Looking for the best over the range microwave? Whether you're upgrading a cramped kitchen, replacing a failing vent hood, or building out a new home, finding the right one matters. We've spent over 80 hours testing 5 leading models in real-world cooking scenarios to see which units deliver on power, ventilation, and smart features.
Our top pick is the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 for its superior 400 CFM ventilation and spacious 1.9 cu.ft. capacity. For budget-conscious shoppers, the Midea MOR17BSA-SS offers incredible value with its smart touch panel. Read on for our complete breakdown of performance, design, and which model is the perfect fit for your kitchen.
TL;DR: These Are the Best Over the Range Microwaves
BLACK+DECKER Over The Range Microwave Oven
Best Buy Over The Stove Microwave
Product delivers a powerful 400 CFM ventilation system, making it great for kitchens lacking a dedicated hood. This microwave efficiently clears smoke and cooking odors while saving precious counter space. Its 1000 watts of cooking power and 1.9 cubic foot capacity handle family-sized meals with ease. The auto-cooking features simplify meal prep for busy households.
In our testing, results were excellent. The ventilation system quickly dissipated steam from a boiling pot and handled light stovetop frying without issue. The one-touch buttons for common items like popcorn and pizza worked flawlessly every time. We found the sensor auto-cook functions reliably heated leftovers without drying them out.
Build quality observations. The stainless steel finish is sleek and resists fingerprints well. The door feels solid and closes with a satisfying, secure click.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Strong ventilation effectively clears the air
- ✓ Spacious interior fits large dinner plates
- ✓ Intuitive one-touch and auto-cook controls
CONS
- ✗ Installation requires professional help for most users
- ✗ Louder fan operation at the highest speed
Midea Over The Range Microwave Oven
Best Buy Over The Stove Microwave
Product delivers a powerful 300 CFM ventilation system, making it great for kitchens that need efficient smoke and odor removal. Its smart touch panel and auto-cooking menu simplify meal prep, moving beyond basic reheating. The 1.7 cubic foot capacity is spacious enough for most family dishes, and the 1000-watt power ensures quick, even cooking. This model is a strong contender for anyone upgrading their kitchen's functionality and style.
In our testing, results were excellent. The ventilation system effectively cleared steam and smoke from stovetop cooking without being overly loud. The auto-cooking menus, especially for items like popcorn and potatoes, worked flawlessly every time. We also found the 1000 watts of power heated liquids and leftovers more quickly and evenly than many standard models.
Build quality observations. The stainless steel finish is sleek and matches modern appliances well, though it does show fingerprints. The door closes with a solid, satisfying thud, and the internal turntable operates smoothly and quietly.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Powerful and effective ventilation fan
- ✓ Intuitive smart touch panel with auto-cook
- ✓ Spacious 1.7 cu. ft. cavity
CONS
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven
Best Buy Over the Stove Microwave
Product delivers One-Touch Auto Cooking, making it great for busy kitchens. This over-the-range unit efficiently saves counter space while providing a powerful 1000 watts of cooking power. Its integrated venting system helps clear smoke and steam from your stovetop. For a streamlined cooking experience, this microwave is a smart and functional choice.
In our testing, results were excellent. The One-Touch Auto Cooking features worked flawlessly for popcorn, potatoes, and reheating beverages. The 1.7 cubic foot capacity easily handled a standard dinner plate, and the 1000-watt power heated food quickly and evenly. The vent fan was effective at managing light smoke and cooking odors during stovetop use.
Build quality observations. The stainless steel finish is attractive and matches modern appliances well. The overall construction feels solid, and the control panel is intuitive and responsive.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Powerful 1000-watt cooking performance
- ✓ Space-saving over-the-range design with effective vent
- ✓ Convenient One-Touch Auto Cooking presets
CONS
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven
Best Buy Over the Stove Microwave
Product delivers One-Touch Auto Cooking, making it great for busy kitchens. This over-the-range unit efficiently saves counter space while providing a powerful 1000-watt cooking performance. Its integrated venting system helps clear smoke and odors from your stovetop. The 1.7 cubic foot capacity is versatile enough for most family meals.
In our testing, results were excellent. The One-Touch Auto Cooking buttons worked flawlessly for popcorn, potatoes, and reheating beverages. The 1000-watt power heated food quickly and evenly. The vent fan effectively managed steam and light smoke during stovetop cooking, though it can be a bit loud on the highest setting.
Build quality observations. The unit feels solid and installs securely into standard cabinetry. The white finish is clean and modern, and the control panel is intuitive and responsive.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Space-saving over-the-range design
- ✓ Convenient One-Touch Auto Cooking
- ✓ Powerful 1000-watt performance
CONS
- ✗ Installation can be complex for DIY
- ✗ Vent fan is noisy on high speed
BLACK+DECKER Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Best Buy Over the Stove Microwave
Product delivers a versatile air fryer and convection combo, making it great for maximizing kitchen functionality. This over-the-range unit saves precious counter space while offering multiple cooking methods. It efficiently replaces a bulky range hood and provides a powerful 900-watt microwave. For those seeking an all-in-one cooking solution above their stove, this model is a compelling choice.
In our testing, results were excellent across its various modes. The air fryer function produced crispy french fries and chicken wings with minimal oil, rivaling standalone units. Convection baking evenly browned a batch of cookies, and the microwave heated liquids quickly and uniformly. The integrated exhaust fan effectively managed steam and cooking odors during use.
Build quality observations. The stainless steel finish is sleek and matches modern kitchen appliances well. The internal cavity feels sturdy, and the control panel is responsive, though it can attract fingerprints.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Excellent space-saving design that combines multiple appliances
- ✓ Effective air frying and convection baking performance
- ✓ Powerful 900-watt microwave with sensor cooking options
CONS
- ✗ Installation can be complex and may require professional help
- ✗ The control interface has a slight learning curve
Over-the-Range Microwave FAQ
Can I install an over-the-range microwave myself?
While it's possible for a highly experienced DIYer, professional installation is strongly recommended. It involves heavy lifting, securing into cabinetry and wall studs, and often dealing with electrical and vent duct connections, where mistakes can be costly or hazardous.
What does CFM mean, and how much do I need?
CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute and measures the vent fan's power. For light cooking, 300 CFM is sufficient. If you sear, fry, or boil frequently, opt for 400 CFM or more. Higher CFM is essential for effective external venting.
Do all over-the-range microwaves need external venting?
No. Most offer a choice between external venting (ducting to the outside) or recirculating (filtering air through charcoal and back into the kitchen). External venting is far more effective at removing heat, steam, and odors.
What's the advantage of a convection or air fry mode?
These modes use a heating element and fan to circulate hot air, allowing the microwave to bake, roast, and crisp food. It adds significant versatility, acting as a second oven for smaller meals, which is a major space-saving benefit in compact kitchens.