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Whether you’re working with a small kitchen in a studio apartment or a spacious gourmet kitchen in a large home, it always feels like there’s not enough counter space for all your appliances.
Can openers, waffle irons, and kitchen appliances like Cuisinarts all compete for counter space, while rice cookers and toaster ovens often end up being stored in drawers or pantries. The reality is that the only viable location for most of these appliances is on the kitchen counter.
The Best Over the Range Microwave – Gives you Flexibility
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The one indispensable appliance that offers you some flexibility is the microwave oven. While installing a microwave over the range can be a bit of a hassle and somewhat costly, this simple kitchen redesign can liberate a significant amount of counter space, giving you room for an ice cream maker, spice rack, or even food preparation.
Many countertop microwaves come with kits that allow you to relocate them above the stove; others are specifically designed for permanent installation. Both offer the same capabilities for cooking, reheating, defrosting, melting, and popping, with some even adding baking and roasting to the list. However, over-the-range models come with the added advantage of a vent hood for the stove.
The cost of one of these latter units can vary widely, depending on the features you desire. Most will set you back at least a couple of hundred dollars, while some can approach or even exceed the thousand-dollar mark. Nevertheless, they become a permanent fixture in your kitchen and generally cost less than other kitchen essentials like refrigerators, ovens, and stoves.
The Best Over-the-Range Microwave -Buying Considerations
When reviewing these microwaves, the Your House Garden team has considered their overall functionality, size, ease of installation, and performance. We’ve also assessed whether their design complements various kitchen decors and, of course, we’ve evaluated their performance both as microwave ovens (including factors like the number of presets, ease of programming, and sensor cooking technology, alongside food quality) and as range hoods (taking into account airflow and fan speed).
Combination microwave/convection models naturally come at a higher cost, but offer added versatility, which will be appreciated by those who use their ovens for more than just reheating pizza or making quick snacks.
In a modern kitchen, the epitome of convenience lies in built-in appliances. You’ll likely discover that the best over-the-range microwave elevates the joy of cooking in a well-appointed kitchen to an entirely new level.
Here is what we at Your House Garden found.
1. GE JVM3160DFCC Over-The-Range Microwave Oven
In nearly every instance, when you invest in a GE kitchen appliance, you can count on receiving a well-designed, well-constructed machine that delivers exceptional performance and longevity. While it might not always be the absolute top-tier option, it comes remarkably close for the majority of home cooks. GE’s Monogram line, known for its outstanding quality, comes with price tags that reflect its excellence.
However, GE also produces other product lines that offer excellent value at more affordable prices. Take, for instance, the JVM3160DFCC microwave oven.
This oven may not be exceptionally large, but that’s typical for over-the-range models designed to fit the standard space above a 30-inch stove. The Profile series boasts a 1.6 cubic foot interior, accommodating most large dishes or casseroles, and the 13.5-inch turntable can be turned off to accommodate very large dishes without them constantly hitting the sides of the oven. With a 1000-watt high-power setting, it delivers the performance you’d expect from a high-quality microwave.
The microwave comes with ten selectable power levels and performs as impressively as any countertop model that Your House Garden has assessed. It may not offer a convection function or an extensive array of presets that you might be accustomed to (there are a few for popcorn, beverages, defrosting, and reheating). However, let’s face it; these are the functions that most people use the most. For the most part, individuals simply place their food in the oven and set a cooking time, and the JVM3160DFCC does an excellent job of cooking or reheating.
It also features an Express Cook function, a two-speed vent fan (by default, it vents to the top of the unit, but it can be converted for outdoor venting or used without venting), and adjustable settings for the interior light (bright, night, or off). Installation isn’t overly complex if you have an extra pair of hands to assist, but it’s worth noting that this model may not fit older GE trim kits, so you might need to purchase a new one if the included bracket doesn’t match your kitchen.
The oven is available in five colors, including bisque—a less common color that can be a real gem if it complements your kitchen decor. While we do wish it had a few extra convenience features, such as a delay timer to schedule cooking at a later time, these are relatively minor points of consideration.
For well under half the cost of a full-featured microwave/convection oven with all the bells and whistles, the GE JVM3160DFCC is a meat-and-potatoes microwave that will do a solid job for a long, long time. More on the GE JVM3160DFCC Over-The-Range Microwave Oven:
Check GE JVM3160DFCC Over the Range Microwave Price On Amazon |
2. Sharp R1874T Over-the-Range Convection Microwave
While this Sharp model may not quite match the level of the GE microwave we’ve recently reviewed, it boasts a feature that more than compensates for the differences in size and power: convection cooking.
Convection ovens have won over many with their advantages, and this combination convection/microwave unit allows you to enjoy the benefits of even temperatures, shorter cooking times, and energy efficiency without the need for extra kitchen space.
Speaking of size and power, let’s address those aspects first. At 850 watts, it’s a tad lower than the highest power level you’d find in most microwaves, but it’s easily offset by adjusting cooking times slightly. While the 1.1 cubic feet capacity is relatively small, the R1874T can still accommodate a 13-inch ceramic turntable, fit a 13×9 pan, and handle most common microwaveable foods. The upside? It takes up less space above your range, making it a popular choice in many RVs.
What truly sets this Sharp microwave apart is its versatility and impressive cooking capabilities. It offers 11 microwave power settings, 10 microwave presets, and 12 convection CompuCook programs that utilize a sensor system for broiling, baking, and roasting. All of these functions are controlled through a user-friendly interactive display panel. One standout feature that our review team appreciated is the “custom help” key, which simplifies the learning process for this microwave/convection oven.
Additionally, it comes equipped with a built-in exhaust system that allows for horizontal, vertical, or duct-free venting, along with a two-speed fan.
Facts and figures for the Sharp R1874T Over-the-Range Convection Microwave:
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3. LG LMV2031ST Over-The-Range Microwave Oven
Don’t require a fancy convection/microwave combo for your stove? This LG model fits the bill perfectly. It’s a spacious microwave with 2.0 cubic feet of capacity and a 14-inch turntable. What’s more, it comes equipped with a robust three-speed exhaust fan and offers excellent microwave performance at a more budget-friendly price point.
Operating at 1000 watts, this microwave employs a sensor system for precise cooking, defrosting, heating, and melting.
Surprisingly, it provides just five presets (popcorn, kids’ meal, soften/melt, reheat, and defrost), which might seem limited for a higher-end microwave. However, it compensates with eight sensor cook functions, custom cook, and normal cook settings (with ten power levels), covering all your microwaving needs. The result is deliciously cooked food, often surpassing the quality of many competitors. Similar to the GE Profile, this unit includes a two-level rack to maximize your cooking space.
Notably, the exhaust fan is among the most potent and quietest in its class, the interior is designed for easy cleaning, and it boasts an attractive appearance. While a bracket is provided with the oven, it’s worth mentioning that this appliance can be challenging to install on your own, and the manual actually recommends hiring a professional installer. We echo that recommendation.
The LMV2031ST is a terrific microwave-only oven to go over your range. Looking deeper at the LG LMV2031ST Over-The-Range Microwave Oven:
Check LG LMV2031ST Over The Range Microwave Oven Price On Amazon |
4. Whirlpool WMH31017AS Microwave
Unfortunately, for the current moment this model is unavailable on Amazon. We encourage you to instead consider one of the other excellent microwaves listed here.
Moving a step down in both price and performance, we come to the Whirlpool microwave-only model, which might better suit your budget compared to the LG unit ranked just above it in our top 5 list of over-the-range microwave ovens.
The WMH31017AS may not be visually stunning or loaded with advanced features, but it’s a functional and reasonably priced option. Inside its 1.7 cubic foot oven, you’ll find 1000 watts of power, along with ten power levels and three presets (pizza, potato, popcorn), in addition to defrosting, reheating, and softening/melting buttons.
The remaining controls and digital time display are probably familiar to you, as they resemble those on most microwaves—nothing extravagant, but they get the job done. In terms of food quality, it might not deliver the absolute best results we’ve seen from a microwave oven, but it certainly performs well.
The two-speed hood fan is less powerful and noisier than some of the ovens we’ve examined so far, but it does the job unless you plan on doing extensive high-heat cooking. Installation shouldn’t pose a significant challenge for those who are handy as long as they have a few hours to spare.
The stainless steel exterior is relatively appealing, although one personal observation we made was the size and prominence of the Whirlpool logo at the top, which we felt detracted from the overall aesthetics.
Not bad at all, for the price. Specifications for the Whirlpool WMH31017AS Microwave:
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5. Frigidaire FFMV164LS Over-The-Range Microwave
If you’ve found the right price point but desire more features rather than a larger oven, consider this Frigidaire model.
Although it’s compact at 1.6 cubic feet, its multi-stage cooking option sets it apart. This feature allows you to pre-program a comprehensive range of cooking times and power levels—a convenience that’s noticeably absent from the other more budget-friendly options on our list. (Should you need a bit more space, you can deactivate the turntable to accommodate a 9 x 13 casserole dish.)
The Frigidaire boasts 1000 watts of power, ten power levels, standard preset buttons, auto-reheat and defrost functions, quick time settings, and a standout feature: full programmability, a rarity in installed microwaves within this price range.
The auto-start hood fan, while having only two speeds, outperforms the one on the Whirlpool. Installation is also relatively straightforward compared to most over-the-range units. Our only substantial reservations are that the “food is done” beep is exceptionally loud and bothersome, and the oven doesn’t appear to be as durable as one would hope for long-term use.
This isn’t a gorgeous microwave but it’s easy to use, it’s programmable – and the food comes out very good. Facts and figures for the Frigidaire FFMV164LS Over-The-Range Microwave:
Check Frigidaire FFMV164LS Over-The-Range Microwave Price On Amazon |
GE PVM9179SFSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over-the-Range Microwave – Convection
This is an older model that used to be on our top 5 list.
The PVM9179SFSS is an impressive combination of microwave and convection oven. Once again, this GE oven isn’t oversized, as it’s designed to fit the standard space above a 30-inch stove.
The Profile series boasts a 1.7 cubic foot interior that accommodates most large dishes or casseroles. It includes two racks to maximize space utility, and you can turn off the turntable to accommodate very large dishes without them constantly hitting the oven’s sides. With 1000 watts of power, it meets the expectations of most microwaves. Still, what sets this oven apart is its effective sensor system and the added feature of convection cooking, elevating it above many competitors.
The microwave offers ten selectable power levels and performs exceptionally well, nearly on par with countertop models we’ve reviewed at Your House Garden. It doesn’t have the extensive array of presets you might be accustomed to (there are a few for popcorn, beverages, defrosting, reheating, and a 30-second “microwave express”). However, most control buttons are dedicated to the convection cooking features, which brings us to the versatile half of this appliance.
The convection oven in this stylish combo microwave enables you to bake, roast, brown, and grill foods with impressive results. While not quite as proficient as a dedicated convection oven, it comes remarkably close, operates swiftly, and adds valuable versatility to the “just a microwave” setup that many people have above their range. It allows you to seamlessly combine microwave and convection functions without the need to transfer food between ovens.
The humidity-sensor function mentioned earlier is a standout feature; it automatically adjusts cooking time, ensuring that everything is prepared to perfection without being overdone.
The built-in vent hood on this Profile microwave is highly efficient, featuring an auto-start function and three manually-selectable speeds, along with a dual-brightness light. Installation is manageable, but it’s essential to note that this model might not fit older GE trim kits, so you may need to purchase a new one if the included bracket doesn’t suit your kitchen.
The oven is available in white, black, slate, and stainless steel, ensuring there’s a model to match nearly any kitchen decor.
There are two aspects of the PVM9179SFSS that Your House Garden didn’t particularly favor. Firstly, setting cooking time or other functions requires rotating a dial that moves in 15-second increments, which some may find less user-friendly. Secondly, there’s no delay timer to schedule the oven to start cooking at a later time, which could be a useful addition.
If you can ignore these minor issues this GE microwave offers superb overall value for the quality and functionality it offers. More on the GE Profile PVM9179SFSS Over-The-Range Microwave/Convection Oven:
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KitchenAid KMHC319ESS Over The Range Microwave
This is an older model that used to be on our top 5 list.
When you first saw the name of this product, you probably thought, “I bet that one’s expensive.” You were absolutely correct. The KMHC319ESS does come with a hefty price tag, but it unquestionably ranks as the best among units available for under one thousand dollars (please check the latest price on Amazon, as it can vary).
Your House Garden didn’t simply place it at #1 on our list of the best over-the-range microwaves because of its high cost. However, for those with a more generous budget, it’s our top choice.
Much like the GE model, this is a 1000-watt combination microwave/convection oven with sensor cooking. Still, it boasts a larger capacity at 1.9 cubic feet, complete with a spacious 14-inch turntable. Not only is it highly functional, but it’s also a stunning addition to any kitchen.
This sleek stainless steel appliance will seamlessly blend into a modern gourmet kitchen. It features chrome-faced glass, satin cross-hatched handles, and an understated yet substantial control panel with a digital display at the bottom of the oven.
The KitchenAid does everything the Profile can do and more. Alongside traditional time and temperature control, six microwave presets, and three convection settings, it offers an additional steam setting, which also operates based on a sensor, ensuring perfect steamed foods. To be frank, our review team at Your House Garden absolutely loves this feature.
The microwave’s quality is excellent, and the cooking quality is nearly on par with what you’d expect from a dedicated convection oven equipped with a flawlessly functioning sensor system. And did we mention how much we adore the steamer?
You’ll find two hood fan speeds, an auto-start feature when cooking begins, and a timer function for both the fan and the attached halogen lights. Installation may pose some challenges if you’ve previously had a different model installed above your range; in such cases, it might be best to call in a professional. However, aside from the high price, that’s the only downside we could identify with the KMHC319ESS.
If you can afford it, Your House Garden highly recommends it. Details on the KitchenAid KMHC319ESS Over-The-Range Microwave:
Check KitchenAid KMHC319ESS Over-The-Range Microwave Price On Amazon |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the life expectancy of an over-the-range microwave?
The typical life expectancy of an over-the-range microwave is around 9 to 10 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as usage, brand, and maintenance. Regular cleaning and proper care can help extend its lifespan, but eventually, most microwaves will require replacement due to wear and tear.
Do I really need 12 inches above the microwave?
Yes, it’s generally recommended to have a minimum of 12 inches of clearance above an over-the-range microwave. This space allows for proper ventilation and prevents heat buildup, ensuring the microwave functions efficiently and safely. Inadequate clearance may lead to overheating and potential damage to the appliance or nearby cabinetry.
What is a common over-the-range microwave size?
A common size for over-the-range microwaves is approximately 30 inches in width. The height typically ranges from 16 to 18 inches, and the depth can vary but is often around 15 to 17 inches. These dimensions are designed to fit standard kitchen cabinetry and spaces above a 30-inch stove or cooktop.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best over-the-range microwave involves considering various factors like size, features, and budget. There are excellent options available to suit a range of needs, from those with advanced convection cooking capabilities to more budget-friendly models that still provide reliable performance. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and kitchen requirements, but with the right selection, an over-the-range microwave can greatly enhance cooking convenience and efficiency in any kitchen.
One of the things I don’t seem to find when looking at reviews for microwaves are there is little information on the cooktop lighting. Most cooks like to know if OTR microwaves have lighting, how many, type, i.e. halogen, led, location, i.e. toward front, back, on either side. It is why after 2 yrs of owning my current one, I am looking for a new one, because mine has inadequate lighting.
Have been using the Whirlpool WMH31017 for couple weeks and am totally frustrated with the automatic fan that comes on anytime I use the cooktop. There is no way to turn it down or off and it is noisy. Even when done cooking the fan stays on and wastes energy. I did not know I would have no control over the vent fan or I would not have bought it. Whirlpool does not make another model with control options. Will look for another microwave – the continually running annoying fan takes the joy out of cooking.
Hi Susan,
Thanks for your comment.
From what we understand most over the range microwaves have automatic fans, which are triggered by an inbuilt thermostat i.e. the fan will come on when the microwave becomes too hot so that it protects the electronics (and helps the cooking area get rid of excess heat). The fan will only turn off again once the microwave cools down. The message “AUTO FAN ON for heat circulation” appears in the display.
Which brands/models have you found where you have control over the fan?
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I would like to get a GE OTR microwave that I will vent to the outside. The cabinet to which it will mount under is 15” deep. GE installation instructions say that it should not be mounted to a cabinet more than 13” deep due to top venting grilles. (And a bump out mounting kit should be used if cabinet depth exceeds 13”). However I would like the microwave box to mount flush with 15” cabinet which means those top venting grilles will be covered by the cabinet above. Is it ok to cover the top vents since I will be venting to the outside or do those vents need to be exposed for another purpose?
Hi Stephanie,
Officially none of GE’s over the range microwaves are approved for flush installation, and they suggest you follow the installation instructions as described. The key reason seems to be to provide access to the charcoal filters (which is needed when the microwave is front vented or recirculated) which, in most models, is through the “front” of the microwave -> see video below.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/sQQWDG7znBk?rel=0
We cannot officially provide advice that differs from this. However, if you are to think about it logically, if the microwave is vented out the back, then the front charcoal filter is not needed. It even mentions this in the instructions linked below, on page 2… “Filter Kit JX81H– Recirculating Charcoal Filter Kit To be used when the microwave oven cannot be vented to the outside.” So the opposite logic fits that if you vent outside you don’t need the charcoal filter and therefore will never need to replace it.
https://products.geappliances.com/MarketingObjectRetrieval/Dispatcher?RequestType=PDF&Name=CVM9179SL_EL_C3_17.pdf
Hope this helps a bit.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
May be a dumb question- but can these microwave ovens be set to vent to outside instead of just blowing back in to kitchen?
Hi Bruce,
Thanks for the great question.
The answer is yes, these microwaves such as our top choice the GE Profile range, are configured to vent out the rear (horizontally or vertically). Although they can also be updated with a bump out kit to vent out the front (depending upon your cabinet depth requirements).
Please read more about this on GE’s web page
https://products.geappliances.com/appliance/gea-support-search-content?contentId=17416
Please let us know if you had a question about a specific model etc.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I have the same concern as Stephen Rice note dated Jan.4, 2018 (i.e. exhaust blows upward onto the cabinet doors). Do you know of any over-the-range model that discharges the exhaust horizontally rather the upward?
Hey Bill,
Thanks for the question, do any of the models below work for you – they all vent out the front horizontally.
https://amzn.to/2vGGNKu
https://www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin/ajmadison/PCOR30.html
https://www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin/ajmadison/CMOH30SS.html
https://www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin/ajmadison/RVMHC330SS.html
https://www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin/ajmadison/VMOR205SS.html
https://www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin/ajmadison/R1874TY.html
https://www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin/ajmadison/R1514TY.html
https://www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin/ajmadison/OTR111SU.html
I would say that if some of the vertical venting models from the links I provided fit your requirements then they will perform in a similar way to your previous GE JVM1540N1CS i.e. they will project the air outwards from the cupboards. This will drastically slow down the rate of discoloration, and if there is no possibility to vent your microwave through the back or top of the cupboard, then this is your best option.
Unless of course, you want to try the GE Bump out kit…https://www.geapplianceparts.com/store/parts/spec/JX15BUMPBB
Hope this helps a bit.
Cheers for now,
Pierce
I wonder if I can use stainless steel plate inside microwave. ????
Hi Sara,
Thanks for the question.
No, it is not safe to put steel bowls or plates in a microwave. You can read more via the quora link below.
https://www.quora.com/Is-it-safe-to-use-steel-bowls-in-a-microwave-oven
Kind Regards,
Lisa
DO NOT BE FOOLED! Look at the design of these under the counter microwave/fans. Unless you vent them to the outside you will be pushing the air into the cabinet doors as my Whirlpool does! Their response. Too bad so sad. We can not fix it as it is a design flaw . So if I use the vent fan it blows stuff on my new cabinets. NOT!! Time to find decent microwave that still vents to the front in my case. So, they look pretty but look past that to do they really function for you.
Hi Stephen,
Yes, it is important to be aware of this. As with any exhaust hood (extractor hood or range hood) design, the vent should lead outside, otherwise, you are just moving air into a dead space.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exhaust_hood
You might find a model in our countertop microwave oven article linked below.
https://yourhousegarden.com/top-5-best-counter-top-microwave-reviews/
Kind Regards,
Lisa