The kitchen smells faintly of burnt butter because the old countertop model takes up valuable prep space while failing to handle that extra-large casserole dish.
Upgrading to one of the best above stove Microwaves clears the counters and places cooking power right where the meal happens.
Let us compare four strong contenders that handle daily meals without a fuss. Read on to find out which unit fits your kitchen layout.
Key Takeaways
- Measure the vertical distance between your stovetop and the bottom of your cabinet structure before purchasing any over-the-range unit.
- Check the ventilation capacity measured in CFM to ensure the fan actually removes cooking smoke and stubborn odors from the kitchen.
- Select a capacity rating between 1.6 and 1.9 cubic feet depending on the size of your largest baking dishes.
- Confirm the electrical requirements because many 1000-watt models need a dedicated circuit rather than a shared wall outlet.
- Look for stainless steel or fingerprint-resistant finish options if matching existing kitchen appliances is a priority.
| Overall Performance Leader |  |
GE 30 Inch Over the Range Microwave | Standard 30 inch width | Reliable heating power | Easy cleaning finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Sleek Modern Choice |  |
Black Over the Range Microwave Oven | Generous interior space | Smudge resistant dark finish | Strong heating output | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Everyday Workhorse |  |
Midea Over the Range Microwave Oven | Spacious 1.7 cubic feet | Bright interior lighting | Crisp modern styling | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Budget Friendly Option |  |
Black and Decker Black Over the Range Microwave | Great value proposition | Reliable 1000W heating | Dark fingerprint hiding exterior | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Heavy Duty Ventilation |  |
Black and Decker High CFM Microwave | Powerful 400 CFM ventilation | Extra large capacity | Fast heating performance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Balanced Kitchen Essential |  |
Black and Decker Standard Microwave Oven | Perfect medium sizing | Straightforward controls for ease | Consistent heating results | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Multi Tasking Master |  |
Black and Decker Air Fryer Microwave | Built in air fryer mode | Saves precious counter space | Crispy cooking results | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Premium Finish Standout |  |
Frigidaire Stainless Steel Microwave Oven | Professional stainless steel look | Easy wipe interior | Dependable brand quality | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Bright Kitchen Complement |  |
Black and Decker White Microwave Oven | Classic white cabinet match | Simple digital display | Solid 1000W output | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Maximum Family Capacity |  |
Frigidaire Large Capacity Microwave | Extra large 1.8 capacity | Sleek stainless steel design | Handles bulky dishes easily | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
GE 30 Inch Over the Range Microwave
Kitchen upgrades can feel overwhelming, but finding the right appliance is just about matching your daily habits to the hardware. This 1000W stainless steel model fits neatly into a standard 30-inch space, giving you dependable heating power without dominating your kitchen layout.
You get a solid 1.6 cubic feet of cooking room, which handles standard dinner plates and casserole dishes with ease. And the sleek metal finish wipes down in seconds after a messy sauce splatter.
The main drawback is that it lacks the extra specialty cooking modes found on pricier convection units. But for straightforward reheating and defrosting, it gets the job done cleanly.
- Brand:GE
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.6 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1000W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Standard cooking controls
- Additional Feature:Interior surface lighting
- Additional Feature:Built in ventilation fan
-
Black Over the Range Microwave Oven
Matching your kitchen's dark aesthetic requires a reliable appliance that blends seamlessly into dark cabinetry. This 1.7 cu.ft capacity unit delivers plenty of interior space for large dinnerware while maintaining a low profile above your range.
You will appreciate the 1000 watts of power that heats up leftovers evenly and quickly. The deep black finish hides smudges better than bright silver surfaces.
One minor limitation is the lack of a stainless steel option in this specific configuration. But if you are building a cohesive dark kitchen theme, it fits right in.
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.7 cu.ft
- Power:1000W
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Over the range mount
- Additional Feature:Interior cooking light
- Additional Feature:Vent fan controls
-
Midea Over the Range Microwave Oven
Busy households need kitchen appliances that can handle constant daily use without fuss. This 1000W stainless steel machine provides dependable performance for quick morning oats and late night frozen dinners alike.
The interior offers 1.7 cubic feet of volume, meaning your favorite casserole dishes will slide right in. And the clean stainless design looks sharp against modern backsplashes.
Be aware that the fan noise on the highest setting can be somewhat loud. But that is a minor trade off for strong odor removal while cooking.
- Brand:Midea
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Turntable glass plate
- Additional Feature:Multi stage cooking
- Additional Feature:Surface light button
-
Black and Decker Black Over the Range Microwave
Updating your cooking space does not require draining your entire savings account. This 1.7 cu.ft black microwave brings brand name reliability to your above-stove setup at a very accessible level.
You get 1000 watts of cooking power, which means your frozen meals thaw and heat thoroughly without cold spots in the middle. The dark exterior also keeps fingerprints less visible between cleanings.
The buttons require a firm press to register your commands. But once you get used to the keypad, operation is straightforward.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:One touch cooking buttons
- Additional Feature:Built in exhaust fan
- Additional Feature:Interior cooking light
-
Black and Decker High CFM Microwave
Cooking fragrant meals can quickly fill your home with smoke if your ventilation lacks muscle. This 400 CFM model moves a massive volume of air, clearing out cooking steam and grease before it settles on your walls.
Inside, you will find a massive 1.9 cubic feet of cooking space, giving you extra room for taller pots and wide platters. And the 1000W motor ensures your food heats up fast.
Because of the high capacity, the unit protrudes slightly further over your stove than compact models. But that extra space is essential for big family cooking sessions.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.9 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Additional Feature:High performance exhaust fan
- Additional Feature:Multi speed ventilation
- Additional Feature:Sensor cooking options
-
Black and Decker Standard Microwave Oven
Finding the sweet spot between capacity and counter clearance can be tricky for smaller kitchens. This 1.7 Cu.Ft appliance strikes that balance nicely by fitting standard cabinetry while holding generous portions.
You can rely on the 1000W power rating to cook your favorite dishes evenly. The simple control layout means anyone in the house can figure out how to warm up a plate of food.
The sleek housing lacks advanced smart home connectivity features. But most cooks prefer a simple machine that just works without smartphone apps.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Additional Feature:Easy touch keypad
- Additional Feature:Standard turntable system
- Additional Feature:Exhaust fan and light
-
Black and Decker Air Fryer Microwave
Counter space is precious real estate, so combining appliances is a smart way to reclaim your kitchen counters. This unit packs an integrated air fryer right into your above-stove microwave cavity to save valuable room.
The 900W cooking output handles daily reheating tasks while the specialty convection mode crisps up your french fries and chicken wings. You get a 1.5 cubic feet capacity, which is slightly smaller due to the internal heating elements.
Learning the combination settings takes a little practice compared to a single purpose machine. But the reduction in counter clutter makes the adjustment entirely worthwhile.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over-the-Range with Air Fryer
- Capacity:1.5 Cu.Ft
- Power:900W
- Additional Feature:Air fry cooking mode
- Additional Feature:Convection heating technology
- Additional Feature:Multi function control panel
-
Frigidaire Stainless Steel Microwave Oven
Upgrading your kitchen appliances with matching metal finishes ties the whole room together. This stainless steel Frigidaire model brings a professional culinary look right above your stove.
It features a generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, making it easy to pop in large dinner plates or mixing bowls. The interior is designed to wipe clean effortlessly when minor boiling over occurs.
The door mechanism feels slightly heavier than lighter plastic models. But that sturdy build quality means it will hold up to years of slamming shut by hungry family members.
- Brand:Frigidaire
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu. Ft.
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Stainless steel finish
- Additional Feature:Vent fan with filters
- Additional Feature:Interior lighting setup
-
Black and Decker White Microwave Oven
White appliances provide a clean, traditional aesthetic that makes smaller kitchens feel more open and airy. This 1.7 Cu.Ft white microwave blends effortlessly into light cabinetry and white tile backsplashes.
The 1000W power level provides plenty of strength for your daily defrosting and reheating needs. And the intuitive digital display keeps operation simple for every member of the household.
White exteriors do require slightly more frequent wiping to keep them looking pristine against cooking splatters. But the bright finish keeps your cooking space looking fresh.
- Brand:BLACK+DECKER
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Color:White
- Additional Feature:White exterior finish
- Additional Feature:Integrated exhaust fan
- Additional Feature:Glass turntable plate
-
Frigidaire Large Capacity Microwave
Cooking for a large household means you need appliances that do not force you to cook in batches. This 1.8 cu. ft. appliance offers extra room for oversized cookware and bulky casserole dishes.
The brilliant stainless steel construction elevates the look of your entire cooking zone while standing up to heavy daily use. You get strong performance that handles everything from melting butter to steaming vegetables.
The larger footprint requires precise measuring during installation to ensure proper clearance above your range. But the extra interior volume is an absolute lifesaver for big family meals.
- Brand:Frigidaire
- Type:Over-the-Range
- Capacity:1.8 Cu. Ft.
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Spacious interior cavity
- Additional Feature:Two speed ventilation fan
- Additional Feature:Electronic touch controls
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an over-the-range microwave myself?
You can definitely install one yourself if you have a helper and basic tools. Because these units weigh around fifty pounds, holding one steady while securing it to the wall bracket is a two-person job.
Do all over-the-range microwaves require outside ductwork?
They do not require outside ductwork to function safely. Most models ship configured for recirculating mode, meaning they filter the air through a charcoal grease trap and vent it back into the kitchen.
How much space do I need between the stove and the microwave?
Building codes typically require at least thirty inches of clearance between the top of your cooking surface and the bottom of the microwave. Always check your specific installation manual because gas ranges sometimes demand extra height for safety.
What is sensor cooking and is it worth the extra cost?
Sensor cooking uses built-in humidity detectors to automatically adjust time and power levels based on the steam coming off your food. It prevents your leftovers from drying out and eliminates the guesswork from reheating plates or popping popcorn.
Can my microwave replace a traditional range hood?
It certainly acts as your primary kitchen ventilation, but performance varies by model. Units with higher CFM ratings handle smoke and grease just as well as standard range hoods, while cheaper models struggle with heavy frying.
