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There’s a lot to consider when purchasing a microwave, especially if you plan on installing it over the range in your kitchen. An attractive design and easy-to-use control panel are essential, and an effective vent is a must. The following microwaves all have different features, including keep-warm functions, automatic vents and removable racks for bi-level cooking. And always remember to consider the space constraints of your cabinets when you’re selecting a microwave; not all of these models will have the same fit.
Frigidaire Professional FGMV155CTF
The Frigidaire Professional FGMV155CTF heats food quickly and vents effectively without too much noise. While I probably won’t be cooking a big dinner in my microwave any time soon, I like having the option of being able to crisp something up quickly using the convection baking option without waiting for the oven to heat up. The lighting on this microwave is also good enough that I can check on my food and adjust the cooking time—without stopping the clock.
Key Specs
Price: $476.o0; Dimensions (D x H x W): 15.03 x 16.41 x 29.88 inches; Capacity: 1.5 cubic feet; Power output: 900W; Color: Stainless steel
Besides being one of the most futuristic-looking microwaves I’ve ever seen, the GE PVM9005SJSS is also meticulously designed. The integrated handle is so much easier to clean and use than one that’s attached to the outside. Using the electronic control panel may be intimidating at first, but the sensor technology takes all the thinking out of it. The sensor automatically adjusts the time and power level based on the food it’s cooking.
Key Specs
Price: $398.00-584.00; Dimensions (D x H x W): 16.16 x 17.31 x 30 inches; Capacity: 2.1 cubic feet; Power output: 1050 W; Colors: Stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant slate, fingerprint-resistant black slate, fingerprint-resistant black slate stainless steel
If you’ve ever tried to scrub splattered, encrusted food off a microwave, you know that having an interior that resists buildup and stains makes the LG LMV2031ST a solid choice. All you have to do is wipe it with a damp cloth. Other notable features include a removable rack that allows you to cook two dishes at once, and a vent with four speeds. It’s effective and quiet—a feature that is important for a person who is driven mad by the sound of the fan grating (me). And as a bonus the display turns off after five minutes of inactivity to save energy.
Key Specs
Price: $259.00; Dimensions (D x H x W): 15.88 x 16.4 x 29.9 inches; Capacity: 2 cubic feet; Power output: 1000 W; Colors: Stainless steel, black stainless steel, black, white
The Magic Chef MCO165UW is ridiculously affordable, but don’t let that price tag fool you into believing it’s poor quality. The vent—which is loud but effective—turns on automatically when it senses oxygen impurities and uses a charcoal filter to remove them. At 1.6 cubic feet, it’s a bit small, but the recessed turntable allows for larger dishes and ensures even cooking. Installation is super easy if you’re planning a DIY renovation.
Key Specs
Price: $139.00; Dimensions (D x H x W): 16.1 x 16.8 x 29.9 inches; Capacity: 1.6 cubic feet; Power output: 1000 W; Colors: White, black
The Sharp R-1214 has 11 presets, including one that will keep your food warm until you’re ready to eat. The defrost preset is also useful because it calculates cook time based on weight. It also has a push release button. The one drawback is the Sharp doesn’t have a vent but if that’s not important to you, you can’t go wrong with the Sharp R-1214.
Key Specs
Price: $342.18; Dimensions (D x H x W): inches; Capacity: 1.5 cubic feet; Power output: 1100 W; Colors: Stainless steel, white
The Whirlpool WMH75021HZ has 2.1 cubic feet of cooking space, and not an inch will go to waste. Like the LG microwave, this one has a removable cooking rack so that you can cook two dishes at once. Additionally, it has a turntable that turns itself off if you want to cook something larger than the tray. Situating the panel at the bottom also allows for a more spacious interior and is more accessible for people on the shorter side.
Key Specs
Price: $378.00; Dimensions (D x H x W): 16 x 17.13 x 29.94 inches; Capacity: 2.1 cubic feet; Power output: 1100 W; Colors: Stainless steel, black stainless
Turntables help with even cooking. Unfortunately, they’re often awkwardly positioned. In the Samsung ME16K3000AS, the turntable is flush with the bottom so that larger dishes have a stable perch. A small depression allows you to easily lift it out for cleaning. I especially like the eco-mode option so that the electronic display will shut off when it’s not in use.
Key Specs
Price: $168.00; Dimensions (D x H x W): 15.2 x 16.9 x 29.9 inches; Capacity: 1.6 cubic feet; Power output: 1000 W; Colors: Stainless steel, white, black
