You’ll free up counter space and keep cooking efficient with models like BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft, Midea 1.7 cu ft, Midea 1.2 cu ft, Farberware 1.7 cu ft, and Frigidaire 1.8 cu ft, all sized to fit common cabinet openings and handle 12–12.5 inch turntables. They offer 1000W power, good ventilation options, sensor cook or many presets, and useful lighting. Measure your cabinet, check exhaust routing, and compare controls so installation and daily use feel simple and reliable; keep going to see specifics.
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft Over-the-Range Microwave |
| Everyday Workhorse | Installation type: Over-the-range | Capacity: 1.7 cu. ft. | Power output: 1000 W | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Midea 1.7 Cu.ft Over-the-Range Microwave Oven |
| Smart Value Pick | Installation type: Over-the-range | Capacity: 1.7 cu. ft. | Power output: 1000 W | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Midea 1.2 Cu.ft Over-the-Range 1000W Microwave |
| Space-Saving Smart | Installation type: Over-the-range | Capacity: 1.2 cu. ft. | Power output: 1000 W | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Farberware 1.7 cu. ft. Over-the-Range Microwave (White) |
| Family Friendly | Installation type: Over-the-range | Capacity: 1.7 cu. ft. | Power output: 1000 W | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over-The-Range Microwave |
| Large-Capacity Powerhouse | Installation type: Over-the-range | Capacity: 1.8 cu. ft. | Power output: (not explicitly listed) - implied standard over-the-range model (typically 1000 W) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft Over-the-Range Microwave
If you want a dependable over-the-range microwave that handles daily cooking and clears kitchen smells without fuss, the BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft model is a strong pick. You’ll like its roomy 1.7 cubic feet and 12.4 inch turntable that fit family meals. It gives 1000 watts with ten power levels and quick-start numbers for one to three minute bursts. You can program multi-stage cooking and use six one-touch menus for popcorn, beverage, melt, reheat, and defrost. The 300 CFM two-speed vent pulls odors while the cooktop light helps you see. It mounts over the stove in stainless steel.
- Installation type:Over-the-range
- Capacity:1.7 cu. ft.
- Power output:1000 W
- Ventilation (fan):300 CFM vent fan, 2 speeds
- Turntable size:12.4-inch turntable
- Exterior finish & lighting:Stainless steel exterior; integrated cooktop light
- Additional Feature:One-touch auto cooking
- Additional Feature:Multi-stage programming
- Additional Feature:2-speed 300 CFM fan
Midea 1.7 Cu.ft Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
You’ll love the Midea 1.7 cu.ft over-the-range microwave if you want a roomy, powerful unit that clears steam and smells fast. You’ll get 1.7 cubic feet of space and a 12.5-inch turntable that fits a large rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza. It delivers 1000 watts and 10 power levels so you can heat gently or blast leftovers quickly. The one-touch panel has 18 auto menus for popcorn, pizza, rice, defrost, and more, which makes cooking simple. Ventilation moves air at 300 CFM with adjustable fan speeds, and the bright cooktop light helps you see while you work.
- Installation type:Over-the-range
- Capacity:1.7 cu. ft.
- Power output:1000 W
- Ventilation (fan):300 CFM ventilation, adjustable fan speeds
- Turntable size:12.5-inch turntable
- Exterior finish & lighting:Stainless steel exterior; bright cooktop light
- Additional Feature:18 auto menus
- Additional Feature:Smart touch panel
- Additional Feature:Adjustable 300 CFM vent
Midea 1.2 Cu.ft Over-the-Range 1000W Microwave
Choose the Midea 1.2 cu. ft over-the-range microwave when you want a compact, powerful unit that frees up cabinet space and makes busy weeknight cooking calmer. You’ll get 1.2 cu. ft of room and 1000W of power in a slim stainless steel frame that fits over your range and keeps counters clear. The 400 CFM vent fan handles steam and odors, and the touch controls plus one-touch presets make cooking simple. Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat adjust time with steam sensing, while voice control and the SmartHome app let you start, stop, and monitor remotely with helpful notifications.
- Installation type:Over-the-range
- Capacity:1.2 cu. ft.
- Power output:1000 W
- Ventilation (fan):400 CFM vent fan
- Turntable size:(turntable size not specified) - 1.2 cu. ft. interior
- Exterior finish & lighting:Stainless steel exterior; (cooktop light implied for over-the-range)
- Additional Feature:Voice control compatible
- Additional Feature:SmartHome app integration
- Additional Feature:Sensor Cook/Reheat
Farberware 1.7 cu. ft. Over-the-Range Microwave (White)
Busy cooks who need extra counter space will love the Farberware 1.7 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave in white, because it packs powerful performance and practical features into a compact design. You’ll get 1000W cooking power and a roomy 1.7 cu. ft. interior that fits family meals without crowding your counters. The unit offers auto cook programs like veggies and potato, plus Melt and Soften choices. You can defrost by time or weight and watch progress on the LED timer. A vent fan and stovetop light help when you cook, while child lock and adjustable volume keep things safe and calm.
- Installation type:Over-the-range
- Capacity:1.7 cu. ft.
- Power output:1000 W
- Ventilation (fan):Built-in vent fan (speed(s) not specified)
- Turntable size:(turntable size not specified)
- Exterior finish & lighting:White finish; integrated stovetop light
- Additional Feature:Time & weight defrost
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Adjustable volume control
Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over-The-Range Microwave
If you want an over-the-range microwave that makes everyday cooking feel easier and more reliable, the Frigidaire 1.8 cu. ft. stainless steel model is a great pick for small families or anyone who cooks often. You’ll like the roomy 1.8 cu. ft. interior that fits a 13 x 9 baking dish and a 12.5″ turntable for large bowls and casseroles. The LED cooktop and interior lights keep things visible while you work. One-touch buttons handle popcorn, baked potatoes, and add 30 seconds, while the turntable guarantees even heating. It installs over the range and vents with two fan speeds.
- Installation type:Over-the-range
- Capacity:1.8 cu. ft.
- Power output:(not explicitly listed) - implied standard over-the-range model (typically 1000 W)
- Ventilation (fan):Range-hood ventilation, 2 fan speeds
- Turntable size:12.5-inch glass turntable
- Exterior finish & lighting:Stainless steel exterior; LED cooktop lighting
- Additional Feature:Zero-clearance 90° door
- Additional Feature:LED interior stays on
- Additional Feature:Fits 13 x 9 dish
Factors to Consider When Choosing Over The Range Microwave Ovens
When you’re picking an over the range microwave, you’ll want to think about capacity and size so it fits your cookware and the space above your stove. You’ll also check power and performance, ventilation and fan strength, and the types of controls available to make sure the unit cooks well and keeps steam and odors under control. Finally, consider installation and clearance so the microwave sits safely and looks right with your cabinets, and know that these factors all work together to give you a more reliable, stress-free cooking setup.
Capacity And Size
Start by measuring the cabinet opening and the space above your cooktop so you know the microwave will fit without surprises. Measure external height, width, and depth, then compare those numbers to the microwave’s external dimensions so installation goes smoothly. Inside, pick a capacity that matches how you cook. Sizes usually run from 1.2 to 1.8 cubic feet; larger cavities fit dinner plates, 12 to 13 inch pizzas, and casserole dishes. Check the turntable diameter too, since a 12 to 13 inch turntable lets common cookware rotate and heat evenly. Also account for clearance for venting and installation depth so the door opens fully without hitting cabinets or backsplash. If you often cook for others, choose a deeper cavity over a slim model to avoid overcrowding.
Power And Performance
Think about power as the engine of your over-the-range microwave and performance as how well that engine actually cooks your food. You’ll look at wattage first since it controls heat and speed. Aim for around 1000 watts if you want faster, more even heating, but 700 to 1100 plus exists for different budgets. Multiple power levels, usually five to ten, let you simmer or run multi stage cooking without overcooking. Interior size and turntable diameter matter for even results and fitting larger plates. Sensor cooking and presets remove guesswork by adjusting time and power automatically. If you want browning, check input power and grill or convection options because they expand capabilities and improve crisping while keeping simple microwave tasks easy.
Ventilation And Fan
You’ve already looked at power and cooking features, and now you’ll want to pay close attention to ventilation and the fan because they control kitchen air quality while you cook. Check the fan airflow rating in CFM; if you fry often, pick a higher range like 300 to 400 CFM so smoke and strong odors clear fast. Also choose multiple fan speeds so you can use low power for simmering and ramp up for intense heat. Decide between external venting and recirculation with charcoal filters, since external vents move moisture and smells outside more effectively. Listen for noise levels at typical speeds so the fan isn’t distracting. Finally, favor models with easy to reach controls and good cooktop lighting so you can adjust ventilation quickly while cooking.
Control Types Available
When you pick an over-the-range microwave, the control type will shape how you use it every day, so it pays to know the options and how they fit your cooking habits. You’ll find mechanical push-buttons that feel sturdy and click with each press. They’re simple and reliable, but they may not give precise time or power steps. Electronic membrane or touchpad controls let you program multi-stage cooking and presets with finer settings. Touchscreens offer a clean look and advanced features like sensor cook or app links, though they can be tricky with wet hands. Rotary dials make quick adjustments easy and intuitive, but they often lack detailed presets. Also check where controls sit; low or side placement can be harder to reach and read when the microwave is mounted.
Installation And Clearance
Because an over-the-range microwave sits where heat, steam, and daily traffic meet, you’ll want to plan the install carefully so it’s safe, sturdy, and easy to use. Check the required clearance above the cooktop first. Most manufacturers call for at least 30 inches for electric ranges and 30 to 36 inches for gas ranges to protect vents and surfaces. Next, verify cabinet and wall dimensions so the unit fits and the door opens without hitting adjacent cabinets. Confirm mounting support and weight capacity by anchoring to studs and using a strong lower cabinet or plate that holds the full weight plus movement. Plan duct routing for a top or rear exhaust and leave room for filters if you choose recirculation. Finally, provide a dedicated grounded 120V outlet per code for safe service access.
Lighting And Visibility
Good lighting makes cooking safer and more enjoyable, so pick an over-the-range microwave that gives you bright, well-placed light where you actually work. You want LED cooktop lighting with high lumens so pans, spices, and recipe steps are clear. Also check where the lights sit. Task-focused lights aimed at burners cut shadows better than broad overhead glow. Inside the microwave, choose a model with interior lights that stay on during cooking so you can watch food without opening the door and losing heat. Look for adjustable levels or multiple brightness settings so you can dim for gentle simmering or boost for searing. Finally, favor LED bulbs for energy savings and long life, and confirm expected lifespan to avoid future maintenance surprises.