The best over-the-range microwave depends on your cooking space, desired capacity, and ventilation needs. The GE is suited to buyers prioritizing a 300-CFM vent; the BLACK+DECKER 1.7-cubic-foot model offers handy quick-cook settings; and the 1.9-cubic-foot BLACK+DECKER and GASLAND models provide more interior room with 400-CFM ventilation. A second 1.7-cubic-foot option is listed for buyers seeking a straightforward black microwave, though its feature details are limited.
| Product | Capacity | Cooking Power | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| GE Over-the-Range Microwave | 1.6 cu. ft. | 1000W | 300-CFM, 2-speed ventilation |
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. | 1.7 cu. ft. | 1000W | Quick menus and express cooking |
| BLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu. Ft. | 1.9 cu. ft. | 1000W | Auto menus and child lock |
| GASLAND 1.9 Cu. Ft. | 1.9 cu. ft. | 1000W | 400-CFM fan and 11 power levels |
| Black 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave | 1.7 cu. ft. | 1000W | Space-saving over-range design |
GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
This GE microwave combines cooking and ventilation above the range. It has a 1.6-cubic-foot interior, 1000 watts of cooking power, and a two-speed ventilation system rated at 300 CFM. The listed dimensions are 16.12 inches high, 29.87 inches wide, and 15.56 inches deep.
Best for: Buyers who want a named ventilation airflow rating and a space-saving microwave-and-hood combination. It was selected for its clear dimensions and 300-CFM, two-speed fan. Limitation: Its 1.6-cubic-foot capacity is smaller than the 1.9-cubic-foot options here, and the listed airflow is below those models’ 400 CFM.
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This 1000-watt model has a 1.7-cubic-foot interior and a 12.4-inch turntable. Its 10 cooking levels and six quick menus include settings for popcorn, beverages, melt or soften, reheating, and defrosting. Pressing 1, 2, or 3 starts express cooking at full power for one, two, or three minutes.
Best for: Households that regularly use preset menus and want a larger capacity than the GE model. The express-cooking controls are a practical reason to choose it for short heating tasks. Limitation: The supplied product details do not specify ventilation airflow, so check the vent information if cooktop smoke removal is a priority.
BLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This larger-capacity BLACK+DECKER is rated at 1000 watts and offers 10 power settings. Its pre-programmed menus cover foods such as popcorn, potatoes, vegetables, pizza, bacon, rice, and frozen meals. Other listed features include 30-second express cooking, a clock, kitchen timer, child lock, and cooktop LED lighting.
Best for: Buyers who want a 1.9-cubic-foot interior and a broad selection of food-specific presets. The child lock and cooktop light add useful features beyond basic reheating. Limitation: The provided features do not state the exhaust fan’s airflow rating or speed settings.
GASLAND 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
The GASLAND model pairs 1.9 cubic feet of capacity with 1000 watts of cooking power and 11 adjustable power levels. It includes two-stage cooking, nine one-touch menus, and a +30-second control. For ventilation, it lists a two-speed, 400-CFM exhaust fan and LED cooktop lighting.
Best for: Buyers who want a large interior, flexible power settings, and a specified 400-CFM fan in one appliance. Its two-stage cooking can automatically change power levels during a cycle. Limitation: This unit is listed in black; compare its finish with nearby appliances before choosing it.
Black 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
This black over-the-range microwave has a 1.7-cubic-foot interior and 1000 watts of cooking power. Its listed design mounts above the range to free counter space and combines microwave cooking with ventilation.
Best for: Buyers looking for a basic, space-saving model with the stated capacity and wattage. It was selected as an option for shoppers who prefer a black finish and do not need a detailed list of preset functions. Limitation: The provided information does not specify airflow, fan controls, dimensions, or cooking menus, so verify those details before purchase.
Buying Guide: How to Choose an Over-the-Range Microwave
How much capacity do you need?
Compare interior capacity with the dishes you use most often. The models here range from 1.6 to 1.9 cubic feet. A larger capacity can better accommodate larger dishes, but confirm the microwave’s full dimensions and the available space above your range before selecting a model.
Does ventilation matter?
Check the stated CFM rating if you want to compare exhaust airflow. In this group, the GE lists 300 CFM, while the GASLAND and one BLACK+DECKER model list 400 CFM. Fan speed and installation requirements also matter. The supplied details do not give an airflow rating for every product, so consult the full specifications when ventilation is a deciding factor.
Which controls and cooking features are useful?
Preset menus can simplify common tasks such as reheating, defrosting, or cooking popcorn. Consider whether you would use features such as express cooking, adjustable power levels, two-stage cooking, a kitchen timer, or a child lock. More listed controls may be useful, but prioritize functions that suit your everyday routine.
What should you check before installation?
Measure the intended opening and compare it with the product’s listed height, width, and depth. Confirm the mounting and ventilation setup against the manufacturer’s instructions and your kitchen’s requirements. Also compare finish, cooktop lighting, and fan details with your needs; do not assume these specifications are the same across models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does over-the-range microwave mean?
It is a microwave designed to mount above a range or cooktop. These models combine microwave cooking with a ventilation function to help save counter space.
Which microwave in this list has the highest stated ventilation rating?
The GASLAND 1.9-cubic-foot model and the BLACK+DECKER 1.9-cubic-foot model are listed with 400-CFM ventilation.
Which option has the largest listed capacity?
The BLACK+DECKER and GASLAND models each list a 1.9-cubic-foot capacity.
Are all the listed microwaves 1000 watts?
Yes. Each product’s supplied specifications list 1000 watts of cooking power.
Should I measure before buying an over-the-range microwave?
Yes. Compare the unit’s height, width, and depth with your available space, and check installation instructions and ventilation requirements before purchasing.