Imagine this: you’re craving a quick snack, but your kitchen counter is already packed! Where does a microwave even go? For many of us, a wall microwave is the perfect solution. It saves precious counter space and looks super sleek. But picking the right one can feel like a puzzle. So many brands, so many features! It’s easy to get overwhelmed and wonder if you’re choosing the best option for your home and your cooking needs.
Choosing a wall microwave isn’t just about looks; it’s about finding a hardworking appliance that fits your lifestyle. You want it to be easy to use, powerful enough for your favorite meals, and, of course, fit perfectly in your kitchen. Without knowing what to look for, you might end up with a microwave that’s too big, too small, or just plain confusing. That’s why we’re here to help!
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about wall microwaves. We’ll explore the different types, what features to consider, and how to measure for the perfect fit. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to choose a wall microwave that makes your kitchen life so much easier and your cooking a breeze.
Our Top 5 Wall Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Wall Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.7/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking is a kitchen essential. This 1.7 cubic feet microwave is stainless steel and packs 1000 watts of power. It fits perfectly over your stove, saving valuable counter space. Get ready for faster, easier cooking.
What We Like:
- Huge inside: It holds a lot! The 1.7 cubic feet space and 12.4-inch turntable let you cook big meals or heat up leftovers easily.
- Easy cooking buttons: You can choose from 10 different power levels. Plus, there are quick menus for popcorn, drinks, melting, reheating, and defrosting.
- Super fast: Need food in a hurry? Just press 1, 2, or 3 for 100% power for up to 3 minutes.
- Smart cooking: You can even set it to cook at different power levels one after another. Cook at 90% power for 10 minutes, then at 50% for 5 minutes, all with one setting.
- Clean air and light: The fan has two speeds to suck up smoke and smells. It also has a light to help you see what you’re cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan might be a bit loud for some.
- Some users found the initial setup a little tricky.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a powerful and convenient addition to any kitchen. It makes cooking faster and your kitchen cleaner.
2. Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF. This built-in microwave oven offers a generous 2.2 cubic feet of cooking space, perfect for handling large meals and multiple dishes at once. Its smart sensor technology automatically adjusts cooking power and time, ensuring your food comes out perfectly delicious every time. Designed for seamless integration, it fits beautifully into your cabinetry.
What We Like:
- Huge 2.2 cu. ft. capacity cooks big meals easily.
- Smart sensors take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Fits perfectly into standard cabinet cutouts for a sleek look.
- Sleek design complements any modern kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Trim kit is sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Requires precise measurements for installation.
This Frigidaire microwave is a powerful and convenient addition to any kitchen. Its large capacity and smart features make cooking a breeze.
3. ZLINE Autograph Edition 30 in. 1.6 cu ft. Built-in Convection Microwave Oven in Black Stainless Steel and Champagne Bronze Helix Handle (MWOZ-30-BS-KCB)
Rating: 9.3/10
Elevate your kitchen with the ZLINE Autograph Edition 30 in. Built-in Convection Microwave Oven. This stunning appliance combines sleek Black Stainless Steel with a luxurious Champagne Bronze Helix Handle, adding a touch of elegance to any space. It’s more than just good looks; it’s a powerful cooking companion.
What We Like:
- The Autograph Edition Series offers a beautiful Champagne Bronze Helix Handle for a truly unique and stylish look.
- It has both Convection and Microwave modes, plus broil, so you can cook dishes perfectly.
- Its 1,000-watt power and 10 power levels mean it cooks food quickly and effectively.
- Convenient settings like sensor cooking, reheat, defrost, and rapid preheat make meal prep simple.
- The easy-to-read LCD display and timer are user-friendly.
- A reversible ceramic turntable ensures even cooking, and it can spin either way.
- The included reversible wire rack helps with convection baking and grilling.
- With a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, it fits large dishes and tall mugs easily.
- The stainless steel interior is simple to clean and helps distribute heat evenly.
- A child-lock feature provides peace of mind for kitchen safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The built-in design means it requires professional installation, which can add to the overall cost.
- The high-end materials and unique handle may come with a higher price point compared to standard microwaves.
This ZLINE microwave oven is a fantastic choice for those who want both style and performance in their kitchen. It brings versatility and a touch of luxury to everyday cooking.
4. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle. This sleek stainless steel microwave offers 1.6 cubic feet of cooking space, perfect for reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or cooking quick meals. Its over-the-range design saves valuable counter space. Plus, this bundle includes a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack for added peace of mind. You also get a charcoal filter replacement, keeping your kitchen fresh.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles most cooking needs.
- Convenience cooking controls make meal preparation simple.
- The over-the-range design saves precious counter space.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for worry-free ownership.
- Includes a charcoal filter replacement for cleaner air.
- GE USA AUTHORIZED ensures genuine product and support.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be too large for very small kitchens.
- Specific details on the “convenience cooking controls” could be clearer.
This GE microwave bundle offers a great combination of functionality and protection. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their kitchen’s cooking capabilities.
5. KoolMore 24 Inch Stainless-Steel Microwave Drawer with 1.2 cu. ft. Capacity
Rating: 9.5/10
The KoolMore 24 Inch Stainless-Steel Microwave Drawer is a smart and stylish way to add microwave power to your kitchen without taking up valuable counter space. This sleek, pull-out microwave can be built right into your cabinets, giving your kitchen a clean, modern look. It’s designed to make cooking and reheating easy and efficient.
What We Like:
- Smart Space Saver: The pull-out drawer design fits neatly into your cabinetry, freeing up counter space.
- Powerful Cooking: With 1000 watts of power and 10 cooking levels, it handles everything from quick reheating to defrosting with ease.
- Easy to Use: A simple one-touch open and a slow-closing door make accessing and using the microwave very convenient.
- Flat Bottom Design: This clever design helps maximize the usable space inside the microwave.
- Elegant Look: The stainless-steel finish adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen style.
- Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for quick and easy meal preparation.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation: Built-in appliances often require professional installation, which is an added cost.
- Learning Curve: Some users might need a little time to get used to the drawer mechanism and controls.
This KoolMore microwave drawer offers a great blend of style and functionality. It’s an excellent option for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a space-saving and efficient appliance.
Choosing the Best Wall Microwave: Your Easy Guide
Are you looking to free up counter space in your kitchen? A wall microwave could be the perfect solution! These microwaves mount right onto your wall, often above your range or in a custom cabinet. This guide will help you pick the right one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually heat up. Small families might be fine with a compact model. Larger families or those who cook bigger meals will need a more spacious interior. Measure the space where you plan to install it to ensure a good fit.
2. Wattage
Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most wall microwaves range from 800 to 1200 watts. For everyday reheating and simple cooking, 900-1000 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more complex dishes, look for 1100 watts or higher.
3. Cooking Modes and Presets
Many microwaves offer special cooking modes. These can include popcorn, defrost, and sensor cooking. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts the cooking time based on the food’s moisture. Preset buttons for common items make cooking easy.
4. Ventilation (for Over-the-Range Models)
If you’re installing a microwave over your stove, ventilation is a big deal. These models often have built-in fans and filters. They help remove smoke, steam, and cooking smells from your kitchen. Check how strong the fan is and if the filters are easy to clean or replace.
5. Controls and Display
Some microwaves have simple button controls, while others have sleek touch screens. Think about what you find easiest to use. A clear display makes it simple to see cooking times and settings.
Important Materials
Most wall microwaves have an exterior made of stainless steel or enamel-coated metal. Stainless steel looks modern and is easy to clean. Enamel is also durable and comes in various colors. The interior is usually made of a non-stick material that is simple to wipe down.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Microwave Great:
- Durability: A well-built microwave will last for many years.
- Consistent Heating: It should heat food evenly without hot or cold spots.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are much louder than others. A quieter model is more pleasant to use.
- Easy Cleaning: Non-stick interiors and removable turntables make cleaning a breeze.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Ideal:
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels cheap might not hold up well.
- Uneven Cooking: This is frustrating and can lead to undercooked or burnt food.
- Difficult Controls: If the buttons are confusing or the screen is hard to read, it’s not a good user experience.
User Experience and Use Cases
Wall microwaves are great for saving counter space. This is especially helpful in smaller kitchens. They are perfect for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or quickly cooking simple meals. If you have an over-the-range model, its ventilation features can improve your cooking environment.
Imagine coming home and quickly heating up dinner without cluttering your countertops. Or, picture your kitchen looking more organized and spacious. A wall microwave can help you achieve that.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between a built-in and an over-the-range wall microwave?
A: An over-the-range wall microwave is designed to be installed above your stove and usually includes a ventilation system. A built-in wall microwave is installed in a cabinet or wall space, often without ventilation.
Q: How do I measure for a wall microwave?
A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the space where the microwave will go. Also, check for electrical outlet access.
Q: Are wall microwaves hard to install?
A: Installation can be tricky, especially for over-the-range models that need to be securely mounted. Many people hire a professional for installation.
Q: How much counter space does a wall microwave save?
A: It saves all the counter space that a countertop microwave would normally take up.
Q: Can I put anything on top of a wall microwave?
A: It depends on the model. Over-the-range models are not designed to have things placed on top. Built-in models might have a shelf above them, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a wall microwave?
A: Most microwaves last between 7 to 15 years with proper care.
Q: Are wall microwaves more expensive than countertop models?
A: Generally, yes. They often have more features and require professional installation, which adds to the cost.
Q: How do I clean the interior of a wall microwave?
A: Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, you can heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes to loosen grime.
Q: Do all over-the-range microwaves have fans?
A: Most do, but the fan power can vary. Check the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating to see how strong the fan is.
Q: What if my wall microwave stops working?
A: First, check if it’s plugged in and if the circuit breaker has tripped. If not, consult the owner’s manual for troubleshooting steps or contact customer support.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Sean Kernan, the mind behind darkviolet-cobra-206266.hostingersite.com!! As a passionate sports enthusiast, I created this platform to share my experiences and insights about the dynamic world of sports. From in-depth analysis to personal stories, I aim to bring you closer to the game and inspire a deeper love for sports. Join me as we navigate this exciting journey together!