You might be thinking to yourself, is an over the range microwave any different than other microwaves? The short answer is, yes! An over the range microwave is designed to be tucked away neatly above your stove and often comes with a ventilation system that clears the air as you cook. They also have a few extra powers that make them a great addition to any modern cooking space.
If you’re looking to remodel your kitchen with a contemporary look, free up some more counter space, or simply need a replacement for an older model, this appliance is a great option for you. Read on to see our expert’s selection of the best over the range microwave available, and why adding this appliance to your culinary space can make a huge difference.
Why Choose an Over the Range Microwave?
Finding the perfect microwave for your kitchen can sometimes be a tricky task to accomplish. It usually comes down to how much space you have to offer and the specific features you’d like it to have. With an over the range oven, you’ll instantly save space because it hangs over your stove and is attached to other kitchen cabinets on the side (and sometimes on top.)
As far as features go, an over the range microwave can do everything a standard microwave can do, from defrosting your prime cuts of meat to making a quick midweek meal. An over the range microwave also incorporates ventilation and stovetop lights to make sure your cooking experience is that much more efficient and enjoyable. All in all, you will certainly free up precious counter space with an over the range microwave, while also getting relief from smoke, odors, and grease as well.
Discover More with these 6 Top Over the Range Microwaves
Our Top Picks:
Now that you know why choosing an over the range microwave can be the top choice for your home, take a look at some of the best models available picked by our team of experts.
Best Overall: GE® Over The Range Microwave Oven-Stainless Steel-JVM3160RFSS
This GE over the range microwave offers impressive value at an affordable price. Its notable features include an optional turntable (which is ideal for larger plates), a non-stick interior for easy cleanup, several convenient pre-programming options, and two fan-speed settings so that you can control your ventilation needs. This 1000 watt over the range microwave also comes in a variety of fingerprint-resistant colors like stainless steel and slate. Plus, it even has two lighting options that can act as either a full-cooktop light or nightlight.
Best Budget/Value: Frigidaire® 1.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave-FFMV1645TS
This extra-large Frigidaire stainless steel over the range microwave is the perfect budget-friendly choice for those looking for a new microwave with powerful features. With a large 13.5-inch diameter glass turntable and over 30 cooking presets (including several One-Touch options), this microwave is versatile enough for almost any meal imaginable.
And now you can make meal prepping and cooking even simpler with included LED lighting that offers a clear, bright view of your cooktop, no matter the time of day.
Best Splurge/Luxury: KitchenAid® 1.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave Hood Combination-KMHC319ESS
This high-power convection over the range microwave from KitchenAid is a beautiful combination of functionality and luxury. Loaded with state-of-the-art features, this over the range microwave lets you effortlessly steam and simmer without having to use your stove thanks to an innovative container and sensor-monitored cooking cycle. With satin cross-hatched handles and chrome-faced glass with red medallions, this microwave with hood boldly blends unique styling for the perfect fit in any home.
Best Convection: Frigidaire Professional® 1.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Convection Microwave-FPBM3077RF
With this over the range convection microwave oven from Frigidaire, you can completely trust this appliance to deliver top results time after time. Equipped with PowerSense™ Cooking Technology, this best over the range convection microwave automatically senses ideal time and power levels for almost every type of meal. Even better, this ultra-convenient appliance features PowerPlus™ Convection which allows you to bake more evenly at a microwave speed. And with LED lighting built into the interior of the microwave, the light stays on the entire time you’re cooking so that you don’t miss any of the action.
Best Low Profile: Whirlpool® 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Low Profile Microwave Hood Combination-WML35011KS
This stainless-steel over the range microwave from Whirlpool can instantly help you save space with a sleek design that will conveniently fit your undercabinet hood space. This best low profile over the range microwave boasts a two-speed vent that removes smoke, odor, and moisture like a standard hood, but only takes up half the space. Plus, you can leisurely navigate through cooking modes and options with exterior controls that are as easy to use as they are to clean.
Best Smart Compatible: Whirlpool® Over The Range Microwave-Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel-WMH78019HZ
To round out our list of the best over the range microwaves, take a step into the future with this fingerprint-resistant, stainless-steel model from Whirlpool. This microwave is stacked with advanced features that let you send cooking instructions from your smartphone, control your kitchen with voice commands using a compatible voice-enabled device, or easily keep up with service and maintenance. And with four different fan speed settings to match the right amount of ventilation to the dish being prepared and help quickly get rid of cooking odors, this best smart compatible over the range microwave will take your kitchen to new heights.
Shop Over the Range Microwaves at Spencer’s
As always, don’t forget to shop local! Be sure to look over our catalog for the best over the range microwaves, and if you have other questions about any of our top-rated cooking appliances, don’t hesitate to call or visit your friends in the business at Spencer’s TV & Appliance. Proud to have served our customers since 1973, we have 10 locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Call or visit us today!