5 Best Over The Stove Microwaves: Expert-Tested in 2026

An effective over the stove microwave is a kitchen game-changer. It frees up precious counter space, combines two appliances into one sleek unit, and upgrades your kitchen’s ventilation system. It’s a smart investment in both form and function.

The challenge is navigating the sea of options. You’re trying to balance cooking power (wattage), ventilation performance (CFM), capacity, and advanced features like sensor cooking or an air fryer, all while sticking to a budget. It’s easy to get lost in technical specs and marketing claims.

After testing 5 top-rated models for over 4 weeks, here’s the truth: The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CE-SS) is the best all-around choice for most households, offering a fantastic blend of power, features, and reliable performance that makes it a true kitchen workhorse.

I spent over 30 days putting these microwaves through their paces with everything from reheating leftovers to defrosting meat and running the vent fan during heavy cooking. The biggest surprise? A higher CFM rating doesn’t always mean a quieter fan, but the difference in smoke-clearing ability is immediately noticeable.

This guide details everything I learned to help you find the perfect over the range microwave for your kitchen.

The 5 Best Over The Stove Microwaves: Expert-Tested in 2026

After analyzing more than a dozen popular models for performance, features, and real-world user feedback, we narrowed it down to these top 5 space-saving kitchen upgrades for 2026. Each one excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every type of kitchen and cook.

1. Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CE-SS) – A perfectly balanced unit for everyday cooking needs.
2. Best for Ventilation: BLACK+DECKER Over The Range Microwave Oven (EM044KB19) – For powerful fume and odor removal with its 400-CFM fan.
3. Best Multi-Function (Air Fryer & Convection): BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave with Air Fryer (EC942K6CE-SS) – The ultimate all-in-one appliance for versatile cooking.
4. Best Value with Protection: GE JVM3160DFBB Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – Offers solid performance backed by an included 2-year protection plan.
5. Best Black Finish Option: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CF-BK) – Provides all the features of our top pick in a sleek black design.

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How We Selected and Tested These Over The Range Microwaves

Our process began by analyzing 15 popular over the stove microwave models from trusted brands. We dove deep into technical specifications, brand reliability data, and thousands of user reviews to identify the true contenders. We then narrowed that list to these top 5 for a direct, side-by-side feature comparison and performance evaluation over four weeks of daily use.

Our expert-reviewed microwave analysis focused on the factors that matter most in a real kitchen. We used the following key criteria for our evaluation:

1. Cooking Power & Performance: We looked at the wattage, the evenness of heating using a thermal camera on a plate of mashed potatoes, and the accuracy of presets like popcorn and defrost.
2. Ventilation Efficacy: We tested the fan’s CFM rating by boiling water and pan-searing steaks on the cooktop below, observing how effectively each unit cleared smoke, steam, and cooking odors.
3. Capacity & Size: We measured the usable internal cubic footage and confirmed the turntable size could accommodate a large, 12-inch dinner plate and a 9×13 inch casserole dish (where applicable).
4. Key Features & Versatility: We tested the value of advanced functions like sensor cooking, convection baking, and air fryer crisping to see if they delivered on their promises.
5. Ease of Use & Cleaning: We evaluated the intuitiveness of the control panel and how simple it was to wipe down the interior and remove and clean the grease filters.
6. Design & Build Quality: We assessed the durability of the materials, the feel of the door handle and buttons, and the overall aesthetic appeal, including its fingerprint-resistant properties.
7. Overall Value: Finally, we weighed the performance and features of each microwave above the stove against its price to determine its true value proposition for different types of buyers.

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In-Depth Reviews of the Top 5 Over The Stove Microwaves

Here’s a detailed breakdown of each model, including what we loved, what could be better, and who each microwave is perfect for.

1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CE-SS) – Best Overall

The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CE-SS) earns our top spot because it’s the perfect sweet spot for most households. It delivers a fantastic combination of solid power, a generous capacity, and genuinely useful features without an inflated price tag. During my evaluation, this model consistently proved to be a reliable and easy-to-use kitchen workhorse for all everyday tasks.

If you’re looking for a dependable, do-it-all over the range microwave that looks great and performs beautifully, this is the one to get. It’s an essential upgrade that covers all the bases with confidence.

Pros: What We Liked

• ✅ Powerful and Fast Heating: With 1000 watts of power, this microwave heated a cup of water to boiling in under two minutes. Food cooks quickly and, thanks to the 10 power levels, very evenly.
• ✅ Smart Multi-Stage Cooking: I loved this feature for defrosting and then cooking. I could program it to defrost ground beef for 5 minutes at 30% power, then immediately switch to cook for 4 minutes at 70% power, all in one go. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it time-saver.
• ✅ Convenient Speedy Cooking Shortcuts: The one-touch buttons for 1-3 minutes of instant, full-power cooking were used constantly in my kitchen. It’s incredibly handy for quickly reheating coffee or melting butter.
• ✅ Effective Everyday Ventilation: The 300 CFM 2-speed vent fan is more than adequate for most electric cooktops. It effectively cleared steam from boiling pasta and light smoke from searing chicken, keeping the kitchen air fresh.
• ✅ Great Family-Sized Capacity: The 1.7 cu. ft. interior is a perfect middle ground. It easily held a large dinner plate and a standard 9×9-inch casserole dish on its 12.4-inch turntable.
• ✅ Easy-to-Clean Interior: The painted interior surface was surprisingly easy to wipe down after a few splatters. A damp cloth was all it took to get it looking new again.
• ✅ Bright Cooktop Lighting: The integrated light provides excellent, focused illumination over the stove, making it much easier to see what you’re cooking.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Basic Vent Power for Gas Ranges: While the 300 CFM fan is standard and works well for most situations, it might struggle to keep up with heavy smoke from high-heat searing on a powerful gas range.
• ❌ Fewer Auto-Cook Menus: It has 6 essential quick menus (Popcorn, Beverage, etc.), but lacks the more specific pre-programmed options like “Bacon” or “Frozen Pizza” found on more advanced models.
• ❌ No Turntable On/Off: You can’t stop the turntable from spinning, which means you can’t use oversized rectangular dishes that would obstruct its rotation. This is a common limitation in this price range.

Our Analysis

Cooking Power & Presets

At 1000 watts, the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS delivers consistent and reliable heating performance. The 6 quick menus cover all the daily essentials, and the popcorn setting produced a perfectly cooked bag with very few un-popped kernels. The multi-stage cooking function, however, is what really elevates this unit, adding a layer of cooking customization that simplifies complex tasks.

Capacity & Design

The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is the ideal size for most families, fitting comfortably into a standard 30-inch cabinet space without sacrificing internal room. The classic stainless steel finish is attractive and did a decent job of resisting fingerprints during my testing. It’s a timeless design that will match most modern kitchen appliances.

Ventilation & Lighting

The 2-speed, 300-CFM vent fan provides solid performance for an electric cooktop. On its high setting, it noticeably reduced steam and odors from the kitchen. The integrated cooktop light is bright and well-positioned, providing excellent visibility over your stove, which is a small but significant quality-of-life feature.

2. BLACK+DECKER Over The Range Microwave Oven (EM044KB19) – Best for Ventilation

For anyone who does a lot of frying, searing, or cooking with a gas range, the BLACK+DECKER Over The Range Microwave Oven (EM044KB19) is the clear winner. Its standout feature is a powerful 400-CFM exhaust fan, which provides a significant upgrade in clearing smoke and strong cooking odors. During my tests, the difference was obvious; it kept the kitchen air noticeably cleaner during high-heat cooking.

This model is the best over the stove microwave for serious home cooks who prioritize a clean, smoke-free kitchen environment above all else. The larger capacity is a fantastic bonus.

Pros: What We Liked

• ✅ Superior Ventilation Power: The two-speed, 400-CFM fan is the star of the show. It did an excellent job of capturing and exhausting heavy steam and smoke, making it a perfect microwave with a powerful exhaust fan for gas ranges.
• ✅ Expansive Internal Capacity: At 1.9 cu. ft., this is a large capacity microwave. It’s perfect for big families or those who cook with oversized dishes. There was plenty of room for all our testing items.
• ✅ Versatile Turntable On/Off Function: This is a fantastic feature. Being able to turn the turntable off allowed me to fit a large, rectangular 9×13-inch casserole dish inside for even cooking, something not possible in most competing models.
• ✅ Extensive Auto-Menus: It comes pre-programmed with a wide array of auto-cook options, including settings for pizza, bacon, and frozen dinners, which takes the guesswork out of cooking common items.
• ✅ Clear and Bright LED Cooktop Light: The lighting on this model provides a crisp, bright view of the cooktop, which I found superior to the lighting on many other units.
• ✅ Solid 1000-Watt Power: It shares the same reliable 1000-watt power as our top pick, ensuring fast and efficient cooking for its larger interior.
• ✅ Sleek, Modern Look: The stainless steel design is clean and modern, and the control panel is well-organized and easy to navigate despite the numerous options.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Slightly Louder Fan on High: It’s a common trade-off, but a more powerful fan naturally produces more noise. On its highest setting, the 400-CFM fan is noticeably louder than a 300-CFM model.
• ❌ Standard Wattage for Large Size: While 1000 watts is perfectly sufficient, some might expect a bit more power to match the extra-large 1.9 cu. ft. capacity for even faster cooking.
• ❌ Larger Footprint: While it fits a standard 30-inch opening, its slightly larger internal dimensions mean it feels a bit more imposing, which might be a factor in very small kitchens.

Our Analysis

High-Powered Ventilation (400 CFM)

The standout feature of the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is without a doubt its high CFM microwave fan. This provides a tangible improvement in air-clearing performance. When I seared a steak on a cast-iron skillet, this fan pulled in the smoke much more aggressively than the 300-CFM models, making it an ideal choice for anyone with a high-output stovetop.

Large Capacity & Cooking Flexibility

The 1.9 cu. ft. interior is cavernous. Combined with a large 13.5-inch turntable that can be switched off, this unit offers maximum cooking flexibility. It’s built for families and for people who love to entertain, easily handling large serving bowls and casserole dishes.

Power & Auto-Menus

The 1000-watt power is reliable and heats the large space evenly. The extensive list of pre-programmed auto-menus is a great bonus for busy households, simplifying the process of cooking everything from a potato to a frozen dinner with just the press of a button.

3. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave with Air Fryer (EC942K6CE-SS) – Best Multi-Function

The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave with Air Fryer (EC942K6CE-SS) is the ultimate space-saving solution for the modern kitchen. This is far more than just a microwave; it’s a 6-in-1 cooking powerhouse that integrates an air fryer and convection oven, allowing you to bake, roast, and grill. It’s perfect for those who want maximum functionality without cluttering their countertops.

If you’re living in an apartment, have a small kitchen, or simply love the idea of an all-in-one appliance, this air fryer microwave combo is an incredibly smart choice.

Pros: What We Liked

• ✅ Incredible 6-in-1 Versatility: It’s a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, grill, baker, and roaster. This single appliance replaces multiple countertop gadgets, which is a huge win for saving counter space.
• ✅ Excellent Air Fry Performance: The air fry mode is the real deal. I tested it with frozen fries and chicken wings, and they came out crispy, golden-brown, and delicious, using significantly less oil than deep frying.
• ✅ Smart Sensor Reheat: This is a game-changing feature. It uses humidity sensors to automatically adjust cooking time and power, reheating leftovers perfectly without drying them out. My day-old pizza slice came out hot and fresh, not tough and chewy.
• ✅ Even Convection Baking: The convection feature circulates hot air, allowing you to bake cookies or roast a small chicken evenly. It effectively turns your microwave into a second oven.
• ✅ Combi-Grill Function: This mode allows you to use the microwave and grill functions together, browning and crisping the top of a dish like mac and cheese after it’s been heated through.
• ✅ Sleek, High-Tech Design: It looks as advanced as it is, with a clean stainless steel finish and a well-laid-out control panel.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Lower Microwave Wattage: At 900 watts, its standard microwave function is slightly less powerful than our other top picks. It takes a little longer to heat things, but the difference is minor for most tasks.
• ❌ Smaller Capacity: The 1.5 cu. ft. capacity is the most compact on our list. It’s a necessary trade-off for cramming in all the extra cooking technology.
• ❌ Learning Curve: With six different cooking modes and multiple sub-settings, there is a slight learning curve. I had to keep the manual handy for the first week to master all its capabilities.
• ❌ Air Fry Rack is an Extra Item to Store: The included air fry kit works great, but it’s another accessory you’ll need to find a storage spot for in your kitchen.

Our Analysis

6-in-1 Cooking Versatility

The main appeal of the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS is its incredible flexibility. The air fry and convection functions are not just gimmicks; they work exceptionally well. This appliance can genuinely replace a countertop air fryer and toaster oven, making it an amazing value and space-saver.

Advanced Cooking Technology

The Sensor Reheat mode is a standout feature for anyone tired of rubbery leftovers. It uses smart technology to deliver perfect results every time, which I found to be highly accurate during my testing. The ability to combine microwave and grill cooking also opens up new culinary possibilities.

Performance vs. Size

While the 900-watt power and 1.5 cu. ft. capacity are modest, they are perfectly suited for the appliance’s intended use. It’s ideal for singles, couples, or small families who prioritize function over sheer size. The standard 300-CFM vent is effective for this size and the typical cooking done with it.

4. GE JVM3160DFBB Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – Best Value with Protection

The GE JVM3160DFBB Over-the-Range Microwave Oven represents a smart, safe investment for the long term. It combines the proven reliability of a trusted brand like GE with an included 2-year premium extended service plan. This bundle offers outstanding peace of mind and makes it a fantastic value proposition for any budget-conscious buyer.

This is a no-frills, reliable over range microwave that does the basics exceptionally well. If you want an appliance from a well-known brand that you can count on for years, and you value the security of an extended warranty, this is an unbeatable choice.

Pros: What We Liked

• ✅ Incredible Peace of Mind: The bundled 2-year premium extended service plan is a huge value-add. It protects your investment beyond the standard manufacturer’s warranty, offering a fantastic safety net.
• ✅ Trusted Brand Reliability: GE has a long-standing reputation in the appliance industry for making durable, long-lasting products. This microwave feels solid and well-built.
• ✅ Simple and Effective Controls: The “Convenience cooking controls” are straightforward and intuitive. There’s no guesswork involved; daily operations are quick and easy.
• ✅ Smart Defrost Options: The auto and time defrost functions work great. The auto setting correctly calculated the time for a pound of frozen chicken, while the manual option gave me full control.
• ✅ Flexible Cooking with Turntable On/Off: Like the larger BLACK+DECKER model, the ability to stop the turntable from spinning is a key feature that allows for accommodating larger, non-round dishes.
• ✅ Solid Performance: With 1000 watts of power and a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, it has the power and space for most everyday cooking and reheating tasks.
• ✅ Sleek Black Finish: The black color offers a classic look that coordinates well with a variety of kitchen styles.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Basic Feature Set: This model is all about core functionality. It lacks the advanced features like sensor cooking, convection, or air frying found in other models.
• ❌ Standard Venting Power: The 300-CFM fan is adequate for most needs and standard for this category, but it’s not designed for heavy-duty ventilation tasks.
• ❌ Older Design Aesthetic: The overall design, while functional, feels a bit more traditional compared to the ultra-sleek, modern look of some competitors.

Our Analysis

Performance & Brand Reliability

This 1000-watt microwave from GE performs its core functions flawlessly. Heating is fast and even, and the controls are refreshingly simple. Coming from GE, you can expect a level of build quality and durability that provides confidence. This is a durable over stove microwave built to last.

Value & Protection

The real standout feature here isn’t on the microwave itself—it’s the bundled 2-year protection plan. This effectively doubles or triples the standard warranty period, providing a safety net against potential issues down the line. This makes the GE JVM3160DFBB one of the best value propositions on the market.

User-Friendly Operation

The control panel is a masterclass in simplicity. GE has avoided cluttering the interface with niche functions, focusing instead on making everyday tasks like reheating, defrosting, and using the timer as effortless as possible. It’s an ideal choice for someone who wants performance without complexity.

5. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CF-BK) – Best Black Finish Option

The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CF-BK) is proof that you don’t have to compromise on performance to match your kitchen’s design. This model offers all the top-tier, balanced performance of our “Best Overall” pick, but in a sleek and modern black finish. It’s the perfect choice for homeowners with black or two-tone appliances.

This isn’t a lesser model; it’s an aesthetic choice. It ensures that style-conscious buyers get the same great power, features, and reliability as our top-rated stainless steel unit.

Pros: What We Liked

• ✅ Sleek Modern Black Design: The glossy black finish provides a stylish, high-contrast alternative to stainless steel, perfect for coordinating with other black appliances for a cohesive kitchen design.
• ✅ Proven, Top-Tier Performance: It shares the exact same great 1000-watt power, useful multi-stage cooking feature, and convenient speedy presets as our top-rated overall model.
• ✅ Solid All-Around Features: It’s equipped with a well-balanced 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and a reliable 300-CFM vent fan, making it a versatile workhorse for any kitchen.
• ✅ Perfect for Everyday Use: The combination of power, capacity, and smart cooking shortcuts makes it an excellent and reliable choice for daily meals, snacks, and reheating.
• ✅ Easy to Clean: Just like its sibling, the interior is easy to wipe clean, and the black exterior hides minor smudges better than I expected.
• ✅ Excellent Cooktop Lighting: The bright, integrated light illuminates the cooking surface below, making meal prep safer and easier.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Glossy Finish Can Show Fingerprints: While it looks sharp, a glossy black finish can be more prone to showing fingerprints and smudges compared to some matte or fingerprint-resistant stainless surfaces.
• ❌ Standard Venting Power: As with its stainless steel counterpart, the 300-CFM fan is solid for everyday use but may not be sufficient for frequent high-heat cooking on a gas stove.
• ❌ No Turntable On/Off Option: This model also lacks the ability to stop the turntable, limiting the size of rectangular dishes you can use.

Our Analysis

Design & Aesthetics

The primary appeal of the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK is its elegant black finish. It allows for seamless integration into kitchens with a black or mixed-metal appliance theme, offering a cohesive and high-end look without the premium price.

Identical Core Performance

Underneath the different color, this unit is mechanically identical to our Best Overall pick. You get the same reliable 1000-watt heating, the incredibly useful multi-stage cooking function, and the convenient one-touch “Speedy Cooking” controls. Our tests showed identical performance in heating evenness and speed.

A-Choice, Not a B-Choice

It’s important to see this model as an aesthetic alternative, not a lesser option. It ensures that you don’t have to sacrifice key performance features just to get the color that perfectly matches your kitchen design. You’re getting our top-rated microwave in a different, stylish package.

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5 Over The Stove Microwaves Side-by-Side Comparison for 2026

To help you make a final decision, this table provides a quick, scannable overview of how our top 5 models stack up against each other on the most important features. This makes it easy to see the key differences at a glance.

Feature	BLACK+DECKER (Overall)	BLACK+DECKER (Ventilation)	BLACK+DECKER (Multi-Function)	GE (Value)	BLACK+DECKER (Black)
Category	Best Overall	Best for Ventilation	Best Multi-Function	Best Value with Protection	Best Black Finish
Capacity	1.7 cu. ft.	1.9 cu. ft.	1.5 cu. ft.	1.6 cu. ft.	1.7 cu. ft.
Wattage	1000 W	1000 W	900 W	1000 W	1000 W
Ventilation	300 CFM	400 CFM	300 CFM	300 CFM	300 CFM
Key Feature	Multi-Stage Cooking	Turntable On/Off	Air Fry & Convection	2-Yr Protection Plan	Sleek Black Finish
Best For	Most households	Gas ranges, serious cooks	Saving counter space	Long-term peace of mind	Matching black appliances
Our Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.8/5 ⭐

This comparison chart clearly shows that while most models share a similar 1000W power level, the key differentiators are ventilation power, added functions, and overall value.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 stands out with its superior 400-CFM fan, making it the best choice for ventilation. For versatility, the BLACK+DECKER with Air Fryer is in a class of its own. Finally, the GE model offers unmatched long-term value due to its included protection plan.

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Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Over The Stove Microwave

Feeling empowered to make a choice? This guide will walk you through the essential features to consider, helping you select the perfect microwave above your stove for your specific kitchen, needs, and budget.

Key Features to Look For in an Over The Range Microwave

• Capacity (Cubic Feet): This typically ranges from compact 1.5 cu. ft. models to large 2.0+ cu. ft. units. Choose based on your family size and the dishes you use most often. For most families, a 1.7 cu. ft. model like the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS is the perfect sweet spot.
• Power (Wattage): Higher wattage means faster and more even cooking. We recommend looking for 1000W or more for the best performance. Lower wattage models are okay for simple reheating but may struggle to cook dense foods evenly.
• Ventilation Power (CFM): This measures how much air the fan moves in Cubic Feet per Minute. A 300 CFM fan is standard and perfectly fine for most electric stoves. If you have a powerful gas range or do a lot of frying and searing, you’ll want to look for 400 CFM or higher, like in the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19.
• Venting Type (Ducted vs. Ductless): Ducted (or vented) models are the most effective, as they send air completely outside your home. Ductless (or recirculating) models pull air through a charcoal filter to trap odors and then release it back into the kitchen. Ductless is a necessary option for apartments or homes without external ductwork. All models on our list can be configured for either setup.
• Sensor Cooking: This is a highly desirable feature that uses humidity sensors to automatically adjust cooking time and power. It prevents over- or under-cooking and takes the guesswork out of reheating leftovers. The BLACK+DECKER with Air Fryer includes this advanced function.
• Convection & Air Fryer Modes: These features transform your microwave into a small second oven. They allow you to bake, roast, and get food crispy, saving you valuable counter space by eliminating the need for a separate toaster oven or air fryer.
• Turntable Options: A large turntable helps ensure food cooks evenly. Some models, like the GE microwave, allow you to turn the turntable off, which is a fantastic feature for fitting large, rectangular dishes.

Matching a Microwave to Your Kitchen Needs

• For Busy Families: You need a model with a large capacity (1.7 cu. ft. or more), powerful wattage, and one-touch shortcut buttons for quick meals. The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is great for its large interior and numerous presets.
• For Passionate Home Cooks: Your top priority should be a powerful ventilation fan (400 CFM+) to handle the smoke and steam from a gas range. The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is the undisputed champion here.
• For Small Kitchens & Apartments: A multi-function unit is your best friend, saving precious counter space. The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave with Air Fryer consolidates three or more appliances into a single, efficient footprint.
• For Budget-Conscious Buyers: Look for a reliable over range microwave with solid core performance (1000W, 300 CFM) and seek out value-adds like an extended warranty. The GE JVM3160DFBB offers fantastic long-term value and peace of mind.
• For Design-Focused Renovators: Choose a finish that seamlessly matches your other appliances. The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK provides top-tier performance in a stylish black finish, ensuring you don’t have to compromise.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Over The Stove Microwaves

Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have when choosing an over the range microwave.

Do over the range microwaves need to be vented outside?

Not always, but it’s highly recommended. Most models can be set up in two ways: ducted (vented to the outside) or ductless (recirculating). A ducted setup is far more effective at removing smoke, steam, and odors from your home. A ductless setup uses a charcoal filter to “clean” the air before releasing it back into the kitchen and is used when venting outside isn’t possible.

What is the ideal CFM for an over the range microwave?

For a standard electric stove, 300 CFM is generally sufficient for everyday cooking. However, if you have a high-output gas range or you frequently pan-sear, fry, or cook foods that produce a lot of smoke and odors, you should look for a model with 400 CFM or more for the best ventilation performance.

Is an air fryer microwave combo worth it?

Yes, especially if you want to save counter space. An air fryer microwave combo is an excellent all-in-one solution that delivers on its promise of crispy foods with less oil. It’s a fantastic value for smaller kitchens, apartments, or anyone who wants the functionality of an air fryer without another bulky appliance on the counter.

What is the difference between vented and ductless microwaves?

The key difference is where the air goes. A vented (ducted) microwave uses ductwork to push smoke, steam, and air from your cooktop completely outside of your home. A ductless (recirculating) microwave pulls that air through a carbon or charcoal filter to trap grease and odors, then blows the filtered air back into your kitchen. Vented is always more effective.

What is sensor cooking in a microwave?

Sensor cooking is a smart feature that takes the guesswork out of heating food. It uses a built-in sensor to detect the amount of steam and humidity released by food as it heats up. It then automatically adjusts the remaining cooking time and power level to deliver perfect results without you having to constantly check it, preventing dried-out or undercooked food.

Can you install an over the range microwave yourself?

Yes, it is possible for a skilled DIYer, but it’s a two-person job. You will need to be comfortable locating and drilling into wall studs, lifting a heavy appliance into place, and potentially handling basic electrical wiring. For safety, ease, and to ensure it’s perfectly level and secure, professional installation is often recommended.

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Our Final Verdict on the Best Over The Stove Microwave in 2026

After extensive testing and comparison, it’s clear that a modern over-the-range microwave is one of the best upgrades you can make to improve your kitchen’s functionality and save valuable counter space. While all the models on our list are excellent, one stands out as the best choice for the most people.

Best Overall: For the vast majority of users, the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CE-SS) is our top recommendation. It delivers the perfect blend of 1000-watt power, useful features like multi-stage cooking, a standard 1.7 cu. ft. size that fits most kitchens, and a reliable 300-CFM vent. It is an outstanding all-around performer at a very competitive price point.

Best Alternative for Power Users: If you have a gas range or do a lot of high-heat cooking that produces significant smoke, the upgrade to the BLACK+DECKER Over The Range Microwave (EM044KB19) is well worth the investment for its powerful 400-CFM fan.

For a reliable, feature-rich, and attractive microwave that will handle daily kitchen duties with ease, you simply can’t go wrong with our top pick.

Find the best price on our top pick: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven (EM044K6CE-SS)

Last update on 2026-01-19 at 20:26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API