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The Best Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens

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Over-the-range microwave ovens offer a space-saving solution, combining microwave functionality with overhead ventilation, ideal for compact kitchens or those seeking a streamlined aesthetic. These appliances are typically used for quick reheating, defrosting, and light cooking tasks above a stovetop. Products were evaluated based on cooking power, capacity, ventilation performance, convenience features, user reviews, and feature analysis.

Best Overall

BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft

$372.07

Offers a strong combination of high capacity, robust ventilation, and a comprehensive suite of auto-cooking features.

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Best Budget
Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Black

Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Black

$249.99

Provides essential cooking power and capacity with convenient auto-cook options, suitable for everyday use.

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Best Premium
GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack

GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack

$297.00

Features advanced sensor cooking technology and a larger capacity, enhancing culinary precision and convenience.

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Looking for the best Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens?

Discover now our comparison of the best Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens. It is never easy to choose from the wide range of offers. On the market, you will find an incalculable number of models, all at different prices. And as you will discover, the best Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens are not always the ones at the highest prices! Many criteria are used, and they make the richness and relevance of this comparison.
To help you make the best choice among the hundreds of products available, we have decided to offer you a comparison of the Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens in order to find the best quality/price ratio. In this ranking, you will find products listed according to their price, but also their characteristics and the opinions of other customers. Also discover our comparisons by categories. You won’t have to choose your products at random anymore.

SaleNo. 1
Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking...
  • Pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, veggies, pizza, hot dog, bacon, frozen dinner, rice, and soup.
  • 1.7 cu.ft. interior, two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan system.
  • 1000 watts with 10 power level settings, clock and kitchen timer.
  • Turntable function ensures even heating without manual intervention.
  • LED lighting offers a clear and bright vision for your meals on cooktops.
  • 30 seconds express cooking and child lock.
  • Overall dimensions: 29.88"W x 15"D x 15.75"H, internal dimensions: 20.94"W x 13.78"D x 10.11"H.
  • Turntable Diameter: 315 mm. Rated Voltage: 120V/60Hz.
  • 2 Years US Based Manufacturer Warranty DOUBLES the usual industry for an exceptional quality over the range microwave.
SaleNo. 2
GE JVM3160RFSS 30" OTR Microwave, 1.6 cu ft, 1000W, 300 CFM Hood Vent, LED Lighting, Auto Defrost, Easy Mount...
  • 1.6 cu ft capacity - 1000 Watts. Convenience cooking controls, operating made quick and easy
  • Charcoal filter replacement for microwaves with behind the door grille - easily install your new charcoal odor filter
  • Auto and time defrost - defrosting times and power levels are programmed automatically or manually for optimal results
  • Turntable On/Off - controls turntable operation
  • Two-speed, 300-CFM venting system - removes smoke, steam and odors
SaleNo. 3
Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy...
  • HIGH-POWER COOKING: 1000W output and 1550W input for efficient, uniform cooking – ideal for active kitchens.
  • SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 1.7 cu. ft. capacity accommodates a range of dishes, from quick bites to large meals.
  • MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: Includes options for vegetables, snacks, auto cook, and a potato program for culinary flexibility.
  • ADVANCED DEFROSTING: Intelligent time and weight defrost settings for effective thawing.
  • RAPID COOKING FEATURES: Quick +30 seconds function and melt/soften options for everyday convenience.
  • CHILD SAFETY LOCK: Adds security, ensuring safe kitchen operations.
  • USER-FRIENDLY ADDITIONS: Equipped with an LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light for enhanced usability.
  • VOLUME CONTROL: Adjustable settings for personalized alert levels.
  • OPTIMIZED DESIGN: Over-the-range installation saves space and complements kitchen aesthetics.
SaleNo. 4
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR...
  • Pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, vegetable, pizza, snack, bacon, frozen dinner, rice, and frozen breakfast..Rated Voltage : 120V - 60Hz
  • 1000 Watts with ten power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking and child lock.
  • Cooktop LED lighting that offers a clear and bright vision for your meals on cooktop.
  • Two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system.
  • Turntable On/Off function allows you to cook large dishes.
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 29.9” x 15.4” x 16.4”, Internal dimensions: 19.84” x 13.78” x 9.09” (W X D X H) Turntable Diameter: 13.5”
  • English installation instructions can be viewed on the page.
No. 5
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection, and Bake Modes, 1.5 cu.ft., Stainless...
  • Large Capacity: 1.5 cubic feet over the range microwave features a spacious interior and 13.6-inch turntable; measures 15.43"D x 29.88"W x 16.42"H.
  • 6-in-1 Microwave Oven: Features six functions: microwave, air fryer, convection, combi (grill), bake, and roast for all of your culinary needs. This appliance will be your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
  • Air Fry Mode: This mighty microwave cooks healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods with less oil. An easy-to-use operation will make your meal planning and cooking time seamless.
  • Sensor Reheat Mode: This advanced function maintains the fresh flavor of your food--even on leftovers.
  • 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
No. 6
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove...
  • Large Capacity: 15.4"D x 29.9"W x 16.4"H. Featuring a spacious interior, this 1.7 cubic feet microwave oven includes a 12.4-inch turntable and will serve as your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
  • 10 Cooking Levels: With a 1000-watt output, this over-the-range microwave oven has 6 quick menus for your daily meals, including settings for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost.
  • Speedy Cooking: For quick action, press numbers 1, 2, or 3 for using the 100% power level at 1-3 minutes.
  • Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by cooking with 90% microwave power for 10 minutes and then cooking with 50% power for 5 minutes in one time setting.
  • 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
SaleNo. 7
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove...
  • Large Capacity: 15.4"D x 29.9"W x 16.4"H. Featuring a spacious interior, this 1.7 cubic feet microwave oven includes a 12.4-inch turntable and will serve as your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
  • 10 Cooking Levels: With a 1000-watt output, this over-the-range microwave oven has 6 quick menus for your daily meals, including settings for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost.
  • Speedy Cooking: For quick action, press numbers 1, 2, or 3 for using the 100% power level at 1-3 minutes.
  • Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by cooking with 90% microwave power for 10 minutes and then cooking with 50% power for 5 minutes in one time setting.
  • 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
SaleNo. 8
FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30" Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking...
  • Width: 29.87" x Height: 15.62" x Depth: 15.75"
  • CFM: 300 - Capacity: 1.8 cu. ft. - Cooking Watts: 1000 - Number of Power Levels: 10
  • Venting Type: Non Ducted - Auto Defrost - Timer - 27 Touch Pad Buttons
  • 2 Speeds - 105/300 CFM - Recirculating Kit: Sold Separately
  • 120 Volts - Weight: 35.00 lbs
SaleNo. 9
Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W...
  • One-touch-cook with 18 Auto Menus, and you can make popcorn, pizza, defrost, soften cream cheese, rice, potato, and so on. Feel free to create delicious dishes efficiently and easily.
  • 1.7 cu.ft capacity with 12.4 inch turntable can easily hold your big rotisserie chicken and 12 inches pizza.
  • 10-level power settings satisfy your different heating needs. (With 1000W outcome power)
  • CFM 300 strong suction power with adjustable fan speeds, effectively removes the unpleasant fumes and odor.
  • Bright cooktop light to serve your cooking with a clear view.

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Last update on 2026-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens

Capacity and Cooking Power

When selecting an over-the-range microwave, the interior capacity and cooking wattage are fundamental considerations. Models typically range from 1.7 to 1.9 cubic feet. A 1.7 cu.ft capacity, like that found in the Midea MOR17BSA-SS or Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. model, is generally sufficient for most standard dinner plates and smaller casserole dishes. However, for larger families or those frequently heating big items such as a 12-inch pizza or a rotisserie chicken, a 1.9 cu.ft unit, such as the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 or GE JVM7195SKSS, offers more practical internal space. Most modern over-the-range microwaves, including all listed models, provide 1000 Watts of cooking power, which is the industry standard for efficient and uniform heating across various dishes.

Ventilation Performance

A key differentiator for over-the-range microwaves is their integrated ventilation system, measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). This feature is crucial for effectively removing smoke, steam, and cooking odors from your kitchen. While models like the Midea MOR17BSA-SS and various Frigidaire units typically offer 300 CFM, which is adequate for light cooking, users frequently report that higher CFM ratings provide noticeably better air purification. The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, for instance, boasts a 400 CFM fan, offering superior exhaust capabilities, especially beneficial for frequent or heavy stovetop cooking that generates more fumes.

Convenience Features and Presets

Modern over-the-range microwaves come equipped with a variety of features designed to simplify cooking. Auto-cook menus are a common inclusion, offering pre-programmed settings for popular items like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza. The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, for example, features extensive auto menus, while the Midea MOR17BSA-SS offers 18 distinct options. Sensor cooking, seen in GE models like the JVM7195SKSS, automatically adjusts cooking time and power levels based on humidity emitted by food, preventing over- or under-cooking. Practical additions like cooktop LED lighting, as found on the BLACK+DECKER unit, provide clear illumination for your stovetop, enhancing visibility while cooking.

User Interface and Safety

The ease of operation and safety features significantly impact the daily user experience. Many units, such as the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, feature smart touch panels for a sleek look and intuitive control. Essential functions like a clock, kitchen timer, and 30-second express cooking are standard across most models, including the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19. For households with children, a child lock feature, present on the Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. and various Frigidaire models, is a crucial safety mechanism, preventing accidental operation.

Pros & Cons

BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft

Pros

  • High 400 CFM ventilation effectively clears smoke and odors.
  • Generous 1.9 cu.ft capacity accommodates larger dishes.
  • Extensive pre-programmed auto menus simplify various cooking tasks.

Cons

  • Lacks explicit mention of sensor cooking technology.
  • No user rating data available for performance insights.

Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel

Pros

  • Smart touch panel provides a modern and intuitive user interface.
  • Features 18 diverse auto menus for one-touch convenience.
  • 12.5-inch turntable can easily hold large plates and a 12-inch pizza.

Cons

  • Ventilation at 300 CFM is lower compared to some competitors.
  • The 1.7 cu.ft capacity might be restrictive for exceptionally large cookware.

Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Black

Pros

  • Consistent 1000W output power ensures efficient and uniform heating.
  • Easy-clean interior simplifies maintenance and spills.
  • Includes essential auto cook settings and a child safety lock for basic functionality.

Cons

  • The 1.7 cu.ft capacity may limit cooking larger items simultaneously.
  • Specific auto-menu details are less comprehensive than other models.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Underestimating Ventilation Needs

A frequent error is overlooking the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating, which directly impacts how effectively the microwave clears cooking odors and smoke. While models like the Midea MOR17BSA-SS or Frigidaire FFMV1846VS offer 300 CFM, this might be insufficient for heavy-duty cooking. Users often report better performance with higher CFM units, such as the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 with its 400 CFM, especially when frequently searing or frying.

Overlooking Usable Interior Capacity

Many buyers focus solely on wattage without considering the actual usable space. A 1.7 cu.ft microwave, like the Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. or GE JVM6175SKSS, might struggle to accommodate larger roasts or specific cookware. For instance, while a 1.7 cu.ft unit might fit a standard dinner plate, a 1.9 cu.ft model, such as the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 or GE JVM7195SKSS, is better suited for larger items like a 12-inch pizza or a substantial casserole dish.

Ignoring Sensor Cooking and Advanced Presets

Choosing a microwave based only on basic heating functions can lead to missed convenience. While simple auto-cook features are standard, not opting for advanced options like sensor cooking, available in GE models (e.g., JVM7195SKSS), means sacrificing automatic adjustments for optimal results. Extensive auto menus, like those found on the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 or Midea MOR17BSA-SS, significantly streamline meal preparation, reducing guesswork.

Neglecting Practical Features Like Task Lighting

A common oversight is not evaluating practical, everyday features. For example, the presence and quality of cooktop lighting can make a significant difference. The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 specifically highlights its cooktop LED lighting, which offers a clear and bright vision, a feature not explicitly detailed for all competing models and often appreciated during stovetop use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical lifespan of an over-the-range microwave oven?
The typical lifespan for an over-the-range microwave oven is generally around 7 to 10 years, depending on usage frequency and maintenance. Factors like the quality of components and proper cleaning can extend or shorten this period.
How does sensor cooking improve the microwave experience?
Sensor cooking, a feature found in models like the GE JVM7195SKSS, uses internal sensors to detect humidity levels released by food. This allows the microwave to automatically adjust cooking time and power, preventing over- or under-cooking and ensuring more consistent results without manual intervention.
Is 1000 Watts sufficient for most cooking needs in an OTR microwave?
Yes, 1000 Watts, as seen in models like the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 and Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft., is widely considered the standard for efficient microwave cooking. This wattage is powerful enough for quick reheating, defrosting, and cooking a variety of common dishes effectively.
What is the importance of CFM in an over-the-range microwave's ventilation system?
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) indicates the volume of air the microwave's fan can move per minute, directly impacting its ability to remove smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen. A higher CFM, such as the 400 CFM in the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, provides more effective ventilation, especially for more intense cooking.
Can all over-the-range microwaves accommodate a 12-inch pizza?
While many over-the-range microwaves have large turntables, not all 1.7 cu.ft models, like the Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft., might comfortably fit a 12-inch pizza. Models with a 1.9 cu.ft capacity, such as the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, or those explicitly stating a 12.5-inch turntable, like the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, are more likely to accommodate larger items.