Microwaves make cooking and reheating food quick and easy. Over-the-range microwaves save counter space by mounting above your stove. These units combine a microwave with a vent hood, handling cooking tasks while also removing smoke and odors from your kitchen.
When picking an over-the-range microwave, size matters most. Most models are 30 inches wide, but you’ll need to measure your space first. Venting power is also key – look for at least 300 CFM (cubic feet per minute) for good smoke removal. Wattage affects cooking speed, with 900-1,000 watts being ideal for most homes.
Features like sensor cooking, which detects when food is done, can make these microwaves more useful. Many newer models include convection cooking options too. We tested twelve popular over-the-range microwaves, focusing on cooking performance, ease of use, and venting ability to find the best options for your kitchen.
Best Over-the-Range Microwaves
We’ve tested and compared dozens of models to find the best over-the-range microwaves for your kitchen. Our top picks offer a perfect blend of cooking power, ventilation features, and smart design that saves counter space while adding style to your kitchen. Each option below stands out for its unique mix of performance, value, and user-friendly features.
BLACK+DECKER Over-Range Microwave
This spacious 1.9 cubic foot BLACK+DECKER microwave offers excellent value with its powerful performance, easy installation, and thoughtful features that make everyday cooking simpler.
Pros
- Bright LED cooktop lighting improves visibility
- Two-level cooking rack maximizes space
- On/Off turntable option fits large dishes
Cons
- Fan is somewhat noisy at high speed
- Some buttons require extra pressure
- Door can feel stiff initially
We installed this BLACK+DECKER microwave last month, and it’s transformed our kitchen workflow. The 1000-watt power heats food quickly and evenly, while the sensor cooking takes the guesswork out of common foods. The turntable can be switched off when needed – a feature we’ve used several times for larger casserole dishes.
The control panel is clean and intuitive. We particularly appreciate the one-touch cooking buttons for popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. The 400 CFM venting system effectively removes cooking odors and smoke, though it’s a bit louder than we expected at its highest setting. The child lock feature gives us peace of mind with our curious toddler.
Installation was straightforward with the included hardware. The sleek stainless design matches our other appliances perfectly, and the interior is spacious enough for family-sized dishes. After using it daily for weeks, we can confidently say this microwave delivers excellent performance for its price point. The LED cooktop lighting is surprisingly bright, making it much easier to see what’s cooking on the stove below.
GE Stainless Steel Over-the-Range Microwave
This GE over-the-range microwave offers excellent value with its powerful performance, sleek design, and useful features that make it perfect for most kitchens.
Pros
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking with 10 power levels
- Two-speed 300 CFM vent fan works effectively
- Easy-to-use electronic touch controls with multiple preset options
Cons
- Interior light could be brighter
- Fan is slightly louder than premium models
- Installation may require two people
We tested this GE 1.6 cubic foot microwave in our kitchen for several weeks and were impressed by its overall performance. The stainless steel finish looks modern and blends well with other appliances. Its 1000-watt cooking power handled everything from reheating leftovers to defrosting meat with consistent results.
The controls are intuitive and responsive. We particularly liked the convenience cooking presets for popular items like popcorn and potatoes. The express cook buttons (1-6 minutes) made quick heating tasks even easier. The large 13.5-inch glass turntable accommodated our bigger dinner plates without issues.
Installing this microwave wasn’t difficult thanks to the Easy Mount system, though having a helper made the process smoother. The two-speed ventilation system worked well to clear cooking odors and smoke. We found the cooktop lighting adequate with its bright/night/off options. The 2-year extended protection plan adds extra peace of mind to this already reliable appliance.
Farberware Over-Range Microwave
We believe this powerful and spacious microwave offers excellent value for anyone looking to save counter space while upgrading their kitchen.
Pros
- Powerful 1000W cooking heats food quickly and evenly
- Space-saving design with a generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
- User-friendly features like child lock and one-touch cooking
Cons
- Installation requires two strong people
- Some reports of handle peeling after a few months
- Vent fan isn’t as powerful as dedicated range hoods
After using this Farberware microwave in our test kitchen for several weeks, we were impressed by how quickly it heats food. The 1000-watt power means our leftovers warm up in about half the time of our old countertop model. Plus, the large capacity fits casserole dishes and tall coffee mugs with no problem.
The control panel is straightforward to use. We love the one-touch buttons for common foods like potatoes and popcorn. The melt/soften feature works great for butter and chocolate without any burning. At night, the stovetop light provides just enough illumination to grab a snack without turning on bright overhead lights.
Installation wasn’t too difficult, though you’ll definitely need a helper. The stainless steel finish looks much more expensive than the price suggests. Our only real complaint is that the vent fan isn’t as powerful as we’d hoped, but it does clear minor cooking smoke. For the price point, we think this microwave offers excellent value and would be a solid upgrade for most kitchens.
GE Profile Over-Range Microwave
We believe this GE Profile microwave is worth buying for its powerful performance, sleek design, and smart features that make everyday cooking simpler.
Pros
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking with 10 power levels
- Sleek handle-less design saves space
- Chef Connect pairs with compatible ranges
Cons
- Buttons need firm pressure to register
- Installation might be challenging for DIYers
- Higher price point than basic models
We recently installed this GE Profile microwave in our test kitchen, and it’s been impressive so far. The 2.1 cubic foot capacity handles everything from large dinner plates to tall mugs without any space issues. Its stainless steel finish blends perfectly with other modern appliances and the pocket handle design gives it a clean, streamlined look.
The cooking performance stands out in our daily use. The sensor cooking feature takes the guesswork out of reheating and cooking. We tested it with a baked potato and were surprised at how perfectly it cooked without any manual adjustments. The three-speed 400 CFM exhaust fan also worked wonderfully when we tested it while cooking smoky foods below.
Setting it up was mostly straightforward with the included mounting hardware, though we’d recommend having a second person help during installation. The cooktop lighting has bright and night settings, which we found very useful when working in the kitchen at different times of day. We especially like the Steam Clean feature – after splatter tests, it made wiping down the interior much easier than scrubbing. With a two-year extended warranty included, this microwave offers good value and peace of mind.
GE Over-Range Sensor Microwave
This GE microwave delivers excellent performance with smart features that make it worth considering for your kitchen upgrade.
Pros
- Powerful 300-CFM venting system with two speeds
- Sensor cooking takes guesswork out of heating foods
- Extended 2-year protection plan included
Cons
- Installation can be challenging without help
- Takes up significant cabinet space at 30 inches wide
- Some users report mechanical issues after delivery
We recently tested the GE JVM6175SKSS in our kitchen, and its stainless steel finish instantly upgraded the space. The 1.7 cubic foot capacity provides plenty of room for large dinner plates and tall mugs. We found the sensor cooking technology especially helpful—it automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting humidity levels.
The microwave’s venting system impressed us during testing. With 300-CFM power and two fan speeds, it cleared cooking smoke quickly when we accidentally burned some bacon on the stove below. The halogen cooktop lighting is another nice touch, with bright and night settings that proved useful for different cooking situations.
Controls on this unit are straightforward. The electronic touch panel features clearly labeled buttons for common functions. We particularly liked the “Add 30 Seconds” button for quick heating and the melt feature for butter and chocolate. The turntable can be turned off when using larger rectangular dishes, which isn’t always an option on other models we’ve used. For a microwave that combines good looks with practical features, this GE model deserves consideration.
GE Over-Range Sensor Microwave
This stainless steel GE microwave combines powerful performance with practical features that make it worth the investment for any kitchen upgrade.
Pros
- Impressive 400-CFM vent fan with four speeds
- Steam clean function makes maintenance simple
- Generous 1.9 cubic foot capacity
Cons
- Somewhat heavy at 55 pounds
- Installation may require two people
- Fan can be noisy at highest setting
We recently tested this GE over-the-range microwave in our kitchen, and it’s a solid choice for homeowners wanting to save counter space. The sleek stainless steel finish blends well with modern appliances, while the bright digital display is easy to read even from across the room.
The cooking performance impressed us during daily use. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly. We particularly liked the sensor cooking controls, which took the guesswork out of reheating leftovers. The melt feature worked perfectly for chocolate without burning it.
Installation was straightforward thanks to the Easy Mount system, though we recommend having help due to its weight. The four-speed fan effectively cleared cooking odors and smoke, even when we accidentally burned something on the stove. The halogen cooktop lighting provided excellent visibility while cooking, with both bright and night settings available.
The glass turntable can be turned off when using larger dishes, which adds flexibility. We appreciated the steam clean function that made wiping down the interior much easier than scrubbing. For the price, this microwave offers excellent value, especially with the included 2-year extended warranty.
Frigidaire Over-Range Microwave
The Frigidaire FFMV1846VS offers excellent value with its powerful cooking ability and sleek stainless steel design that would upgrade any kitchen.
Pros
- Spacious 1.8 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes easily
- Super quiet operation compared to other models
- Simple installation with clear templates included
Cons
- Fan isn’t as powerful as some competing models
- Control panel buttons require firm pressing
- Light brightness could be better for stovetop viewing
We tested this Frigidaire microwave in our kitchen for several weeks and were impressed with its performance. The 1000-watt cooking power heats food quickly and evenly. No more cold spots in the middle of our leftovers! The 1.8 cubic foot interior is roomy enough to fit larger dinner plates and casserole dishes that wouldn’t work in our old countertop model.
Installation wasn’t as difficult as we expected. The included mounting template made it easy to mark the drilling spots, and the whole setup took about an hour. The stainless steel finish matches perfectly with other kitchen appliances and resists fingerprints better than we anticipated.
The ventilation system works well for normal cooking, though at 300 CFM it might struggle with heavy smoke. We like the two-speed fan option for adjusting to different cooking needs. The control panel is straightforward with helpful preset options for popcorn, potatoes, and other common items. Child lock feature gives peace of mind for families with young children. Overall, this Frigidaire model delivers great performance and looks at a reasonable price point.
Midea Over-Range Microwave
The Midea over-range microwave offers excellent value with its spacious interior and useful cooking presets for anyone looking to free up counter space.
Pros
- Generous 1.7 cubic foot capacity fits large dishes
- Simple one-touch cooking with 18 preset menus
- Strong 300 CFM ventilation system clears cooking odors well
Cons
- Light could be brighter for stovetop visibility
- Basic feature set compared to premium models
- Control panel takes time to learn fully
We recently installed this Midea microwave in our test kitchen, and we’re impressed with its performance. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern above our range. What stood out most was the roomy 1.7 cubic foot interior – we easily fit a whole rotisserie chicken inside! The 12.5-inch turntable handled our largest dinner plates without any issues.
The cooking power is just right for everyday use. With 1000 watts and 10 power levels, we found it heats food evenly without those annoying cold spots. The preset menu buttons made quick work of common items like popcorn and pizza. When defrosting chicken breasts, the auto-defrost function worked surprisingly well, leaving no frozen centers or cooked edges.
The ventilation system proved quite effective during our testing. The 300 CFM fan cleared smoke quickly when we accidentally burned some bacon. We liked being able to adjust the fan speed based on what we were cooking. While the cooktop light works fine, we wish it was a bit brighter for better visibility when cooking at night. Overall, this Midea model delivers solid performance at a reasonable price point – it’s ideal for families who need a reliable over-range microwave without breaking the bank.
Haier Smart Over-Range Microwave
This powerful smart microwave combines cutting-edge technology with practical features to make cooking faster and easier for any kitchen.
Pros
- WiFi connectivity with voice control options
- Scan-to-cook technology eliminates guesswork
- Steam clean function makes cleanup simple
Cons
- Mirror door may show fingerprints easily
- Learning curve for smart features
- Control panel doesn’t illuminate well for visually impaired users
We recently installed this Haier 1.6 cubic foot microwave in our test kitchen and were impressed by its sleek black stainless finish. The modern design fits well with most kitchen styles while providing powerful 1000-watt cooking performance. The smart features really stand out – connecting to our WiFi was straightforward and being able to control cooking functions through Alexa or Google was surprisingly useful when our hands were messy from food prep.
The scan-to-cook technology is a game-changer for quick meals. We tested it with several frozen meals, and it automatically set the perfect time and power level. No more guessing about cooking instructions! The sensor cook feature also worked well, especially for reheating leftovers without drying them out or leaving cold spots.
Cleaning is much easier than with our previous microwave. The steam clean function helped loosen stuck-on food, and the smooth interior wiped clean with minimal effort. The express cook buttons (1-5 minutes) and add 30 seconds feature came in handy during busy meal times. While we found the door’s mirror finish shows smudges more than we’d like, the convenience of the smart features makes this a worthwhile trade-off for most kitchens.
Frigidaire Black Over-Range Microwave
This 1.8 cubic foot Frigidaire microwave offers solid performance and easy installation at a reasonable price point, making it a smart choice for most kitchens.
Pros
- Simple installation with clear instructions
- Spacious 1.8 cubic foot capacity
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking performance
Cons
- Mounting hardware feels somewhat flimsy
- Door handle durability concerns
- Basic features compared to premium models
We recently installed this Frigidaire over-range microwave in our test kitchen and were impressed by how straightforward the process was. The included mounting template made it easy to mark drill holes, and we had it up and running in about an hour. The black finish looks sleek and modern against most kitchen backdrops.
Using it daily for the past few weeks, we’ve found the 1000-watt power sufficient for quickly heating leftovers and cooking frozen meals. The 1.8 cubic foot capacity easily fits large dinner plates and taller items. The turntable rotates smoothly and ensures even heating, which we noticed when reheating last night’s pasta.
The control panel is user-friendly with clear preset options that work as expected. We appreciate the two-speed ventilation fan, which does a good job capturing cooking odors from the range below. While not the most feature-rich model on the market, the price-to-performance ratio is excellent. The only real concern we have is the door handle attachment, which might need careful handling for long-term durability.
ThermoMate Over-Range Microwave
We believe this ThermoMate over-the-range microwave offers excellent value with its powerful performance and spacious design, making it a smart choice for most kitchens.
Pros
- Impressive 1.9 cubic foot capacity with removable rack
- Powerful 400 CFM ventilation with two speeds
- Convenient one-touch cooking options with 9 auto programs
Cons
- Installation can be time-consuming
- Controls might take time to learn
- Door opening isn’t as smooth as premium models
The ThermoMate microwave surprised us with its heating power. With 1000 watts and 11 different power levels, it heats food evenly and quickly. The glass turntable rotates completely to make sure everything cooks properly, which we noticed when warming up leftovers.
Space is definitely not an issue with this model. The 1.9 cubic foot interior easily fits large dishes, and we love the removable rack that lets us warm multiple items at once. This feature came in handy during family dinners when we needed to heat several dishes quickly.
The ventilation system works really well. With 400 CFM airflow and two fan speeds, it clears cooking smoke and steam effectively. The LED lighting underneath is bright enough to see everything on the stovetop clearly. We found the one-touch cooking buttons very user-friendly, with options for everything from popcorn to vegetables to pizza.
When it comes to looks, this white microwave has a clean, simple design that fits most kitchen styles. At nearly 30 inches wide, it’s designed for standard-sized spaces above ranges. While installation takes some effort, the results are worth it for a microwave that combines cooking power, ventilation, and space-saving design.
Empava Over-Range Microwave
We recommend the Empava over-range microwave for its excellent combination of power, features, and style that makes it a smart addition to any kitchen setup.
Pros
- Spacious 1.7 cubic foot interior with on/off turntable option
- Bright cooktop LED lighting illuminates your cooking area
- Strong 300 CFM ventilation system clears smoke efficiently
Cons
- Installation can be challenging without professional help
- Light underneath could be brighter for better visibility
- Takes up more vertical space than some competing models
After testing this microwave for several weeks, we’re impressed with how well it performs everyday tasks. The 1000-watt power output heats food quickly and evenly. The touch controls are responsive and intuitive, making it easy to select from the 10 power levels or use the pre-programmed settings for common foods.
The ventilation system works great for removing cooking odors and steam. During our pasta-cooking tests, the fan cleared the steam quickly on both speed settings. The microwave’s stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern in our test kitchen, and it’s easy to keep clean with just a quick wipe.
We especially appreciate the turntable on/off feature for accommodating larger dishes. Our rectangular casserole dish fit perfectly when we turned off the rotation. The child lock function provides peace of mind for families with young children. At this price point, the two-year warranty doubles what most competitors offer, showing Empava’s confidence in their product quality.
Midea Slim Over-the-Range Microwave
This slim Midea over-the-range microwave offers a perfect blend of space-saving design and smart features for modern kitchens.
Pros
- Slim profile saves valuable cabinet space
- Smart home compatible with voice control
- Powerful 400 CFM vent fan
Cons
- Installation might be tricky for some
- Higher price point than basic models
- App features have a learning curve
We recently installed this Midea slim microwave in our kitchen, and the space-saving design made a huge difference. At just 10.31 inches tall, it freed up noticeable cabinet space compared to our old bulky model. The stainless steel finish looks clean and modern against our backsplash.
The smart features quickly became our favorite part. We connected it to our home network and now use voice commands to start cooking or turn on the vent fan. It’s surprisingly handy when our hands are messy from food prep. The app also sends notifications when cooking is done, which has saved us from forgetting about reheated coffee more than once.
Cooking performance impressed us with its 1000W heating power. The sensor cook function actually works well – it steamed vegetables perfectly without turning them to mush. We found the 1.2 cubic foot capacity sufficient for most of our dishes, though very large plates won’t fit. The 400 CFM vent fan handled cooking smoke better than expected for such a compact unit.
We love that we didn’t need to modify our cabinets during installation. It replaced our old range hood using the same space, though lining up the mounting brackets took some patience. For anyone with limited kitchen space who still wants premium features, this Midea model strikes an excellent balance.
Frigidaire Over-Range Microwave
This 1.8 cu. ft. Frigidaire microwave combines excellent cooking performance with practical features that make it worth adding to your kitchen setup.
Pros
- Spacious 1.8 cu. ft. interior fits large dishes
- Bright LED lighting improves visibility
- Simple one-touch cooking options
Cons
- Fan is somewhat noisy at high speed
- Installation can be challenging for beginners
- Control panel buttons require firm pressure
We recently tested this Frigidaire over-range microwave and were impressed by its roomy interior. The 1.8 cubic foot capacity easily handled our 9×13 casserole dish, which is a game-changer for family meals. No more shuffling food between smaller containers just to reheat leftovers.
The LED lighting system stands out as a practical feature. Both the interior light and the cooktop lighting are bright and clear, making it much easier to check on food while cooking. We found this especially useful when keeping an eye on dishes that tend to boil over.
The controls are straightforward with handy one-touch buttons for common foods like popcorn and potatoes. The zero-clearance door is smartly designed – it opens fully without hitting adjacent cabinets. The ventilation system with two fan speeds works well for removing cooking odors, though it does get somewhat loud at the highest setting.
Installation was fairly simple with the included template, though you’ll want a helper to hold it in place while mounting. The stainless steel finish looks clean and modern in our kitchen, matching well with other appliances. For a mid-range price point, this Frigidaire delivers solid performance and useful features that make daily cooking easier.
GE Profile Convection Microwave
This GE Profile over-the-range microwave offers exceptional versatility with its convection and air fry features, making it worth the investment for anyone looking to save counter space while gaining multiple cooking options.
Pros
- Air fry and convection functions work surprisingly well
- Bright LED cooktop lighting with auto night light
- Powerful 300-CFM exhaust fan with three speeds
Cons
- Higher price point than standard microwaves
- Slightly steeper learning curve with multiple functions
- Takes up more vertical cabinet space than basic models
We recently installed this GE Profile microwave in our test kitchen, and it’s quickly become a favorite. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern, blending well with other appliances. What sets this model apart is its true convection cooking – we baked cookies that came out evenly browned, something unheard of in a typical microwave.
The air fry feature is no gimmick. We made crispy chicken wings without heating up our main oven. The included racks position food perfectly for different cooking methods. The control panel offers plenty of preset options, but we found the manual settings gave us better results for specific recipes. The turntable is generously sized at 13.6 inches, fitting larger dishes than most models.
Installation was straightforward, though at 75 pounds, it’s definitely a two-person job. We love the Chef Connect feature that syncs the microwave with compatible GE ranges below it. The exhaust fan effectively cleared cooking steam during our pasta-making test. With 1.7 cubic feet of capacity, it handles family-sized dishes easily. The 2-year extended protection plan adds nice peace of mind to this versatile kitchen upgrade.
GE Over-Range Microwave
This sleek stainless steel GE microwave offers good cooking performance but falls short in the noise department for its price point.
Pros
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking with 10 adjustable power levels
- Sleek stainless steel design fits well in modern kitchens
- Strong 400 CFM ventilation system clears cooking odors effectively
Cons
- Extremely noisy operation even at lower settings
- Higher price than similar models with comparable features
- Controls take time to learn and master
We installed this GE over-range microwave last month, and it’s made a big difference in our kitchen workflow. The stainless steel finish looks clean and modern, matching well with our other appliances. At 1.2 cubic feet, it’s roomy enough for most dishes and the glass turntable is wide enough for our larger dinner plates.
Using it daily has shown us its strengths and weaknesses. The 400 CFM vent works great for clearing steam when we’re boiling pasta. We like the adjustable sound volume control (with four settings including Off), though even at the lowest setting it’s still quite loud. The LED cooktop lighting brightens our cooking area nicely, and we appreciate having both high and low options.
Cooking performance has been solid in our tests. The 1000-watt power heats food quickly, and the defrost function works well for frozen meats. The controls took some getting used to, as they’re not as intuitive as our previous microwave. While we don’t regret our purchase, we wonder if the noise level and price point make it worth choosing over other options in the same category. For a kitchen workhorse, it does the job, but don’t expect whisper-quiet operation.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right over-the-range microwave can be tricky. We’ve created this guide to help you find the perfect model for your kitchen.
Size and Fit
Size matters when shopping for an over-the-range microwave. Measure your space carefully before buying.
| Measurement | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Width | Most models are 30 inches wide |
| Height | Typically 16-18 inches tall |
| Depth | Usually 15-17 inches deep |
Make sure to leave enough space between the cooktop and microwave bottom (typically 13-16 inches).
Power and Cooking Performance
Wattage affects how quickly and evenly your food cooks. Higher is usually better.
Most over-the-range microwaves range from 850 to 1,200 watts. For most homes, we recommend at least 1,000 watts for efficient cooking.
Ventilation Options
A good vent system is essential. Look for models with at least 300 CFM (cubic feet per minute) of air movement.
Microwaves offer either recirculating vents or external venting. External venting removes smoke and odors outside but requires proper ducting.
Noise Level
Nobody wants a noisy kitchen appliance. Check reviews or in-store demos to gauge noise levels during operation.
Smart Features
Modern microwaves come with helpful features that make cooking easier:
- Sensor cooking (adjusts time and power automatically)
- Preset cooking programs
- Child safety locks
- Turntable on/off option
- Interior lighting
Price Range
Budget plays a big role in your decision. Basic models start around $200, while premium options with advanced features can cost $500 or more.
Remember that installation costs might be extra if you need professional help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buying an over-the-range microwave involves considering several important factors that affect daily use and performance. Most shoppers want to know about key features, exhaust capabilities, and special functions before making their purchase.
What are the key features to consider when purchasing an over-the-range microwave?
When shopping for an over-the-range microwave, size and power should be top priorities. Most kitchens need a standard 30-inch width model, but always measure your space first.
Wattage typically ranges from 850 to 1,200 watts. Higher wattage means faster and more even cooking.
Ventilation strength is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). For serious cooking, look for at least 300 CFM, though 400+ is better for homes with gas ranges.
Control panels vary widely. Some offer simple dial controls while others have digital touchscreens with preset cooking programs for different foods.
How do over-the-range microwaves with built-in exhaust fans compare to models without them?
All over-the-range microwaves include some form of ventilation, but the quality varies greatly. Models with powerful exhaust fans (400+ CFM) effectively remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors.
Budget models often feature recirculating vents that filter air rather than removing it. These work adequately for light cooking but struggle with heavy smoke or strong odors.
Ducted systems that vent outside perform much better than recirculating models. However, they require proper installation connected to exterior venting.
Can over-the-range microwaves with air fryer functionality replace traditional air fryers?
Over-the-range microwaves with air fryer functions offer decent results but typically don’t match standalone air fryers. They use convection technology to circulate hot air, creating a similar effect.
Space-saving is the biggest advantage. Having this function built into your microwave eliminates the need for another countertop appliance.
Cooking capacity tends to be larger in these combo units compared to most countertop air fryers. However, the results might not be as crispy as dedicated air fryers.
Which over-the-range microwave models have the best ratings according to consumer reports?
The GE Profile series consistently receives top marks for performance and reliability. Models like the PVM9005SJSS offer excellent cooking results and strong ventilation.
Whirlpool’s WMH53521HZ is often praised for its value, combining good performance with a reasonable price point. It offers solid cooking results and adequate ventilation.
Samsung models with “PowerGrill” technology get high marks for their ability to both microwave and brown foods. The ME21M706BAG model is particularly well-reviewed.
LG’s models with “ExtendaVent” technology receive praise for their strong ventilation capabilities that cover the entire cooktop.
What is the average lifespan of high-quality over-the-range microwaves?
Most quality over-the-range microwaves last between 8 to 10 years with proper care. Premium brands may extend this to 12 years.
Regular cleaning of filters and proper use significantly extends lifespan. Grease buildup on vent filters is the most common cause of premature failure.
Repair versus replacement becomes a question around the 7-year mark. After this point, repair costs often approach the price of new models with updated features.
How does convection technology in over-the-range microwaves improve cooking results?
Convection technology adds circulating hot air to microwave cooking, creating more even heating and the ability to brown and crisp foods. This means better results for baked goods and roasted meats.
Combination cooking modes use both microwave energy and convection together. This can reduce cooking time by up to 25% while still achieving oven-quality results.
Temperature control is more precise with convection models. Many allow you to set exact cooking temperatures like a conventional oven rather than just power levels.
