A budget over-the-range microwave can save counter space while adding a vent fan and cooktop light. The models below all offer a 1.7-cubic-foot capacity, but they differ in cooking presets, controls, ventilation details, and the amount of product information available. Compare the features with your kitchen’s opening and vent setup before choosing; actual prices and availability can change.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key features | Listing status in supplied data |
|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave | 1000W, 300 CFM two-speed fan, six quick menus | Marked available |
| Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave | Quick-start options, bright exterior lighting | Marked unavailable |
| MAGNAVOX HOME 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave | 1000W, 11 power levels, 300 CFM fan, auto menus | Marked unavailable |
| Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave | 1000W, 18 auto menus, 300 CFM fan | Marked available |
| Kenmore 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave | 1000W, 300 CFM fan, three-way venting, LED lighting | Marked unavailable |
Availability labels reflect the supplied product information and may change. Check each product page for current details.
Our Picks: Best Budget Over The Range Microwave reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER: A Well-Rounded Option With Simple Quick-Cook Controls
This BLACK+DECKER model combines a 1.7-cubic-foot cavity with 1000 watts of cooking power. Its 12.4-inch turntable is intended to accommodate everyday dishes, while 10 power levels give you some control over reheating and cooking beyond the preset options.
The controls include six quick menus for common tasks such as popcorn, beverages, melting or softening, reheating, and defrosting. A one-touch 1-, 2-, or 3-minute cooking option is useful when you want to heat something quickly. Multi-stage cooking can also switch between power levels during a programmed cycle.
For the range below, the unit has a two-speed 300 CFM vent fan and an integrated cooktop light. The listed dimensions are 29.9 inches wide, 16.4 inches high, and 13.2 inches deep, so compare them with your available space before ordering. The product information does not specify its venting configurations, so confirm compatibility with your kitchen setup.
Pros:
- 1000W output and 10 cooking power levels
- Quick-start buttons and six everyday cooking menus
- 300 CFM fan with two speeds and an integrated cooktop light
- Dimensions are provided for an initial fit check
Cons:
- Venting configuration details are not included in the supplied description
- The six quick menus offer fewer preset choices than the Midea’s 18 menus
Verdict: Choose the BLACK+DECKER if you want clearly specified dimensions, straightforward quick-cook controls, and a vent fan in one appliance.
2. Frigidaire FMOS1746BS: A Basic Choice With Limited Published Details
The Frigidaire FMOS1746BS is a stainless steel, 1.7-cubic-foot over-the-range microwave. Its supplied product details highlight quick-start options, bright exterior lighting, and space for larger dishes and bowls. Those features point to a simple everyday appliance, but the available description does not provide wattage, fan capacity, power levels, or a list of cooking presets.
That lack of detail makes it harder to compare the Frigidaire with models that state their cooking output and ventilation performance. Before deciding, check the product page and installation documentation for the measurements, fan specifications, and venting arrangement that your kitchen requires. The supplied product information marks this item unavailable, so confirm whether it can currently be ordered.
Pros:
- 1.7-cubic-foot capacity for larger dishes and bowls
- Quick-start options for convenient operation
- Bright exterior lighting is listed as a feature
- Stainless steel finish
Cons:
- Supplied details do not state wattage or vent-fan capacity
- Marked unavailable in the supplied product information
Verdict: Consider the Frigidaire only if its current listing confirms the specifications and availability you need; the limited information makes it less straightforward to compare.
3. MAGNAVOX HOME: Flexible Power Settings and Helpful Safety Features
The MAGNAVOX HOME microwave pairs a 1.7-cubic-foot interior with 1000 watts of output and 11 adjustable power levels. The additional power settings may be useful if you want more flexibility than a basic high-or-low selection. Its controls include a 0–9 keypad, auto defrost by weight or time, and presets for popcorn, beverages, and melting or other auto-menu tasks.
A two-speed 300 CFM fan is listed, and the supplied description says the unit supports ductless installation. It also includes a child lock, multi-stage cooking, and a bright interior light. The description mentions English and French language options and a stated noise level of 60 dB; those details may help narrow a choice, but check the current listing for full installation and operating information.
The supplied product information marks this model unavailable. Its feature list is competitive on paper, but availability and the exact fit for your kitchen should be confirmed before you plan around it.
Pros:
- 1000W output with 11 adjustable power levels
- 300 CFM two-speed fan; ductless installation is supported according to the supplied description
- Child lock, multi-stage cooking, and auto-defrost options
- English and French language options are listed
Cons:
- Marked unavailable in the supplied product information
- Supplied description does not give the unit’s exterior dimensions
Verdict: The MAGNAVOX HOME is worth considering if its listing becomes available and you want multiple power settings plus stated ductless support.
4. Midea: The Most Preset-Heavy Option in This Group
Midea’s 1.7-cubic-foot over-the-range microwave offers 1000 watts, 10 power levels, and 18 auto-cook menus. Listed menu examples include popcorn, pizza, defrosting, softening cream cheese, rice, and potatoes. That range of presets may appeal if you prefer selecting a food type rather than setting the cooking time and power yourself.
The microwave has a 12.4-inch turntable, which the supplied description says can hold a 12-inch pizza and a large rotisserie chicken. Its 300 CFM fan has adjustable speeds, and a cooktop light helps illuminate the range below. The description does not specify the exterior dimensions or ventilation configurations, so confirm both before buying.
Pros:
- 18 auto-cook menus for a wide range of common foods
- 1000W output and 10 power settings
- 300 CFM fan with adjustable speeds
- 12.4-inch turntable and cooktop light
Cons:
- Exterior dimensions are not included in the supplied description
- Venting configuration details are not stated
Verdict: Pick the Midea if you value a broad selection of one-touch cooking menus and confirm its measurements and vent setup work for your kitchen.
5. Kenmore: A Practical Feature Set With Three-Way Venting
The Kenmore is a 1.7-cubic-foot model with 1000 watts of cooking power and a 12.4-inch rotating glass turntable. Its listed features focus on everyday use: six preset cooking options, simple controls, interior LED lighting, and a cooktop light.
Ventilation is a key distinction here. The product information lists a 300 CFM fan with two speeds and flexible three-way venting, along with carbon air and grease filters. That combination gives you more stated vent-routing options than the descriptions for several other models in this group, though you should still check the installation instructions against your existing ductwork. A child safety lock is also included.
The supplied product information marks the Kenmore unavailable. Check its listing for current availability and any installation details not included in the product description.
Pros:
- 1000W cooking power and 1.7-cubic-foot capacity
- 300 CFM fan with two speeds and three-way venting
- Carbon air and grease filters are included in the listed features
- Interior LED lighting, cooktop light, and child safety lock
Cons:
- Marked unavailable in the supplied product information
- Preset menu count is lower than the Midea’s 18 menus
Verdict: The Kenmore’s stated three-way venting makes it a promising fit for kitchens with specific duct-routing needs, if it is available and compatible with your installation.
How to Choose a Budget Over-the-Range Microwave
Measure the Space Before Comparing Features
Check the width, height, and depth of the opening, and compare those measurements with the appliance’s installation specifications. Also account for the space above the range and any clearance requirements in the manual. Of these five descriptions, only the BLACK+DECKER listing supplies exterior dimensions, so look up the measurements for the other models before ordering.
Match the Venting to Your Kitchen
Over-the-range microwaves use a built-in fan to move cooking fumes and odors. A fan’s CFM rating describes its airflow capacity, but it does not tell you whether the unit will connect to your existing ductwork. Check whether your kitchen needs a ducted or ductless setup and confirm the appliance supports that arrangement. The supplied descriptions specifically mention ductless support for the MAGNAVOX HOME and three-way venting for the Kenmore.
Choose Cooking Power and Controls for Your Routine
Several models list 1000 watts, but their controls differ. The BLACK+DECKER offers quick-start buttons and six quick menus, while the Midea lists 18 auto menus. The MAGNAVOX HOME has 11 power levels, and the BLACK+DECKER and Midea each list 10. Think about whether you prefer one-touch presets, adjustable power, or a straightforward keypad.
Check the Interior Capacity and Turntable
A 1.7-cubic-foot capacity is listed for all five models, but capacity alone does not tell you whether a favorite dish will fit. Consider the diameter and height of the dishes you use most. The BLACK+DECKER and Midea descriptions both specify a 12.4-inch turntable. For other models, check the product details for turntable size and interior measurements.
Compare Lighting and Filter Details
A cooktop light can make the range easier to see, while an interior light helps you check food during cooking. The supplied descriptions list a cooktop light for the BLACK+DECKER, Midea, and Kenmore, and interior lighting for the MAGNAVOX HOME and Kenmore. The Kenmore description also names carbon air and grease filters. Check each model’s product information to confirm which filters are included and how they are maintained.
Compare the Full Cost, Not Just the Appliance
Prices and availability can change, and this comparison does not establish which microwave costs the least at the time you shop. Compare the current product price alongside any installation needs, venting changes, and filters or accessories you may need. A model with the right fit and ventilation can be a better value than one with more presets that do not suit your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “over-the-range” mean?
An over-the-range microwave is installed above a cooktop or range. These models combine a microwave with a vent fan, and some include a light to illuminate the cooking surface below.
Are all five models 1.7 cubic feet?
Yes. Each supplied product description or title identifies a 1.7-cubic-foot capacity. Interior shape, turntable size, and usable space can still differ, so check those details if you use large dishes.
Which model has the most listed auto-cook menus?
The Midea lists 18 auto-cook menus. The BLACK+DECKER lists six quick menus, and the Kenmore lists six preset cooking options.
Which microwave has the strongest listed vent fan?
Among the supplied descriptions, the BLACK+DECKER, MAGNAVOX HOME, Midea, and Kenmore each list a 300 CFM fan. The Frigidaire description does not provide a fan capacity, so there is not enough information here to compare it.
Can I install any of these models as ductless?
The supplied description specifically says the MAGNAVOX HOME supports ductless installation. For the other models, check the product page and installation manual rather than assuming a venting configuration.
Which option is easiest to check for fit?
The BLACK+DECKER product information includes exterior dimensions of 29.9 inches wide, 16.4 inches high, and 13.2 inches deep. You should still compare those measurements and the installation requirements with your kitchen. For the other models, find the full dimensions before ordering.
Final Recommendation
The BLACK+DECKER is a balanced starting point if you want stated dimensions, 1000W cooking power, quick-start controls, and a 300 CFM fan. The Midea stands out for its 18 auto menus, while the Kenmore lists three-way venting for more routing flexibility. Before making your choice, confirm the current price, availability, dimensions, and venting compatibility on the product page and in the installation instructions.