Choosing an over-the-range microwave is about more than picking a box that heats food. This appliance does double duty as a microwave and a range hood, so it has to fit your kitchen, vent properly, and suit the way you cook. A model with a strong fan can keep smoke and odors out of your living space, while a well-designed interior and sensible controls make everyday meals easier. This guide compares five popular models so you can narrow your options with confidence and find a unit that fits your counter space, cooking habits, and budget.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Capacity | Cooking Power | Ventilation | Current Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven, 1.7 Cu.Ft, 1000W | 1.7 cu. ft. | 1000W | 300 CFM, 2-speed | Listed as available |
| Midea Over the Range Microwave Oven, 1.7 Cu.Ft, 1000W, Stainless Steel | 1.7 cu. ft. | 1000W, 10 power levels | 300 CFM, adjustable fan speeds | Listed as available |
| Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel | 1.7 cu. ft. | Not specified in listing | Not specified in listing | Currently unavailable |
| TOSHIBA Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, 1.9 Cu.Ft, 1000W, Stainless Steel | 1.9 cu. ft. | 1000W output, 11 power levels | 400 CFM, 2-speed | Listed as available |
| SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven w/ 550 CFM Hood Vent | 1.1 cu. ft. | Not specified in listing | 550 CFM | Currently unavailable |
Our Picks: Best Highest Rated Over The Range Microwave reviews
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave With 300 CFM Vent: A Practical All-Rounder
The BLACK+DECKER model is a straightforward over-the-range unit built around a 1.7 cubic foot interior, a 12.4-inch turntable, and a 1000-watt output. It is designed to sit above your cooktop and handle daily tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting meat, and popping popcorn. Its exterior dimensions of 29.9 inches wide, 13.2 inches deep, and 16.4 inches tall give you a clear idea of the footprint you will need above your range.
The control set is simpler than some competitors. You get six quick menus covering popcorn, beverage, melt or soften, reheat, and defrost, along with number-based shortcuts for 100 percent power cooking. The multi-stage cooking function is useful when you want one setting to shift from high power to a gentler level. Many owners appreciate that they can handle common tasks without digging through a long list of presets, which keeps the learning curve short for anyone in the household.
Ventilation is a strong point for the price class. The 300 CFM fan has two speeds and an integrated light, which helps pull steam and cooking odors away from the cooktop. In a kitchen where you fry or sear often, the fan will help, but it is not a replacement for a high-capacity hood if you cook heavy, smoky meals on a regular basis. The stainless steel finish matches most modern appliance suites and gives the unit a clean, traditional look.
This model suits households that want a dependable microwave with a built-in fan and do not need advanced automation. It works well in apartments, starter homes, and kitchens where the range is used for everyday cooking rather than heavy searing. Compared with the Midea and TOSHIBA options, it trades some convenience features and capacity for simplicity. If you want the most presets or the largest interior, you will likely prefer one of those alternatives.
Pros:
- Compact 1.7 cubic foot interior with a 12.4-inch turntable suits everyday meals
- Six quick menus cover popcorn, beverage, reheat, defrost, and melt or soften tasks
- 300 CFM two-speed vent with integrated light helps manage odors and steam
- Stainless steel finish fits well with common kitchen appliance styles
Cons:
- Fewer built-in presets than the Midea and TOSHIBA models in this lineup
- The 300 CFM fan may feel limited for heavy stovetop frying or high-heat searing
Verdict: The BLACK+DECKER is a sensible choice if you want a no-frills over-the-range microwave with a usable vent and familiar controls. It is best for everyday cooking in a standard kitchen, but buyers who want more presets or stronger ventilation should look at the other models on this list.
Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. Smart Touch Microwave With 18 Auto Menus: Best for Hands-Off Cooking
The Midea model shares the same 1.7 cubic foot capacity and 1000-watt output as the BLACK+DECKER, but it leans harder into convenience. Its smart touch panel gives you 18 auto cook menus that cover popcorn, pizza, defrosting, softening cream cheese, rice, and potatoes. For cooks who want to press one button and walk away, that range of automatic programs is a real advantage.
The 12.4-inch turntable is large enough for a rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza, according to the product description. That makes this unit more practical for family dinners than a microwave that only handles small dishes. The 10-level power control gives you finer adjustment when you are reheating delicate foods, such as sauces or custards, that can scorch or separate under full power.
Ventilation comes from a 300 CFM fan with adjustable speeds. The fan is able to handle typical stovetop smoke and odors, and the cooktop light makes it easier to see your pans while you cook. In real kitchen use, the adjustable speeds help you match the fan to the job. A quiet, low setting is useful for simmering, while the higher speed is better for frying or sautéing.
This model fits households that cook a variety of meals and want a microwave that can do much of the thinking. It is especially good for busy families and anyone who relies on the microwave for more than heating coffee. Compared with the BLACK+DECKER, the Midea offers more automation for a similar footprint. Compared with the TOSHIBA, it has a smaller turntable and a lower CFM rating, so the TOSHIBA is the better pick if you want maximum interior space and fan power.
Pros:
- 18 auto cook menus make it easy to prepare popcorn, pizza, rice, and more with minimal input
- Ten power levels allow precise control over delicate reheating
- The 12.4-inch turntable accommodates larger dishes, including a 12-inch pizza
- Adjustable fan speeds let you match ventilation to your cooking style
Cons:
- The 300 CFM rating is lower than the TOSHIBA model, which may matter for heavy cooking
- Some buyers may find the smart touch panel less intuitive than simple mechanical knobs
Verdict: The Midea is a strong pick for anyone who values automatic cooking programs and a flexible power range. It is well suited to family kitchens with varied meal needs, and it earns its place near the top of this list for convenience.
Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave: A Familiar Name With Limited Current Availability
The Frigidaire FMOS1746BS is a 1.7 cubic foot over-the-range microwave in stainless steel. Frigidaire is a well-known appliance brand, and this model is positioned as a practical option for households that need a standard-size interior above the range. Its listing highlights quick start options, bright exterior lighting, and an interior that can accommodate larger dishes and bowls.
The listing offers limited technical detail, so you should check the full specifications before buying. Power output and fan rating are not listed in the supplied information, which makes direct comparison with the other models harder. What is clear is that the unit is designed around everyday convenience, with quick start options that let you begin common tasks without navigating a complicated menu.
The bright exterior lighting is a useful touch for a cooktop area. Good light helps you see what you are cooking, especially when you are working with multiple pans or checking food texture. Many shoppers look for this kind of practical detail, since it makes the appliance easier to use day to day.
This model is best for buyers who want a recognizable brand and a standard 1.7 cubic foot capacity, and who are comfortable checking the full spec sheet before purchase. It is currently listed as unavailable, so it may not be an immediate option. If you find it in stock and the specifications match your range and venting setup, it can be a sensible choice. Otherwise, the BLACK+DECKER and Midea models offer similar capacity with more detailed information available.
Pros:
- Familiar brand name with a standard 1.7 cubic foot capacity
- Quick start options simplify common cooking tasks
- Bright exterior lighting improves visibility over the cooktop
- Interior is described as accommodating larger dishes and bowls
Cons:
- Currently unavailable, which limits its usefulness as an immediate purchase
Verdict: The Frigidaire is a reasonable option if it returns to stock and matches your kitchen layout, but its limited listing details and current unavailability make it a lower priority than the models with fuller information and immediate availability.
TOSHIBA 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave With 400 CFM Fan: The Best Choice for Larger Families
The TOSHIBA model offers the largest interior in this lineup at 1.9 cubic feet, paired with a 13.5-inch turntable. That extra room makes a noticeable difference when you are heating platters, casserole dishes, or multiple plates at once. Its 1000-watt output and 1500-watt input place it in the same general power range as the other options, while its external dimensions of 29.9 by 13.8 by 16.4 inches make it a solid match for standard over-the-range spaces.
Ventilation is the standout feature. The 400 CFM two-speed exhaust fan is the most powerful in this group, which gives it an advantage in open-concept kitchens where cooking smells can drift into the living area. The listing describes the fan as suitable for frequent cooking and steam, so it is a good match for households that cook often.
Several design details stand out. The soft-close door uses a hydraulic damper to prevent slamming and keep closing quiet, a small but appreciated touch for a unit mounted at eye level. The redesigned flip-and-lock bracket is intended to shorten installation time, which can save effort if you are mounting it yourself. Many owners appreciate that the door feels controlled and the unit feels more solid in daily use. The listing also claims that ChefDefrost technology speeds defrosting by 40 percent, while sensor cooking helps detect moisture for more consistent heating. With 24 pre-set menus and 11 power levels, this model gives you the widest set of cooking options among the five products.
This model is ideal for larger families, frequent cooks, and anyone with an open kitchen layout. The combination of capacity, fan power, and cooking presets makes it the most complete package on this list. The main trade-off is the higher input power of 1500 watts, so confirm that your electrical circuit and installation setup are appropriate before buying. It is also slightly deeper than the 1.7 cubic foot models, so check the clearance above your cooktop.
Pros:
- The 1.9 cubic foot interior and 13.5-inch turntable handle larger dishes with ease
- The 400 CFM two-speed fan is the strongest ventilation option in this lineup
- Soft-close door and hydraulic damper add a premium feel and reduce slamming
- 24 pre-set menus and 11 power levels offer the most cooking flexibility
Cons:
- The 1500-watt input requirement and 13.8-inch depth mean you should verify your electrical setup and clearance
Verdict: The TOSHIBA is the best all-around choice for buyers who want maximum capacity, strong ventilation, and a wide range of cooking options. It is a strong pick for families and open-concept kitchens, provided your space and electrical setup can support it.
SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu. Ft. Smart SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave: A Compact, Connected Option
The Samsung model is the most compact option here, with a 1.1 cubic foot interior and a slim profile. That smaller size suits kitchens with limited space, smaller households, or anyone who mainly heats single portions and beverages. Its headline feature is a 550 CFM hood vent, the highest airflow rating among the five models, which can be a meaningful advantage if you cook with high heat or produce a lot of smoke and grease vapor.
The product title also highlights Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control, and an LED light. These features make the unit more modern in feel and allow for hands-free operation in some setups. Connected features can be convenient, but they are only useful if you are comfortable setting up a smart appliance and maintaining a network connection in your kitchen.
The listing provides limited detail on wattage and control layout, so it is harder to judge the cooking performance compared with the other models. Buyers should check the full specification sheet for power output, control options, and installation requirements before deciding. The unit is currently listed as unavailable, which also affects how practical it is as an immediate purchase.
This model is best for smaller households and kitchens where ventilation is a priority but interior space is not. If you mostly reheat small meals and want strong airflow in a slim package, it is worth a look. For families or anyone who needs to fit larger dishes, the TOSHIBA or Midea models will serve you better. Its current availability and limited listing detail place it last in this lineup.
Pros:
- The 550 CFM hood vent is the most powerful ventilation rating in this group
- Slim design suits compact kitchens and smaller spaces
- Wi-Fi and voice control add modern, hands-free convenience for connected kitchens
- LED light helps with visibility over the cooktop
Cons:
- The 1.1 cubic foot interior is the smallest in this lineup and limits larger dishes
- Currently unavailable, and the listing offers limited detail on cooking power and controls
Verdict: The Samsung is a compelling option for compact kitchens that need serious ventilation and smart features. Buyers who need interior space or immediate availability should choose one of the other models on this list.
How to Choose the Right Over-the-Range Microwave
Interior Capacity and Turntable Size
Capacity is the first thing to decide. Most over-the-range models fall between 1.1 and 1.9 cubic feet, and the difference is noticeable when you cook for more than one or two people. A 1.7 cubic foot unit, like the BLACK+DECKER, Midea, or Frigidaire, handles most everyday dishes comfortably. The 1.9 cubic foot TOSHIBA gives you more room for large platters and multiple plates. Pay attention to the turntable diameter too, since a larger turntable accommodates wider dishes that might not rotate properly in a smaller cavity.
Cooking Power and Presets
Wattage affects how quickly your microwave heats food, and most models in this group use a 1000-watt output. Look beyond the number and consider the control options. Power levels let you reheat delicate foods gently, while auto menus take guesswork out of popular tasks like popcorn or defrosting. If you cook a wide variety of meals, a model with more presets, such as the 24 menus on the TOSHIBA or the 18 auto menus on the Midea, can save time. If you prefer simplicity, a shorter list of quick menus may be easier to learn.
Ventilation Strength and Fan Speeds
Because an over-the-range microwave also acts as a range hood, ventilation matters. CFM, or cubic feet per minute, measures how much air the fan moves. The Samsung’s 550 CFM rating is the highest here, the TOSHIBA’s 400 CFM is strong for everyday cooking, and the BLACK+DECKER and Midea units at 300 CFM suit lighter cooking. Consider how you cook. If you fry, sear, or stir-fry often, a stronger fan will do more work. Two-speed or adjustable fans give you flexibility, letting you use a quiet setting for simmering and a stronger setting when smoke builds up.
Size, Clearance, and Fit Above Your Range
Measure the space above your cooktop before shopping. The listed dimensions for the TOSHIBA, for example, are 29.9 inches wide, 13.8 inches deep, and 16.4 inches tall. Most over-the-range units are designed to fit standard cabinet openings, but depth and height can vary between brands and models. Check the minimum clearance above your cooktop, and confirm that the unit’s depth does not interfere with cabinet doors or outlets. A model that looks right on the product page can still feel cramped if your space is tight.
Installation and Venting Requirements
Installation is more involved than setting a countertop microwave in place. You will need to mount the unit securely to the wall and cabinets, connect a power source, and decide how the vent will be routed. Some buyers prefer a ducted setup that exhausts air outside, while others use a recirculating configuration. Check the manufacturer’s guidance for venting before you buy, since your kitchen layout will determine which option works. Features such as the TOSHIBA’s redesigned flip-and-lock bracket are intended to simplify mounting, which can be helpful if you are handling the work yourself or hiring a professional.
Controls, Lighting, and Smart Features
Control style affects daily comfort. Touch panels offer a modern look and a wide range of programs, while simpler controls are easier for family members who are less comfortable with electronics. Lighting also matters more than many shoppers expect. A bright cooktop light helps you monitor food and see clearly while you work. Smart features, such as the Wi-Fi and voice control on the Samsung model, can add convenience, but only if you plan to use them. Weigh these extras against how you actually cook rather than paying for features you will rarely touch.
Build Quality and Finish
Most models in this group come in stainless steel, which blends well with other kitchen appliances and is relatively easy to wipe clean. Pay attention to how the door closes and how solid the housing feels. Soft-close doors, like the one on the TOSHIBA, can reduce wear from slamming and make the unit feel more substantial. Check the manufacturer’s care instructions as well, especially for filters and grease handling, since regular maintenance keeps the fan working efficiently over time.
Matching a Model to Your Cooking Habits
The best choice depends on how you use your kitchen. If you mainly reheat leftovers and make popcorn, a simpler 1.7 cubic foot model with a clear set of quick menus will serve you well. If you cook for a large household, look for more interior space and a stronger fan. If your kitchen is compact and you value airflow and connected features, a slim unit with high CFM may suit you better. Start with your daily routine, then match the features to the cooking you do most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an over-the-range microwave better than a countertop microwave?
It depends on your kitchen. An over-the-range model saves counter space and adds ventilation above your cooktop, which is useful if you cook on the stove often. A countertop model is easier to install and move, and it may be a better choice if you rent or do not want to mount an appliance on the wall. If your main concern is fumes and steam, the built-in fan of an over-the-range unit is a real advantage.
What size over-the-range microwave should I buy?
Most households do well with a 1.7 cubic foot model, which handles standard dinner plates, casserole dishes, and most leftovers. If you cook for a large family or regularly heat big platters, the 1.9 cubic foot TOSHIBA offers more room. Smaller kitchens or single-person households may find the 1.1 cubic foot Samsung easier to fit, though its interior is more limited.
How much ventilation do I need from the built-in fan?
For light cooking, such as boiling water or heating sauces, a 300 CFM fan is usually adequate. If you fry, sear, or cook with high heat often, a stronger fan like the 400 CFM TOSHIBA or the 550 CFM Samsung will remove smoke and odors more effectively. Consider the size of your kitchen as well, since a larger open space may need more airflow to keep smells from spreading.
Do I need a professional to install an over-the-range microwave?
Many people hire a professional, especially when the installation involves electrical work or ducting. Mounting the unit requires secure attachment to the wall and cabinets, and the venting setup must match your kitchen layout. Read the installation instructions carefully and confirm your power supply can handle the unit’s requirements. If you are unsure, a licensed installer can help you avoid problems.
Are smart over-the-range microwaves worth the extra features?
Smart features such as Wi-Fi and voice control can add convenience, especially if you already use connected devices at home. However, the core functions of heating, defrosting, and ventilation matter more day to day. If you do not plan to use the app or voice commands regularly, a model without these features may be the smarter buy.
Why are some models in this list currently unavailable?
Stock levels for appliances change frequently, and some models may be temporarily unavailable depending on the retailer and demand. The Frigidaire and Samsung models are listed as unavailable in the supplied information, so check the product page before making a decision. If your preferred model is out of stock, one of the available options in this guide may be a practical alternative.
How should I maintain my over-the-range microwave?
Wipe the interior and exterior regularly, especially around the vent area, where grease and steam can build up. Clean or replace filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions, since a clogged filter reduces fan performance. Keep the turntable and its support clean, and check the door seal for food debris. Regular care helps your unit perform well and last longer.
Final Recommendation
For most buyers, the TOSHIBA 1.9 cubic foot model is the strongest all-around choice. It offers the most interior space, the most powerful fan in this group among standard-capacity options, a wide set of presets, and thoughtful touches like a soft-close door. It does require more clearance and a higher power input, so confirm your kitchen can support it. If you want a simpler, more budget-minded setup with solid convenience, the Midea model is an excellent alternative, thanks to its 18 auto menus and adjustable fan speeds. The BLACK+DECKER remains a dependable pick for straightforward daily cooking. The Frigidaire and Samsung models are worth considering if they return to stock and match your specific space and ventilation needs. Measure your range area, consider how you cook, and choose the model that fits your kitchen best.