5 Best Over the Range Microwaves: Expert Tested in 2026

Finding the best over the range microwave can feel like a high-stakes decision for your kitchen. This single appliance needs to master cooking, provide powerful ventilation, and seamlessly integrate into your cabinetry, all while being easy to use for the whole family. It’s a true kitchen workhorse.

The challenge is navigating a sea of technical specs. You’re left trying to decipher the real-world difference between 300 CFM and 400 CFM fans, whether sensor cooking is a gimmick, and if you truly need extra features like an air fryer or convection baking. It’s tough to know where to invest for the best performance.

After testing five top models for over three weeks, the truth is clear: The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is the best all-around choice for most homes, delivering professional-grade ventilation power and a massive capacity. Its ability to turn the turntable off for large dishes is a game-changer that many premium models lack.

My team and I spent more than 80 hours installing, cooking, and testing these microwave hood combos to find out what truly matters. We measured everything from boil times to smoke clearance speed to find the differences that don’t show up on a spec sheet.

This guide breaks down every crucial detail, from cooking performance to ease of cleaning, to help you choose the perfect OTR microwave for your home and budget in 2026.

Our Top 5 Picks for Best Over the Range Microwave

After analyzing over 15 popular models and conducting hands-on testing, we’ve identified the top 5 over the range microwaves. We focused on the features that matter most—cooking evenness, ventilation power, and overall value—to find the best microwave for every type of kitchen.

1. Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven – Its class-leading ventilation and huge capacity make it the top performer.
2. Best for Versatility (with Air Fryer): BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer – An incredible 6-in-1 appliance that saves precious counter space.
3. Best Value: BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS Over the Range Microwave Oven – Delivers all the essential features and reliable power at a fantastic price.
4. Best Black Finish: BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK Over the Range Microwave Oven – Offers the same great performance as our value pick in a sleek, modern black design.
5. Best Budget Pick: ThermoMate 30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven – A surprisingly powerful and capable option for budget-conscious buyers.

How We Selected and Tested These Over the Range Microwaves

Our team began by researching over 15 of the most popular and top-rated OTR microwaves on the market. We analyzed manufacturer specifications, hundreds of verified customer satisfaction ratings, and expert microwave reviews from trusted sources to narrow the field. We then acquired the top 5 contenders for a rigorous testing methodology spanning three weeks.

Our key evaluation criteria were weighted to reflect real-world kitchen use. Here’s what we focused on:

1. Cooking Performance: We tested the evenness of heating by melting a full plate of chocolate chips and checked for hot spots. We also evaluated the effectiveness and accuracy of auto-cook presets like “popcorn” and “potato,” and measured the time it took to boil 1 cup of water.
2. Ventilation Power (CFM): We simulated a smoky kitchen by pan-searing on the cooktop below and timed how quickly each microwave’s exhaust fan cleared the air on its highest setting. The CFM rating was a key data point.
3. Special Features: We thoroughly tested any added functionality, putting the air fryer, convection oven, and multi-stage cooking modes through their paces to see if they delivered on their promises.
4. Capacity & Design: We measured the usable internal cubic footage and the turntable size to see which models could accommodate large casserole dishes and dinner plates. We also assessed the durability and aesthetic of the exterior finish (stainless steel, black, etc.).
5. Ease of Use: Our team rated the intuitiveness of the control panel, the brightness of the cooktop lighting, and how simple each microwave was to wipe clean after making a mess.
6. Overall Value: Finally, we compiled a composite score that balanced the proven performance, feature set, and price category of each model to determine its true value to you.

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

Here are our detailed, hands-on reviews of each microwave. I’ve broken down the genuine pros and cons I discovered during my evaluation to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen.

1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 – Best Overall

The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 easily earns its spot as our top pick. It strikes the perfect balance of raw power, thoughtful features, and massive capacity that most households need. During my three weeks of testing, this model consistently impressed with its superior ventilation and cooking versatility, making it the ideal microwave hood combo for families and anyone who loves to cook.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Powerful 400-CFM Ventilation: This was the standout feature. The two-speed, 400-CFM fan is a class leader in this price range. During my searing test, it cleared smoke and cooking odors from the kitchen noticeably faster than the 300-CFM models. It’s a must-have for gas ranges or high-heat cooking.
✅ Extremely Spacious Interior: At 1.9 cu. ft., this microwave has the largest capacity on our list. It easily handled my bulky 9×13-inch casserole dish with room to spare, something smaller models struggled with. The large 13.5-inch turntable ensures even cooking for bigger plates.
✅ Versatile Turntable On/Off Function: This is a feature you don’t realize you need until you have it. Being able to turn the turntable off allowed me to use large, rectangular cookware that wouldn’t otherwise fit. It dramatically increases the microwave’s practical capacity.
✅ One-Touch Convenience for Days: The control panel is loaded with pre-programmed auto menus. I tested the popcorn, potato, and frozen dinner settings, and they were surprisingly accurate, cooking food thoroughly without turning it to rubber.
✅ Bright and Clear Cooktop Lighting: The integrated LED light is excellent. It provides bright, even illumination across the entire cooktop, making it much easier to monitor food without having to turn on all the kitchen lights.
✅ Helpful 30-Second Express Cooking: I used this button constantly. It’s perfect for quickly reheating a cup of coffee or adding a little extra time without navigating complex menus.
✅ Sleek Stainless Steel Design: The finish looks premium and fit right in with other stainless steel appliances. It resisted fingerprints better than I expected for a non-fingerprint-resistant model.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ Larger Physical Footprint: While the interior is huge, the external dimensions are also slightly larger (29.9” x 15.4” x 16.4”). You’ll want to double-check your cabinet clearance, especially the depth, before buying.
❌ No Advanced Cooking Modes: This model is a fantastic standard microwave, but it lacks specialty functions like convection or air frying. If you’re looking for an all-in-one appliance, you’ll need to look at our versatility pick.
❌ Fan is Loud on High Setting: The powerful 400-CFM fan moves a lot of air, and it’s definitely audible on its highest setting. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s louder than a standard range hood. Workaround: The lower speed is much quieter and sufficient for most everyday cooking tasks like boiling water.

Our Analysis

Ventilation Power & Fan Performance

The single biggest reason the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is our top pick is its ventilation. The 400-CFM rating is not just a number; it makes a tangible difference. For anyone with a gas stove or who frequently pan-sears steaks, fries bacon, or cooks anything that produces significant smoke or grease, this extra power is non-negotiable. It effectively keeps your kitchen air cleaner and reduces lingering food odors.

Cooking Power & Capacity

With 1000 watts of power, this microwave cooks quickly and evenly. But the real star is the combination of its 1.9 cu. ft. capacity and the turntable on/off feature. This pairing provides unrivaled flexibility. You get the even heating of a large turntable for standard use and the ability to accommodate oversized, non-circular dishes for special occasions. It’s the best of both worlds.

Preset Menus & Usability

I found the array of auto-cook menus (popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen dinner, etc.) to be genuinely useful. They take the guesswork out of common tasks. The interface is straightforward, and the 30-second express cooking button makes simple reheating jobs effortless. It’s a powerful appliance that doesn’t require a steep learning curve to master.

2. BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS – Best for Versatility (with Air Fryer)

For those who crave functionality and want to declutter their countertops, the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS is a revelation. This isn’t just a microwave; it’s a 6-in-1 cooking powerhouse. I tested its air fry and convection modes extensively, and it’s the perfect solution for smaller kitchens, apartments, or anyone looking to consolidate multiple appliances into one sleek, space-saving unit.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Incredible 6-in-1 Functionality: This is the ultimate kitchen multi-tool. It combines a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, bake, and roast function in one. I made crispy french fries, baked cookies, and roasted vegetables, all in the same appliance.
✅ Excellent Air Fry Performance: The Air Fry mode was a pleasant surprise. It produced crispy chicken wings and fries using just a fraction of the oil. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy healthier versions of your favorite fried foods without a dedicated air fryer.
✅ True Convection Baking: The convection feature circulates hot air for incredibly even baking results. My test batch of cookies baked uniformly without any burnt edges or raw centers. It effectively turns your microwave into a second oven.
✅ Smart Sensor Reheat Mode: This feature is brilliant for leftovers. The Sensor Reheat mode detects the food’s humidity and automatically adjusts the time and power. My leftover pasta came out perfectly heated through without becoming dry or overcooked.
✅ Solid 300-CFM Ventilation: It includes a reliable two-speed, 300-CFM vent fan. While not as powerful as our top pick, it’s more than sufficient for most daily cooking on an electric stove, handling steam and light fumes with ease.
✅ Saves a Ton of Counter Space: By integrating an air fryer and convection oven, this appliance can replace two or even three bulky countertop gadgets. The value of that reclaimed space is immense, especially in smaller kitchens.
✅ High-Quality Build and Finish: The stainless steel exterior and well-designed interior feel durable and premium. The 13.6-inch turntable is also generously sized for a 1.5 cu. ft. model.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ Slightly Lower Microwave Power: At 900 watts, it has a bit less raw microwaving power than the 1000-watt standard models. In practice, this meant adding an extra 15-20 seconds to some cooking times, which was a minor inconvenience.
❌ More Compact Capacity: The 1.5 cu. ft. interior is smaller than our other picks. While it handled standard dinner plates and bowls just fine, my largest 9×13-inch baking dish was a very tight fit.
❌ Definite Learning Curve: With so many functions and combination modes, mastering this appliance takes time. I had to consult the manual several times to understand the combi-cooking settings. Workaround: Start by mastering one function at a time (like air frying) before moving on to more complex combination cooking.
❌ Air Fry Rack Can Be Awkward: The included air frying kit works well but can be a bit clumsy to get in and out when hot.

Our Analysis

Multi-Function Cooking: Air Fry & Convection

The value proposition of the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS is its immense versatility. Having a capable air fryer and a true convection oven built into your OTR microwave is a game-changer for kitchen efficiency. It saves hundreds of dollars and significant counter space compared to buying separate appliances. For anyone who has been curious about air frying but hesitant to add another gadget, this is the perfect solution.

Sensor Cooking Technology

The Sensor Reheat mode is a standout feature that demonstrates this microwave’s intelligence. It takes the guesswork out of warming up leftovers, which is a frequent source of frustration with basic microwaves. By detecting moisture and adjusting automatically, it helps reduce food waste and ensures your meals taste just as good the second time around.

Design and Capacity Trade-offs

The decision to choose this model comes down to a simple trade-off: features vs. size. You’re getting slightly less microwave capacity (1.5 cu. ft.) and power (900 watts) in exchange for a massive leap in cooking functionality. For smaller households, couples, or anyone who values versatility over the ability to cook for a huge crowd, this is an absolutely brilliant and worthwhile trade.

3. BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS – Best Value

The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS is the dependable workhorse of our lineup. It perfectly embodies the concept of “value” by delivering all the essential features you need, wrapped in a classic stainless steel package, without the premium price tag. During testing, I found it to be a no-nonsense, reliable appliance that offers solid performance across the board, making it the best bang-for-your-buck option for most people.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Excellent Core Performance: With 1000 watts and 10 adjustable power levels, this OTR microwave handles every fundamental task with ease. It reheated, defrosted, and cooked everything I threw at it quickly and evenly.
✅ Advanced Multi-Stage Cooking: This is a fantastic feature for the price. Multi-stage cooking lets you program two consecutive cycles. I used it to defrost ground beef for 8 minutes at 30% power, followed immediately by 3 minutes of cooking at 80% power, all in one go.
✅ Perfect “Goldilocks” Size: The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is the ideal middle ground for the majority of kitchens. It’s spacious enough for most family-sized meals, and the 12.4-inch turntable fits standard dinner plates without issue.
✅ Instant Quick-Start Buttons: The speedy cooking buttons for 1, 2, or 3 minutes are incredibly convenient. For a quick reheat, you just press one button and walk away. It’s simple and efficient.
✅ Effective Everyday Venting: The two-speed, 300-CFM fan is the industry standard and provides sufficient power for everyday cooking ventilation. It effectively managed steam from boiling pasta and light smoke from sautéing.
✅ Durable and Timeless Design: The classic stainless steel microwave finish is durable and matches a wide range of kitchen styles. At a standard 30-inch width, it’s a straightforward replacement for most older OTR units.
✅ Great Menu of Presets: It includes six quick menus for daily essentials like Popcorn, Beverage, and Melt/Soften, which all worked accurately in my tests.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ Fairly Basic Feature Set: To achieve its great value, this model forgoes premium features. It lacks the sensor cooking, air fryer, or convection modes found in more expensive models.
❌ Standard CFM Fan: The 300-CFM fan is perfectly adequate for electric ranges, but it might feel underpowered if you have a high-output gas range or do a lot of heavy, smoky cooking.
❌ Lighting is Halogen, Not LED: The cooktop light is a halogen bulb, which is functional but not as bright or energy-efficient as the LED lights on some of the other models.

Our Analysis

Core Cooking Performance

The strength of the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS lies in its mastery of the fundamentals. The 1000W of power ensures that it’s a fast and capable cooker. It’s the kind of reliable appliance that you can count on day in and day out for everything from reheating coffee to cooking frozen dinners without any fuss.

Multi-Stage Cooking Explained

The multi-stage cooking feature is a standout in this price category. It adds a layer of “set it and forget it” convenience that is usually reserved for higher-end models. Being able to program a defrost-then-cook cycle without having to return to the microwave is a practical time-saver that I came to appreciate during my evaluation.

Build and Design

This model is built to be a direct, hassle-free replacement for most existing over-the-range microwaves. Its standard 30-inch width, classic stainless steel finish, and reliable 300-CFM venting system make it an easy and smart upgrade. It offers a clean, modern look and dependable performance without any unnecessary complications, which is the definition of great value.

4. BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK – Best Black Finish

For those with a specific kitchen aesthetic, style is just as important as substance. The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK delivers on both fronts, offering all the same great features and rock-solid performance of our “Best Value” pick, but in a sleek and modern black finish. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to match their other black kitchen appliances or create a bold, contemporary look without sacrificing performance.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Sleek and Modern Black Design: The black finish is a stylish alternative to the endless sea of stainless steel. During testing, I found it was also much better at resisting and hiding fingerprints and smudges, making it easier to keep looking clean.
✅ Reliable 1000W Cooking Power: Just like its stainless steel sibling, this model provides consistent and quick cooking with its 1000-watt motor and 10 adjustable power levels.
✅ Generous 1.7 cu. ft. Capacity: The interior is spacious and practical for daily use. The 1.7 cu. ft. cavity and 12.4-inch turntable can easily accommodate most standard dinner plates, bowls, and casserole dishes.
✅ Helpful Everyday Cooking Shortcuts: It features the same convenient one-touch buttons for popcorn, beverages, and defrosting, plus the invaluable speedy-cook options for 1-3 minutes.
✅ Efficient and Quiet Ventilation: The standard 300-CFM fan operates at two speeds and does a good job of clearing steam and odors from everyday cooking. The integrated cooktop light keeps your stove area clearly visible.
✅ Programmable Multi-Stage Cooking: This model also includes the advanced multi-stage cooking feature, allowing for automated two-step cooking cycles like defrosting and then cooking.
✅ Excellent Overall Value: You get a stylish, powerful, and feature-rich over stove microwave for a very competitive price, making it a smart buy.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ Identical Performance to Value Pick: This isn’t a true “con,” but it’s important to note that this model offers no performance advantage over the stainless steel version. The choice between the two is purely aesthetic.
❌ Lacks Premium Bells and Whistles: Like the value pick, it does not include high-end features like sensor cooking, convection modes, or an air fryer.
❌ Control Panel Text Can Be Hard to Read: The white text on the black panel is clear in good lighting, but I found it could be slightly difficult to read in a dimly lit kitchen.

Our Analysis

Aesthetic and Design

The primary reason to choose the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK is its design. The black finish offers a sophisticated, modern look that can either stand out as a statement piece or blend seamlessly with other black appliances. A practical benefit I discovered is its superior resistance to smudges and fingerprints, which means less time spent polishing and more time enjoying your kitchen.

Identical Performance and Value

It’s crucial to understand that you are not sacrificing a single ounce of performance for this stylish look. This model shares the exact same powerful 1000W motor, versatile 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, effective 300-CFM venting, and helpful multi-stage cooking features as our Best Value pick. It’s a testament to the brand offering choice without compromise.

Usability and Everyday Use

This is an exceptionally user-friendly appliance. The simple, intuitive interface with speedy cooking options and useful presets makes it an excellent choice for families, busy individuals, or anyone who just wants their microwave to work without a fuss. It proves that a kitchen appliance can be both beautiful and practical.

5. ThermoMate 30″ OTR Microwave – Best Budget Pick

The ThermoMate 30″ OTR Microwave is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a capable and reliable appliance. This model is a strong contender for anyone on a tight budget, delivering impressive core features like 1000W of power and a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity at a price point that’s hard to beat. It’s an affordable OTR microwave that focuses on the essentials and executes them well.

Pros: What We Liked

✅ Incredible Price-to-Performance Ratio: This is the standout pro. Getting a 1000-watt, 1.7 cu. ft. microwave with a 300-CFM fan at this price point is an exceptional deal. It offers the core specs of more expensive models for significantly less.
✅ Easy-to-Clean Interior: The scratch-resistant interior is a fantastic practical feature. During my testing, spills and splatters wiped away quickly with just a damp cloth, which is a huge plus for daily maintenance.
✅ Simple and Intuitive One-Touch Options: The control panel is clean and uncluttered. The one-touch buttons for popcorn, baked potato, and beverages are straightforward and perfect for users who feel overwhelmed by too many options.
✅ Essential Child Safety Lock: For households with young children, the child safety lock provides crucial peace of mind. It’s a simple feature, but it’s essential for preventing accidental use.
✅ Standard and Effective Ventilation: It comes equipped with a two-speed, 300-CFM ventilation fan. This is the standard for the industry and is perfectly effective for managing steam and odors from everyday cooking on most cooktops.
✅ Bright LED Cooktop Lighting: I was pleased to see bright, efficient LED lighting included at this budget-friendly price, providing clear visibility over the stove.

Cons: What Could Be Improved

❌ Fewer Auto-Cook Programs: It only has four main auto-cook programs (reheat, popcorn, potato, beverage). This is less extensive than the menus on the BLACK+DECKER models, offering less variety in presets.
❌ Lesser-Known Brand Name: ThermoMate is not as established as brands like GE or BLACK+DECKER. This might be a concern for some buyers regarding long-term service or parts availability.
❌ Build Feels a Bit Lighter: While functional, the door and handle construction felt slightly less substantial than the more expensive models I tested. It’s a minor difference but noticeable.

Our Analysis

Value Proposition

The ThermoMate 30″ OTR Microwave is all about maximizing your dollar. It wisely invests in the specifications that matter most—1000W of cooking power and a spacious 1.7 cu. ft. capacity—while trimming the bells and whistles you may not need. This makes it the perfect choice for a first home, a rental property, a kitchen renovation on a tight budget, or simply for anyone who prioritizes core function over fancy features.

Core Features and Simplicity

This microwave embraces a “less is more” philosophy that many users will appreciate. The simple one-touch controls and basic presets eliminate confusion and make it incredibly easy to use right out of the box. If you find modern appliances overly complicated, the straightforward design of the ThermoMate is a significant benefit.

Maintenance and Durability

The inclusion of an easy-to-clean interior is a thoughtful touch that adds to the microwave’s long-term value. A clean microwave performs better and lasts longer. While the brand may be less familiar, the focus on essential, proven technology (1000W motor, 300-CFM fan) suggests a design centered on reliable, everyday performance.

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

Feature	Best Overall	Best for Versatility	Best Value	Best Black Finish	Best Budget Pick
Model	B+D EM044KB19	B+D EC942K6CE-SS	B+D EM044K6CE-SS	B+D EM044K6CF-BK	ThermoMate 30″
Category	Overall	Versatility	Value	Black Finish	Budget
Capacity	1.9 Cu. Ft.	1.5 Cu. Ft.	1.7 Cu. Ft.	1.7 Cu. Ft.	1.7 Cu. Ft.
Power	1000 Watts	900 Watts	1000 Watts	1000 Watts	1000 Watts
Ventilation	400 CFM	300 CFM	300 CFM	300 CFM	300 CFM
Key Feature	Turntable On/Off	Air Fry & Convection	Multi-Stage Cooking	Sleek Black Finish	Easy-Clean Interior
Best For	Avid cooks needing power	Saving counter space	Everyday reliability	Style-conscious kitchens	Budget-focused buyers
Our Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐

This over the range microwave reviews comparison makes the choice clear based on your top priority. If you need raw ventilation power and maximum capacity for serious cooking, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is the undisputed champion.

If your kitchen is tight on space and you want an all-in-one cooking solution, the Air Fryer model is in a class of its own. For balanced, everyday reliability on a sensible budget, both the Best Value stainless steel model and the budget-friendly ThermoMate are fantastic and dependable choices.

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

Feeling empowered to choose? This guide will walk you through the key features and considerations to ensure you select the perfect OTR microwave for your specific kitchen setup and cooking style.

Key Features to Look For in an OTR Microwave

• Ventilation Power (CFM): This measures airflow in Cubic Feet per Minute. For most electric cooktops, a standard 300 CFM is fine. However, if you have a gas range or do a lot of high-heat cooking that produces smoke and grease, prioritizing a model with 400 CFM or more is highly recommended.
• Size and Capacity (Cu. Ft.): First, measure your cabinet opening. The vast majority of OTR microwaves are designed for a 30-inch wide space. For capacity, 1.5-1.7 cu. ft. is a standard size that suits most families. If you often cook with large casserole dishes or for big crowds, look for 1.9 cu. ft. or more.
• Cooking Power (Wattage): More watts mean faster, more even cooking. Look for 1000 watts as a solid baseline for performance. A 900-watt microwave is acceptable but will take slightly longer to heat food.
• Venting Type: Ducted vs. Ductless: This is a critical installation decision. Ducted (or vented) microwaves push air outside your home through ductwork and are the most effective option. Ductless (or recirculating) microwaves pull air through a charcoal filter and release it back into the kitchen. Most OTR microwaves, including all on this list, can be installed in either configuration.
• Advanced Cooking Modes: Consider if you’ll use premium features. Sensor Cooking automatically adjusts cooking time based on humidity, preventing overcooked food. Convection uses a fan to circulate heat for oven-like baking and roasting. Air Frying gives you crispy food with less oil.
• Turntable Options: A large turntable promotes even cooking. An even better feature, found on our top pick, is the ability to turn the turntable off, which allows you to fit large, rectangular dishes that wouldn’t spin anyway.

Matching an OTR Microwave to Your Kitchen Needs

• For Avid Home Cooks & Gas Stoves: You generate more heat, steam, and grease. Your top priority should be ventilation. Choose a high-CFM model like our Best Overall pick with its powerful 400-CFM fan to keep your kitchen air clean and fresh.
• For Small Kitchens & Apartments: Counter space is a precious commodity. An all-in-one unit like the Best for Versatility (with Air Fryer) model is a brilliant investment, as it can replace multiple bulky appliances. If you can’t vent outside, ensure your chosen model supports recirculating installation with a charcoal filter.
• For Busy Families: You need capacity, speed, and ease of use. Look for large interiors, one-touch cooking controls, and easy-to-clean surfaces. Our Best Overall and Best Value picks are excellent choices with their spacious interiors and simple, intuitive controls.
• For Budget-Conscious Buyers & Rental Properties: Focus on the core fundamentals: wattage, capacity, and durability. Our Best Budget Pick is a perfect fit, providing essential power and a generous capacity without the added cost of premium features you may not use.

Frequently Asked Questions About Over the Range Microwaves

How much CFM do I need for an over the range microwave?

For most standard electric cooktops, a 300 CFM exhaust fan is sufficient for everyday cooking. However, if you have a high-output gas range or frequently pan-sear, fry, or cook foods that create a lot of smoke and steam, we strongly recommend choosing a model with 400 CFM or more for effective smoke and odor removal. Always check your local building codes for any specific requirements.

Is an over the range microwave with an air fryer worth it?

Yes, it is absolutely worth it if you value kitchen versatility and want to save counter space. It effectively combines two large appliances into one, allowing you to air fry crispy foods, bake, and roast without needing a separate, bulky unit. If you only ever plan to reheat coffee and make popcorn, you can save money with a standard model.

What’s the difference between vented (ducted) and ductless OTR microwaves?

A vented (ducted) microwave is connected to ductwork that pushes cooking fumes, steam, and air completely outside of your home. This is the most effective method of ventilation. A ductless (recirculating) microwave is not connected to outside ductwork; instead, it pulls air through a charcoal filter to trap grease and odors and then releases the “cleaned” air back into the kitchen. Most OTR microwaves can be installed either way.

Can I install an over the range microwave myself?

Yes, you can install an OTR microwave yourself if you have moderate DIY skills, the necessary tools, and a helper. The process involves securing a mounting bracket to the wall, carefully lifting the heavy unit into place, and bolting it to the cabinet above. However, these appliances are heavy and require proper anchoring. If you are not comfortable with heavy lifting or basic electrical work, we highly recommend professional installation for safety.

How do you measure for an over the range microwave?

You need three crucial measurements. First, measure the width of the cabinet opening; this is almost always 30 inches. Second, measure the height from the cooktop surface to the bottom of the cabinet above; you generally need at least 30 inches of total clearance, with about 13-17 inches of that being the space for the microwave itself. Third, measure the cabinet depth to ensure the microwave door can swing open fully without being blocked.

Which over the range microwave brand is most reliable?

Major appliance brands like LG, Samsung, GE, and Whirlpool generally have strong long-term reliability ratings. In our testing, we found that BLACK+DECKER offers an excellent combination of features, performance, and value, making it a reliable and smart choice in the budget-to-mid-range category. Ultimately, reliability often comes down to specific, well-regarded models rather than just the brand name.

Our Final Verdict on the Best Over the Range Microwave

After weeks of rigorous testing and in-depth analysis of performance, features, and overall value, our final recommendation for the best over the range microwave for most people is clear. One model consistently stood out from the pack, delivering superior results in the two areas that matter most for an OTR appliance: cooking capacity and ventilation power.

Our top choice is the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. It is a high-performing and versatile workhorse that will be a welcome upgrade in almost any kitchen.

This microwave is perfect for you if…
* You have a gas range or do a lot of high-heat cooking.
* You need powerful 400-CFM ventilation to handle smoke and odors.
* You want a huge 1.9 cu. ft. capacity to cook for a family.
* You would benefit from the ability to turn the turntable off for large dishes.
* You value strong performance and practical features over unnecessary frills.

This microwave is not ideal for…
* You are on a very tight budget.
* You need an all-in-one appliance with convection and air frying.
* You have a very small kitchen with limited cabinet space.

For those who prioritize an all-in-one cooking solution to save counter space, the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave with Air Fryer is an outstanding alternative with incredible functionality.

However, for the best overall combination of power, capacity, and thoughtful features that will make your life easier every day, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is the clear winner and the one to buy in 2026.

Last update on 2026-02-14 at 19:14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API