Is an over the range microwave different than other microwaves? Is your kitchen fix for one? We'll cover everything you lot need to know including sizing, features, price points, installation pitfalls, programs, and the all-time models available to buy today.

The over the range microwave is designed to be tucked away neatly to a higher place your stove. It often comes with a built-in ventilation system that clears the air equally you cook. It is a superhero that saves valuable space on your kitchen countertops and clears abroad nasty grease and odors.

An over the range microwave tin can practise everything the standard microwave can do, from defrosting your prime number cuts of meat to making a quick midweek repast. But it as well has a few extra powers that go far a peachy addition to any mod cooking infinite. If you're looking to remodel your kitchen with a contemporary await, you want to complimentary upwardly some more counter infinite, or but need a replacement for an older model, this appliance is a keen option for you.

Permit'due south get started.

Our Peak 9 Over the Range Microwaves

What is an over the range microwave?

Most people don't shop for appliances frequently. Therefore, the insider language from the manufacture may not help with decision making. Allow's quickly define the terminology.

An over the range microwave is a space-saver that hangs over your stove fastened to the kitchen cabinets on the side and on it top. It incorporates ventilation and stovetop lights. All in all, you will free up precious counter space with this type of microwave while getting a relief from fume, scent, and grease.

An over the range microwave is non a microwave drawer. Also, it is not designed to be used on summit of a counter. About recently, speed ovens gained popularity in high-finish kitchens. Although these innovative products satisfy popular microwave functions, you lot will not exist able to place them over a stove.

While range hoods are a great ventilation choice well-nigh kitchens are simply non roomy enough to suit them.

Microwave Type
Popular Microwave Types

Is this a correct pick for you?

  • You need a solution for microwave cooking and ventilation without sacrificing counter space.
  • Yous're replacing an outdated model.
  • You have a 24-inch or 30-inch stove.
  • The bottom of your kitchen cabinet is at to the lowest degree xxx-inches loftier (as well low could be a rubber hazard).
Over the range microwave: You will need min 30" distance from cooking surface

Why might it be the wrong fit?

  • You accept a range that is more than than xxx inches wide
  • You take a pro range (while in that location are limited options for 30-inch pro ranges, nosotros simply recommend because this if you have no other options)
  • Your cabinets are besides low to the cooktop (the stovetop will burn the lesser of your microwave if it is installed too low)
  • You are looking for an inverter microwave similar to Panasonic NN-SN966S. There are currently no inverter over the range microwaves on the market.

What you need to look for in an over the range microwave

Finding the right microwave for your kitchen can be a catchy affair to exercise. We'll give y'all the lowdown on the sizes, power, price and installation of over the range microwaves to help you brand the right pick for your home.

Size and Blazon

First thing's outset - y'all take to make sure to measure the space over your stovetop earlier starting to store. It's important to know that the large majority of models will measure effectually 30 inches broad. There are smaller models at 24 inches broad, only they're a flake harder to observe.

What to mensurate:
Of course, you'll want to measure the width of the space to make sure proper fit. However, many people forget to measure the meridian as well. This is important because older microwaves were shorter than the newer models. But why is this a problem?

  1. On a mod, 16 1/ii" over the range microwave, you lot want the lesser of the kitchen cabinet to be at least 30 inches from the cooking surface. This will leave you a xiii 1/two" clearance.
  2. If your contractor took the shortcut and installed tile to the bottom of the old microwave, the new microwave volition extend to the tiled area. This will make installation slightly more difficult. That's why it'southward important to get professional help.

If you accept a pro-style range, y'all will need 36" clearance from the cooking surface. The microwave itself also needs to have a heat-shield so that the bottom does not cook.

Over the range microwave over a standard vs pro stove

Ability in Watts

The cooking ability of a microwave is measured in watts, meaning the more watts your microwave has, the quicker you tin cook your food. In add-on to speed, higher wattage allows for more than flexibility. This means you likewise go more program and sensor cooking options.

For example, when using the defrost program, the microwave knows how long to apply power for the given amount and type of food. The microwave then adjusts ability levels and so your food does not burn or brown in an unwanted manner.

Microwave wattage can range anywhere from 500-1,500 Watts. You tin get a practiced over the range microwave betwixt 800-1,000 Watts.

Toll

While yous can look to pay more than for an over the range microwave, you can also expect more bang for your cadet. You will get better features and higher quality cooking power than you can with your average countertop microwave.

Aside from saving space, features include more overhead lighting and congenital-in ventilation. These are qualities a countertop microwave simply cannot match.

Installation

You lot may exist a "DIY-er" at heart, but this is one of those moments when you lot should leave it to the pros! You should absolutely opt-in for the professional person installation of your over the range microwave. Information technology can be catchy to secure the microwave to the cabinets safely, then don't get out it to chance.

Another matter to check is the type of fuel type your stove uses. If y'all have a gas stove, you'll need actress infinite higher up the cooktop to avoid burning your new microwave. At the end of the 24-hour interval, getting a professional to install your microwave is safer and will make life a lot easier.


Venting

All over the range microwaves come up equipped to recirculate air in the exhaust venting system to trap grease and get rid of odors. However, if y'all would like to vent outside your habitation, brand sure to check if your venting is vertical or horizontal. This data will help you to confidently shop for a microwave that will work in your abode.

Over the range microwave ventilation
Over the range microwave ventilation options

Filter

Likewise oft, nosotros forget almost maintaining our dwelling house appliances. Over the range microwaves have mesh filters to trap grease, preventing it from spreading around your home. Nosotros recommend cleaning these filters every three months. Most filters can be cleaned under running water, and some can even exist popped into the dishwasher for an easy clean.

Boosted charcoal filters can as well assist go rid of pesky odors. They fit discreetly in forepart of the grease filters and need to be replaced every six to twelve months to keep kitchen air clear of any unwanted smells.

over the range microwave grease filter
Over the range microwave grease filter

Additional Features

At present for the fun role - added features. These features give yous the conveniences of new technology as well as the reliability you expect in a mod microwave. Here are some of the features nosotros recommend looking for when shopping for an over the range microwave.

Sensors

Sensors accept the guesswork out of cooking and allow you to confidently defrost or reheat any dish.

Sensor cooking technology checks the moisture in your nutrient equally well as the humidity inside the cooking space to automatically adapt the power level and cooking fourth dimension. This ensures your baked potatoes and corn on the cob will never be dry out or overcooked.

Microwaves with sensors give you more control and options, allowing you to gear up a specific melt temperature - only like your wall oven.

Pre-programmed Keys

Pre-programmed keys permit you to cook your food with the uncomplicated bear upon of a button. At that place are loads of options such equally Express Cook, which helps yous to instantly cook meats, veggies, casseroles, and more than.

If y'all need to add together a little more cooking time, select the Extra 30 Seconds program to give your nutrient a quick smash on total power. There's also the all-important popcorn button to brand sure yous've got your snacks ready for movie night.

Like shooting fish in a barrel-to-Clean Interior

Fortunately, near modern microwaves come up with a ceramic enamel finish, which is super piece of cake to clean. Another option is stainless steel with an antimicrobial blanket, which is also corking for like shooting fish in a barrel cleanup.

No affair which pick you choose, information technology's easy to keep your microwave cleaning routine simple. Most of the time, all you need is a moist sponge to clean your microwave. You lot tin can also microwave a bowl of water with a lemon to loosen any caked on droppings.


Cooking Technologies

As new technologies sally, over the range microwaves include a variety of extra cooking modes and technologies. Some are definitely worth because, while others may not be every bit useful.

Convection Style

You may be wondering, "do I demand convection oven mode?" It actually depends on your cooking habits and your space. Convection over the range microwaves actually act like a second oven. On top of the standard microwave features, convection mode tin can offering so much more than. It will allow you to bake, roast, crisp and cook like y'all would in an oven. You can even bake a block in convection manner. When you're done, but switch the setting back to microwave fashion and pop some popcorn!

Samsung MC17T8000CS

GE Profile PVM9179SKSS


Exercise I demand a grill on my microwave?

The grill function is swell for 'on the go' families, who desire to melt nutrient in a hurry. It can cook all kinds of meats including chops, sausages, steaks, hamburgers, bacon, and even thin fish. If you utilize the combination fashion, the grill and microwave work together to give y'all speedier results.

To get the virtually out of the grill, employ the grill accessory to place your food shut to the heating chemical element at the top of the microwave. They're not platonic for baking enthusiasts, only are perfect if you need a quick fix similar grilled cheese sandwiches or reheated pizza.

over the range microwave w/grill
Over the range microwave due west/grill

Samsung ME21K7010DS

GE Profile ME21K7010DG


Do I demand steam fashion?

The brusk answer is probably non. The advantages of steam cooking are excellent for healthy eaters, only this blazon of engineering isn't super advanced at the moment. Although steam technology shortens preheat times and gives y'all fresh tasting food, you might exist meliorate advised to invest in a steam oven.

You'll spend less money on a steam microwave than a steam oven, but in that location actually is no comparison to the results you lot'll with a steam oven. Additionally, steam cooking is only available on select microwave models.

Many brands, however, do incorporate steam cleaning in their microwaves. This is different from steam cooking and is a nice bonus if you like to go along your interior actress clean.

GE Buffet CVM721M2NS5

Whirlpool WMH32519HZ


9 Best Over the Range Microwaves

At present that you have a better agreement of what to look for in an over the range model, allow's interruption down our height nine picks. We've fabricated our selections based on of import considerations like pattern, versatility, price, and functionality.

i) All-time Value: Samsung ME17R7021ES Over the Range Microwave

Samsung ME17R7021ES

The Samsung ME17R7021ES is jam packed with features like eco-style to reduce standby power, and a charcoal vent system to quickly eliminate steam and odors.
Its 1 Bear upon Cooking programme is also keen for making quick and easy meals.

This over the range model is great for large families, with a spacious 1.7 cu. ft. capacity. Its 1000 Watts power is more than plenty for speedy and versatile cooking, while its 300 CFM ventilation system eliminates smoke, steam, and odors with ease.

Some other great bonus of the Samsung ME17R7021ES is the adaptable cooktop light, which tin be placed on either high or low, depending on your needs.

Not only is the Samsung ME17R7021ES practical and efficient, information technology's sleek too! This microwave will elevate your kitchen with clean lines, a striking LED display, and a number of different color options to cull from, including blackness stainless steel.


ii) Best for Easy Clean: LG LMV2031SS Over the Range Microwave

LG LMV2031SS

The highlight of the LG LMV2031SS is its big ii.0 cu. ft. capacity. In addition to providing ample cooking space, the interior comes equipped with an easy-to-clean anti-bacterial blanket.

Another feature that makes this sleek over the range microwave stand out the most is its QuietPower Ventilation 400 CFM exhaust fan. The fan can be gear up at iii different power levels, including low, high, and turbo. The vent is subconscious from view for a seamless appearance, but works quietly and powerfully to remove odors and smoke while cooking. This is a huge perk, as the ventillation system works effectively without disrupting your conversations.

Many users rave about the bi-level cooking rack, which allows you to melt more than ane item at a fourth dimension. Notwithstanding, others mutter that the display and food view may be too high for the average person.

Overall, this 1000 Watt powerhouse comes with ten dissimilar power levels and eight sensor options to give yous a truly versatile cooking experience.


3) Best 24-inch: Haier HMV1472BHS Over the Range Microwave

Haier HMV1472BHS

For years, there were very limited over the range options for pocket-size kitchens with limited width space. Haier saw this gap in the market and delivered the HMV1472BHS for 24 inch model.

The Haier HMV1472BHS is an fantabulous option for a 24" range. This model has 10 heating levels, pre-programmed melt options and a sharp LED display. Also, It also has an Auto-On Venting organisation that activates the vent fan if the unit of measurement becomes also hot from the cooking surface below.

This model'south sleek and modern doesn't include a handle. Instead, information technology features drinking glass-touch electronic controls.

Although the price tag on the Haier HMV1472BHS is a bit college, many people seek this model out considering it's a perfect solution for 24" spaces.


iv) Best Budget: GE JVM3160RFSS Over the Range Microwave

GE JVM3160RFSS

The GE JVM3160RFSS offers great value at an affordable price. Its notable features include an optional turntable (which is ideal for larger plates), a not-stick interior for piece of cake cleanup, and convenient pre-programming options. and two fan-speed settings so that you lot tin control your ventilation needs.

This one thousand Watt microwave comes in a multifariousness of fingerprint-resistant colors like stainless steel and slate. Information technology even has two lighting options that tin act equally either a total cooktop light or a nightlight.

Many users honey the fact that this over the range microwave is quiet and easy to use. In fact, the GE JVM3160RFSS fifty-fifty offers two fan setting so that you can suit the ventilation based on your needs.


5) Best for Low Kitchen Cabinets: Whirlpool WML55011HS Over the Range Microwave

Whirlpool WML55011HS

The Whirlpool WML55011HS is the only low-profile over the range model on the market place. This k Watt microwave has a 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and an ultra-modernistic look. In fact, in lodge to keep this model looking sleek, Whirlpool concealed the impact controls, placing them on the inside of the microwave.

This Whirpool also comes with a powerful 400 CFM blower, which helps to eliminate stubborn smells, grease, and smoke from your kitchen.

One of our favorite things nearly this microwave is the tap-to-open door. This allows yous to open the door past only tapping it with your finger, wrist, or elbow. This increased flexibility allows you to open up the door, even when your easily are full.


six) All-time Bluetooth Sync: GE Contour PVM9005SJSS Over the Range Microwave

GE Contour PVM9005SJSS

The GE Profile PVM9005SJSS takes the guesswork out of microwave cooking with its country-of-the-art sensor technology. It will automatically adjust the time and power level to see the needs of each specific dish.

This model offers tons of space with 2.i cu. ft. and a clean, modern design. It'southward most unique feature is the ChefConnect capability. This innovative pick lets you connect your microwave to your GE range with Bluetooth technology. For example, when using ChefConnect, the clocks on your over the range microwave and GE range volition sync, and the lights and vent will plough on automatically when a burner is turned on.

Overall, virtually users adore the design, size and usability of the 1,050 Watt GE Contour.


7) Best Sensor Cooking: Whirlpool WMH32519HZ Over the Range Microwave

Whirlpool WMH32519HZ

The Whirlpool WMH32519HZ is a one thousand Watt over the range microwave with a 1.9 cu. ft. chapters. Its innovative sensor cooking applied science automatically adjusts the cook time depending on the needs of your dish.

This Whirlpool model besides has a steam cook choice, which requires a separate steam accompaniment to work. When in employ, yous can effortlessly steam vegetables and rice without having to turn on your stove. It has a 3-speed, 300 CFM ventilation organisation to reduce cooking odors. This model besides features a CleanRelease Not-Stick Interior for quick, painless clean-up!

Overall, nigh users study a high level of satisfaction with the Whirlpool WMH32519HZ. However, many are disappointed that the steam accessory is not included and must exist purchased separately.


8) Best Color: Cafe CVM517P4MW2 Over the Range Microwave in Matte White

GE Cafe CVM517P4MW2

The Cafe CVM517P4MW2 exudes truthful glamour and excellence. If you are looking for a microwave that breaks the mold and adds flair to your kitchen design, this Buffet model may be for you. But aside from its stylish pattern, this model is a powerhouse with both standard and convection engineering. In fact, the fast cook setting even combines the all-time of both technologies!

This 1000 Watt microwave oven has a spacious 1.seven cu. ft. chapters, making information technology the perfect add-on to your kitchen if you lot honey to entertain. On summit of creating gilded brown appetizers and cookies with the convection technology, this versatile microwave also allows you to steam rice and veggies with the touch of a push button.

From a design standpoint, this microwave is unique and customizable to your preferences. You can select the handle and knob options in chic colors like brushed statuary or blackness. Plus, in matte white color, your microwave will wait modern without a cliché stainless steel face up.


nine) Best Handle Free Mode: Frigidaire Gallery FGBM19WNVF Over the Range Microwave

Frigidaire Gallery FGBM19WNVF

The Frigidaire Gallery FGBM19WNVF is a large, 1.9 cu. ft. over the range microwave packed with powerful features. This 1000 Watt model utilizes sensor technology and a iii-speed ventilation fan, which tin exist set to low, medium, or high based on your needs. The Frigidaire Gallery also has a removable turntable and unproblematic, one-touch on buttons.

The Frigidaire Gallery FGBM19WNVF has a streamlined, handle-complimentary design. It's besides smudge and fingerpring resistent, making it perfect for homes with piddling hands (or paws!) Other highlights of this model include a zero-clearance door to fit the tightest spaces, and an "Effortless Clean" interior. With the Frigidaire Gallery, you can focus on the joy of cooking rather than the stress of cleaning.

Users especially love the LED lighting on this model, which makes it easy to encounter your cooktop. It as well serves as a nice design chemical element in your kitchen.


Conclusion

With an over the range microwave, you're getting two powerful appliances in one. Not only do you get a versatile microwave, but you as well go a powerful ventilation organisation. All in all, they are a great option for those looking for a space-saving alternative to a countertop microwave or a traditional range hood.


FAQs

Does Amazon make an over the range microwave?
AmazonEssentials is a corking source for inexpensive products. In fact, the Amazon microwave is only $59 and comes with nifty features like Alexa voice controls. At this time, Amazon does not brand over the range microwaves.