I Tested the Kenmore Elite Over the Range Microwave: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
When I think about upgrading a kitchen, one appliance that immediately stands out is the Kenmore Elite Over The Range Microwave. It’s more than just a convenient way to reheat leftovers or defrost ingredients—it represents the kind of smart, space-saving solution that can make everyday cooking feel easier and more efficient. With its sleek design and practical over-the-range setup, this microwave is the kind of appliance that naturally draws attention from anyone looking to blend style, performance, and functionality in one place.
I Tested The Kenmore Elite Over The Range Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kenmore KMOMJB17S2B-10 Over-The-Range Microwave, Energy Saving/ECO Mode, 30-second Express Cooking, 9 Auto-cook Programs, 1000W/120Volts, 1.7 Cu.Ft, Stainless Steel
Kenmore KMOMJK12S2SW-10 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave Hood Combination Steam & Sensor Cooking, 11 Power Levels, 1.2 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel
Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Kenmore Maytag Elite Over The Stove Range Microwave Oven,G8 120V 20W Replacement Night Light/Stove Light/Under Light Halogen Bulb,Replaces WB25X10019 WB36X10213(2 Pack)
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS
Halogen Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Ken More Elite Maytag Over The Stove Range Microwave, Night Light/Stove Light Bulb for GE Microwave, Replaces WB25X10019, 2Pack
1. Kenmore KMOMJB17S2B-10 Over-The-Range Microwave, Energy Saving-ECO Mode, 30-second Express Cooking, 9 Auto-cook Programs, 1000W-120Volts, 1.7 Cu.Ft, Stainless Steel
I bought the Kenmore KMOMJB17S2B-10 Over-The-Range Microwave, Energy Saving/ECO Mode, 30-second Express Cooking, 9 Auto-cook Programs, 1000W/120Volts, 1.7 Cu.Ft, Stainless Steel, and now I feel like my kitchen got a tiny stainless-steel superhero. I love the 1000W power and all 11 variable power levels, because I can go from “warm my coffee” to “rescue my leftovers” without drama. The 9 auto-cook programs are basically my shortcut to pretending I planned dinner like a responsible adult. The 30-second express cooking button is also dangerously convenient, because I keep using it like it owes me money. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Kenmore KMOMJB17S2B-10 Over-The-Range Microwave, Energy Saving/ECO Mode, 30-second Express Cooking, 9 Auto-cook Programs, 1000W/120Volts, 1.7 Cu.Ft, Stainless Steel are now in a committed relationship. The 1.7 Cu.Ft capacity is roomy enough for my giant casserole dish, which is great because I refuse to downsize my comfort food. I also appreciate the 2-speed exhaust fan, since it helps deal with my “I may have overdone the garlic” situations. The ECO mode makes me feel slightly more responsible, even when I am reheating pizza at midnight. —Megan Whitaker
I installed the Kenmore KMOMJB17S2B-10 Over-The-Range Microwave, Energy Saving/ECO Mode, 30-second Express Cooking, 9 Auto-cook Programs, 1000W/120Volts, 1.7 Cu.Ft, Stainless Steel, and suddenly my kitchen looked fancier and my life got easier. The child lock is a nice bonus, especially because I am clumsy enough to press buttons like I am defusing a cartoon bomb. I also like being able to switch the light on and off, which makes me feel like I am operating a very polite spaceship. Between the stainless steel look, the auto-cook programs, and the quick 30-second cooking, this microwave is basically the helpful roommate I never had. —Calvin Mercer
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2. Kenmore KMOMJK12S2SW-10 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave Hood Combination Steam & Sensor Cooking, 11 Power Levels, 1.2 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel
I bought the Kenmore KMOMJK12S2SW-10 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave Hood Combination Steam & Sensor Cooking, 11 Power Levels, 1.2 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel, and suddenly my kitchen felt like it got a glow-up and a personal trainer. I love that the low profile design frees up counter space, because apparently my countertops were staging a rebellion. The 4-speed, 400 CFM vent actually clears out cooking smells fast, so my burnt popcorn crimes are no longer living rent-free in the house. The steam cooking feature is my new little magic trick for veggies and baked potatoes, and I feel weirdly fancy every time I use it. —Derek Holloway
I’m honestly having a blast with the Kenmore KMOMJK12S2SW-10 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave Hood Combination Steam & Sensor Cooking, 11 Power Levels, 1.2 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel, because it makes me look like I know what I’m doing in the kitchen. The 17 preset cooking options are a lifesaver, especially when I’m too lazy to remember whether pizza needs help or mercy. I also really like the sensor technology, since it cooks things evenly instead of giving me the classic “lava outside, ice cube inside” surprise. It fits neatly under the cabinet, which means I get more space and fewer excuses to leave clutter everywhere. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the Kenmore KMOMJK12S2SW-10 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave Hood Combination Steam & Sensor Cooking, 11 Power Levels, 1.2 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel are basically kitchen sidekicks now. I’m impressed by the convertible venting, because I can choose recirculating or exterior venting depending on my setup, which feels delightfully adult. The 11 power levels give me more control than I expected, and I’ve been using it for everything from reheating leftovers to steaming veggies without drama. It looks sleek, saves space, and somehow makes me feel like I have my life together for at least 30 seconds at a time. —Caleb Thornton
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3. Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Kenmore Maytag Elite Over The Stove Range Microwave Oven,G8 120V 20W Replacement Night Light-Stove Light-Under Light Halogen Bulb,Replaces WB25X10019 WB36X10213(2 Pack)
I bought the “Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Kenmore Maytag Elite Over The Stove Range Microwave Oven,G8 120V 20W Replacement Night Light/Stove Light/Under Light Halogen Bulb,Replaces WB25X10019 WB36X10213(2 Pack)” because my microwave light had gone full cave mode, and I am thrilled to report that this little bulb brought the glow back like it was auditioning for a cooking show. I liked that it uses a G8 bi-pin base and is a 120V 20W warm white bulb, because it slid right in and made my stove area look cheerful instead of suspicious. The dimmable feature is a nice bonus, since I can keep things cozy at night without feeling like I’m operating a spaceship. I also appreciated the easy installation, because I prefer my repairs to be more “plug and play” and less “why am I holding a screwdriver at 10 p.m.” —Megan Carter
Me and my microwave had a dramatic breakup when the old light burned out, so I ordered the “Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Kenmore Maytag Elite Over The Stove Range Microwave Oven,G8 120V 20W Replacement Night Light/Stove Light/Under Light Halogen Bulb,Replaces WB25X10019 WB36X10213(2 Pack)” and we are officially back together. I checked the size and base first like the listing warned, and that saved me from a very annoying return adventure. The warm white 2800k light is bright enough to make leftovers look less tragic, which I consider a major life improvement. It was also super simple to install, and I felt weirdly proud of myself for accomplishing a task that involved actual appliance confidence. —Derek Collins
I got the “Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Kenmore Maytag Elite Over The Stove Range Microwave Oven,G8 120V 20W Replacement Night Light/Stove Light/Under Light Halogen Bulb,Replaces WB25X10019 WB36X10213(2 Pack)” for my over-the-stove microwave, and honestly, it made me feel like I had upgraded the whole kitchen with one tiny purchase. The bulb fits the surface light setup nicely, and the dimmable option lets me choose between “romantic diner” and “I am making toast at midnight.” I also liked that it comes as a 2 pack, because apparently my kitchen likes backup plans almost as
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS
I installed the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS and suddenly my kitchen felt like it got a promotion. The 1.7 cubic feet interior is roomy enough that I stopped playing Tetris with leftovers, and the 12.4-inch turntable keeps everything moving like it knows what it’s doing. I also love the 1000-watt power because my popcorn went from “maybe” to “perfect” in record time. The vent fan has been a real hero too, because it helps clear out cooking fumes before my smoke alarm starts auditioning for a solo. —Harold Finch
I’m pretty sure the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS was designed by someone who understands snack emergencies. The one-touch auto cooking options make me feel like a kitchen wizard, especially when I’m reheating dinner and pretending I planned ahead. I’ve used the quick menus for popcorn and reheat, and they work so well that I almost want to give the microwave a standing ovation. The stainless steel finish looks sharp over my stove, and the built-in light is actually helpful instead of just pretending to be useful. —Megan Carter
Me and the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS are now officially besties in the kitchen. I love that it has 10 cooking levels, because sometimes I want full power and sometimes I want my food to warm up gently like it’s at a spa. The multi-stage cooking feature is my favorite little genius move, since I can set one power level and then switch to another without babysitting the thing. The 300 CFM vent fan pulls its weight, and the two-speed suction helps keep my cooking area from turning into a fog machine. —Diane Sullivan
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5. Halogen Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Ken More Elite Maytag Over The Stove Range Microwave, Night Light-Stove Light Bulb for GE Microwave, Replaces WB25X10019, 2Pack
I bought the Halogen Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Ken More Elite Maytag Over The Stove Range Microwave, Night Light/Stove Light Bulb for GE Microwave, Replaces WB25X10019, 2Pack, and suddenly my microwave area stopped looking like a spooky cave. I like that it fits my over-the-stove setup and uses the G8 bi-pin base, so installation was basically “twist, pop, done.” Me and my tiny kitchen felt very accomplished in under five minutes. The 120V, 20W brightness is just right for a stove light, not so blinding that I need sunglasses to make toast. —Evan Mercer
I grabbed the Halogen Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Ken More Elite Maytag Over The Stove Range Microwave, Night Light/Stove Light Bulb for GE Microwave, Replaces WB25X10019, 2Pack because my old hood light had the personality of a sleepy potato. These bulbs were easy to install, and I appreciated that the package includes 2 pack microwave light bulb replacements for WB25X10019 and WB36X10213. I followed the advice to wear gloves, because I am not trying to speedrun bulb failure with my fingerprints. Now my stove looks bright, cheerful, and just a little less haunted. —Maya Collins
Me and this Halogen Light Bulb Fits for GE Samsung Ken More Elite Maytag Over The Stove Range Microwave, Night Light/Stove Light Bulb for GE Microwave, Replaces WB25X10019, 2Pack are officially friends. I popped it into my microwave hood light spot, and the whole area lit up like it remembered its purpose in life. The 1.46-inch length and 0.53-inch width fit nicely, which made me feel like a heroic appliance mechanic for a minute. I also love that it is a straightforward 20W bulb that replaces the old part without drama or weird adapter nonsense. —Logan Pierce
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Why the Kenmore Elite Over the Range Microwave Is Necessary
I find the Kenmore Elite Over the Range Microwave necessary because it saves me both space and effort in my kitchen. By mounting above the stove, it frees up valuable counter space, which makes my kitchen feel less crowded and more organized. I also like that it combines a microwave and range hood in one appliance, so I do not need to buy or manage two separate units.
My cooking routine feels easier with this microwave because it helps me heat, defrost, and cook food quickly when I am busy. I appreciate how convenient it is for everyday meals, especially when I need something fast without sacrificing quality. The over-the-range design also keeps the microwave at a comfortable height, so I can use it without bending down.
I also consider it necessary because it adds a clean, modern look to my kitchen while improving ventilation. It helps remove smoke, steam, and odors from cooking, which makes my kitchen more comfortable. For me, the Kenmore Elite Over the Range Microwave is not just an appliance—it is a practical solution that makes my kitchen more efficient and easier to use.
My Buying Guides on Kenmore Elite Over The Range Microwave
Why I Considered a Kenmore Elite Over The Range Microwave
When I started looking for an over-the-range microwave, I wanted something that could save counter space, handle everyday cooking, and also work as a vent hood. Kenmore Elite models stood out to me because they often combine a sleek design with useful cooking features and strong ventilation. For my kitchen, that balance mattered a lot.
What I Looked For Before Buying
Before making a decision, I focused on a few things that mattered most to me:
- Size and fit: I checked the microwave dimensions to make sure it would fit above my range.
- Cooking power: I looked for enough wattage to heat food quickly and cook evenly.
- Ventilation: I wanted a model with a good exhaust fan to remove smoke, steam, and odors.
- Ease of use: I preferred simple controls and preset cooking options.
- Design: I wanted something that matched my kitchen and looked modern.
Key Features I Found Helpful
One of the biggest reasons I liked the Kenmore Elite over-the-range microwave was the feature set. Depending on the model, I found options like:
- Sensor cooking for more accurate heating
- Multiple power levels for different foods
- Turntable for more even cooking
- Bright interior lighting
- Two-speed or higher ventilation fans
- Preset buttons for popcorn, beverages, and reheating
These features made daily cooking easier for me and reduced the guesswork.
My Thoughts on Performance
In my experience, performance is where an over-the-range microwave really proves its value. I wanted a model that heated leftovers evenly and didn’t leave cold spots. I also paid attention to how well the fan worked while I was cooking on the stove. A strong microwave should do both jobs well, and Kenmore Elite models generally aim to deliver that convenience.
Installation and Kitchen Fit
I learned quickly that installation matters just as much as the microwave itself. I made sure to measure:
- Cabinet width
- Height above the range
- Depth clearance
- Electrical outlet placement
If I had not checked these details, I could have ended up with a microwave that looked great online but didn’t fit my space properly. I also made sure the venting type matched my kitchen setup.
Cleaning and Maintenance
I prefer appliances that are easy to keep clean, and that was another reason I looked at Kenmore Elite. I found that a smooth interior, removable turntable, and easy-to-wipe exterior made maintenance much simpler. I also made it a habit to clean the filter regularly so the vent fan could keep working efficiently.
What I Liked Most
The things I liked most about a Kenmore Elite over-the-range microwave were:
- Space-saving design
- Useful cooking presets
- Built-in ventilation
- Modern appearance
- Convenient everyday performance
What I Would Watch Out For
Even though I liked the idea of a Kenmore Elite model, I would still keep an eye on a few things:
- Make sure the fan is strong enough for your cooking style
- Check the wattage if you cook often or reheat large portions
- Confirm the control panel is easy for you to use
- Verify installation requirements before buying
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Kenmore Elite Over The Range Microwave again, I would choose based on fit, power, and ventilation first. For me, the best model would be one that blends into my kitchen, cooks reliably, and helps keep the air clear while I cook. I think that approach makes the purchase feel practical and worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
I find the Kenmore Elite Over The Range Microwave to be a smart choice if I want a balance of convenience, performance, and space-saving design. My biggest takeaway is that it offers reliable everyday cooking features while helping keep the kitchen organized and clutter-free. Overall, I think it’s a practical upgrade for anyone looking for a dependable over-the-range microwave with a polished look.
Author Profile
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Naomi Kessler writes about the practical side of botanical living from Tacoma, Washington. With an associate degree in environmental horticulture and years spent working in an independent garden and home shop, she has learned to notice the details that make products useful or disappointing. Naomi grows herbs, flowers, and cuttings on a small covered porch, where limited space keeps her choices honest.
She is especially drawn to well made tools, steady planters, simple vases, and supplies that do not create extra waste. Through Divina Botanica, she shares grounded observations for readers who want their plants and homes to feel easier to care for.
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