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Best Over The Range Microwaves are a smart choice when you want to save counter space while adding a built-in look to your kitchen. They sit above the range, help with ventilation, and make everyday cooking tasks feel easier and more streamlined. Whether you want a simple, reliable model or a feature-rich unit with sensor cooking and extra power, there are plenty of strong options in this lineup.
When choosing from this list, pay close attention to capacity, wattage, hood ventilation, and overall fit for your kitchen. You’ll also want to think about the control style, lighting, finish, and any extra features like sensor cooking, child safety locks, or one-touch menus. The best pick is the one that matches your cooking habits, space requirements, and budget.
Let’s get started!
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave | Reliable everyday use | Buy |
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel | Easy one-touch cooking | Buy |
| ThermoMate 30″ Over the Range Microwave | Best overall premium pick | Buy |
Best Over The Range Microwaves
1. Best Overall: ThermoMate 30″ Over the Range Microwave
The ThermoMate 30″ Over the Range Microwave stands out as a strong overall pick for shoppers who want a feature-rich model in a stainless steel finish. With 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 cooking watts, and 10 power levels, it offers the kind of flexibility that works well for everyday reheating and cooking tasks.
It also includes 300 CFM ventilation and LED lighting, which makes it a practical addition above the range. The one-touch controls add convenience, and the 30-inch format makes it a good fit for many standard kitchen setups.
If you want a well-rounded OTR microwave with a modern look and a balanced feature set, this model is easy to consider. It delivers a strong mix of capacity, power, and ventilation for a variety of kitchen needs.
Pros
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000 cooking watts
- 10 power levels
- 300 CFM ventilation
- LED lighting
Cons
- May be more than some buyers need
- Stainless steel finish may not suit every kitchen
2. Best Value: GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave
The GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave is a solid value option for shoppers who want dependable performance at a lower price point. It includes 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, and a 300 CFM hood vent, which gives it a practical balance of power and ventilation.
Its LED lighting and auto defrost add useful convenience for everyday use. The easy mount install is another helpful feature for buyers looking for a straightforward replacement or a simple upgrade.
This is a sensible pick if you want a trusted over-the-range microwave without overcomplicating things. It offers the core features most households need in a clean stainless steel design.
Pros
- Affordable price
- 1000 watts of power
- 300 CFM hood vent
- LED lighting
- Auto defrost
Cons
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is smaller than some alternatives
- Basic feature set compared with premium models
3. Best For One-Touch Cooking: BLACK+DECKER Stainless Steel OTR Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER Stainless Steel OTR Microwave is a practical option for buyers who like simple, quick cooking controls. It offers 1.7 cu. ft. of capacity and 1000 watts of power, giving it enough room and strength for common kitchen tasks.
The one-touch auto cooking feature is a major convenience for busy households. Combined with the vent and stainless steel finish, it has the features people often want in a daily-use over-the-range microwave.
This model is a good fit if you’re looking for an easy-to-use microwave that feels modern and functional. It keeps things straightforward while still delivering the essentials.
Pros
- One-touch auto cooking
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000 watts
- Includes venting
- Stainless steel finish
Cons
- May not suit buyers wanting advanced features
- Standard design is fairly simple
4. Best for Budget Black Finish: BLACK+DECKER Black OTR Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER Black OTR Microwave gives you the same practical format as the stainless steel version, but in a black finish. It includes 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, and a vent, making it a versatile choice for many kitchens.
One-touch auto cooking helps simplify routine meals and reheating. For buyers who want a darker finish that blends well with certain appliances, this model can be especially appealing.
It’s a straightforward option that focuses on convenience and familiarity. If you want the basics done well in a black exterior, this one deserves a look.
Pros
- Black finish
- One-touch auto cooking
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000 watts
- Includes venting
Cons
- Fewer advanced features
- Appearance is more traditional
5. Best for Multi-Function Cooking: BLACK+DECKER Air Fryer OTR Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER Air Fryer OTR Microwave is the most versatile option in this group for shoppers who want extra cooking modes. With air fryer, convection, and bake modes, it offers more flexibility than a standard microwave-only model.
It has a 1.5 cu. ft. capacity and 900 watts of power, so it may appeal more to buyers who value cooking variety over raw microwave power. The stainless steel finish keeps it looking modern and coordinated with many kitchens.
If you want an over-the-range appliance that can do more than microwave basics, this model is worth a closer look. Its feature set makes it stand out in the lineup.
Pros
- Air fryer mode
- Convection mode
- Bake mode
- Stainless steel finish
- Multi-function design
Cons
- 900 watts is lower than some others
- Higher price than basic models
6. Best for Touch Control: Empava Over the Range Microwave
The Empava Over the Range Microwave brings together screen touch control, sensor cooking, and a stainless steel finish for a clean, modern feel. It includes 1000 watts of power and 300 CFM venting, giving it the kind of practical setup many homes need.
Sensor cooking can be a helpful feature for users who like more automatic operation in the kitchen. The touch control layout also gives it a more contemporary appearance.
This microwave suits buyers looking for a fresh-looking OTR option with useful everyday features. It’s a balanced choice for function and style.
Pros
- Screen touch control
- Sensor cooking
- 1000 watts
- 300 CFM venting
- Stainless steel finish
Cons
- Silver/stainless style may not match every kitchen
- Feature set is centered on everyday use
7. Best for Child Safety: Farberware Black OTR Microwave
The Farberware Black OTR Microwave is a good fit for families who want a child safety lock along with standard microwave convenience. It offers 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts of power, which keeps it useful for daily kitchen tasks.
Auto cook settings and defrost round out the feature list, while the easy clean design helps with routine maintenance. The black finish gives it a classic, understated look.
If safety is a priority and you want a dependable kitchen upgrade, this model is worth considering. It keeps the experience simple while adding useful extras.
Pros
- Child safety lock
- Auto cook settings
- Defrost function
- Easy clean design
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- Black finish may not suit all kitchens
- No advanced cooking modes listed
8. Best for Simplicity: Frigidaire Stainless Steel 1.7 Cu. Ft.
The Frigidaire FMOS1746BS keeps things simple with a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity in a stainless steel finish. It’s a straightforward over-the-range microwave that should appeal to buyers who want a clean, familiar appliance.
Its design is geared toward practical daily use rather than extra bells and whistles. That makes it easy to fit into a basic kitchen replacement or a no-fuss upgrade.
If you prefer an uncomplicated appliance from a known brand, this model may fit the bill. It is a direct, minimal approach to the category.
Pros
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
- Stainless steel finish
- Straightforward design
Cons
- Lower rating than many competitors
- Limited feature details provided
9. Best for White Kitchens: BLACK+DECKER White OTR Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER White OTR Microwave offers the same 1.7 cu. ft. and 1000-watt setup as other models in the line, but with a white finish. That makes it a solid match for kitchens with lighter appliances or a brighter overall look.
Its one-touch auto cooking feature adds convenience, while the vent helps support over-the-range functionality. The result is a practical microwave that blends style with everyday ease.
If you’re looking for a white OTR microwave that feels simple and functional, this is a nice alternative to the more common stainless steel finish.
Pros
- White finish
- One-touch auto cooking
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000 watts
- Includes venting
Cons
- White finish may show wear more easily
- Basic feature set
10. Best for Strong Feature Balance: Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. OTR Microwave
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS offers a balanced mix of useful features, including a smart touch panel, auto cooking menu, 1000 watts, and 300 CFM ventilation. That combination makes it a practical choice for many homes.
Its 1.7 cu. ft. capacity provides space for common dishes, while the stainless steel finish keeps the design clean and versatile. It feels like a modern everyday appliance without pushing too far into premium territory.
This model is a strong contender for shoppers who want a dependable middle-ground option. It gives you a lot of the essentials shoppers look for in one package.
Pros
- Smart touch panel
- Auto cooking menu
- 1000 watts
- 300 CFM ventilation
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- May be more feature-rich than some need
- Only one finish listed
11. Best for Slim Profile: Midea Slim Over the Range Microwave
The Midea MMO12S3ASTZ is a slim over-the-range microwave with a 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, sensor cook, 1000W heating power, and a 400CMF vent fan. That slimmer footprint may be especially appealing in tighter kitchen setups.
Its sensor cook feature adds convenience, while the 400CMF vent fan is notable in this group. The stainless steel finish keeps it looking clean and modern.
If your space is limited and you want a more compact OTR microwave, this model is a practical choice. It focuses on space efficiency without giving up key essentials.
Pros
- Slim design
- Sensor cook
- 1000W heating power
- 400CMF vent fan
- Stainless steel finish
Cons
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity is smaller
- Higher price point
12. Best for Basic Reliability: BLACK+DECKER White Range Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER White Range Microwave is a simple, practical over-the-range option with 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and 1000-watt power. It also includes top mount air recirculation venting, incandescent lighting, and a safety lock.
This model is a useful fit for buyers who want familiar features and a lighter exterior. It keeps the emphasis on straightforward household performance.
If you’re after a dependable white OTR microwave with the basics covered, this is a respectable choice. It’s built for utility rather than flash.
Pros
- White finish
- Safety lock
- 1000-watt power
- Top mount air recirculation vent
- Incandescent lighting
Cons
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is modest
- Lighting is not LED
13. Best for Easy Clean Use: Farberware Stainless OTR Microwave
The Farberware Stainless OTR Microwave pairs a stainless steel finish with useful everyday features like auto cook settings, defrost, easy clean design, and a child safety lock. It’s built to make the kitchen experience simple and family-friendly.
With 1.7 cu. ft. of capacity and 1000 watts of power, it has the size and strength most homes expect from an over-the-range model. The stainless finish gives it broad visual appeal.
This is a strong choice for shoppers who want easy upkeep and user-friendly controls. It covers the basics well and adds a safety feature for peace of mind.
Pros
- Easy clean design
- Child safety lock
- Auto cook settings
- Defrost function
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- No advanced cooking modes listed
- Higher price than some basic models
14. Best Smart Pick: Samsung Slim Smart OTR Microwave
The Samsung Slim Smart OTR Microwave brings smart features into the over-the-range category with Wi-Fi and voice control. It also includes a 550 CFM hood vent, LED light bar, sensor cook, and 1100 watts of power.
Its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity is smaller than many other models here, but the feature set is clearly geared toward buyers who want modern convenience. The fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish is another practical touch.
If connected features matter to you, this model stands out from the rest of the list. It’s a compact but capable choice with a strong emphasis on smart functionality.
Pros
- Wi-Fi
- Voice control
- 550 CFM hood vent
- Sensor cook
- Fingerprint resistant stainless steel
Cons
- Smaller 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- Higher price point
15. Best for Larger Capacity: Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave
The Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave offers the largest capacity in this list at 1.8 cu. ft. That extra space can be helpful for larger dishes or households that use the microwave often.
Its stainless steel finish gives it a clean, familiar appearance that works with many kitchen styles. It is a simple option at a mid-range price point.
If capacity is one of your top priorities, this model deserves attention. It focuses on space and straightforward functionality.
Pros
- Largest capacity in the list
- Stainless steel finish
- Straightforward design
Cons
- Lower rating than many competitors
- Limited feature details provided
Buying Guide
Capacity
Capacity matters because it affects how much food you can comfortably heat or cook at once. The options in this list range from compact 1.1 cu. ft. models to a larger 1.8 cu. ft. unit, so it helps to think about the size of the dishes you use most.
Wattage
Wattage influences how quickly and evenly a microwave can operate. Most of these models offer 1000 watts, while some are lower or higher, so choose based on how much power you want for daily cooking.
Ventilation
Since these are over-the-range microwaves, ventilation is one of the biggest reasons to buy one. Look at the listed CFM ratings and think about whether you want basic recirculation or stronger venting support.
Controls and Convenience
Touch panels, one-touch cooking, sensor cooking, and auto menus can all make the microwave easier to use. If you cook often, features that reduce manual guesswork may be worth paying for.
Finish and Kitchen Match
Most shoppers want the microwave to match their kitchen style. Stainless steel is the most common finish here, but black and white options are available if you need a better visual fit.
Safety and Maintenance
Child safety locks, easy clean surfaces, and easy mount installation can make a big difference in long-term satisfaction. These details don’t sound flashy, but they matter in everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size over-the-range microwave should I buy?
The right size depends on your cabinet opening, cooking habits, and available wall space. 1.6 to 1.7 cu. ft. is a common middle ground, while smaller or larger options may be better depending on your kitchen.
Is 1000 watts enough for an over-the-range microwave?
Yes, 1000 watts is a common and practical level of power for most households. It should handle everyday reheating, cooking, and defrosting tasks well.
Why does ventilation matter in an OTR microwave?
Over-the-range microwaves often double as range hood replacements or helpers. Ventilation can help manage smoke, steam, and cooking odors from the stove below.
Are sensor cooking and auto cook settings useful?
They can be very useful if you want easier cooking with less guesswork. These features help simplify common tasks and can make the microwave more convenient for busy days.
Should I choose stainless steel, black, or white?
Choose the finish that best matches your kitchen appliances and décor. Stainless steel is the most versatile, while black and white can work better in certain kitchen designs.
What is the benefit of a child safety lock?
A child safety lock helps prevent unintended use of the microwave. It’s especially useful in households with young children.
Conclusion
The Best Over The Range Microwaves combine convenience, space-saving design, and everyday usefulness in one appliance. From simple budget-friendly choices to smart and feature-rich models, this list includes options for many different kitchens and cooking styles.
If you want the best balance overall, the ThermoMate model is a standout. If budget matters most, the GE microwave is a strong value pick. And if you want extra features or smart functions, there are several other excellent choices here worth exploring.
Pick the one that fits your kitchen, your cooking habits, and your budget, and you’ll have a practical upgrade that makes everyday meal prep easier.