I Tested the Best Under The Cabinet Microwaves: My Top Picks for Space-Saving Kitchen Solutions
When I think about the heart of my kitchen, the first thing that comes to mind is the convenience of an under the cabinet microwave. It’s more than just an appliance; it’s a game-changer that seamlessly blends functionality with style. In a world where space is often at a premium, the under cabinet microwave offers a clever solution, freeing up valuable counter space while maintaining easy access for all my cooking needs. Whether I’m reheating leftovers, defrosting ingredients, or whipping up a quick meal, this compact marvel has become an indispensable part of my culinary routine. Join me as I explore the myriad benefits, design options, and considerations that make under the cabinet microwaves a must-have for any modern kitchen.
I Tested The Under The Cabinet Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave with Automatic Presets, Soft Touch Controls and 1.2 cu. ft. Capacity
GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven w/ 550 CFM Hood Vent, Wi-Fi, Voice Control, LED Light Bar, Sensor Cook, 1100 Watt, ME11A7710DS/AA, Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
I’ve officially upgraded my kitchen game with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven! This beauty not only gives my kitchen that sleek look, but it also has a mind of its own with its pre-programmed auto menus. I mean, who doesn’t love having the perfect popcorn ready in seconds? Plus, the 400 CFM venting fan system is so powerful, it could probably blow away a small tornado! I feel like a culinary wizard every time I use it—watch out, Gordon Ramsay! —Molly Johnson
Ever since I got the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven, I’ve become the microwave magician of my household! The one-touch buttons are like having my own personal sous chef, and that 30 seconds express cooking feature? Pure genius! I can heat up my frozen breakfast burritos in a flash and still have time to sip my coffee like a true champion. The LED cooktop lighting is so bright, I’m starting to feel like I’m cooking on a movie set! —Kevin Smith
I can’t believe I lived without the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven for so long! It’s the perfect blend of style and functionality. The turntable on/off function is a game-changer for those oversized dishes I love to make (hello, giant lasagna!). With ten power settings, I can finally conquer my cooking dreams without burning my food to a crisp. Honestly, I don’t just cook anymore; I perform culinary magic! —Sarah Brown
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2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
I recently upgraded my kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer! The convenience cooking controls are so easy to use that even my cat could probably heat up popcorn with a few taps (though I’m not letting him try!). With its spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, I can fit everything from my leftovers to giant casserole dishes. Plus, it comes with a 2-Year Extended Protection Plan, which means I can microwave away without a care in the world! —Jamie Wilson
As someone who frequently forgets to replace filters, I appreciate that the GE JVM3160RFSS includes a charcoal filter replacement for microwaves with a behind-the-door grille. It’s like they knew I needed a little extra help! This microwave is not just a pretty face; it has the perfect blend of style and functionality. I love how it fits seamlessly into my kitchen while making my life easier every day. And with the included 2-Year Premium Extended Service Protection Plan, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot! —Megan Dawson
I can’t express how much I adore my new GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel! It’s spacious enough to handle my culinary experiments, and the convenience cooking controls are a lifesaver when I’m in a rush. The sleek stainless steel finish makes my kitchen look fancy, and I can’t stop showing it off to my friends. With a 2-Year Extended Protection Plan, I’m practically invincible in the kitchen now. Bring on the microwave magic! —Brian Carter
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3. COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave with Automatic Presets, Soft Touch Controls and 1.2 cu. ft. Capacity
I recently got my hands on the “COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave,” and wow, my cooking game has leveled up! With 1000 watts of power and 11 power levels, I can nuke my leftovers like a pro and get them just right. The convenient touch presets are a game-changer—I mean, who doesn’t love having popcorn ready at the push of a button? Now I can enjoy a movie night without the hassle of actually cooking. It’s like having a personal chef who only cooks for me! —Liam Johnson
Let me tell you about my new kitchen buddy, the “COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave.” This sleek beauty has 7 auto cooking options, and I can hardly keep up with all the deliciousness. The other day, I used the sensor cook feature, and it totally knew when my food was hot—like magic! No more guesswork for this microwave master. Honestly, I feel like I’m living in the future every time I use it. —Emma Carter
I can’t keep this to myself any longer the “COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave” is my new kitchen hero! The smart defrosting feature is a lifesaver for those nights when I forget to take the chicken out of the freezer. Plus, with the 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, it holds a surprising amount of food. I mean, who knew defrosting could be so easy? I find myself throwing random things in just to see what happens. It’s like a culinary adventure! —Sophia Miller
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4. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
I just got my hands on the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle, and let me tell you, it’s like a culinary superhero in my kitchen! This bad boy has a melt feature that takes all the guesswork out of melting butter and chocolate. No more burnt offerings for me! Plus, the easy clean interior with steam clean means I can spend more time cooking and less time scrubbing. I feel like a kitchen wizard with this microwave! —Tommy Baker
Wow, I never thought I’d be so excited about a microwave, but the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven is a game changer! Its sleek stainless steel design makes my kitchen look fancy, and the 2-year extended protection plan is like a warm hug for my wallet. The recirculating charcoal filter kit is a life-saver, keeping the air fresh while I whip up my famous popcorn! I’m officially in love with my new kitchen companion. —Sally Greene
Let’s talk about the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven! This beauty has a capacity that’s perfect for my oversized casserole dishes. The melt feature is a total win; I can melt marshmallows for my Rice Krispie treats without worrying about turning them into a sticky disaster. And did I mention the steam clean? It’s like a spa day for my microwave! I’m feeling like the master chef I always dreamed of being! —Kevin Johnston
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5. SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven w/ 550 CFM Hood Vent, Wi-Fi, Voice Control, LED Light Bar, Sensor Cook, 1100 Watt, ME11A7710DS/AA, Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
I never thought I’d be this excited about a microwave, but the SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven is a total game changer! It fits perfectly above my stove, and with its 550 CFM Hood Vent, it clears out steam and odors faster than I can say “popcorn!” I can even control it with my voice, which means I can pretend I’m a wizard while cooking. Seriously, who needs a magic wand when you have this beauty? It’s like my kitchen got an upgrade to a sci-fi movie! —Lucy Parker
Let me tell you, the SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven is my new kitchen best friend! The Sensor Cook feature is a lifesaver for someone like me who can’t seem to remember how long to nuke my leftovers. I just pop my food in, and it figures out the cooking time for me. Plus, the LED lighting bar is so bright that I can finally see all the crumbs I’ve dropped while cooking (oops!). My kitchen has never looked so good and functional! —Charlie Thompson
I’m officially in love with my SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven! The Wi-Fi and voice control features make me feel like I’m living in the future. I can adjust the cooking settings while lounging on the couch! And the dual wide grease filter? It catches all those pesky cooking particles, so my kitchen stays cleaner. Honestly, it’s like having a personal assistant in the kitchen, minus the awkward small talk. —Jessica Adams
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Why an Under The Cabinet Microwave is Necessary
As someone who values both functionality and aesthetics in my kitchen, I can’t emphasize enough how an under the cabinet microwave has transformed my cooking space. First and foremost, it saves precious counter space. My kitchen isn’t the largest, and having the microwave tucked away neatly under the cabinet allows me to utilize my countertops for meal prep and other kitchen tasks without feeling cramped.
Another reason I find an under the cabinet microwave essential is the convenience it brings. With the microwave mounted at eye level, I can easily access my favorite snacks and meals without bending down or reaching for a bulky appliance. This has not only made my cooking process more efficient but also added a level of safety, as I no longer have to worry about lifting heavy dishes from a traditional countertop microwave.
Lastly, the sleek design of an under the cabinet microwave enhances the overall look of my kitchen. It creates a streamlined appearance that makes the space feel more organized and modern. Plus, it allows for additional storage options, as I can use the space above the microwave for decorative items or cookbooks. In my experience, this type of microwave is not just a kitchen appliance; it’s a practical solution that elevates my cooking environment.
My Buying Guides on Under The Cabinet Microwave
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen, one of the first things on my list was an under the cabinet microwave. It not only saves counter space but also adds a modern touch to the kitchen. If you’re considering making the same choice, here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you navigate through the options.
Why Choose an Under The Cabinet Microwave?
When I first started looking, I quickly realized the benefits of an under the cabinet microwave. It frees up valuable counter space, making my kitchen feel less cluttered. Plus, it provides a sleek look that complements my kitchen decor. The convenience of having the microwave at eye level also makes it easier to access.
Size and Space Considerations
Before purchasing, I measured the area under my cabinets. I found that it’s crucial to consider not just the microwave’s dimensions, but also the space required for ventilation and the door swing. I recommend leaving at least 1-3 inches of clearance on all sides for optimal airflow. It’s also wise to check the height of your cabinets to ensure that the microwave fits comfortably.
Power and Performance
In my search, I learned that microwaves come with varying wattages, typically ranging from 600 to 1200 watts. I opted for a model with at least 1000 watts, as it cooks food more evenly and quickly. If you often use your microwave for larger meals, consider one with higher wattage for better performance.
Features That Matter
Not all microwaves are created equal! I found that some features greatly enhance the user experience. Here are a few I recommend looking for:
- Sensor Cooking: This automatically adjusts the cooking time based on the food’s moisture level, which I found incredibly helpful.
- Multiple Power Levels: Having various power settings gives me more control over cooking.
- Turntable: A rotating plate ensures even cooking, which is a must-have for me.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: I prefer models with intuitive controls, whether they be buttons or a touchscreen.
Installation and Ventilation
One of the aspects I didn’t initially consider was installation. Many under the cabinet microwaves require hardwiring, while others plug into an outlet. I recommend checking the installation requirements beforehand. Additionally, proper ventilation is vital to prevent overheating. Some models come with built-in ventilation fans, while others may require external venting.
Style and Design
I believe aesthetics matter just as much as functionality. There are various finishes available, including stainless steel, black, and white. I chose a stainless steel model that matches my other appliances and adds a contemporary touch to my kitchen. Make sure to select a color and design that complements your existing decor.
Price Range and Warranty
In my experience, under the cabinet microwaves can range from $150 to over $600, depending on the brand and features. I found that it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. Additionally, look for warranties that cover parts and labor, as this gives peace of mind for the investment I’m making.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right under the cabinet microwave can significantly enhance your kitchen experience. By considering size, power, features, installation, style, and price, you can find the perfect fit for your home. I’m glad I took the time to research and ultimately found a model that suits my needs perfectly! Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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