Remember when kitchen appliances came in just two colors and reheating a casserole felt like a guessing game of cold spots and scorched edges? Microwaves used to be bulky countertop box dinosaurs that ate up half your prep space.
Today, smart engineering gives you powerful performance without sacrificing precious real estate. Finding the best over counter Microwaves simply means matching your cooking habits with the right configuration.
Let us walk through the top models so you can make an informed choice for your kitchen.
Key Takeaways
- Measure your cabinet clearance and available wall space twice before committing to an over-the-range or under-cabinet unit.
- Look for a minimum of 1000 watts of power if you want reasonably fast cooking times and even heat distribution.
- Consider your household cooking habits when choosing between a compact 1.2 cubic foot model and a spacious 1.9 cubic foot cavity.
- Check the ventilation CFM rating carefully if you plan on heavy stovetop cooking that requires serious smoke and odor removal.
- Stainless steel finishes offer durable longevity, but matching your existing kitchen appliances requires paying close attention to exact color shades.
| Powerhouse Kitchen Staple |  |
GE Countertop Microwave Oven 1.6 Cu. Ft. | High wattage output | Spacious interior capacity | Sleek stainless steel | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Space Saving Solution |  |
GE Over-the-Range Microwave 1.6 Cu. Ft. | Frees counter space | Integrated exhaust fan | Durable stainless finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Sleek Modern Choice |  |
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft | Large capacity interior | Bold black aesthetic | Balanced heating power | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Compact Daily Worker |  |
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven 1.2 Cu.Ft | Compact footprint size | Smart sensor cooking | Quick start functions | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Efficient Fan Combo |  |
Midea Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft | Dual function ventilation | Family friendly capacity | Clean stainless exterior | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Streamlined Budget Option |  |
Black Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft | Neutral black finish | Generous internal space | Simple control buttons | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| High Airflow Master |  |
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave 1.9 Cu.Ft | Powerful ventilation capacity | Extra large interior | Robust exhaust performance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Unique Under Cabinet Mount |  |
Sharp Over the Counter Microwave 1.5 Cu.Ft | Unique mounting style | Ergonomic door design | Saves counter space | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Dependable Kitchen Workhorse |  |
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft | Reliable daily performance | Standard mounting size | Easy maintenance surface | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Bright Clean Aesthetic |  |
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft White | Bright white finish | Standard 1000W power | Roomy cooking chamber | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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GE Countertop Microwave Oven 1.6 Cu. Ft.
Finding a reliable appliance for daily meal prep can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This model acts as a heavy lifter for busy households needing serious cooking speed. You get an impressive 1150 watts of cooking power, which makes quick work of frozen casseroles and large dinner plates.
The 1.6 cubic feet interior easily accommodates bulky bowls and wide platters without awkward angle adjustments. But do keep in mind that the countertop footprint requires substantial kitchen real estate. Small apartments might struggle to spare the counter space for this large footprint.
- Brand:GE
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.6 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1150 Watt
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Generous cooking cavity
- Additional Feature:Rapid heating capability
- Additional Feature:Modern finish
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GE Over-the-Range Microwave 1.6 Cu. Ft.
Clearing off crowded counters remains a top priority for most home cooks. Moving your heating appliance above the range frees up valuable workspace for actual food preparation. This unit delivers a dependable 1000 watts of power for everyday reheating tasks.
You receive an efficient built-in ventilation system that handles standard stovetop steam and cooking odors. One notable drawback involves the professional installation requirement, which usually demands two people and some basic hardware knowledge.
- Brand:GE
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.6 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1000W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Stovetop lighting included
- Additional Feature:Overhead installation design
- Additional Feature:Standard cooking controls
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BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft
Upgrading a tired kitchen aesthetic often starts with swapping out dated appliances. The dark black finish provides a striking contrast against lighter cabinetry and modern backsplashes. Inside, the 1.7 cubic feet capacity handles family-sized portions with room to spare.
Power delivery sits at a reliable 1000 watts, ensuring your leftovers heat evenly without cold spots. Just remember that black surfaces show dust and fingerprints quite easily, meaning you will reach for the microfiber cloth more often than you might prefer.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over the Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Material:Black
- Additional Feature:Microwave hood combination
- Additional Feature:Convenient digital display
- Additional Feature:Easy-clean interior
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TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven 1.2 Cu.Ft
Small kitchens require appliances that punch well above their weight class. This model fits comfortably on narrower counters while still packing 1000 watts of cooking power. The 1.2 cubic feet interior strikes a smart balance for single users and couples.
Pre-programmed sensor menus take the guesswork out of popping popcorn or melting butter. A minor limitation is the slightly smaller turntable size, which might crowd unusually wide rectangular dishes.
- Brand:TOSHIBA
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.2 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Eco mode setting
- Additional Feature:Bright interior lighting
- Additional Feature:Sound on and off option
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Midea Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft
Good ventilation is just as important as reliable heating when you cook frequent meals. This unit pairs a 1000 watt cooking engine with a dependable two-speed exhaust fan. The 1.7 cubic feet volume gives you ample space for standard casserole dishes.
Operating the control panel is intuitive, making it a friendly choice for every member of the household. Be prepared for a louder fan noise on the highest speed setting, which can occasionally drown out kitchen conversations.
- Brand:Midea
- Type:Over the Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Surface light included
- Additional Feature:Multi-stage cooking
- Additional Feature:Removable grease filters
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Black Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft
Matching your existing dark appliances does not require an extravagant budget. This understated unit offers a generous 1.7 cubic feet capacity for handling bulky dinnerware. You get a steady 1000 watts of output for routine defrosting and warming tasks.
The straightforward button layout avoids unnecessary complexity during hurried morning routines. On the downside, the display lighting can look a bit dated compared to high-end touch screen models.
- Type:Over the Range
- Capacity:1.7 cu.ft
- Power:1000W
- Material:Black
- Additional Feature:Built-in exhaust fan
- Additional Feature:Turntable glass plate
- Additional Feature:Classic kitchen look
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BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave 1.9 Cu.Ft
Serious cooking creates serious smoke, making powerful ventilation an absolute necessity. This heavy-duty model boasts a 400 CFM exhaust system that clears cooking fumes rapidly. The massive 1.9 cubic feet interior accommodates your largest mixing bowls and holiday roasters.
With 1000 watts of cooking strength, meals heat through quickly and consistently. The only catch is that a high-capacity blower requires proper ducting setup to perform at its absolute best.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over the Range
- Capacity:1.9 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Additional Feature:High CFM blower
- Additional Feature:Express cook buttons
- Additional Feature:Under cabinet lighting
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Sharp Over the Counter Microwave 1.5 Cu.Ft
Traditional over-the-range units do not work well if you lack a standard stove hood setup. This specialized machine mounts securely under upper cabinets, acting as a true over-the-counter space saver. The 1.5 cubic feet cavity provides practical room for standard dinner plates.
A convenient drop-down door design makes loading heavy dishes much safer and more ergonomic. Just note that this niche mounting style requires careful measuring of your cabinet depth before purchase.
- Brand:Sharp
- Type:Over the Counter
- Capacity:1.5 cu. ft.
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Task lighting underneath
- Additional Feature:Electronic touch controls
- Additional Feature:Space saving geometry
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BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft
Consistency is the name of the game when you rely on an appliance multiple times a day. This unit features a reliable 1000 watt heating system that manages daily defrosting cycles with ease. The 1.7 cubic feet space easily swallows dinner party leftovers.
Installation hardware comes bundled for straightforward setup above standard ranges. A minor drawback is the lack of advanced smart features, keeping things strictly traditional.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over the Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Additional Feature:Kitchen timer function
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Interior glass turntable
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BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave 1.7 Cu.Ft White
White kitchens demand appliances that blend in rather than drawing jarring visual attention. This clean model sports a bright white finish that matches classic farmhouse and transitional cabinetry. Inside, you find a standard 1.7 cubic feet capacity for everyday family meals.
The 1000 watt motor delivers even heating performance across bowls, plates, and mugs. Keep in mind that glossy white exteriors require regular wiping to prevent stubborn stains from setting in.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Material:White
- Additional Feature:Integrated vent fan
- Additional Feature:Cooking status display
- Additional Feature:Removable glass tray
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an over-the-counter microwave myself?
You can definitely tackle this as a DIY weekend project if you have a helper. The unit is heavy and awkward to hold overhead while driving screws into the upper cabinet and wall bracket. Make sure you locate the wall studs securely because drywall alone will not support the weight of a loaded microwave.
Do I need professional ductwork for the exhaust fan?
Not necessarily, because almost every model ships configured for recirculating mode. This means the fan pulls air through a charcoal filter and pushes it back into the kitchen instead of outside. If you want true exterior venting, you need existing ductwork aligned with the exhaust port on the top of the unit.
What is sensor cooking and is it worth the extra money?
Sensor cooking uses a built-in humidity detector to monitor the steam coming off your food. It automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level so your popcorn does not burn and your potatoes do not turn into bricks. It is a genuinely useful feature that takes the guesswork out of daily meal prep.
How do I clean the grease filters underneath?
Most units feature aluminum mesh filters that slide out easily from the bottom. You should soak them in warm, soapy water every month or run them through the dishwasher if the manufacturer permits it. Let them dry completely before sliding them back into place to maintain proper airflow.
Why does the microwave need so much space between it and the stove?
Building codes and manufacturer guidelines require a safe distance to prevent the plastic housing from melting or catching fire. You typically need at least 13 to 15 inches of clearance between the cooktop and the bottom of the microwave. Always check your local building codes and the specific manual before installation to stay safe.
