Upgrade your kitchen with above-the-range microwaves that blend space-saving design with powerful performance. This guide highlights five top options, spanning trusted brands and feature sets—from quick auto-cook menus to robust venting. Each model delivers ample interior capacity and user-friendly controls, helping you heat, defrost, and prepare meals with ease. Read on to compare features, installation fit, and practical advantages for busy households.
Overview of chosen products
| Product | Brand | Capacity | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| EM044K6CE-SS | BLACK+DECKER | 1.7 cu ft | One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1000 Watts, built-in vent |
| EM044KB19 | BLACK+DECKER | 1.9 cu ft | Auto Cooking Menus, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM vent |
| JVM3160RFSS | GE | 1.6 cu ft | 2-Year protection bundle, behind-the-door charcoal filter |
| JVM3160DFBB | GE | 1.6 cu ft | 2-Year protection bundle, 300-CFM vent |
| Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft | Farberware | 1.7 cu ft | Auto Cook Settings, 1000 Watts |
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave with Auto Cooking
This BLACK+DECKER model offers a spacious 1.7 cu ft interior with a 12.4-inch turntable, making it practical for larger dishes. It features 1000 watts of power and six quick menus for everyday tasks, including Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost. A built-in vent helps manage cooking smells, while the 15.4-inch depth and tall cabinet fit moderate kitchen footprints. The one-touch auto cooking simplifies common tasks, saving time during busy mornings or weeknights.
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave
Black+Decker’s EM044KB19 provides Auto Cooking menus covering popcorn, potato, vegetable, pizza, snack, bacon, and more. It delivers 1000 watts of cooking power across ten power settings with a clock and a kitchen timer, plus a 30-second express cook button for quick meals. A cooktop LED light ensures visibility on the cooking surface, and the unit includes a child lock for safety. The larger 1.9 cu ft interior supports bigger meals and cookware, making it a strong option for family kitchens.
GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
GE’s JVM3160RFSS comes as a stainless steel bundle with a 1.6 cu ft capacity and a two-year protection plan. This model emphasizes comprehensive practicality, including a full set of convenience cooking options, a behind-the-door charcoal filter, and standard dimensions suitable for many cabinet layouts. The 13″ x 16″ footprint supports standard over-the-range installations, while the included protection plan offers extended coverage beyond the manufacturer’s warranty.
GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
GE’s JVM3160DFBB focuses on a compact 1.6 cu ft capacity with 1000 watts of power and a two-speed, 300-CFM venting system. The model features a robust vent to manage cooking odors and steam, making it suitable for open-plan kitchens or apartments where ventilation efficiency matters. The bundle includes a full manufacturer protection plan, adding assurances for maintenance and parts over time.
Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft Over-The-Range Microwave
Farberware’s 1.7 cu ft microwave provides a balanced blend of capacity and convenience. With a 1000-watt output, it supports fast cooking and defrosting, while Auto Cook settings simplify common meals. The design accommodates versatile use in higher-kitchen installations and pairs well with standard venting options. A safety lock adds a layer of child-safety, making it a solid choice for households needing reliable performance with straightforward controls.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Above-The-Range Microwaves
When selecting an over-the-range microwave, consider how you cook, where you place it, and what features bring the most value to your routine. The following perspectives help balance performance, convenience, and long-term reliability.
- Ventilation and power: Look for a strong venting system (CFM) to remove steam and odors, especially if you frequently cook on higher heat or use the stovetop heavily. A 300–400 CFM range is common for residential kitchens. Ensure the microwave’s wattage (800–1000+ watts) matches your needs for quick results.
- Interior capacity and layout: A 1.6–1.9 cu ft cavity fits most standard cookware and larger plates. Check turntable size to ensure your dishes rotate properly. If you regularly heat large casseroles, prioritize models with bigger interiors or adjustable racks.
- Auto cook menus and controls: Pre-programmed menus streamline common tasks and reduce guesswork. Consider models with one-touch options for popcorn, beverages, reheat, defrost, and potato programs if you value quick, consistent results.
- Safety features: Child locks and sturdy door mechanisms help prevent accidental use in households with children. LED lighting improves visibility on the cooktop and inside the cavity, which is helpful during nighttime use.
- Durability and warranties: Bundled protection plans offer extended coverage beyond standard warranties. Check for dual-pane filters or charcoal filter replacement compatibility if you need easy maintenance.
- Design fit and installation: Confirm external dimensions fit your layout, including height clearance and venting alignment. Some models offer behind-the-door charcoal filters and adjustable venting for flexible installation options.
- Energy and noise: Efficient models reduce energy use and minimize fan noise during operation. Reviews often highlight whether the vent and fan operate quietly at higher power settings.
- Brand reliability and support: Choose brands with solid service networks and readily available replacement parts. User manuals and customer support topics can help with troubleshooting over time.
In summary, the best above-the-range microwave should balance interior space, robust cooking power, practical auto features, and reliable venting. Depending on your kitchen size and cooking style, you may prioritize larger interiors for big dishware or stronger ventilation for frequent stir-fries and sautéed meals. The options listed above provide a range of capacities and features to suit different American kitchens, ensuring efficient performance without sacrificing space or style.