Do you dream of a kitchen that’s both stylish and efficient? Imagine delicious leftovers, quickly reheated, without taking up precious counter space. Over-the-range microwaves offer exactly that! They combine a microwave and a range hood in one handy appliance. But choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. There are so many models with different features!
Picking an over-the-range microwave can be tricky. You might wonder about the right size, the best features, and how to get a good deal. Many people struggle with these choices, ending up with a microwave that doesn’t fit their needs. It can be frustrating!
This blog post is your guide to finding the perfect over-the-range microwave. We’ll break down everything you need to know. You’ll learn about important features, common mistakes to avoid, and how to make the best purchase for your kitchen. Get ready to upgrade your kitchen with confidence! Let’s dive in and find the perfect microwave for you.
Our Top 5 Over Range Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over Range Microwave Oven 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: 9.3/10
The GE JVM3160RFSS is a 1.6 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave oven. It is made of stainless steel. This microwave comes with a 2-year extended protection plan. It also includes a charcoal filter replacement. This bundle is a good choice for any kitchen. It helps cook food quickly. The dimensions are 13″ deep, 16″ wide, and 9″ high.
What We Like:
- The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is good for most families.
- It has easy-to-use convenience cooking controls.
- The stainless steel look is modern.
- The 2-year extended protection plan offers peace of mind.
- A charcoal filter is included for your microwave.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may want a larger capacity.
- Installation can be tricky.
This GE microwave is a solid choice. It is a great value for the features it offers. You can cook your food with ease.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.0/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is an over-the-range microwave. It is a 1.9 cubic foot microwave with 1000 watts. The microwave has a venting fan and many features. It can cook your food quickly and easily. This microwave is great for any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The microwave has pre-programmed auto menus. You can cook popcorn, potatoes, and pizza. It also cooks vegetables, snacks, bacon, and frozen dinners. You can even cook rice and frozen breakfast!
- It has 10 power settings. You can control the heat.
- It has a clock and a kitchen timer.
- There is a 30-second express cooking button.
- The child lock keeps kids safe.
- The cooktop LED lighting is bright. You can see your food clearly.
- It has a two-speed venting fan. It removes smoke and odors.
- The turntable turns off. You can cook big dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size may be too big for some kitchens.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a great kitchen appliance. It is easy to use and has many helpful features. This microwave will make cooking easier.
3. GE JVM6175SKSS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.1/10
The GE JVM6175SKSS is a stainless steel over-the-range microwave. This microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It has a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and many useful features. The bundle includes a two-year extended protection plan. You will also get a charcoal filter kit in the box. This microwave is designed to make cooking and reheating food easy.
What We Like:
- The microwave has a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, which is great for families.
- It has a weight and time defrost feature.
- The venting system removes smoke and odors. It is a two-speed, 300-CFM system.
- The bundle includes an extra 2-year protection plan.
- The microwave is easy to install over your range.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some people may find the dimensions a little big.
This GE microwave offers convenience and protection. It is a reliable appliance for your kitchen. This microwave is a good choice for anyone who needs a new one.
4. 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 stainless steel over-the-range microwave. It offers 1.9 cubic feet of space. This microwave has a sensor that helps cook food perfectly. It also includes a special Melt feature. This lets you melt butter, caramel, chocolate, and marshmallows easily. The interior is easy to clean with steam. This bundle also includes a recirculating charcoal filter. Plus, you get a two-year extended protection plan for extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Large 1.9 cu. ft. capacity gives you lots of room.
- The Melt feature is very helpful for cooking.
- Easy clean interior makes cleanup simple.
- It comes with a 2-Year Premium Extended Service Protection Plan.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions could be a concern for some kitchens.
- Over-the-range microwaves can be harder to install.
This GE microwave is a great choice for many kitchens. It offers useful features and extra protection. It is a good option for anyone who needs a new microwave.
5. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.8/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS is a versatile 4-in-1 microwave oven. It’s a great kitchen gadget for small spaces like dorm rooms. This stainless steel microwave has an air fryer, broiler, and convection mode. It also offers a child lock for safety.
What We Like:
- It has an air fry mode. You can cook crispy food in the microwave.
- The convection mode helps food get golden brown. It uses a special rack for even cooking.
- It has a broiler mode. You can sear or caramelize food.
- Preset controls make it easy to use. You can quickly cook fries and nuggets.
- It is compact but powerful. It is great for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
- A glass turntable ensures even cooking. Food rotates during the cycle.
- The child lock helps keep kids safe. You can turn it off if you don’t need it.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the controls take a little getting used to.
- The cooking space might be small for large families.
Overall, the GE GCST10A1WSS is a useful appliance. It combines several cooking methods in one compact unit. This microwave is a great option for anyone with limited space.
Over-the-Range Microwave Oven: Your Kitchen’s Hero!
An over-the-range microwave oven (OTR) is a handy appliance. It sits above your stove. It saves counter space and does more than just heat leftovers. This guide helps you pick the right one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
You want an OTR microwave that works well. Here are the important things to consider:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 1000 watts.
- Size: Measure the space above your stove. OTR microwaves come in different sizes. Make sure it fits!
- Ventilation: This feature removes smoke and odors. It’s very important for your kitchen. Look for models with good ventilation. Many have different fan speeds.
- Cooking Options: Does it have pre-set cooking options? Examples include popcorn, defrost, and reheat. These make cooking easy!
- Turntable: This spins your food. It helps it cook evenly. Make sure the turntable is big enough for your dishes.
- Control Panel: Is the control panel easy to use? Buttons and displays should be clear. Touchscreen controls are popular too.
- Lighting: OTR microwaves have lights under them. These lights help you see while you cook on your stove.
Important Materials
The materials used matter. They affect the microwave’s quality and how long it lasts.
- Exterior: Most OTR microwaves are made of stainless steel or painted steel. Stainless steel looks great. But, it can show fingerprints. Painted steel is often cheaper.
- Interior: The inside is usually made of stainless steel or painted steel. Stainless steel is easier to clean.
- Turntable: Turntables are made of glass. They should be strong and durable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a microwave better. Other things can make it worse.
- Quality Improvement:
- Strong Motor: A powerful motor helps the fan and turntable work well.
- Good Ventilation: A strong fan pulls away smoke and odors fast.
- Durable Materials: Stainless steel and strong glass last longer.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: This makes your life easier.
- Quality Reduction:
- Weak Motor: This makes the fan and turntable work poorly.
- Poor Ventilation: It does not remove smoke effectively.
- Cheap Materials: This might mean the microwave breaks faster.
- Hard-to-Clean Interior: Cleaning will be a pain!
User Experience and Use Cases
An OTR microwave is easy to use. It has many helpful features.
- Cooking: Use it to reheat leftovers. Cook frozen meals. Make popcorn. Defrost food quickly.
- Ventilation: The fan removes smoke when you are cooking on your stove.
- Space Saving: It frees up counter space. This is great for small kitchens.
- Convenience: Pre-set cooking options make cooking simple.
Here are some examples of how people use OTR microwaves:
- A busy parent reheats dinner for their kids.
- A college student makes a quick lunch.
- A couple cooks a frozen pizza.
- A home chef uses the fan to remove cooking odors.
Over-the-Range Microwave Oven FAQ
Q: How do I measure for an OTR microwave?
A: Measure the width and height of the space above your stove. Also, check the depth. Make sure there’s enough space for the door to open.
Q: What wattage is best?
A: Get a microwave with at least 1000 watts. This will cook food quickly.
Q: How do I clean an OTR microwave?
A: Wipe the inside with a damp cloth. Use a microwave cleaner for tough messes. Clean the outside with a mild cleaner.
Q: What does “ventilation” mean?
A: Ventilation removes smoke and odors from your kitchen. It’s very important.
Q: Can I install an OTR microwave myself?
A: Some people can. But, it’s best to hire a professional. This makes sure it is installed correctly.
Q: Are OTR microwaves noisy?
A: Some are. Check reviews to see if the fan is loud. Different fan speeds can help.
Q: What if my microwave stops working?
A: Check the fuse first. Then, check the manual for troubleshooting tips. Call a repair person if you need help.
Q: Do all OTR microwaves have lights?
A: Yes, most OTR microwaves have lights. These lights help you see while cooking on your stove.
Q: What’s the difference between stainless steel and other finishes?
A: Stainless steel looks great. But, it shows fingerprints. Other finishes might be cheaper.
Q: How long do OTR microwaves last?
A: They usually last for about 7-10 years. Proper care can help them last longer.
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.