Choosing the best space saver over the range microwave is essential for maximizing your kitchen layout without sacrificing functionality. These microwaves combine compact design with powerful features like sensor cooking, multiple power levels, and efficient ventilation systems. Below is a summary of the top picks, followed by detailed reviews to help you find the ideal microwave that suits your cooking and space needs.
| Product | Brand | Capacity (cu.ft.) | Power (Watts) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midea MOR17BSA-SS | Midea | 1.7 | 1000 | 18 Auto Menus, 300 CFM Ventilation |
| GE JVM7195SKSS | GE | 1.9 | Not Specified | Melt Feature, Steam Clean, Charcoal Filter Kit |
| BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS | BLACK+DECKER | 1.7 | 1000 | 10 Power Levels, 6 Quick Menus, Vent Included |
| COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS | COSMO | 1.2 | 1000 | 11 Power Levels, 7 Auto Cooking Options |
| GE JVM3160DFWW | GE | 1.6 | 1000 | Two-Speed 300 CFM Vent, Extended Protection |
Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Microwave Oven
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS offers a spacious 1.7 cu.ft capacity paired with a 12.5-inch turntable, perfect for large dishes like rotisserie chickens or a 12-inch pizza. It features a 1000W output and 10 power levels to meet diverse cooking needs. The 18 auto cooking menus simplify preparing various dishes including popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and rice. Its smart touch panel enhances usability, making meal prep efficient. Additionally, it integrates a 300 CFM ventilation system to efficiently remove smoke and odors from your cooking area.
GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Sensor Microwave Oven
The GE JVM7195SKSS stands out with its generous 1.9 cu.ft. capacity ideal for families. It includes a melt feature designed to worry-free melt butter, chocolate, and other delicate ingredients. The microwave boasts an easy-clean interior with steam clean functionality, cutting down maintenance time. Dimensions of approximately 16 5/16 H x 29 7/8 W x 15 9/16 D make it suitable for many kitchen layouts. The package comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit enhancing ventilation without ductwork, perfect for smaller spaces.
BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS Over The Range Microwave
With a 1.7 cubic feet capacity and a 12.4-inch turntable, the BLACK+DECKER microwave handles everyday cooking tasks with ease. It delivers 1000 watts of power across 10 cooking levels and features 6 quick-menu buttons including popcorn, beverage, melt/soften, reheat, and defrost. Additionally, it supports speedy cooking settings for 1 to 3 minutes on full power for quicker meal prep. Its sizeable dimensions (15.4″D x 29.9″W x 16.4″H) make it a practical choice with integrated ventilation.
COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS Slim 30 in. Microwave
The COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS slimline model offers a compact 1.2 cu.ft capacity, ideal for tighter spaces. It delivers 1000 watts power with 11 power levels for precise cooking control. This model supports 7 convenient touch presets including popcorn, potato, and sensor cook/reheat modes. Its smart defrosting system uses both weight and time options for optimized thawing. The compact size frees up overhead storage, making it a perfect space saver for smaller kitchens.
GE JVM3160DFWW 1.6 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven White
The GE JVM3160DFWW combines a 1.6 cubic feet capacity with 1000 watts of cooking power, matching standard preparation needs efficiently. It features a two-speed, 300-CFM venting system designed to remove smoke, steam, and odors effectively. This unit also comes with a 2-year extended protection plan to enhance reliability. Its neutral white finish can blend seamlessly into various kitchen styles while maintaining functional excellence.
Buying Guide: What to Consider When Choosing a Space Saver Over The Range Microwave
Finding the right space saver over the range microwave requires considering several factors beyond just size. Here are some key purchase considerations:
Capacity and Size
- Determine your kitchen space: Measure the available overhead space and compare to microwave dimensions.
- Choose appropriate capacity: Larger capacities (around 1.7 to 1.9 cu.ft.) are suitable for families, while slim models (about 1.2 cu.ft.) fit smaller spaces without loss of essential functionality.
Cooking Power and Functions
- Wattage: 900 to 1000 watts generally provide efficient and versatile cooking performance.
- Power levels and presets: Multiple power settings and one-touch menus enhance control and cooking convenience.
- Sensor cooking: Useful for adjusting cooking times automatically based on food moisture.
Ventilation System
- Cubic feet per minute (CFM): Higher CFM ratings (300-400) remove smoke and odors effectively.
- Ducted vs. recirculating: Consider ducting options based on kitchen setup; charcoal filter kits enable recirculation if ducting isn’t possible.
Additional Features
- Ease of cleaning: Steam clean or easy-clean interiors reduce maintenance effort.
- Smart controls: Touch panels, voice control, or app compatibility add modern convenience.
- Turntable size and racks: Larger turntables or racks allow reheating multiple items simultaneously.
Warranty & Reliability
- Extended protection plans: Some models include multi-year warranty extensions for added peace of mind.
By carefully evaluating these perspectives, you can select a microwave that fits your space, complements your cooking style, and integrates smoothly into your kitchen.