Is your kitchen feeling a bit cramped because your countertop is covered in appliances? Shifting your microwave to that empty space above your stove is a smart move that frees up precious counter real estate.
Finding the best above range Microwaves feels like choosing a new roommate for your kitchen. You want someone reliable who pulls their weight without creating extra noise or clutter. These units do more than heat leftovers, and picking the right one makes daily meal prep much smoother.
Key Takeaways
- Measure your cabinet width and height clearance twice before buying to ensure a flush fit.
- Check the CFM rating if you cook often, as higher numbers move smoke and grease out of your kitchen much more effectively.
- Verify that your existing ventilation setup matches the unit, whether it recirculates air internally or connects to an outside duct.
- Look for a turntable size that accommodates your largest dinner plates to avoid stuck edges and uneven heating.
- Prioritize units with easy-clean interiors because microwave splatter is a fact of life that you will encounter every single week.
| Reliable Kitchen Workhorse |  |
GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Microwave | Consistent heating performance | Standard 30 inch width | Sleek stainless finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Minimalist Style Choice |  |
1.7 Cu. Ft. Black Microwave | Spacious cooking interior | Powerful 1000W output | Clean black aesthetic | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Compact Space Saver |  |
Midea 1.2 Cu. Ft. Microwave | Fits small kitchens | Strong power density | Stainless steel look | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Midsize Family Favorite |  |
Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave | Increased vertical clearance | Sturdy build quality | Efficient heating cycles | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Dependable Daily Performer |  |
Black+Decker 1.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave | Large capacity interior | Easy to use controls | Reliable power levels | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| High Flow Ventilation |  |
Black+Decker 1.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave | High performance ventilation | Extra large capacity | Strong extraction power | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Balanced Home Essential |  |
Black+Decker 1.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Microwave | Standard fitment | Even heating results | User friendly interface | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Versatile Culinary Hybrid |  |
Black+Decker 1.5 Cu. Ft. Air Fryer Microwave | Integrated air frying | Multipurpose cooking utility | Compact efficiency | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Bright Kitchen Solution |  |
Black+Decker 1.7 Cu. Ft. White Microwave | Clean white finish | Spacious interior capacity | Simple operation | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Premium Capacity Choice |  |
Toshiba 1.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave | Huge interior space | Robust construction | Powerful performance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This model is the standard-bearer for most kitchens. It strikes a balance between size and power, making it a perfect fit for families who need a dependable appliance for daily reheating and defrosting tasks.
The stainless steel finish helps it blend in with other modern appliances. Just keep in mind that the 1.6 cubic foot interior is strictly utilitarian, so it might feel a bit tight if you regularly heat oversized platters.
- Brand Name:GE
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.6
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Exterior Finish:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Preset cooking buttons
- Additional Feature:Turntable on/off setting
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1.7 Cu. Ft. Black Microwave
If your kitchen decor leans toward a sharp, dark aesthetic, this unit is a natural fit. It offers a generous 1.7 cubic feet of space, which gives you plenty of breathing room for larger bowls or tall mugs.
The 1000 watts of power ensure that your leftovers heat quickly and evenly. Because it is finished in basic black, you will want to wipe it down frequently to keep fingerprints from showing up under your cabinet lights.
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.7
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Exterior Finish:Black
- Additional Feature:Interior lighting
- Additional Feature:Simple electronic controls
- Additional Feature:Defrost and reheat modes
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Midea 1.2 Cu. Ft. Microwave
Sometimes you just do not have the wall space for a massive appliance. This Midea model is compact and efficient, making it a smart choice for smaller apartment kitchens or galley layouts where every inch matters.
Despite its smaller footprint, it still delivers 1000 watts of cooking power. You might find the smaller cavity restricts the size of the baking dishes you can slide inside, but it handles standard plates with ease.
- Brand Name:Midea
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.2
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Exterior Finish:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Quick start options
- Additional Feature:Energy saving mode
- Additional Feature:Removable glass turntable
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Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This version provides more internal volume for those who find the 1.2 cubic foot models a bit restrictive. It acts like a spacious oven that can handle dinner plates and larger casseroles without cramming them in.
The stainless steel exterior looks professional and is relatively easy to maintain. It is a solid middle ground if you want ample capacity without venturing into the largest, heaviest models on the market.
- Brand Name:Midea
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.7
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Exterior Finish:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Multi stage cooking
- Additional Feature:Adjustable fan speeds
- Additional Feature:Hidden vent system
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Black+Decker 1.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
You get a straightforward, no-nonsense appliance with this Black+Decker model. It is designed for users who want their microwave to be as predictable as a favorite pair of shoes, offering consistent performance for everyday snacks and meals.
The 1.7 cubic feet of space is plenty for most households, and the controls are intuitively laid out. If you are looking for complex smart features, you might find this one a bit too simple, but it performs the basics perfectly.
- Brand Name:Black+Decker
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.7
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Exterior Finish:Black
- Additional Feature:Add 30 seconds button
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Interior glass turntable
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Black+Decker 1.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This model stands out because of its 400 CFM ventilation system, which acts like a strong wind to pull smoke and steam away from your cooktop. It is an ideal pick if you do a lot of stovetop searing and need to keep your air clear.
The larger 1.9 cubic foot capacity is great for families who cook in bulk. It is a bit heavier than standard units, so ensure your mounting hardware is ready for the extra weight.
- Brand Name:Black+Decker
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.9
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Ventilation Rating:400 CFM
- Additional Feature:Multiple fan speeds
- Additional Feature:Bright cooktop lighting
- Additional Feature:Large digital display
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Black+Decker 1.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Microwave
This is a classic 1.7 cubic foot unit that fits into most standard cabinet setups without a hitch. It offers the perfect middle ground between size and usability, serving as a reliable partner for your busy evening routine.
The controls are simple and respond quickly to touch. While it lacks flashy extras, it excels at even heat distribution, ensuring your food does not come out with cold spots in the middle.
- Brand Name:Black+Decker
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.7
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Additional Feature:Preset cooking menus
- Additional Feature:Defrost by weight
- Additional Feature:Kitchen timer function
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Black+Decker 1.5 Cu. Ft. Air Fryer Microwave
If you want to reduce the clutter on your counters, this unit is a clever multitasker. By combining a standard microwave with air frying technology, it allows you to crisp up snacks while saving precious space.
It is slightly smaller than some of the dedicated microwave units, but the added functionality is a fair trade. You will love the convenience of getting a crunchy texture without needing a separate appliance.
- Brand Name:Black+Decker
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.5
- Power Wattage:900W
- Special Features:Air Fryer
- Additional Feature:Convection fan modes
- Additional Feature:Crisping tray included
- Additional Feature:Digital touch controls
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Black+Decker 1.7 Cu. Ft. White Microwave
White appliances are making a comeback in modern, airy kitchens. This model offers a clean and bright look that helps small spaces feel more open, while still providing a generous 1.7 cubic feet of internal cooking capacity.
It operates just as efficiently as its black or stainless counterparts. The white finish is forgiving with dust, but you will want to keep a damp cloth nearby to quickly wipe away any cooking splashes.
- Brand Name:Black+Decker
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.7
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Exterior Finish:White
- Additional Feature:Interior work light
- Additional Feature:One touch presets
- Additional Feature:Child safety lockout
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Toshiba 1.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
When you have a hungry household and need to fit the largest casserole dishes available, this Toshiba model is your best friend. Its 1.9 cubic foot cavity is like a wide open meadow compared to smaller, cramped units.
The build quality feels substantial and durable, matching the power you get with its 1000 watt output. It is a larger unit, so it makes a bold statement in any kitchen that values high capacity performance.
- Brand Name:Toshiba
- Capacity Cubic Feet:1.9
- Power Wattage:1000W
- Exterior Finish:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Sensor cooking menus
- Additional Feature:Easy clean interior
- Additional Feature:Energy efficient lighting
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a professional to install an over the range microwave?
If you are handy with a drill and have a friend to help lift, you can manage this yourself. It is essentially a two-person job because holding the unit in place while bolting it to the wall cabinet is tricky. However, if you are not comfortable working with electrical wiring or drilling into wall studs, hire a professional. It is better to pay for help than to have the unit fall onto your stove.
Can I use an over the range microwave as a regular range hood?
Yes, but keep in mind that the fan performance might be lower than a dedicated, standalone range hood. These units are built to do two jobs, so they may not capture every bit of smoke. They are perfectly adequate for standard cooking tasks. Just ensure your unit has a decent CFM rating if you enjoy high-heat cooking.
How often do I need to replace the filters?
You should clean the metal grease filters every month by soaking them in hot, soapy water. If you have a recirculating setup, you must replace the charcoal filter every six months. If you don't replace the charcoal filter, the unit will struggle to remove odors from your kitchen. It is a small chore that keeps your air fresh.
Will a new microwave fit the existing mounting bracket?
Almost never, as every manufacturer uses a unique mounting plate design. You will need to remove the old bracket and install the one that comes in the box with your new unit. Treat this as a total replacement rather than a simple swap. Using the wrong bracket is a safety hazard because the unit must be perfectly level and secure.
What is the benefit of a convection microwave?
A convection model includes a heating element and a fan to circulate hot air, similar to a miniature oven. This allows you to bake, roast, or brown foods that would turn soggy in a standard microwave. It is a great choice if you have a small kitchen and want to avoid turning on your main oven for smaller meals. You can cook a whole chicken or bake cookies with much better results.
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