Have you ever wished you had more counter space in your kitchen? Maybe you’re tired of bumping into your microwave every time you cook. If so, you’re not alone! Many people are looking for ways to make their kitchens more efficient and stylish. That’s where over-the-range (OTR) microwave ovens come in. They solve the problem of limited space by fitting neatly above your stove.
Choosing the right OTR microwave can be tricky. There are so many different brands and features. It can be confusing to figure out which one is best for your needs. Do you need a powerful exhaust fan? What about special cooking settings? This can lead to buyer’s remorse and frustration.
This blog post is here to help! We will break down everything you need to know about OTR microwave ovens. You’ll learn about the most important features, compare different models, and get tips for installation. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose the perfect OTR microwave for your kitchen. Let’s dive in and find the ideal microwave for you!
Our Top 5 Otr Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Otr Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.4/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is an over-the-range microwave oven. It has one-touch controls and 1000 watts of power. It also features a 400 CFM venting fan. This microwave has auto cooking settings. It is 1.9 Cu. ft. inside, which provides plenty of space. It is perfect for heating up food quickly.
What We Like:
- You can cook popcorn, potatoes, vegetables, pizza, snacks, bacon, frozen dinners, rice, and frozen breakfasts easily with auto menus.
- The microwave has ten power settings.
- A clock and kitchen timer are included.
- It offers 30 seconds of express cooking and a child lock for safety.
- Cooktop LED lighting gives you a bright view of your food.
- The two-speed venting fan removes smoke and odors.
- You can turn the turntable on or off.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are specific, so measure your space carefully before you buy.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for any kitchen. It offers many useful features at a reasonable price.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.7/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS is a 1.6 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave. It comes in a stylish stainless steel finish. This bundle includes a 2-year extended protection plan. You also get a charcoal filter replacement. This microwave offers convenience cooking controls. It will fit over your range easily. The dimensions are 13″D x 16″W x 9″H. It is a useful appliance for any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The stainless steel design looks great.
- The 1.6 cu. ft. size is perfect for most meals.
- It has convenient cooking controls for easy use.
- You get a 2-year protection plan.
- A charcoal filter is included.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size may not be big enough for large families.
- Installation might need some help.
This GE microwave is a good pick if you need a new microwave. The extended warranty is a nice bonus. You will be happy with this purchase.
3. CONTOURE RV Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven: 1.6 Cu.Ft.
Rating: 8.7/10
The CONTOURE RV Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven is a great addition to any RV kitchen. This microwave offers many features to make cooking easier while you travel. It is designed for RVs and has a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity. It also has a powerful convection function. This microwave helps you cook meals quickly and efficiently.
What We Like:
- Powerful Convection Cooking: You can cook food evenly and quickly using the RapidCook Power Convection. This saves you time in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly Design: The microwave has a large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity. It has 10 power levels and preset options. It is good for family meals.
- LED Illumination: The LED lighting helps you see your food clearly. This makes preparing meals easier.
- Even Heating with Convenience: The rotating glass tray is easy to clean. It’s also dishwasher-safe. This helps with consistent and hassle-free cooking.
- Efficient Ventilation: The dual-speed fan removes smoke and odors. The built-in vent system keeps your kitchen fresh.
What Could Be Improved:
- No specific cons found in the provided information.
The CONTOURE RV microwave is a solid choice for RV owners. It offers many helpful features for cooking on the road. It is a great way to cook your meals.
4. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.6/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven is a smart kitchen appliance. It’s designed to save space and cook food quickly. This microwave has many features to make cooking easier. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a powerful and efficient microwave.
What We Like:
- It saves space with its over-the-range design.
- The microwave is powerful with 1000W of power.
- It has auto-adjust settings for different foods.
- There are easy cooking options for popcorn and potatoes.
- It has a melt/soften feature for ingredients like butter.
- You can defrost food by weight or time.
- The stovetop light gives you extra visibility.
- The vent fan removes smoke and smells.
- It has adjustable volume and a child safety lock.
- The LED display looks modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may find the control panel a bit complex.
- The stainless steel can show fingerprints.
This Farberware microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It is a powerful, space-saving appliance.
5. GE PVM9005SJSS Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
The GE PVM9005SJSS is an over-the-range microwave oven. It is a stainless steel model. This microwave has a 2.1 cu ft capacity. It has a powerful 400 CFM vent. The microwave also includes a filter kit. It offers a sleek design. The microwave automatically adjusts power for cooking. You can sync the clock, light, and vent with one touch. It has a 14.25″ turntable. The microwave uses 1050 watts of power.
What We Like:
- Easy cleaning thanks to its sleek look.
- Cooking results are great. The microwave adjusts time and power.
- You can choose a single touch for three features. This is very convenient.
- The microwave’s size is good for most kitchens. The cabinet needs to be 30″ wide.
- It has a powerful vent to remove smoke and odors.
What Could Be Improved:
- The interior dimensions are a bit smaller compared to some other models.
- Some users might want more pre-set cooking options.
This GE microwave is a good appliance. It is a solid choice for kitchens needing a microwave with a strong vent. The features are easy to use.
Oven-Top Microwave Buying Guide: Your Kitchen’s New Hero
Over-the-range (OTR) microwaves are great! They save space and make cooking easier. This guide helps you find the best one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
Here are some things to keep in mind when buying an OTR microwave:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most OTR microwaves are between 900 and 1200 watts.
- Size: Measure your space! You need to make sure the microwave fits above your stove. Check the width, height, and depth.
- Ventilation: OTR microwaves have a vent to remove smoke and odors. Look for a microwave with a strong fan.
- Cooking Options: Many microwaves have special features. These include pre-set cooking modes for popcorn, pizza, or defrosting. Some even have convection cooking, which is like an oven.
- Turntable: A turntable spins food, so it cooks evenly. Make sure the turntable is big enough for your dishes.
- Lighting: OTR microwaves have a light to illuminate your stovetop. Check how bright the light is.
Important Materials
What the microwave is made of is important.
- Exterior: Most OTR microwaves are made of stainless steel, black stainless steel, or a painted metal. Stainless steel looks nice and is easy to clean.
- Interior: The inside is usually stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel is very durable.
- Control Panel: The control panel can be made of plastic or glass. Touch controls are popular, but some people prefer buttons.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: Check how sturdy the microwave feels. A well-built microwave will last longer.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making good appliances. Do some research and read reviews.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for a microwave that is easy to clean. Stainless steel interiors are usually easier to wipe down.
- Warranty: A good warranty protects you if something goes wrong. Make sure the warranty covers parts and labor.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are loud. Read reviews to see how noisy a microwave is.
User Experience and Use Cases
OTR microwaves are great for many things.
- Space Saving: The main benefit is saving counter space. This is great for small kitchens.
- Ventilation: The vent removes smoke and odors from cooking on the stovetop.
- Cooking and Reheating: You can cook meals, reheat leftovers, and defrost food quickly.
- User-Friendly: OTR microwaves are usually easy to use.
- Family Use: They are perfect for families. You can quickly heat up snacks and meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about OTR microwaves:
Q: What is an OTR microwave?
A: An OTR microwave sits above your stove. It saves counter space.
Q: How do I measure for an OTR microwave?
A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the space above your stove. You will need to measure your cabinet space.
Q: What wattage is best?
A: A wattage between 900 and 1200 watts is usually good.
Q: What is convection cooking?
A: Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air. This cooks food more evenly, like an oven.
Q: How do I clean an OTR microwave?
A: Wipe down the inside and outside with a damp cloth. Always unplug the microwave first.
Q: What is a turntable?
A: A turntable is a rotating plate that spins food while it cooks.
Q: How does the vent work?
A: The vent sucks up smoke and odors from your stovetop.
Q: Are OTR microwaves hard to install?
A: Installation can be tricky. You might need to hire a professional.
Q: What is the best material for the interior?
A: Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean.
Q: How long should an OTR microwave last?
A: A good OTR microwave should last 7-10 years.
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.