Ever burned popcorn in your microwave? We’ve all been there! But what if your microwave could do more than just heat leftovers? Over-the-range microwaves, or OTR microwaves, are a kitchen game-changer. They free up counter space, offer powerful ventilation, and often include a built-in light for your stovetop.
Choosing the right OTR microwave can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands, sizes, and features! Figuring out what you need for your kitchen can be a real headache. You don’t want to pick one that’s too small or doesn’t match your style. Plus, you want a microwave that is easy to use and works well.
In this post, we’ll make things easy. We’ll break down everything you need to know about OTR microwaves. You’ll learn about sizes, features, and how to choose the perfect one for your kitchen. Get ready to say goodbye to kitchen clutter and hello to delicious, perfectly cooked meals! Let’s dive in and find the best OTR microwave for you.
Our Top 5 Over The Range Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Range 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: 9.2/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS is a 1.6 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave. This stainless steel microwave oven is a great addition to your kitchen. It comes with a 2-year extended protection plan. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, perfect for microwaves with a behind-the-door grille. This bundle helps you cook your meals easily. It is also very easy to control.
What We Like:
- The microwave has a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity. You can cook a good amount of food!
- It comes with a 2-year extended protection plan. This helps protect your new microwave.
- Convenience cooking controls make it easy to use.
- The stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is important to check the dimensions. Make sure it fits over your range.
- Some users might prefer a microwave with more features.
This GE microwave bundle is a good choice for many kitchens. It offers convenience and protection in one package. You can enjoy cooking your meals easily!
2. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven is a space-saving appliance that offers powerful cooking. It has a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and 1000W of power. This stainless steel microwave is packed with features for easy and convenient cooking. It includes options for defrosting, and it has multi-stage cooking options. It also has a child safety lock and an LED display. This microwave is a great addition to any kitchen.
What We Like:
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: This microwave cooks food fast with its 1000W output.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: You can cook large meals with its 1.7 cu. ft. capacity.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: It has options for vegetables, snacks, and auto cook.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: It has time and weight defrost settings.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: You can use the quick +30 seconds function. You can also melt or soften food.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK: This feature keeps kids safe.
- USER-FRIENDLY ADDITIONS: It has an LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light.
- VOLUME CONTROL: You can change the alert levels.
- OPTIMIZED DESIGN: It saves space with its over-the-range installation.
What Could Be Improved:
- (This section is for potential improvements, but no specific cons were listed in the provided information)
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven is a useful and efficient appliance. It is a great choice for anyone who wants a powerful and space-saving microwave.
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: 8.9/10
The GE JVM7195SKSS is a 1.9 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave oven. It is made of stainless steel. This microwave has a sensor that cooks food perfectly. It also has a special melt feature. This helps melt butter, caramel, chocolate, and marshmallows without burning them. The inside is easy to clean with steam clean. This bundle includes the microwave, a charcoal filter, and a 2-year extended protection plan.
What We Like:
- The microwave has a good size.
- The melt feature is very helpful.
- The inside is easy to clean.
- You get extra protection with the 2-year plan.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some people may find the over-the-range style hard to install.
Overall, this GE microwave is a great choice for any kitchen. It has helpful features and comes with extra protection. You will be happy with this microwave.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.3/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is an over-the-range microwave. It is a 1.9 Cu.ft microwave with 1000 Watts of power. This microwave has a built-in vent. It also features auto-cooking options and a turntable. This microwave is designed to make cooking and reheating easy.
What We Like:
- Pre-programmed auto menus make cooking simple. You can cook popcorn, pizza, and more with the touch of a button.
- The 1000 Watts of power heats food quickly.
- The ten power settings give you control over your cooking.
- The built-in cooktop LED lighting helps you see what you are cooking.
- The two-speed venting fan removes smoke and odors.
- The turntable can be turned off for larger dishes.
- It has a child lock for safety.
- The 30 seconds express cooking is convenient.
What Could Be Improved:
- The provided installation instructions are in English.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a good choice for most kitchens. It has many helpful features and is easy to use.
5. GE JVM6175SKSS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.8/10
The GE JVM6175SKSS is a 1.7 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave oven. It’s made of stainless steel and designed to fit above your stove. This bundle comes with a charcoal filter and an extended protection plan. The microwave has a sensor to cook your food perfectly. It also has a venting system to remove smoke and odors. This is a great option for kitchens with limited counter space.
What We Like:
- The microwave oven has a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity. This is big enough for most families.
- It includes a two-speed venting system. This helps to remove smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan. This offers extra protection for your purchase.
- It has a weight and time defrost setting. This makes it easy to thaw frozen food.
- It comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit. This helps to clean the air.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the installation a little difficult.
The GE JVM6175SKSS microwave is a solid choice for any kitchen. It is a great combination of features and protection.
Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
Over-the-range microwaves are great! They save space and do a good job. This guide will help you find the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
You should know what to look for when buying an over-the-range microwave. Here are some important features:
- Size and Power: How much space do you need? Measure the space above your stove. Microwaves use wattage. More wattage means faster cooking. Choose a power level that fits your cooking needs.
- Cooking Modes: Many microwaves have different cooking modes. Some have pre-set programs. These modes cook things like popcorn or frozen dinners. Look for a “defrost” setting.
- Ventilation: A good vent is important. It removes smoke and odors from your cooking. Look for a microwave with a strong exhaust fan. Check the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating. Higher CFM means better ventilation.
- Turntable: Most over-the-range microwaves have a turntable. It spins the food. This makes sure your food cooks evenly. Make sure the turntable is easy to clean.
- Control Panel: You will use the control panel a lot. Look for one that is easy to read and use. Consider touch controls or buttons.
- Lighting: Many have lights under the microwave. These lights can help you see your stovetop. Some have bright and dim settings.
Important Materials
The materials used affect how the microwave works.
- Exterior: The outside of the microwave is important. Stainless steel is popular. It looks good and is easy to clean. Other options include black or white.
- Interior: The inside is usually made of stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel is better. It is more durable and cleans easier.
- Door: The door is usually made of glass. Make sure the glass is strong. Look for a door with a handle.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a microwave better. Others can make it worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave lasts longer. Look for brands with good reputations. Read reviews.
- Ventilation Power: A strong vent is important. It removes smoke and odors effectively.
- Ease of Cleaning: Choose a microwave that is easy to clean. Stainless steel interiors are great. Look for removable parts.
- Warranty: A good warranty protects you. It covers repairs or replacements if something goes wrong.
User Experience and Use Cases
Over-the-range microwaves are easy to use. They are good for many things.
- Space Saving: They save counter space. This is great for small kitchens.
- Cooking and Reheating: You can cook meals quickly. You can reheat leftovers.
- Ventilation: The vent removes smoke and odors. This keeps your kitchen air clean.
- Lighting: The lights help you see your stovetop. This is helpful when cooking.
- Easy Installation: Most are easy to install. You will need help mounting it.
Over-the-Range Microwave FAQs
Here are some common questions about over-the-range microwaves.
Q: How do I measure for an over-the-range microwave?
A: Measure the space above your stove. Measure the width, height, and depth. Make sure there is enough space for the microwave.
Q: What is CFM?
A: CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It measures how much air the vent moves. Higher CFM means better ventilation.
Q: How do I clean an over-the-range microwave?
A: Wipe down the inside. Use a damp cloth and mild soap. Clean the turntable. Clean the vent filters regularly.
Q: What is the difference between a microwave with convection and one without?
A: A microwave with convection can bake and roast like an oven. A regular microwave only heats food.
Q: How do I install an over-the-range microwave?
A: You may need help. Follow the instructions. You may need to mount it to the cabinet above the stove.
Q: Are all over-the-range microwaves the same size?
A: No. They come in different sizes. Measure your space before you buy.
Q: What is a sensor cooking feature?
A: This feature senses when your food is done. It automatically adjusts the cooking time.
Q: What is the best material for the interior?
A: Stainless steel is a great choice. It is durable and easy to clean.
Q: What if the vent doesn’t work well?
A: Check the vent filters. Make sure they are clean. The fan may not be strong enough.
Q: How long do over-the-range microwaves typically last?
A: Most over-the-range microwaves last for 7-10 years, depending on use and care.
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.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.