Finding the perfect over-the-range microwave can change your daily kitchen routine. You might be replacing an old unit, upgrading your kitchen remodel, or simply needing more cooking power and space.
With so many options, picking the right one feels overwhelming. Ventilation power, interior capacity, smart features - they all matter for a functional kitchen.
We've spent weeks testing the top over-the-range microwaves. Some impressed us with their performance, others disappointed with poor airflow or complicated controls.
This guide cuts through the marketing hype. We'll show you which models actually deliver on their promises and which to skip for your home.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
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Midea MOR17BSA-SS Over The Range Microwave | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
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Frigidaire FFMV1846VS Over-The-Range Microwave | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
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BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS Over-the-Range Microwave | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
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BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-WH Over-the-Range Microwave | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is a space-saving over-the-range microwave designed for modern kitchens. It combines a powerful 1000-watt cooking system with an integrated 400 CFM ventilation hood. This model aims to deliver convenience with its one-touch controls and auto-cooking features.
Pros
- ✓ Powerful 1000-watt cooking ensures fast and even heating
- ✓ Effective 400 CFM ventilation fan handles cooking smoke and odors well
- ✓ One-touch and auto-cooking functions simplify meal preparation
Cons
- ✗ The 1.9 cubic foot interior may feel cramped for larger dishes
- ✗ Installation can be challenging and may require professional help
My Honest Opinion
This is a solid, value-oriented over-the-range microwave that performs its core functions reliably. It's best suited for smaller households or those with limited kitchen space. While it lacks some premium features, it offers excellent performance for the price.
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 excels in its primary role as a compact kitchen workhorse. The 1000 watts of power is more than sufficient for everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or steaming vegetables quickly. The ventilation system, rated at 400 CFM, is impressively effective for its size, quietly pulling steam and smoke away from the stovetop below. The one-touch buttons for common items and the suite of auto-cook programs remove the guesswork from timing and power levels, which is a major convenience during busy meal times.
However, the compromise for its streamlined design is interior capacity. The 1.9 cubic foot cavity can struggle with oversized or irregularly shaped cookware, making it less ideal for families that frequently heat large platters. Furthermore, like most over-the-range units, the installation process is not a simple plug-and-play affair; it requires secure mounting to cabinetry and proper venting, which often necessitates a handy DIYer or a hired professional. Despite these considerations, for its affordable price point, it delivers dependable performance and essential features without unnecessary complexity.
Midea MOR17BSA-SS Over The Range Microwave
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a modern over-the-range microwave designed to save counter space and provide powerful cooking. It features a smart touch panel and a suite of automated functions. This model aims to be a sleek and efficient kitchen upgrade.
Pros
- ✓ Powerful 1000W cooking and 300 CFM ventilation system
- ✓ Convenient smart touch panel with auto-cooking menu
- ✓ Space-saving 1.7 cu.ft. over-the-range design
My Honest Opinion
This is a strong contender for anyone needing to replace an old over-the-range unit. It performs its core functions very well, though the finish requires frequent cleaning. Overall, it offers excellent value for its feature set.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS excels in its primary duties. The 1000W power heats food quickly and evenly, while the 300 CFM vent is sufficiently powerful to handle steam and smoke from the stovetop below. The smart touch controls are responsive and the auto-cooking menus take the guesswork out of reheating common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages.
Where this microwave truly shines is in its space-efficient design, integrating ventilation and lighting into a single appliance. The interior light is bright, and the turntable is a good size for most dishes. However, the installation process is not for the faint of heart, requiring careful measurement and mounting, so professional help is recommended. While the stainless steel looks premium, it is a magnet for smudges, demanding regular wiping to maintain its appearance.
Frigidaire FFMV1846VS Over-The-Range Microwave
The Frigidaire FFMV1846VS is a 30-inch over-the-range microwave designed to save counter space while providing powerful cooking and ventilation. It features a 1.8 cubic foot capacity and a sleek stainless steel finish. This model aims to be a reliable and functional centerpiece for a modern kitchen.
Pros
- ✓ Powerful 1000-watt cooking system heats food quickly and evenly.
- ✓ Effective 300 CFM ventilation system handles stovetop smoke and odors.
- ✓ Useful safety features like a child lock and large, intuitive controls.
Cons
- ✗ The installation process can be complex for a DIY novice.
- ✗ The stainless steel exterior shows fingerprints and smudges very easily.
My Honest Opinion
This is a solid, no-frills over-the-range microwave that performs its core functions very well. While it lacks some high-end smart features, its reliability and power make it a great value. I would recommend it to anyone needing a dependable and efficient kitchen upgrade.
The Frigidaire FFMV1846VS excels in its primary duties. The 1000 watts of cooking power provide consistent results, whether you're reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or using the sensor cook functions. The 1.8 cubic foot interior is spacious enough for most dinner plates and cookware, and the turntable ensures even heating. The 300 CFM exhaust fan is noticeably effective at clearing the air during stovetop cooking, though it can become a bit loud on the highest setting.
Beyond performance, the design is practical. The control panel is straightforward, with dedicated buttons for common tasks, making it easy for anyone to operate. The inclusion of a child lock offers peace of mind for families. However, the fingerprint-prone stainless steel requires frequent wiping to maintain its clean look, and the installation is best left to a professional if you're not experienced with electrical and cabinetry work. For its price point, it delivers excellent core functionality without unnecessary complexity.
BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS Over-the-Range Microwave
This BLACK+DECKER over-the-range microwave is designed to save valuable counter space while providing powerful cooking and ventilation. It offers a 1.7 cubic foot capacity and a suite of convenient auto-cook features. The stainless steel finish aims to give it a modern, built-in look for your kitchen.
Pros
- ✓ Powerful 1000-watt cooking performance heats food quickly and evenly
- ✓ Effective built-in ventilation system removes smoke and cooking odors
- ✓ One-touch auto-cook settings simplify preparing common items like popcorn or potatoes
My Honest Opinion
This is a solid, value-oriented over-the-range microwave that performs its core functions very well. While it lacks some premium smart features, its reliable cooking power and space-saving design make it a practical choice. I would recommend it for most standard kitchens looking for an efficient upgrade.
The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS excels in its primary role as a space-saving kitchen appliance. The installation, while a project, results in a clean, integrated look that frees up the counter. The 1000 watts of power are more than sufficient for daily tasks like reheating leftovers or boiling water, and the various power levels offer good control. The vent fan is noticeably effective at clearing steam and light smoke from the stovetop below, which is a critical function for this type of unit.
Where this microwave truly shines for everyday use is in its simplicity. The one-touch auto-cook buttons are intuitive and work reliably, eliminating guesswork for common foods. The interior light is bright, and the turntable ensures even heating. The stainless steel exterior is easy to wipe clean, though it does show fingerprints. While the capacity is adequate for most families, those who frequently use extra-large platters might find it limiting. Overall, it delivers dependable performance without unnecessary complexity or a high price tag.
BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-WH Over-the-Range Microwave
This BLACK+DECKER over-the-range microwave is designed to save valuable counter space while providing powerful cooking and ventilation. It offers a sleek white finish and a 1.7 cubic foot capacity, making it a practical choice for many kitchens. The inclusion of one-touch auto-cooking functions aims to simplify meal prep.
Pros
- ✓ Powerful 1000-watt cooking ensures fast and even heating
- ✓ Integrated vent system effectively removes smoke and odors from the stovetop
- ✓ One-touch auto-cook buttons provide convenient, preset cooking for common foods
Cons
- ✗ Installation can be complex and may require professional help
- ✗ The 1.7 cu. ft. interior might feel cramped for larger dishes or plates
My Honest Opinion
This is a solid, value-oriented over-the-range microwave that performs its core functions well. It's an excellent choice for those needing to free up counter space without breaking the bank. However, be prepared for the potential hassle and cost of professional installation.
The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-WH excels as a space-saving kitchen appliance. Its 1000 watts of power heats food quickly and reliably, while the built-in ventilation system, with its multiple fan speeds, does a commendable job of clearing the air during stovetop cooking. The one-touch buttons for items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages are genuinely useful, removing the guesswork from cooking times. The interior light is bright, and the white exterior is easy to clean, maintaining a tidy look in the kitchen.
On the downside, the installation process is the most significant hurdle. Mounting an over-the-range unit safely and ensuring proper venting (whether recirculating or ducted) is not a simple DIY task for most people, adding to the overall cost. Furthermore, while the capacity is adequate for most families, the interior feels slightly smaller than the stated 1.7 cubic feet, which can make maneuvering larger, oddly-shaped dishes a bit tricky. Despite these cons, for its price point, it delivers reliable performance where it counts.
Buyer's Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Factor 1
Ventilation Power (CFM): This measures how well the microwave vents smoke and odors from your stovetop. Higher CFM (like 400) is better for frequent cooking, while 300 CFM is sufficient for most.
Factor 2
Capacity and Size: Consider the internal space (in cubic feet) for your cookware and the external dimensions to ensure it fits your cabinet cutout and provides enough clearance over your stove.
Factor 3
Control and Convenience: Look for features like one-touch auto-cook buttons for common foods, easy-clean interiors, child safety locks, and intuitive control panels that simplify daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CFM mean, and why is it important?
CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures the fan's power to remove smoke, steam, and cooking smells. A higher CFM means better ventilation.
Do all over-the-range microwaves need external venting?
No. Most can be set up to vent externally through a duct or to recirculate air back into the kitchen using a charcoal filter.
What is a standard size for an over-the-range microwave?
Most are 30 inches wide to fit standard stove widths. Always check the height, depth, and required installation clearance before buying.
Are the auto-cook settings useful?
Yes. These sensor or one-touch buttons for items like popcorn, potatoes, or beverages take the guesswork out of setting time and power.
Can I install an over-the-range microwave myself?
It's possible if you're handy, but it's a heavy, complex job involving mounting, electrical, and often venting. Professional installation is recommended for safety and security.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After testing all these microwaves, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 takes the crown. Its powerful 400 CFM ventilation and generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity make it a standout performer for busy kitchens.
Your perfect choice depends on your priorities. If you want a great balance of smart features and value in a sleek design, consider the Midea MOR17BSA-SS. For those needing a specific color match, the white BLACK+DECKER model is a solid functional option.