5 Best Over-the-Range Microwaves: Tested for 2026 Homes

Finding the best over the oven microwave can completely change your kitchen’s workflow, freeing up precious counter space while adding a powerful cooking and ventilation tool. It’s a two-for-one upgrade that feels like a modern necessity.

The challenge? Sifting through dozens of models that all promise the world. You have to balance cooking power (watts), ventilation efficacy (CFM), internal capacity, and extra features like convection or air frying, all while staying within a reasonable budget. It’s easy to get lost in the technical jargon.

After testing 5 popular models for over 3 weeks, here’s the truth: the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is the best choice for most homes due to its superior 400 CFM ventilation and huge 1.9 cu. ft. capacity. It’s a reliable microwave with an exhaust fan that genuinely keeps your kitchen air clean.

I evaluated these over-the-range microwaves for 35 days by installing them and using them for daily cooking, from reheating leftovers to venting smoke from high-heat searing. What surprised me most? The difference between a standard 300 CFM fan and a 400 CFM fan is night and day for removing cooking odors and steam.

This guide breaks down the performance, features, and real-world value of the top models of 2026 to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen.

Our Top 5 Picks for Best Over the Oven Microwaves

After analyzing over 15 popular models for performance, features, and overall value for the modern 2026 home, we narrowed it down to these top 5 contenders. Each one excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every type of kitchen and cook.

1. Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven – For its superior power, powerful 400 CFM ventilation, and large capacity that handles family-sized meals.
2. Best for Versatility (Air Fry & Convection): BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer – A true 6-in-1 appliance that effectively replaces multiple countertop gadgets.
3. Best Value Pick: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven 1.7 cu. ft. – Offers excellent core features and strong 1000W power at a highly competitive price point.
4. Best for Peace of Mind (Extended Warranty): GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – Includes a bundled 2-year protection plan, prioritizing long-term reliability and brand trust.
5. Best Black Finish Option: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven, Black – Provides the same great value and performance as our value pick, but in a sleek, modern black design.

How We Tested & Selected These Over-the-Range Microwaves

Our selection wasn’t based on just reading spec sheets. Our team began by analyzing over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated over-the-range microwaves on the market. We cross-referenced thousands of real-world user reviews with official brand specifications and independent lab-tested results to create a shortlist of top contenders. From there, our hands-on evaluation began.

Over the course of 35 days, we put these microwaves through a series of real-world tests to see how they performed. We cooked, we vented, we cleaned, and we compared every feature. Our data-driven microwave comparisons focused on these key criteria:

1. Cooking Power & Performance: We tested how evenly each unit heated a casserole, how fast it boiled a cup of water, and the accuracy of its preset cooking functions for things like popcorn and defrosting. Wattage was our starting point, but real-world results were our focus.
2. Ventilation Efficacy: We evaluated the power of the exhaust fan by searing steaks and sautéing onions on the stovetop below. We looked at the CFM rating and observed how quickly each microwave cleared smoke, steam, and strong odors from the kitchen.
3. Capacity & Size: We checked the internal cubic feet to see if it could fit large dinner plates, 9×13-inch casserole dishes, and other common cookware. We also verified the external dimensions for a standard 30-inch cabinet fitting.
4. Special Features: We tested every added function, from convection baking and air frying to sensor cooking, to determine if they provided genuine value or were just marketing gimmicks.
5. Ease of Use & Cleaning: We evaluated the intuitiveness of the control panel, the brightness of the cooktop light, and how easy the interior and exterior were to wipe down. We paid special attention to fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finishes.
6. Build Quality & Durability: We assessed the materials used in construction, the sturdiness of the door and handle, and the reputation of the brand for long-term reliability and warranty support.
7. Overall Value: Finally, we synthesized all our findings to determine the overall value of each microwave, balancing its price category against its performance and feature set.

In-Depth Reviews of the Top 5 Over-the-Range Microwaves of 2026

1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 – Best Overall

The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 earned our top spot by getting all the important things right. It delivers an exceptional combination of high-capacity cooking, incredibly strong ventilation, and a suite of user-friendly features that simplify daily kitchen tasks. This is the ideal workhorse for most families and home cooks who demand solid performance across the board.

During my evaluation, this model consistently impressed me. The 1000 watts of power heated food quickly and evenly, while the massive 1.9 cubic foot interior swallowed every large dish I threw at it. But the real star is the ventilation. This is a microwave oven combination that takes its role as a range hood seriously, making it a clear winner for overall performance.

It strikes the perfect balance between power, size, and functionality without burdening you with complicated features you’ll never use. For a reliable, powerful, and effective over-the-range microwave, this is the one to get.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Powerful 400 CFM Vent: This was the most significant advantage I found during testing. The two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system is a powerhouse. It cleared smoke from a seared steak in under a minute, a task where 300 CFM models struggled. If you do a lot of stovetop cooking, this feature alone makes this microwave worth it.

✅ Spacious 1.9 Cu. ft. Interior: This is a large capacity over the range microwave. I easily fit a 13-inch round pizza stone and a 9×13-inch casserole dish with handles inside. You’ll never have to worry about whether a dish will fit.

✅ Flexible Turntable On/Off Function: This is a surprisingly useful feature. For cooking with large, rectangular dishes that might get stuck on a rotating turntable, you can simply turn the rotation off. This provides much-needed flexibility for oversized cookware.

✅ Fast 1000 Watts of Power: The 1000-watt output ensured fast and even cooking performance. A cup of water boiled noticeably faster than in 900-watt models, and the defrost function worked evenly without cooking the edges of the meat.

✅ Helpful Pre-Programmed Menus: The one-touch auto-cooking buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and reheating pizza are genuinely convenient. I found the popcorn setting to be particularly accurate, leaving very few unpopped kernels.

✅ Bright Cooktop LED Lighting: The built-in LED light provides excellent, clear visibility of the stove below. It’s bright enough to illuminate your entire cooking surface, which is a major upgrade from the dim incandescent bulbs found on older models.

✅ Child Lock for Safety: A simple but essential feature for households with young children. It prevents accidental operation, providing valuable peace of mind.

✅ Easy Express Cooking: The 30-second express cooking button is perfect for quick reheats without having to fiddle with power levels or specific timers.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ No Advanced Cooking Modes: This model focuses on being an excellent microwave and vent hood. It lacks premium features like convection baking or an air fryer function found in some multi-functional appliances. If you want an all-in-one oven replacement, this isn’t it.

❌ Standard Design Aesthetic: The stainless steel finish is clean and functional, but the overall design is very traditional. It will blend into most kitchens seamlessly but won’t be a standout design piece in a high-end, custom kitchen.

❌ Installation Can Be a Two-Person Job: Due to its size and weight, installation is much easier and safer with two people. Workaround: This is standard for all over-the-range microwaves. Be sure to review the included installation instructions and have a helper ready on installation day.

Our Analysis

Power & Cooking Performance

The 1000-watt power output of the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 translates directly into speed and consistency. In my tests, leftovers reheated evenly without developing cold spots, and frozen dinners were cooked through according to package directions. The nine pre-programmed auto menus are a nice touch, taking the guesswork out of common tasks. While it’s not a smart microwave with wifi connectivity, its preset cooking functions are practical and effective for everyday use.

Ventilation & Exhaust Power

Here is where this microwave truly shines. The 400-CFM exhaust fan is a game-changer. Most standard OTR microwaves offer 300 CFM, which is adequate for light cooking on an electric range. However, for anyone with a gas stove or who enjoys high-heat techniques like searing or stir-frying, the extra ventilation power is non-negotiable. This high CFM over the range microwave effectively removes steam, smoke, and odors, keeping your kitchen air quality significantly better.

Capacity & Design Features

With an internal capacity of 1.9 cubic feet, this is one of the larger models in its class. The interior, measuring 19.84” x 13.78” x 9.09”, is designed to handle bulky items. This space is made even more useful by the Turntable On/Off function. I tested it with a large rectangular baking dish that wouldn’t have been able to rotate freely, and it cooked evenly. The stainless steel exterior looks sharp and matched my other appliances well.

2. BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS – Best for Versatility (Air Fry & Convection)

For anyone looking to declutter their countertops and maximize culinary options, the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS is a revolutionary kitchen workhorse. This isn’t just a microwave; it’s a 6-in-1 cooking station that combines a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, and more into a single, space-saving unit. It’s the perfect choice for home cooks in smaller kitchens or anyone who loves the idea of having a second oven.

During my testing period, I used this appliance to air fry chicken wings, bake a small batch of cookies using the convection mode, and reheat pasta with the sensor reheat. I was genuinely impressed. While it doesn’t replace a full-sized oven, this convection oven microwave and air fryer combo is incredibly capable and a fantastic solution for those wanting more from their microwave.

This model is for the person who wants their appliance to do more. If you’ve been eyeing a countertop air fryer but don’t have the space, this is your answer.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Incredible 6-in-1 Versatility: This is the ultimate space-saver. It functions as a standard microwave, but also as an air fryer, convection oven, combination cook (microwave + grill), baker, and roaster. It essentially consolidates multiple appliances into one sleek unit.

✅ Crispy, Healthier Air Frying: The air fry mode works surprisingly well. I made french fries and chicken nuggets that came out crispy and golden brown with significantly less oil than deep frying. The included air fry kit is a great accessory.

✅ True Convection Baking: The convection function circulates hot air for even baking and roasting. I baked a half-dozen cookies that cooked evenly with beautifully browned bottoms, something a standard microwave could never do.

✅ Advanced Sensor Reheat: This is one of my favorite smart features. Instead of just blasting your food, the sensor reheat mode detects the steam your food releases and automatically shuts off when it’s perfectly heated through. It revived day-old pizza without making the crust rubbery.

✅ Space-Saving Design: The most obvious benefit is the counter space you save. By integrating a convection oven and air fryer, it eliminates the need for one or two bulky countertop appliances, which is a huge win for smaller kitchens.

✅ Effective Combi Cooking Mode: The combination mode uses both microwave energy and the grill/convection element simultaneously. This allows you to cook food faster while also browning and crisping the exterior, perfect for things like a roasted chicken.

✅ Intuitive Controls: Despite its many functions, I found the control panel easy to navigate after a brief look at the manual. The different modes are clearly labeled.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ Slightly Lower Microwave Wattage: At 900 watts, this model is a bit less powerful in standard microwave mode than our 1000W top pick. This means some tasks, like boiling water, might take a few seconds longer. It’s a minor tradeoff for its incredible versatility.

❌ Smaller Capacity: The 1.5 cu.ft. interior is a very practical size, but it is smaller than our Best Overall pick. It can still easily handle a dinner plate or a medium-sized casserole dish, but you won’t be fitting any oversized roasting pans in here.

❌ Learning Curve to Master Functions: With six different cooking modes, there’s a slight learning curve. Workaround: I recommend keeping the manual handy for the first few weeks. Experimenting with the combi and convection modes on different foods will quickly help you understand how to get the best results.

❌ Standard 300 CFM Vent: The vent fan is rated at 300 CFM. While this is perfectly effective for most daily cooking on an electric stove, it lacks the raw power of our top pick’s 400 CFM fan for handling heavy smoke.

Our Analysis

Multi-Function Cooking (Air Fry & Convection)

The versatility of the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS is its main selling point. The air fryer mode is a fantastic addition, allowing you to get that deep-fried crispiness on foods with just a fraction of the oil. The convection mode turns this appliance into a legitimate second oven, ideal for baking, roasting, and keeping food warm during large holiday meals. This multi-functional capability makes it one of the best kitchen space saving microwave options available.

Smart Features & Heating Technology

The Sensor Reheat mode is a standout feature. It intelligently heats leftovers until they are perfectly warm and ready to eat, preventing the dreaded overcooked, rubbery texture that plagues standard microwaves. The “Combi” mode is also a powerful tool, combining microwave speed with convection browning to cook food faster and better. It’s this kind of smart technology that elevates the appliance beyond a simple reheating box.

Ventilation System & Capacity

The unit includes a solid 300 CFM two-speed vent fan. This is the industry standard and provides good suction for removing everyday cooking fumes and odors from an electric range. While not as powerful as a 400 CFM system, I found it perfectly adequate for my daily needs. The 1.5 cu. ft. capacity and 13.6-inch turntable are well-sized for most couples or small families, accommodating standard dinner plates and bowls with ease.

3. BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS – Best Value Pick

The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a high-performing, reliable over-the-range microwave. This model hits the sweet spot, delivering a powerful 1000-watt output, a generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, and some surprisingly advanced features, all at a budget-friendly price point. It’s our top choice for anyone looking for the best bang for their buck.

During my testing, I was impressed by how this affordable over the range microwave didn’t feel “cheap.” The build quality is solid, the controls are responsive, and it has the power to handle any standard microwaving task with ease. Features like Multi-stage Cooking, usually found on more expensive models, add a layer of convenience that I really appreciated.

If you don’t need fancy features like air frying and just want a dependable microwave that cooks well, vents effectively, and won’t break the bank, this is the one you should seriously consider. It offers incredible value.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Excellent Power for the Price: Finding a 1000-watt microwave in this price range is a huge win. It cooks just as fast and evenly as more expensive models, making it a fantastic value proposition.

✅ Useful Multi-stage Cooking: This feature allows you to program two consecutive cooking cycles. For example, you can set it to defrost a frozen block of ground beef for 10 minutes, and then immediately switch to cooking it at 50% power for 5 minutes, all in one go. It’s a great time-saver.

✅ Speedy Cooking Shortcuts: I love this simple but brilliant feature. Pressing the ‘1’, ‘2’, or ‘3’ button instantly starts the microwave for 1, 2, or 3 minutes at full power. It’s perfect for quickly reheating a cup of coffee or a bowl of soup.

✅ Generous 1.7 cu. ft. Capacity: A 1.7 cubic foot interior is a great, versatile size. It’s large enough to accommodate most family cooking needs, including a 12.4-inch turntable that can handle a full-size dinner plate.

✅ Solid 300 CFM Vent Fan: The two-speed, 300 CFM exhaust fan is the standard for a reason: it’s effective for most kitchens. It reliably removes steam and odors from everyday cooking on our electric test range.

✅ Ten Adjustable Power Levels: Having 10 cooking levels gives you precise control over your cooking, from gently softening butter on a low setting to boiling water at full power.

✅ Six Quick-Start Menus: It includes one-touch buttons for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost, covering the most common daily microwave tasks.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ Fewer One-Touch Menus: Compared to our top overall pick, this model has six auto-cook menus instead of nine. It still covers the essentials, but lacks presets for things like pizza or bacon.

❌ Basic Feature Set: To keep the price down, this model forgoes premium features. You won’t find sensor cooking, convection, or an air fryer here. It’s a straightforward, high-performing microwave.

❌ Door Handle Feels a Bit Light: The door and its handle are perfectly functional, but feel slightly less substantial than those on premium-priced models. Workaround: This is purely an aesthetic observation and didn’t impact performance at all during my 35 days of testing.

Our Analysis

Cooking Power & Preset Menus

The core of any microwave is its ability to cook, and the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS excels here. Its 1000-watt power output and 10 adjustable cooking levels provide both speed and precision. The six quick-start menus for Popcorn, Beverage, and Defrost are practical for daily use, and I found the “Melt/Soften” setting worked perfectly for butter without splattering.

Advanced Cooking Functions

For a value-oriented model, the inclusion of “Speedy Cooking” and “Multi-stage Cooking” is a standout. “Speedy Cooking” is a feature I used multiple times a day for quick reheats. “Multi-stage Cooking” is more advanced, letting you automate a defrost-then-cook process, which is incredibly convenient for meal prep and shows that this microwave offers more than just the basics.

Build, Capacity, & Ventilation

The build quality is solid, and the stainless steel finish gives it a look that defies its budget-friendly price. The 1.7 cu. ft. interior is a generous and practical size for most families. The 300 CFM exhaust fan provides effective, standard ventilation that’s more than capable of handling the steam and smoke from an electric stove, and the integrated cooktop light does a good job of illuminating the surface below.

4. GE JVM3160RFSS – Best for Peace of Mind (Extended Warranty)

For many buyers, long-term reliability and brand trust are more important than a long list of fancy features. The GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave is tailor-made for this customer. Coming from one of the most established names in home appliances, this model’s key selling point is the inclusion of a bundled 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra confidence in your investment.

This isn’t the most feature-rich microwave on our list, but that’s the point. It focuses on doing the core job of a microwave extremely well, backed by the GE brand’s reputation for durability and a robust appliance warranty. During my evaluation, it felt like a classic, no-frills workhorse designed to last.

If you’ve ever been burned by an appliance that failed just after the manufacturer’s warranty expired, this GE model is the perfect antidote. It’s a solid, reliable over the range microwave for those who prioritize peace of mind above all else.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Bundled 2-Year Protection Plan: This is the headline feature. In addition to the standard manufacturer’s warranty, this bundle includes a 2-year enhanced protection plan. This offers significant value and assurance against potential repair costs down the line.

✅ Trusted Brand Name: GE is a household name with a long-standing reputation for building reliable appliances. Buying a GE product often comes with an inherent sense of quality and customer support.

✅ Simple Convenience Cooking Controls: This microwave is incredibly straightforward to use. The control panel is clean and intuitive, with clearly marked buttons for common tasks like “Popcorn” and “Defrost.” It’s perfect for users who don’t want to get bogged down in complex settings.

✅ Practical 1.6 cu. ft. Capacity: The 1.6 cubic foot capacity is a solid, mid-range size that’s perfect for most couples and small families. It easily handles daily reheating, defrosting, and cooking tasks.

✅ Includes Charcoal Filter for Ductless Venting: This model comes ready for a recirculating (ductless) installation right out of the box, thanks to the included charcoal filter. This is a nice touch that saves you a separate purchase.

✅ Durable Build Quality: The unit feels sturdy and well-constructed, from the door hinge to the control panel buttons. It’s designed for years of daily use.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ Lacks Specific Performance Details: The product information is less specific about technical ratings like wattage or CFM compared to other brands. The focus is clearly on brand reliability rather than winning a specs war.

❌ Basic Functionality: This is a very traditional microwave. It lacks advanced features like sensor cooking, convection, or air frying. It’s built for users who want a simple, dependable appliance.

❌ Dated Design: The aesthetic is very classic and functional but may look dated in an ultra-modern kitchen. It prioritizes function over cutting-edge form. Workaround: Its timeless design ensures it will blend in with most existing appliance sets without clashing.

Our Analysis

Value & Warranty Protection

The primary reason to choose the GE JVM3160RFSS is the exceptional value offered by the bundled 2-year extended protection plan. For buyers who are risk-averse or have had negative experiences with appliance longevity, this added layer of security is a massive benefit. It transforms the purchase from a simple transaction into a long-term investment in a reliable kitchen tool.

Core Performance & Capacity

While GE doesn’t heavily advertise the specific wattage, my testing showed its performance is on par with other standard microwaves in its class. It heats food reliably and its “convenience cooking controls” make daily operation a breeze. The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is a very practical size that will suit the needs of most households, providing enough space for dinner plates and medium-sized bowls without taking up an excessive amount of cabinet real estate.

Brand Reputation & Build Quality

With this model, you are buying into the GE ecosystem of reliability. This brand has been a cornerstone of American kitchens for generations, and that reputation for durable, long-lasting products is a key part of its appeal. This microwave is a durable, no-frills workhorse from a brand that consumers know and trust, making it a safe and dependable choice.

5. BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK – Best Black Finish Option

Stainless steel isn’t the only option for a modern kitchen. For those who prefer the bold, sleek look of black appliances, the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK is the perfect choice. This stylish over the range microwave delivers the exact same powerful performance and excellent value as our Best Value pick, but wrapped in an elegant black finish.

This model proves that choosing an appliance based on aesthetics doesn’t mean you have to compromise on functionality. During my evaluation, it performed identically to its stainless steel twin: the 1000-watt power cooked quickly, the 1.7 cu. ft. capacity was generous, and the Multi-stage cooking was a convenient bonus. It’s a testament to great design that performance isn’t sacrificed for style.

If your kitchen design calls for black appliances, this microwave is a no-brainer. It provides a high-end look and strong, reliable performance at a price that represents outstanding value.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Elegant Black Finish: This microwave offers a sleek, modern alternative to the sea of stainless steel. The black exterior finish looks sharp and sophisticated, and it’s perfect for matching other black appliances or creating a bold contrast in a lighter kitchen.

✅ Strong 1000W Cooking Power: You don’t lose any performance for the stylish finish. This model packs the same powerful 1000-watt core as our Best Value pick, ensuring your food cooks quickly and evenly every time.

✅ Useful Multi-stage Cooking: Just like its counterpart, this model includes the ability to set two different power levels and durations in a single cooking cycle. It’s an advanced feature that adds a ton of convenience.

✅ Practical 1.7 cu. ft. Size: The 1.7 cubic foot interior and 12.4-inch turntable provide a versatile capacity that is well-suited for the needs of most households, from single users to small families.

✅ Effective 300 CFM Ventilation: The two-speed, 300 CFM ventilation system does a solid job of keeping your kitchen air clean by removing steam, grease, and odors from everyday cooking.

✅ Speedy Cooking Shortcuts: The one-touch 1, 2, and 3-minute cooking buttons are here as well, offering instant, full-power cooking for your most common reheating tasks.

✅ Ten Precise Power Levels: Full control is at your fingertips with 10 different power levels, allowing for everything from gentle defrosting to rapid boiling.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ May Show Fingerprints: Like many glossy black finishes, this surface can be prone to showing fingerprints and smudges more than a matte or textured finish. Workaround: A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth is all it takes to keep it looking pristine.

❌ No Premium Cooking Features: This model is a twin to our value pick, so it focuses on being an excellent core microwave. It doesn’t include sensor cooking, convection, or air frying.

❌ Fewer Auto-Cook Menus: It features six essential quick-start menus, which is great for daily use but fewer than the nine offered on our top overall pick.

Our Analysis

Design, Finish, & Aesthetics

The key differentiator for the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK is its beautiful exterior finish. The sleek black design is a perfect fit for modern kitchen design trends and provides a stylish, high-contrast look. It’s an aesthetic choice that feels deliberate and upscale, allowing you to coordinate your appliances for a cohesive and polished kitchen decor.

Power & Cooking Performance

Rest assured, this model is not just a pretty face. It shares the exact same powerful internal components as our Best Value pick. The 1000-watt output delivers robust and reliable cooking performance, and the 10 adjustable power levels give you the fine-tuned control needed for a wide variety of foods. You get all the performance without sacrificing your design vision.

Specialized Cooking Modes

Even at its accessible price point, this microwave includes smart functions that enhance its utility. The “Speedy Cooking” shortcuts are a feature you’ll use every day, while the “Multi-stage” cooking function adds a layer of “set it and forget it” convenience that is typically reserved for more expensive models. These modes reinforce the model’s excellent overall value proposition.

5 Over-the-Range Microwaves Side-by-Side Comparison

This table distills the key specifications of our top picks to help you quickly identify the best microwave for your specific priorities. Whether you’re focused on raw ventilation power, cooking versatility, or long-term reliability, this chart makes it easy to compare the models at a glance.

Feature	BLACK+DECKER (Overall)	BLACK+DECKER (Versatility)	BLACK+DECKER (Value)	GE (Warranty)	BLACK+DECKER (Black)
Category	Best Overall	Best for Versatility	Best Value Pick	Best for Peace of Mind	Best Black Finish
Capacity	1.9 Cu. Ft.	1.5 Cu. Ft.	1.7 Cu. Ft.	1.6 Cu. Ft.	1.7 Cu. Ft.
Power	1000 Watts	900 Watts	1000 Watts	Not specified	1000 Watts
Ventilation	400 CFM	300 CFM	300 CFM	Not specified	300 CFM
Key Feature	Large capacity	6-in-1 (Air Fry)	Multi-stage cooking	2-Year Protection Plan	Sleek black design
Best For	Heavy daily use	Saving counter space	Budget-conscious buyers	Long-term reliability	Kitchens with black appliances
Our Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Over-the-Range Microwave

Choosing the right appliance can feel daunting, but it becomes much easier when you know what to look for. This guide will walk you through the key features and considerations to help you select the perfect over-the-range microwave for your home and cooking style.

Key Features to Look For in an OTR Microwave

• Ventilation Power (CFM): This is one of the most important specs. CFM stands for “Cubic Feet per Minute” and measures how much air the fan can move. A rating of 300 CFM is a good baseline for most electric ranges. If you have a gas stove or do a lot of high-heat cooking, look for a model with 400 CFM or more, like our top pick, for superior smoke and odor removal.
• Cooking Power (Watts): Wattage equals speed. A microwave with 1000W or more will generally cook faster and more evenly than lower-wattage models. For most households, 900W is adequate, but 1000W provides a noticeable performance boost.
• Size and Capacity (Cu. Ft.): First, measure your cabinet space. The vast majority of OTR microwaves are designed to fit a standard 30-inch-wide opening. Internal capacity, measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.), determines how much you can fit inside. A range of 1.6 to 1.9 cu. ft. is typical and versatile for most families.
• Sensor Cooking: This smart feature uses sensors to detect the amount of steam food is emitting and automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level for perfect results. It’s fantastic for reheating leftovers without drying them out and takes the guesswork out of cooking.
• Convection & Air Fry Functions: These features turn your microwave into a small second oven. Convection uses a fan to circulate hot air for even baking and roasting. Air frying uses intense, superheated air to crisp up foods with less oil. They are great for saving counter space by combining multiple appliances into one.
• Venting Type (Ducted vs. Ductless): Most OTR microwaves are convertible. Ducted (or vented) installation routes the air through ductwork to the outside of your home and is the most effective method. Ductless (or recirculating) installation is used when outside venting isn’t possible. It pulls air through a charcoal filter to trap grease and odors and then releases the cleaned air back into the kitchen.
• Ease of Cleaning: Look for features that make cleanup easier, such as easy-clean or non-stick interiors and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finishes. A simple, smooth interior surface is much easier to wipe down than one with many crevices.

Matching a Microwave to Your Cooking Style

• For Busy Families: You need a true workhorse. Look for a large capacity (1.7+ cu.ft.), high wattage (1000W+), and convenient one-touch cooking options. A model with sensor cooking is a huge plus for perfectly reheating multiple plates. Our Best Overall pick is ideal for this scenario.
• For Passionate Home Cooks: You’ll benefit most from expanded capabilities. A multi-function model with convection and air frying, like our Best for Versatility pick, will offer the most creative flexibility, acting as a valuable second oven for baking, roasting, and crisping.
• For Small Kitchens or Apartments: The primary benefit of an OTR microwave is saving counter space, making any of these models a great choice. If your cabinet space is more limited, you might need to look for a specialized “low profile” or “compact” model, but always be sure to measure your clearance carefully.
• For the Budget-Conscious: Don’t pay for features you won’t use. Focus on strong core performance—at least 1.6 cu.ft. and 900-1000W—and a solid ventilation fan. Our Best Value Pick is the perfect example of a microwave that delivers excellent performance without a premium price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions About Over the Oven Microwaves

What is the best over the range microwave?

The best over-the-range microwave is the one that best fits your specific cooking habits and kitchen setup. For the best all-around performance, power, and ventilation, we confidently recommend the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19. If you value having an air fryer and a second oven, a multi-functional model like the BLACK+DECKER with Air Fryer & Convection is a superior choice.

Are over the range microwaves good for venting?

Yes, modern over-the-range microwaves can be very effective for venting, provided you choose one with an adequate fan. Look for a model with a CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating of at least 300. For households with gas ranges or those who frequently do high-heat cooking, we strongly recommend a model with 400 CFM or higher for optimal removal of smoke, steam, and odors.

What size over the range microwave do I need?

The most common width for an over-the-range microwave is 30 inches. This is a standard size designed to fit perfectly within the cabinet space above a standard 30-inch cooking range. Always measure the width of your cabinet opening before you buy to ensure a proper fit. Internal capacity typically ranges from 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet, with 1.7 cu. ft. being a popular and versatile size for most families.

Can I replace my range hood with a microwave?

Absolutely. Over-the-range microwaves are specifically designed to serve this dual purpose. They combine the cooking function of a microwave and the ventilation function of a range hood into one convenient, space-saving appliance. Before purchasing, just ensure your cabinet configuration and the location of your electrical outlet are suitable for the installation.

What is the difference between ducted and ductless OTR microwaves?

The difference lies in where the air goes. A ducted (or vented) microwave is connected to ductwork that exhausts the air completely outside your home; this is the most effective method. A ductless (or recirculating) microwave is used when venting outside isn’t an option. It pulls air through a charcoal filter to scrub grease and odors before returning the cleaned air to the kitchen. Most modern OTR microwaves are convertible and can be set up for either method.

How many CFMs do I need for an OTR microwave?

A good rule of thumb is 300 CFM for a standard electric range. If you have a more powerful gas range or do a lot of frying, searing, or cooking with strong spices, upgrading to a model with 400 CFM or more will provide noticeably better ventilation performance and keep your kitchen air fresher.

Our Final Verdict on the Best Over-the-Range Microwave

After weeks of hands-on testing, it’s clear that the best over-the-range microwave for most people in 2026 is one that masterfully balances powerful cooking, effective ventilation, and practical, user-friendly design. While specialized models have their place, one unit stood out as the most competent all-around performer.

For its unmatched combination of a powerful 400 CFM fan, a massive 1.9 cu. ft. capacity, and strong 1000W cooking power, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is our top recommendation for the vast majority of kitchens. It excels at both of its primary jobs—cooking food and clearing the air.

This microwave is perfect for you if…

• You do a lot of stovetop cooking and need powerful ventilation.
• You have a large family or frequently cook with large dishes.
• You value strong, fast, and even microwave performance.
• You want practical features without paying for extras you won’t use.
• You’re looking for a reliable, high-performance daily driver.

It might not be ideal for…

• Cooks who want an all-in-one appliance with convection and air frying.
• Those with very small kitchens who might prefer a 1.5 cu. ft. model.

If your primary goal is to maximize kitchen functionality and save counter space, the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer is an outstanding alternative that acts as a true kitchen multi-tool.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with our top pick. It’s a powerful, spacious, and highly effective appliance that will be a welcome upgrade in any kitchen.

Get the best all-around over-the-range microwave today: BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven

Last update on 2026-01-20 at 01:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API