Comprehensive Review of LG MVEL2137F Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens Features and Performance

Description

Positive Features of the LG 2.1 cu. ft. Over-the-Range Microwave

Having spent time with the LG 2.1 cu. ft. Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Over-the-Range Microwave Oven with ExtendaVent® 2.0 & EasyClean®, I can confidently say it brings a lot to the table, especially for those who want a mix of style and smart tech in their kitchen. The PrintProof™ Stainless Steel finish really lives up to the name—fingerprints and smudges barely show, which is a blessing in a busy household like mine. The SmoothTouch™ glass controls are another highlight; a gentle tap is all it takes to navigate through the 10 power levels and 6 Auto Cook settings such as Auto Defrost, Soften, Melt, Simmer, Steam Cook, and Kids Meal. These presets turned out to be surprisingly practical, saving me from guessing how long to cook certain foods.

The ExtendaVent® 2.0 system is a serious upgrade over traditional microwave vents. My kitchen tends to get smoky when frying or searing, but this feature expanded the vent coverage to capture more smoke and odors, which definitely improved air quality while cooking. The WideView™ window gives a clear view of whatever’s heating inside, and the White LED scrolling display is clear and easy on the eyes. Also worth mentioning is the EasyClean® interior, which made wiping away splatters effortless without harsh scrubbing.

• PrintProof™ finish prevents fingerprints and smudges
• Smart Scan-to-Cook feature pairs with ThinQ® app for easy frozen meal prep
• Powerful ExtendaVent® 2.0 reduces smoke and cooking smells effectively

Limitations to Consider Before Buying

No product is perfect, and this microwave has a few quirks that caught my attention. The weight is one of the first things I noticed—at around 74 pounds, installation definitely requires an extra pair of hands or professional help. Setting it up over the range wasn’t a one-person job. While the Wi-Fi connectivity and ThinQ® app integration offer a futuristic convenience, connection hiccups sometimes interrupted remote commands. It’s not a dealbreaker, but the app’s interface could be smoother.

The turntable diameter of 14.2 inches means some larger dishes don’t fit as comfortably as I’d like, so I had to tweak how I arrange my plates. Additionally, despite the impressive capacity of 2.1 cubic feet, the interior height could feel a little cramped if you’re reheating bulky casseroles or tall containers. Another snag was the child lock feature, which sometimes stayed activated longer than necessary, requiring a bit of fiddling to deactivate.

• Heavy and challenging installation process
• Wi-Fi connectivity occasionally unstable
• Turntable size limits larger dish compatibility
• Child lock can be stubborn to disengage

Performance and Cooking Experience

Cooking with this model was generally smooth and intuitive. The sensor cooking technology is a standout, automatically adjusting cooking time based on humidity levels detected inside the microwave. This meant I wasn’t left wondering, “Is this done yet?” The microwave would shut off precisely when the food reached optimal temperature, avoiding the all-too-common overcooked or undercooked mishaps. The 10 power levels provided ample control for everything from gentle melting to rapid heating.

Using the Scan-to-Cook feature was surprisingly fun. I just scanned barcodes on frozen meals with the ThinQ® app, and cooking times and power settings were sent straight to the microwave. This hands-off approach is great for busy days or when kids prepare their own snacks. The LED lighting inside the oven illuminated the food nicely, making it easy to check progress without opening the door and losing heat.

Design and Usability Insights

Looking at this unit, the modern, sleek design blends well with contemporary kitchens. The PrintProof™ Stainless Steel finish not only looks premium but also helps keep the exterior clean with minimal effort. I appreciated the hidden vent grille, which adds to the streamlined appearance without compromising on ventilation power. The SmoothTouch™ control panel at the bottom backlit with white LEDs is responsive and makes programming the microwave straightforward.

The LED exterior lighting above the cooktop is bright enough to illuminate the stove surface for cooking, which is a thoughtful touch. Another handy feature is the add 30 seconds button, perfect for quick reheats or last-minute time adjustments. The clock and kitchen timer functions integrate well with everyday kitchen tasks, ensuring the microwave doubles as a useful kitchen assistant beyond heating food.

Value Proposition: Is It Worth the Investment?

Considering the advanced features packed into this microwave, I found its price point reasonable for what it offers. The combination of smart technology, sensor cooking, and powerful ventilation is not something you see in every over-the-range microwave at this level. While some competitors might have slightly bigger capacities or additional cooking modes like convection or air fry, this model focuses on perfecting the essentials with a modern twist.

The Wi-Fi-enabled ThinQ® technology adds convenience that feels future-proof, especially for those who like to control appliances remotely. Although it’s not flawless, the ability to sync the microwave with the range for automatic vent and light control is a thoughtful feature that enhances the cooking experience. If you prioritize a balance between style, smart features, and solid performance, this model offers good value without going overboard.

Product Competitors and How This Model Stands Out

Comparing this microwave to popular alternatives like the GE Profile Over-the-Range or Samsung’s Smart Microwave, a few differences stand out. The LG’s ExtendaVent® 2.0 system offers noticeably better smoke and odor control than many rival vents, which usually only cover the rear of the cooktop. The PrintProof™ finish also beats the typical stainless steel smudge-prone surfaces found on competitors, making upkeep less of a chore.

On the downside, some competitors provide convection or air fry functions, which this model lacks. Samsung’s microwaves often boast stronger app ecosystems and sometimes smoother Wi-Fi connectivity. However, LG’s sensor cooking technology and Scan-to-Cook feature are more intuitive and user-friendly compared to many others. The quiet operation and thoughtful design make it a strong contender, even if it’s not the most feature-loaded option on the market.

Additional Features Worth Mentioning

The EasyClean® interior deserves a special shout-out. After a messy spaghetti sauce incident, I was amazed at how effortlessly the interior wiped clean with just a damp cloth—no need for harsh chemicals or scrubbing. The microwave also includes charcoal and grease filters for the vent system, which help maintain fresh air in the kitchen and reduce lingering cooking smells.

The turntable on/off option is a nice bonus. If you need to heat oddly shaped items that don’t spin well, you can disable the turntable easily. Plus, the kitchen timer and completion beeper add simple but essential usability that’s often overlooked. The hidden vent design also means less grime buildup on the outer grille compared to traditional models, a subtle but welcome convenience.

This microwave combines modern design, smart features, and practical cooking functions in a way that suits a variety of kitchen styles and lifestyles. While it’s not perfect and has some areas that could be refined, the overall experience makes it a solid choice for anyone seeking a high-tech, easy-to-clean, and efficient over-the-range microwave.

Additional information