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Since they arrived in kitchens back in the 1980s, over-the-range microwaves have been popping popcorn and warming up frozen dinners while saving valuable countertop space. Today’s models feature powerful 1,000-watt outputs and capacities of up to 2.2 cubic feet.
Many include convection cooking settings, integrated sensor cooking technology that adjusts as it heats food, and smart technology that allows users to control the microwave via smartphone or with voice control.
I’ve gone through the process of buying and installing several over-the-range microwaves for my home. Ahead, I’ll help you navigate through a variety of features and sizes available for these essential kitchen appliances. I’ll also recommend and review the best over-the-range microwaves, so you can find the model that suits your needs and fits the available space in the kitchen.
- BEST OVERALL: Samsung 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Amana 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
- BEST SMALL: Whirlpool Low Profile Microwave Hood Combination
- BEST HIGH-CAPACITY: Samsung 2.1 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
- BEST CONVECTION: GE Profile Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven
- BEST MULTILEVEL: Whirlpool 2.1 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
- BEST FEATURES: GE 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven
- BEST SMART TECH: Samsung 1.1 Cu. Ft. SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave
- BEST WITH EXHAUST FAN: LG 2.2 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
- BEST WITH LIGHT: Frigidaire 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
How We Chose the Best Over-the-Range Microwaves
I researched the most sought-after over-the-range microwaves in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their size and capacity, wattage, fan and ventilation, cooking settings, and other special features included by select brands.
While they are not suitable to use as countertop microwaves, each of the over-the-range microwaves included in our list is compact enough to fit into the average kitchen’s range while their capacities range from 1.1 to 2.2 cubic feet. Cooking power between 950 to 1,100 watts allows these models to cook veggies, popcorn, and full meals with ease. These microwaves also help to reduce cooking
odors and smoke from the kitchen with the help of 300- to 400-cubic-feet-per-minute ventilation fans.
Preset and customizable cooking presets as well as sensor cooking technology allow for proper cooking, reheating, and defrosting. Plus, some over-the-range microwaves on this list have fingerprint-resistant finishes, voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant, child locks to keep small fingers safe, as well as removable racks for multiple food items to cook at one time.
Our Top Picks
The following list includes some of the top models organized by category. They feature models from familiar and well-known appliance manufacturers.
Best Overall
Samsung 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
With its 1.9-cubic-foot capacity, this Samsung over-the-range microwave is one of the best options to mount over the range. It features Sensor Cook technology, which monitors food as it cooks and automatically adjusts the cooking time for optimal results.
With 1,000 watts of power, it has ample microwave energy for cooking, while 12 preset cooking options take the guesswork out of heating food. A powerful 400-cubic-foot-per-minute fan supplies plenty of ventilation for the range. Other features include a ceramic enamel interior for easy cleaning and a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish.
Product Specs
- Size: 29.875 inches long by 16.5 inches wide by 17.0625 inches high
- Capacity: 1.9 cubic feet
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 400 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Sensor Cook technology reduces overcooking by automatically monitoring and adjusting cook times
- Its 12 cooking presets take the guesswork out of cooking commonly microwaved foods
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish and ceramic enamel interior make it easier to clean
Cons
- Some customers complain that the control panel is difficult to read
Get the Samsung 1.9-cubic-foot over-the-range microwave at Best Buy, The Home Depot, or Samsung.
Best Bang For The Buck
Amana 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
This Amana model proves that a quality over-the-range microwave oven doesn’t have to cost a lot. With 1,000 watts of power and 1.6 cubic feet of capacity, this microwave can handle a family’s cooking needs at a fraction of the cost of comparable models. Features include auto defrost and one-touch buttons for 30-second increments.
With its two-speed 300-cubic-feet-per-minute exhaust fan and charcoal filter, this microwave also handles ventilation duties. A powerful light adds visibility for stovetop cooking. With three different finishes, including stainless steel, black, and white, this microwave matches most appliances in a kitchen.
Product Specs
- Size: 30 inches long by 15.875 inches wide by 17.375 inches high
- Capacity: 1.6 cubic feet
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 300 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Comes equipped with an auto-defrost function and 1-touch cooking buttons
- Powerful interior and stovetop lighting illuminates food inside and on the stovetop
- 3 finish options make it easier to match to existing appliances
Cons
- Its 1.6-cubic-foot capacity is smaller than most over-the-range microwaves
Get the Amana over-the-range microwave at The Home Depot or Best Buy.
Best Small
Whirlpool Low Profile Microwave Hood Combination
For those willing to compromise capacity and preprogrammed settings, this compact model from Whirlpool can fit in most small spaces. At just more than 10 inches high, this microwave takes up about the same amount of space as an under cabinet ventilation hood.
At 1.1 cubic feet, this low-profile over-the-range microwave has a smaller capacity, but it offers power comparable to other microwaves with 1,000 watts. It features a streamlined appearance with a control panel that’s hidden behind the door. Preset buttons are few, but they include popcorn and defrost. Despite its small size, this microwave handles its ventilation duties well with a powerful 400-cubic-feet-per-minute fan. This microwave complements various kitchen styles with three finish options: black, white, and stainless steel.
Product Specs
- Size: 29.875 inches long by 18 inches wide by 10.3125 inches high
- Capacity: 1.1 cubic feet
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 400 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Compact size makes it ideal for kitchens with limited space above the range
- Control panel is inside the door, giving it a sleek look
- Powerful 400-cubic-feet-per-minute fan provides excellent ventilation for stovetop
Cons
- Smaller 1.1-cubic-foot capacity may not fit larger dishes
- Some may not like having to open the door to access the controls
Get the Whirlpool low-profile over-the-range microwave at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.
Best High-Capacity
Samsung 2.1 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
With more than 2.1 cubic feet of capacity, this model from Samsung is one of the largest over-the-range microwaves on the market. In addition to offering plenty of cooking space, it also boasts 1,000 watts of power. To allow for the extra capacity, this microwave features a door that spans the unit’s entire width, with the control panel on the bottom of the door. Despite its spacious interior, this microwave still fits a standard 30-inch-wide opening.
In addition to its impressive capacity, this microwave offers some extra features, including sensor cooking and one-touch cooking for popcorn, pizza, and veggies. A powerful 400-cubic-feet-per-minute fan provides superior ventilation for the range.
Product Specs
- Size: 29.875 inches long by 16.5 inches wide by 17.0625 inches high
- Capacity: 2.1 cubic feet
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 400 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Spacious 2.1-cubic-foot interior allows it to cook larger dishes
- Door covers entire width of microwave, making it easier to access the interior
- 1-touch cooking presets for commonly microwaved foods such as popcorn and pizza
Cons
- Doesn’t allow users to set a separate timer while the microwave is in use
Get the Samsung 2.1-cubic-foot over-the-range microwave at The Home Depot or Best Buy.
Best Convection
GE Profile Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven
This microwave from GE’s Profile series combines convection-oven cooking with a microwave, allowing faster meals while also providing golden-brown toppings on meat and baked goods. Sensor cooking controls monitor food for optimal cooking temperature and time, eliminating the guesswork. Programmed buttons include controls for convection baking and roasting and a combination cook button for simultaneous microwaving and convection baking.
LED lights brighten the cooktop while a 300-cubic-feet-per-minute fan system provides ample ventilation. This microwave, which fits in a 30-inch-long opening, has 950 watts and 1.7 cubic feet of capacity. Additional features include a steam-clean button and a control lock.
Product Specs
- Size: 29.875 inches long by 15.5625 inches wide by 16.3125 inches high
- Capacity: 1.7 cubic feet
- Power: 950 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 300 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Multiple cooking options, including convection baking, roasting, and combination cooking
- Sensor cooking automatically adjusts the cook time to prevent overcooking
- Steam-clean feature makes it easier to keep the microwave clean
Cons
- Smaller 1.7-cubic-foot capacity and lower power output than other over-the-range microwaves
Get the GE Profile over-the-range microwave at Amazon, Best Buy, or AJ Madison.
Best Multilevel
Whirlpool 2.1 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
The size and design of this microwave from Whirlpool are what make it such a great option for those who want to cook multiple dishes at the same time. It features a sturdy rack that sits on two brackets, creating two levels for cooking. With its cavernous 2.1 cubic feet of capacity, the Whirlpool can hold two large dishes, even with the rack in place. There’s also an option to switch the turntable off for larger dishes.
Other useful features for cooking multiple dishes at once include a sensor-cooking option that automatically adjusts the cook time to prevent overcooking and the ability to steam food. Since cooking multiple dishes at once can get messy, Whirlpool’s nonstick CleanRelease interior is a useful additional feature.
Product Specs
- Size: 29.9375 inches long by 16 inches wide by 17.125 inches high
- Capacity: 2.1 cubic feet
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 400 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Large 2.1-cubic-foot capacity supports cooking multiple dishes at one time
- Ability to switch the turntable off when cooking larger dishes
- Includes several useful settings for sensor cooking and steaming food
- This over-the-range microwave comes equipped with Whirlpool’s CleanRelease nonstick technology
Cons
- Some customers complain that the range light and interior light aren’t particularly bright
Get the Whirlpool 2.1-cubic-foot over-the-range microwave at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.
Best Features
GE 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven
Express cooking options abound with this microwave from GE, which includes buttons for microwaving popcorn, beverages, and potatoes, along with a 30-second button for quick heating. There are also express cooking options shoppers won’t typically find on other microwaves, including a button for melting butter, cheese, and chocolate.
Other useful features include the ability to mute the microwave for early morning or late night use and a turntable that can be switched off when cooking larger dishes. GE also offers more finish options than most over-the-counter microwaves as it’s available in six different hues. While GE does include a range light with this model, it does not have a night light setting.
Product Specs
- Size: 29.875 inches long by 15.5625 inches wide by 16.3125 inches high
- Capacity: 1.7 cubic feet
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 300 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Includes a broad range of sensor-cook options for popcorn, potatoes, beverages, and melting
- Microwave’s turntable can be shut off when cooking larger dishes
- Comes in 6 different finish options, making it easier to match with other appliances
Cons
- Some customers don’t like the fact that it doesn’t include a night light setting
Get the GE 1.7-cubic-foot over-the-range microwave at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.
Best Smart Tech
Samsung 1.1 Cu. Ft. SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave
This microwave from Samsung connects to Wi-Fi, allowing buyers to control certain features using digital voice assistants Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung Bixby. While these controls are limited mainly to the range light and fan, they do come in handy when hands are occupied with hot cookware and cooking utensils.
In addition to its smart controls, this Samsung microwave has a sleek look thanks to its slim space-saving design, which gives it a height of 10.75 inches (though its 19.125-inch width is larger than most microwaves). This more compact size gives the Samsung SLIM a capacity of 1.1 cubic feet, well under the 1.7-cubic-foot capacity of the average over-the-range microwave. Despite its small size, it’s surprisingly powerful at 1,100 watts. Other notable features include a ventilation system that boasts a 400-cubic-feet-per-minute fan and a bright halogen adjustable cooktop light.
Product Specs
- Size: 29.875 inches long by 19.125 inches wide by 10.75 inches high
- Capacity: 1.1 cubic feet
- Power: 1,100 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 300 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Supports voice control with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung Bixby
- Short height gives this microwave a sleek, space-saving, slim design
- High 1,100-watt power output allows it to cook more quickly and evenly
- Powerful 400-cubic-feet-per-minute hood fan gives it excellent ventilation for range
Cons
- Small capacity of just 1.1 cubic feet limits it to smaller dishes
- Smart controls limited mainly to the ventilation fan and overhead range light
Get the Samsung 1.1 cubic-foot over-the-range microwave at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Best Buy, or Samsung.
Best with Exhaust Fan
LG 2.2 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
One of the problems with microwave exhaust fans is that they don’t cover the entire range. This microwave from LG solves that issue with its unique design. It’s equipped with ExtendaVent, a retractable ventilation system that extends from the bottom of the range over the cooktop, so it functions more like a traditional range hood.
In addition to providing more coverage, the fan offers more power than a standard microwave vent with an airflow of 550 cubic feet per minute. Plus, it has four exhaust-fan speeds, giving it added versatility. Despite its powerful airflow, the ventilation system is also quieter than most thanks to LG’s QuietPower ventilation system. With 2.2 cubic feet of space, this LG microwave is also one of the larger-capacity microwaves on the market. In addition to its large capacity, it also features a variety of one-touch settings for everything from coffee to chicken nuggets.
Product Specs
- Size: 29.975 inches long by 15.8125 inches wide by 17.722 inches high
- Capacity: 2.2 cubic feet
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 550 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Ventilation system extends out over the range for better stovetop coverage
- This microwave boasts excellent airflow thanks to its 550-cubic-feet-per-minute fan
- Its QuietPower technology keeps the ventilation system’s noise level down
- Allows for larger dishes thanks to cavernous 2.2-cubic-foot capacity
Cons
- Is on the higher end of the price range for over-the-range microwaves
Get the LG over-the-range microwave at Lowe’s or Best Buy.
Best with Light
Frigidaire 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
While most microwaves use incandescent bulbs to provide interior and stovetop lighting, Frigidaire equips this over-the-range microwave with powerful LED lights. This upgrade not only makes it easier to monitor food through the microwave door, but it also better illuminates the cooking surface below.
In addition to providing excellent lighting, the Frigidaire comes equipped with other useful features. A full-width door makes the 1.9 cubic feet of interior cooking space more accessible. There are also sensor-cooking and one-touch-cooking options for such common microwaveable foods as baked potatoes and popcorn. Frigidaire includes features that make keeping it less of a chore, including its Effortless Clean Interior surface and smudge-proof stainless steel that resists fingerprints.
Product Specs
- Size: 30.47 inches long by 17.71 inches wide by 17.71 inches high
- Capacity: 1.9 cubic feet
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Exhaust fan capability: 400 cubic feet per minute
Pros
- Equipped with bright LED lighting for the microwave interior and stovetop
- Full-width door makes the interior more accessible for loading and unloading food
- Effortless Clean Interior and smudge-proof stainless steel make microwave easier to clean
Cons
- Some customers complain that the LED clock is too bright
Get the Frigidaire over-the-range microwave at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing an Over-the-Range Microwave
When shopping for an over-the-range microwave, it’s crucial to consider what features it offers as well as its size and capacity.
Size
Over-the-range microwaves come in different widths. The most common dimensions are 30 inches long by 16 inches wide by 17 inches high. Unlike standard microwave ovens that sit on the counter, over-the-range microwave ovens must fit in the space above the range.
Measure the space above the range to determine the maximum size. The interior volume of over-the-range microwaves is measured in cubic feet. The average size for this type of microwave is 1.5 to 1.7 cubic feet, which is plenty of cooking space for most families. Smaller units have 1.1 cubic feet of space, while larger models offer up to 2.2 cubic feet.
Wattage
The optimal wattage for an over-the-range microwave oven is between 900 and 1,000 watts. A lower wattage may make the microwave struggle to heat food evenly. More powerful over-the-range microwaves with 1,100 and 1,200 watts will heat food faster and more evenly, but they usually come with a higher price tag.
Settings
Most microwave ovens offer shortcuts for commonly microwaved foods, eliminating the guesswork that goes into manually selecting the power level and cooking time. Some shortcut buttons include settings for popcorn, pizza, hot dogs, and potatoes; higher-end microwaves offer additional preset options.
Most microwaves also have auto-defrost settings that optimize cooking temperature and thawing time. On some higher-end models, sensors monitor the food as it cooks and automatically adjust the cooking time and power for optimal results.
Control Panel
On most over-the-range microwaves, the control panel is at the right of the door, but some models position the controls as part of the microwave’s aesthetic or functionality. Other microwave models have control panels along the bottom of the door, making it more accessible for shorter family members. Others go with a more streamlined look by placing the controls inside the door.
Smart Technology
Microwaves with smart technology connect to home Wi-Fi systems, which means users can control the microwave from a smart device or through voice commands on a smart-home assistant. Some smart microwaves include a database of foods, allowing users to determine the optimal cooking time by scanning the barcode on the packaging with a smartphone.
Convection Heating
Specific microwave ovens offer dual features found on both microwaves and convection ovens. A dual-function microwave adds a heating element to the cooking process, allowing users to brown roasts and turkeys or crisp pizza crusts. By combining two types of heat, food can cook more quickly, which can prevent it from drying out.
Exhaust Functionality
Over-the-range microwaves also have exhaust hood duties. All over-the-range microwaves have hoods with fans that vent to either the interior or exterior of the home. These hoods feature charcoal filters for removing smoke and grease from the air before it is recirculated into the room or sent out by an external vent. A standard exhaust fan on a microwave should have a rating of at least 300 cubic feet per minute. Some higher-end microwaves use 400-cubic-feet-per-minute fans.
Additional Features
Microwaves include other special features to improve safety or maximize convenience.
- A child-lockout feature allows the controls to be unlocked when a preset code is entered into the keypad. Though less crucial when the microwave is well above the reach of most young children, it may be an option to consider.
- The turntable holds food and largely determines the capacity of the microwave. Most microwaves have turntables that are around 14 inches in diameter. Convection microwaves allow the turntable to be locked during convection baking.
- Other features include delay-start-time options that let users preprogram the microwave to start cooking while they’re away.
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from shoppers looking to buy the best over-the-range microwave ovens for their homes.
Q. Can any microwave go over the range?
A microwave should not go over a range unless it’s specifically designed to serve as an over-the-range model. An over-the-range microwave includes a vent.
Q. What should I look for in an over-the-range microwave?
In addition to looking at power output and capacity, an over-the-range microwave also functions as an assistant to range-top cooking. With that in mind, shoppers may want to consider the microwave’s fan speed for its hood ventilation system as well as its over-the-range lighting.
Q. How long should an over-the-range microwave last?
The average lifespan for a microwave is around 9 to 10 years with normal use. Its lifespan will be shortened if a user neglects cleaning it after spills, if foods or materials that aren’t microwaveable are cooked in it, or if it’s run while empty.
Q. Can a microwave go above a gas range?
All over-the-range microwave ovens can be installed above a gas range as long as they meet the minimum 66-inch mounting height from the floor to the top of the microwave.
Q. Do over-the-range microwaves vent well?
An over-the-range microwave with a powerful 400-cubic-feet-per-minute fan may never vent as well as a vent hood. A hood has a much larger capture area than a microwave ventilation system. Ventilation hoods are also more powerful, with fans that are 900 cubic feet per minute and greater.
Q. How long should an over-the-range microwave last?
An over-the-range microwave will usually last about 10 years, depending on how well it’s maintained. Keeping the interior clean by wiping it down after spills helps extend its life. Make sure to use the fan when cooking on the stovetop to prevent moisture from building up on the microwave’s components. Never put anything in the microwave that could damage it.