are more pleasant.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Great
- Flimsy Parts: A wobbly door or thin plastic parts can mean lower quality.
- Uneven Heating: If your food is sometimes cold in the middle, the microwave might not cook evenly.
- Weak Fan: A fan that doesn’t do a good job of clearing smoke is disappointing.
- Difficult Controls: If the buttons are hard to understand or use, it’s frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
A white over-the-range microwave is great for busy families. You can quickly reheat leftovers or cook a meal. It’s perfect for small kitchens where space is limited. Students in dorms or apartments can also benefit. Homeowners often choose them to keep their countertops clear. People who like a clean, bright kitchen will love a white microwave. It fits in with many decor styles, from modern to traditional.
Frequently Asked Questions About White Over-the-Range Microwaves
Q: What is the most important feature to look for?
A: The most important features depend on your needs. Many people prioritize cooking power (wattage) and good ventilation. Size is also critical to ensure it fits your space.
Q: How do I know what size microwave I need?
A: Measure the space above your stove. You need to know the height, width, and depth. Also, check if the door will open fully without hitting cabinets.
Q: Are white microwaves hard to keep clean?
A: White can show stains more easily than darker colors. However, most modern microwaves have easy-to-clean interiors. A quick wipe-down after use will keep it looking good.
Q: What does wattage mean for a microwave?
A: Wattage is the power of the microwave. Higher wattage means it can heat food faster and more effectively.
Q: What are cooking presets?
A: Cooking presets are buttons for common foods like popcorn or potatoes. You push the button, and the microwave cooks the food for the right amount of time.
Q: Do I need a microwave with a turntable?
A: A turntable helps your food cook more evenly by spinning it around. Most people find them very useful.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect steam from your food. It then adjusts the cooking time and power to cook your food perfectly.
Q: How does the ventilation work on these microwaves?
A: The fan pulls smoke, steam, and odors from your stove. It can either push the air outside your home or filter and recirculate it back into the kitchen.
Q: Are there different types of white finishes?
A: Yes, there are glossy white finishes and matte white finishes. Glossy ones are shiny, while matte ones have a flatter look.
Q: Can I use my over-the-range microwave as a primary vent for my stove?
A: Yes, many over-the-range microwaves have built-in ventilation systems. They can vent air outside or recirculate it after filtering.
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!