Shopping for an over the range microwave is a significant decision that can greatly impact both the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen space. These versatile appliances offer a space-saving solution by combining the convenience of a microwave with the ventilation capabilities of a range hood. However, with a wide range of models, sizes, and features to choose from, selecting the right over the range microwave can be a nuanced process. Whether you're looking to enhance your cooking experience, optimize kitchen space, or simply upgrade your appliance, this over the range microwave buying guide will provide you with essential information and tips to help you make an informed choice when shopping for an over the range microwave.
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Shop NowIn this article, we’ll compare different types of microwaves, discuss the benefits of over the range microwaves, and highlight top over the range microwave brands. Then, we’ll recommend a few of the best over the range microwave picks from trusted brands from Colder’s and compare over the range microwave reviews.
Types of Microwaves
Microwaves come in various types, each designed for specific purposes and with unique features. Here are some common types of microwaves:
- Countertop Microwaves: Countertop microwaves sit on your kitchen countertop and are suitable for most cooking and reheating tasks. They come in various sizes and power levels to accommodate different cooking needs.
- Over the Range Microwaves: Over the range microwaves are designed to be mounted above your stove or cooktop. They often include a built-in ventilation system and can save counter space in your kitchen.
- Drawer Microwaves: These microwaves have a unique design where the microwave drawer slides out horizontally, making it easier to access and place dishes inside. They are typically installed below the countertop or in kitchen islands.
- Convection Microwaves: Convection microwaves combine microwave technology with convection cooking. They have a fan and heating element that allows them to bake, brown, and roast in addition to microwave functions. They are versatile and suitable for cooking a wide range of dishes.
- Smart Microwaves: Some microwaves come with connected features, allowing users to control them via smartphone apps or voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. They may also have built-in cooking presets and sensors for automatic cooking adjustments.
- Microwave/Toaster Oven Combo: These appliances combine a microwave oven with a toaster oven, providing versatility for various cooking tasks. They are useful for toasting, baking, and reheating.
When choosing a microwave, you’ll want to consider your cooking needs, available kitchen space, and budget.
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With so many types of microwaves available, why do we recommend over the range microwaves? Here are several reasons:
✅ Space-Saving: If you’ve been wondering how to save counter space in kitchen, installing an over the range microwave is a great solution. Over the range microwaves are designed to be installed above your stove or cooktop, which means they free up valuable counter space in your kitchen. This can be especially beneficial in smaller kitchens where counter space is limited.
✅ Kitchen Ventilation: Most over the range microwaves come with built-in ventilation systems that can help remove smoke, steam, and odors from your stovetop cooking. This can help improve indoor air quality and reduce the need for additional range hood ventilation. Because of this, you may hear an over the range microwave called a microwave range hood or a range hood microwave.
✅ Modern Design: Over the range microwaves are available in a range of styles and finishes, allowing you to choose one that complements your kitchen decor and design preferences. Many brands offer sleek and modern designs in stainless, black stainless, and even colors like navy or sapphire.
✅ Range Lighting: Over the range microwaves often have built-in lighting under the microwave that can illuminate your cooktop. This provides better visibility while cooking and can enhance the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.
✅ Customizable Features: Many over the range microwaves come with various features and settings, such as convection cooking, sensor cooking, and presets for common dishes. This allows for versatile cooking options beyond basic microwave functions.
Best Over the Range Microwave Brands
Once you’ve decided the type of microwave you want to buy, it is time to start comparing brands. At Colder’s, we recommend Frigidaire Gallery, KitchenAid, LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool. All of these brands contend for the best brand over the range microwave. According to the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Appliance Satisfaction Study, LG and Samsung ranked the highest in a tie in customer satisfaction among over the range microwaves, followed by Whirlpool. Click the ➕ to learn more.
➕ Frigidaire Gallery Over the Range Microwaves
Frigidaire Gallery is Frigidaire’s mid-range option, providing a stylish and budget-conscious choice with more features than a standard Frigidaire but less expensive than the Frigidaire Professional line. Their over the range microwaves are a bit more expensive than our LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool options, but not by much.
➕ KitchenAid Over the Range Microwaves
While the other brands on this list manufacture laundry appliances and other electronics, KitchenAid is dedicated to crafting quality kitchen appliances. KitchenAid wants to make sure you get the most out of making, and we offer a selection of budget-friendly to midrange priced over the range microwaves.
➕ LG Over the Range Microwaves
LG is known for their innovative and cutting-edge features, and many of their home appliances feature smart technology that you can access with the ThinQ app. We offer a budget-friendly selection of LG over the range microwaves.
➕ Samsung Over the Range Microwaves
Samsung often features the latest technology, as they are one of the world’s largest producers of electronic devices. Did you know they actually began in the 1970s as a manufacturer of home appliances? We offer a budget-friendly selection of Samsung over the range microwaves.
➕ Whirlpool Over the Range Microwaves
Whirlpool is dedicated to helping families thrive. Since 1911, Whirlpool has been creating innovative, convenient, and reliable appliances. Whirlpool over the range microwaves are among the more affordable options on the market, but they don’t always offer the latest features.
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6 Best Rated Over the Range Microwaves
Keep reading for our best rated over the range microwaves from Colder’s.
Whirlpool 1.1 Cu. Ft. Black On Stainless Over the Range Microwave
Shop This Whirlpool Over the Range Microwave
This over the range microwave 400 CFM fan is complemented by a sleek and low profile design that is perfect for a modern kitchen. If you’ve been looking for convenient options like concealed touch controls, a tap-to-open door, and various presets to help you defrost or cook your food to perfection, this Whirlpool over the range microwave is an excellent option.
Featured Whirlpool WML55011HS review: “We had a range hood with a fan vented outside and a large microwave enclosed in a shelf above our counter. This microwave is a smaller appliance that combines the vented hood and microwave giving me more cabinet space. Perfect fit for my needs.”
KitchenAid 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over the Range Microwave Hood Combination
Shop This KitchenAid Over the Range Microwave
This 500 CFM over the range microwave provides powerful venting with a slim and modern aesthetic. We love the whisper quiet ventilation and bright LED lighting so that whether you’re microwaving or cooking on the stovetop, this KitchenAid over the range microwave enhances your experience. You can choose from stainless steel, black stainless steel, or white to match the rest of your kitchen suite.
Featured KitchenAid KMLS311HSS review: “I have a small kitchen and this low profile microwave fit beautifully in the small area above the stove. It's the best microwave I have ever owned. It's a beautiful design, easy to use, and functional. I also love the pleasant sound it makes when the cooking is finished. Not a loud and annoying beep.”
Samsung 1.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over the Range Microwave
Shop This Samsung Over the Range Microwave
Our pick for the best over the range microwave under $300 is this sleek Samsung over the range microwave. You’ll save on the price tag without sacrificing must-have features, like powerful 300 CFM ventilation, an energy-conserving ECO Mode, and preprogrammed settings to help you cook each dish perfectly.
Featured Samsung ME16A4021AS review: “This microwave came with our newly built home. I've always heard that Samsung appliances were great but I had never owned one. I love this microwave, it heats everything up very quickly and the fan for the stovetop isn't loud and annoying. I would recommend this microwave to anyone.”
LG 1.8 Cu. Ft. PrintProof Stainless Steel Over the Range Microwave
Shop This LG Over the Range Microwave
Our pick for the best over the range microwave under $400 is this fingerprint-proof LG over the range microwave. It is smart compatible with the LG ThinQ app and features 3 auto cook settings, whether you need to defrost, soften, or melt. It’s perfect for a modern kitchen with its fingerprint proof stainless steel finish and sleek WideView window front.
Featured LG MVEM1825F review: “I love it and can't complain at all. This would be our first over the range microwave giving us more space in our kitchen.”
Frigidaire Gallery 1.9 Cu. Ft. Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel Over the Range Microwave
Shop This Frigidaire Gallery Over the Range Microwave
This over the range convection microwave allows you to cook healthier (and crispier!) meals with Air Fry. For the avid home cook, you’ll love being able to enjoy convection baking up to 425℉ in your microwave. When it comes to ventilation, this Frigidaire over the range microwave comes with a push-to-open PureAir filter that alerts you when it’s time to replace it. This over the range microwave also features sensor reheat so that you reheat your leftovers right every time.
Samsung Bespoke 2.1 Cu. Ft. Navy Steel Over the Range Microwave
This extra large over the range microwave boasts 2.1 cubic feet of capacity and comes in a unique navy steel finish. This is the ideal microwave for those who need more space for bigger dishes but still want a sleek, modern look. With this pick, you can enjoy convection cooking, sensor cooking, and an energy-conserving Eco Mode.
Featured Samsung ME21A706BQN review: “I just couldn't be happier with my Samsung bespoke microwave. All the features are great and looks fantastic. Completes the kitchen with the refrigerator, dishwasher, and stove.”
Choosing an over the range microwave can help you save space in the kitchen, heat up food quickly, and create a modern kitchen design. At Colder’s, we offer the best selection of over the range microwaves from trusted brands. If you live in the Milwaukee area, stop by one of our locations to browse over the range microwaves in person today.
Over the Range Microwave FAQ
An over the range microwave is installed above your stove or cooktop, saving counter space and combining two appliances in one—it works as both a microwave and a range hood. Unlike countertop models, it often includes built-in ventilation and lighting for your cooking surface.
Not always. Over the range microwaves typically offer two options: venting air outside through ductwork or using a recirculating system with filters. The right setup depends on your kitchen design. Colder’s offers both types and can help you choose the best solution for your home.
Most over the range microwaves are about 30 inches wide to fit standard kitchen cabinets, but interior capacity and fan strength can vary. Make sure to measure the space between your cooktop and cabinets before choosing a model, and consider how much cooking space you’ll need inside.
If you live in or around Milwaukee, Colder’s is the best place to find over the range microwaves and more. Visit us to explore options, today!
Why Trust Colder’s?
Since 1942, we at Colder's pride ourselves on offering value, selection, and service. Serving Southeastern Wisconsin with four showrooms that stock quality name-brand furniture, appliances, and mattresses, Colder’s is sure to house exactly what you are looking for. And if you can't find it on our floors, chances are, we can order it for you. As a local, family-owned company, we are always doing our best to provide the highest value at the lowest cost to everyone who walks through our doors.
Colder’s is committed not only to continuously offering can’t-miss sales but also to working with each customer, making sure that you take advantage of every possible markdown — that’s our best price guarantee. Still need help? We offer zero percent appliance and furniture financing for your home needs!
Shop Over the Range Microwaves at Colder’s
Don’t put off happiness — and shop over the range microwaves online for unbeatable prices at Colder’s. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you explore our entire over the range microwave selection, whether you call us at 414-476-1574 or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one of our Colder’s locations in West Allis, Oak Creek, Delafield, and Grafton, Wisconsin to touch, see, feel, and experience home products that fulfill your dreams. Visit us today!
→ Learn more: Shopping for the Best Range Hood [Buying Guide]