Ever stared at the space above your stove, wondering what magic appliance fits perfectly there? Choosing an Over Range Microwave can feel like a puzzle. You want something that cooks well, looks good, and fits just right. But with so many sizes, features, and brands, it’s easy to feel lost in the options.
The right over-range microwave does more than just heat leftovers. It vents smoke and steam, keeping your kitchen fresh. The wrong one can look awkward, not vent properly, or just not have the power you need. That’s where the frustration creeps in!
This guide is here to clear up the confusion. We will break down what you really need to know about over-range microwaves. You’ll learn the key things to look for so you can pick a model that works perfectly for your cooking and your kitchen space.
Let’s explore the best ways to find your ideal over-range microwave companion!
Top Over Range Microwave Recommendations
- Large Capacity: 15.4"D x 29.9"W x 16.4"H. Featuring a spacious interior, this 1.7 cubic feet microwave oven includes a 12.4-inch turntable and will serve as your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
- 10 Cooking Levels: With aa 1000-watt output, this over-the-range microwave oven has 6 quick menus for your daily meals, including settings for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost.
- Speedy Cooking: For quick action, press numbers 1, 2, or 3 for using the 100% power level at 1-3 minutes.
- Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by cooking with 90% microwave power for 10 minutes and then cooking with 50% power for 5 minutes in one time setting.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
- Pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, vegetable, pizza, snack, bacon, frozen dinner, rice, and frozen breakfast..Rated Voltage : 120V - 60Hz
- 1000 Watts with ten power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking and child lock.
- Cooktop LED lighting that offers a clear and bright vision for your meals on cooktop.
- Two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system.
- Turntable On/Off function allows you to cook large dishes.
- Pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, veggies, pizza, hot dog, bacon, frozen dinner, rice, and soup.
- 1.7 cu.ft. interior, two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan system.
- 1000 watts with 10 power level settings, clock and kitchen timer.
- Turntable function ensures even heating without manual intervention.
- LED lighting offers a clear and bright vision for your meals on cooktops.
- GE USA AUTHORIZED - Includes 2 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included FULL Manufacturer Protection
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity - 1000 Watts (IEC-705 test procedure)
- Two-speed, 300-CFM venting system - Removes smoke, steam and odors
- Turntable On/Off - Controls turntable operation
- Auto and time defrost - Defrosting times and power levels are programmed automatically or manually for optimal results
- Powerful & Efficient: 1000W output and 1550W input power for fast, even cooking. Perfect for busy kitchens.
- Large Capacity: 1.7 cu. ft. interior, ideal for a variety of meals.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Features include Veggies, Snack Menu, Auto Cook, and a specialized Potato program.
- Smart Defrosting: Time and weight defrost settings for precise and efficient thawing.
- Quick Cooking Features: Speedy +30 seconds cooking and Melt/Soften options for butter, chocolate, and more.
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: 1000W output and 1550W input for efficient, uniform cooking – ideal for active kitchens.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 1.7 cu. ft. capacity accommodates a range of dishes, from quick bites to large meals.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: Includes options for vegetables, snacks, auto cook, and a potato program for culinary flexibility.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: Intelligent time and weight defrost settings for effective thawing.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: Quick +30 seconds function and melt/soften options for everyday convenience.
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: 1000W output and 1550W input for efficient, uniform cooking – ideal for active kitchens.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 1.7 cu. ft. capacity accommodates a range of dishes, from quick bites to large meals.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: Includes options for vegetables, snacks, auto cook, and a potato program for culinary flexibility.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: Intelligent time and weight defrost settings for effective thawing.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: Quick +30 seconds function and melt/soften options for everyday convenience.
Choosing the Right Over-Range Microwave: A Simple Buying Guide
An over-range microwave is a fantastic kitchen helper. It saves counter space and often includes a built-in vent fan. This guide helps you pick the best one for your cooking needs.
Key Features to Look For
Power and Capacity
Microwaves use watts to measure power. More watts mean faster cooking. Look for models between 900 and 1200 watts for good performance. Capacity matters too. Measure your space first. A larger interior lets you heat bigger dishes.
Ventilation Power (CFM)
The vent fan pulls smoke and smells away. This is measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). Higher CFM means better ventilation. If you cook greasy foods often, aim for 300 CFM or higher. Check if it can be vented outside or if it only recirculates air back into the kitchen (ductless).
Sensor Cooking
This feature is a game-changer. Sensors detect steam released during cooking. They automatically adjust the time and power. This prevents overcooking. It makes reheating leftovers easy.
Important Materials and Build Quality
Exterior Finish
Most microwaves have stainless steel or painted metal exteriors. Stainless steel looks modern and resists fingerprints better on higher-end models. Ensure the finish is durable. Cheap paint might chip easily.
Interior Tub Material
The inside surface affects cleaning. Ceramic enamel interiors are very smooth. They wipe clean easily. Standard painted metal interiors are common but can scratch over time.
Lighting
Good lighting under the microwave helps you see your stovetop clearly. Look for bright, energy-efficient LED lights. Some models offer multiple brightness settings.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Control Panel Usability
A good quality microwave has intuitive controls. Touchpads should respond quickly. Buttons that feel mushy often break sooner. Digital displays should be clear and easy to read from across the kitchen.
Door Mechanism
The door latch needs to be sturdy. High-quality microwaves use smooth, reliable hinges. A flimsy door handle suggests lower overall build quality. Test the door if possible before buying.
Noise Levels
Microwaves make noise when running and venting. Check user reviews for comments on noise. Quieter operation improves the overall kitchen experience, especially in open-plan homes.
User Experience and Use Cases
Installation Height
The microwave should be installed at a safe height. The bottom should be about 54 inches from the floor. This ensures adults can reach the controls safely. If you are shorter, look for models with slightly lower control panels.
Cleaning Routine
Regular cleaning is crucial. Models with easy-to-remove grease filters are best. If the interior is non-stick, daily wiping becomes much faster. Think about how often you use your stovetop to determine how often you need to clean the vent filters.
Special Cooking Modes
Many modern units include presets for things like melting butter or softening cream cheese. These specialized modes take the guesswork out of small tasks. They improve the daily user experience significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Over-Range Microwaves
Q: How do I know if I need an externally vented or recirculating microwave?
A: External venting means the fan pushes air outside through a duct. Recirculating (ductless) models clean the air with charcoal filters and blow it back into the kitchen. You need external venting for the best smoke removal. If you live in an apartment or cannot cut a hole in your wall, you must use a recirculating model.
Q: What is the standard width for these microwaves?
A: Most over-range microwaves are 30 inches wide. This size fits perfectly over standard stoves. Always measure the space above your range before purchasing to avoid installation issues.
Q: How often should I clean the grease filters?
A: You should clean the grease filters at least once a month if you cook frequently. Dirty filters block airflow, making the fan less effective and potentially creating a fire hazard.
Q: Can I install this myself?
A: Installation involves electrical wiring and mounting the unit securely to the wall and cabinets. While some handy people do install them, hiring a professional ensures it is mounted safely and vented correctly.
Q: Do over-range microwaves always include a turntable?
A: Most models include a glass turntable that rotates food for even heating. Some high-end models feature flatbed technology, which heats food without a turntable, offering more usable space.
Q: What is the difference between sensor reheat and simple reheating?
A: Sensor reheat uses steam to figure out how much cooking time is left. Simple reheating requires you to guess the time. Sensor reheat usually gives better results because it adjusts automatically.
Q: Are these microwaves louder than countertop models?
A: Yes, often they are slightly louder. This is because they house a powerful ventilation fan in addition to the microwave magnetron. Check reviews specifically for fan noise.
Q: What warranty should I expect?
A: A standard warranty on a new microwave is usually one year for parts and labor. High-quality brands might offer longer warranties on the magnetron (the part that creates the microwaves).
Q: What size pots can I use under the microwave?
A: Since the light and fan controls are mounted underneath, you must ensure your largest stockpots fit comfortably beneath the unit without hitting the housing. Check the clearance height specifications from the manufacturer.
Q: Is a higher CFM always better?
A: While higher CFM means better power, it also means more noise and sometimes requires a larger duct system to vent efficiently. Match the CFM to your cooking style; 300-400 CFM is great for most home cooks.