The first time I saw a microwave above a range, I nearly choked on my perfectly-portioned artisanal popcorn. It was the early 90s, a friend’s new construction, and I, still clinging to my countertop model, scoffed. “Space-saving gimmick,” I muttered. Thirty years, countless kitchen remodels, and enough defrost cycles to circle the globe later, I stand corrected. Or at least, partially.

This GE Profile JVM7195SKSS, specifically, is a modern marvel, a testament to how far we’ve come. The 1.9 cubic foot capacity is a serious upgrade from those cramped predecessors. Forget wrestling with Thanksgiving leftovers; this thing can practically swallow a small turkey. And the sensor cooking? It’s genuinely useful, not just marketing fluff. No more guessing games with popcorn bags or accidentally exploding your burrito. The stainless steel finish, while a fingerprint magnet (let’s be honest), integrates beautifully. It feels like a premium appliance.

The installation, I’ll admit, is the part that’ll make you sweat. Trust me, the mounting bracket is not a casual project. You’ll need another set of hands – and ideally, a level. However, the reward is significant. The built-in venting, a crucial feature in any over-the-range microwave, efficiently clears away smoke and steam. Consider, for a moment, that you’re dealing with a potential 400 CFM exhaust fan, which is, frankly, impressive for this form factor. Compare this to the original OTR designs, which often relied on anemic fans.

Now, the caveat: the control panel, while sleek and modern, can take a minute to master. The intuitive operation of the sensor function is excellent, but navigating the more obscure settings can be a bit of a hunt. I suspect many users might just stick to the basics – but hey, that’s often all you really need. And really, that’s what smart design and intuitive functionality is about, right?

If you’re renovating and tight on space, or simply tired of a cluttered countertop, this GE Profile model is a worthy investment. For the home chef who cooks regularly, this microwave represents a significant upgrade. It’s a workhorse that combines power, intelligence, and a decent aesthetic. Just, maybe, invest in a good microfiber cloth. Otherwise, embrace the future and get ready to ditch the countertop clutter; this microwave has arrived!