Best Above Oven Microwave: Smart Buying Guide

The best above oven microwave blends strong heating, useful ventilation, simple controls, and a dependable fit.

A small kitchen can feel crowded fast. A counter microwave takes up work space, while a weak range hood leaves cooking smells behind. An above oven microwave solves both problems by moving the appliance over your range. I reviewed these five models for power, size, ventilation, controls, cleaning, and daily value. I also looked closely at the listed features and common buyer concerns. This guide can help you choose a model that fits your kitchen, cooking style, and budget.

See the differences between my top picks at a glance.

GE 30-Inch Over-the-Range Microwave

The GE 30-inch over-the-range microwave is a balanced choice for many standard kitchens. It offers 1.6 cubic feet of interior space and 1,000 watts of cooking power. That size works well for dinner plates, bowls, mugs, and most common microwave containers. The stainless steel finish also gives it a familiar look beside many ranges.

I like this model for shoppers who want a proven, no-nonsense appliance from a well-known brand. Its over-the-range format saves counter space and adds a hood function above the cooktop. The 30-inch width suits many common range layouts, but you still need to measure your cabinet opening before you buy. Installation may need two people or a professional, since over-the-range microwaves are heavy and mount above the range.

Pros:

• Useful 1.6-cubic-foot cooking space
• Strong 1,000-watt heating power
• 30-inch format suits many standard kitchens
• Stainless steel finish looks clean and familiar
• Combines microwave cooking with range ventilation
• Good fit for routine reheating and cooking

Cons:

• Requires careful measurement before installation
• Installation can be harder than a countertop model
• Interior space is smaller than the 1.9-cubic-foot option

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Buyer feedback for this type of GE over-the-range microwave often focuses on its useful size, familiar controls, and clean stainless appearance. Many owners like moving the microwave off the counter and using one appliance for both cooking and ventilation. Buyers also tend to value the 1,000-watt output for normal reheating and meal preparation.

Common concerns relate to installation, noise, and long-term fit rather than basic cooking. Some shoppers find the unit heavy to mount or note that the fan sound is noticeable at higher settings. As with any above-range appliance, buyers stress the need to check the cabinet depth, power outlet, mounting area, and vent setup before ordering.

My Recommendation

I recommend the GE for anyone who wants a balanced above oven microwave with a standard 30-inch layout. It is a practical choice for families, renters with approved installation, and homeowners replacing an older over-the-range unit. Confirm the exact installation instructions and measurements first. I rate it 4.4 out of 5.

Category	Rating
Cooking Power	4.5/5
Interior Space	4.3/5
Ventilation Use	4.2/5
Kitchen Fit	4.5/5
Value for Money	4.4/5
Overall Rating	4.4/5

BLACK+DECKER 1.7-Cubic-Foot Microwave

This BLACK+DECKER model gives you a roomy 1.7-cubic-foot interior with 1,000 watts of cooking power. The black finish works well in kitchens with black appliances or dark range surfaces. It is made for shoppers who want an over-the-range design without choosing a stainless steel exterior. The added space can make it easier to heat larger plates and wider bowls.

In daily use, the main appeal is simple function. You can move the microwave above the range and keep your counter clear for food prep. The size sits between the smaller GE option and the larger 1.9-cubic-foot model. I would consider it a strong match for households that want more room but do not need the largest possible cavity.

Pros:

• Roomy 1.7-cubic-foot interior
• 1,000 watts supports quick everyday heating
• Black finish hides some cooking marks well
• Frees valuable counter space
• Works well for plates, bowls, and family portions
• Good middle ground between size and kitchen footprint

Cons:

• Black surfaces may show dust or fingerprints
• Users must confirm the vent and cabinet setup
• Over-the-range installation takes more planning than countertop use

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Customer comments commonly praise the larger cavity, black appearance, and useful cooking power. Buyers who replace a small countertop microwave often appreciate the extra room and the cleaner layout created above the range. Some also like having a single appliance that handles microwave work while supporting the range hood area.

The most common complaints with this class of product involve installation details, control learning, and fan noise. A few shoppers may expect a plug-in setup and then discover that mounting requires more work. Buyers also point out that a dark finish needs regular wiping to keep it looking neat. These points do not reduce its basic value, but they matter during planning.

My Recommendation

This BLACK+DECKER model is worth considering if you want a black above oven microwave with a useful 1.7-cubic-foot cavity. It offers a sensible mix of room and power for normal family meals. I would choose it over a smaller model when interior space matters more than a stainless finish. My rating is 4.2 out of 5.

Category	Rating
Cooking Power	4.4/5
Interior Space	4.5/5
Appearance	4.2/5
Ease of Daily Use	4.1/5
Value for Money	4.2/5
Overall Rating	4.2/5

Midea 1.7-Cubic-Foot Stainless Microwave

The Midea over-the-range microwave combines a 1.7-cubic-foot cavity with 1,000 watts of power. Its stainless steel finish gives the appliance a modern look that can blend with other steel kitchen products. The interior size suits everyday cooking, reheating, and defrosting. It also places the microwave above the range, which helps preserve useful counter space.

I see this model as a good middle-size option for people who want a current-looking kitchen without choosing the largest unit. It should handle most plates and bowls used for standard meals. Still, appearance should not be the only buying factor. Measure the installation area, review the vent direction, and confirm that the electrical setup matches the product instructions before purchase.

Pros:

• Useful 1.7-cubic-foot capacity
• 1,000 watts for standard microwave cooking
• Stainless steel exterior suits many modern kitchens
• Clears counter space with an over-the-range layout
• Good size for routine family meals
• Balanced choice for shoppers who want room without a very large body

Cons:

• Stainless surfaces need regular cleaning
• Exact mounting and vent needs require careful checking
• May not satisfy shoppers who want the largest cooking cavity

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Amazon buyers commonly mention the stainless appearance, roomy interior, and useful cooking performance when discussing this kind of Midea microwave. Many shoppers choose it as a practical replacement for an older over-the-range appliance. The combination of counter space savings and standard 1,000-watt output appeals to people who want a steady daily appliance rather than a specialty model.

Some buyer concerns center on installation, the learning curve for controls, and the normal sound of a built-in fan. A few shoppers may also find that stainless steel shows smudges more than expected. These comments point to setup and upkeep issues, not a reason to ignore the model. I would pay close attention to the installation guide and return policy.

My Recommendation

The Midea is a solid choice for shoppers who want a stainless above oven microwave with a roomy mid-size cavity. It offers the core features most homes need and has a clean look. I recommend it for replacement projects where the existing space matches its dimensions. My overall rating is 4.3 out of 5.

Category	Rating
Cooking Power	4.4/5
Interior Space	4.5/5
Design	4.4/5
Installation Flexibility	4.0/5
Overall Value	4.3/5
Overall Rating	4.3/5

BLACK+DECKER 1.7-Cubic-Foot White Microwave

This 1.7-cubic-foot BLACK+DECKER model offers the same useful capacity and 1,000-watt output as the black version in this guide. Its lighter finish can suit kitchens with white, cream, or mixed-color cabinets. The over-the-range layout removes the microwave from the worktop. That small change can make meal prep easier in a compact kitchen.

The roomy cavity should cover most normal cooking needs, from heating leftovers to warming a large dinner plate. I would look at this model when color matters as much as core function. A light exterior can brighten a kitchen, but it may show splashes and food marks quickly. Regular wiping will help keep the front looking fresh.

Pros:

• Roomy 1.7-cubic-foot cooking cavity
• 1,000 watts for common reheating tasks
• Light finish can fit bright kitchen designs
• Moves the microwave off the counter
• Suitable for many family-size plates and bowls
• Useful alternative to black or stainless appliances

Cons:

• Light surfaces can show food marks
• Installation requires accurate measurements
• Not the largest option for very large dishes

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Buyer discussions often highlight the appliance’s capacity, clean appearance, and space-saving design. Shoppers who have white kitchen appliances may like this version because it does not create a dark or overly metallic focal point. Many buyers also appreciate getting a standard 1,000-watt microwave above the range instead of using a countertop unit.

As with the other models, installation is a frequent topic. Some buyers may need help lifting and securing the unit, especially when the cabinet and vent layout needs adjustment. Light finishes can also need more frequent cleaning. I treat those points as normal ownership factors and would not buy until the mounting instructions fit the kitchen.

My Recommendation

I recommend this model to shoppers who need a white or light-looking above oven microwave with practical mid-size capacity. It is a good fit for everyday use when the installation space matches the unit. Choose it for its color and useful cavity, not for advanced features that are not listed. I rate it 4.1 out of 5.

Category	Rating
Cooking Power	4.4/5
Capacity	4.5/5
Finish Practicality	4.0/5
Counter Space Savings	4.4/5
Value	4.1/5
Overall Rating	4.1/5

BLACK+DECKER 1.9-Cubic-Foot Microwave

This is the largest model in my comparison. It provides 1.9 cubic feet of interior space, 1,000 watts of cooking power, and a listed 400 CFM ventilation rating. The larger cavity can help when you heat wide plates, large bowls, or several items at once. The stronger listed airflow also makes it appealing to cooks who want more ventilation above the range.

The extra size comes with a key trade-off: you need more room and a careful installation plan. A large above oven microwave can feel heavy and may require more clearance than a smaller unit. I would choose this model for a kitchen that has enough space and for a household that will use the larger cavity. If you mostly warm mugs and small plates, the added size may not offer much value.

Pros:

• Largest 1.9-cubic-foot capacity in this comparison
• 1,000 watts for standard cooking and reheating
• Listed 400 CFM ventilation rating
• Better suited to wide plates and larger dishes
• Frees counter space while covering microwave needs
• Good option for busy cooks who use the range often

Cons:

• Needs more installation space than smaller models
• May be heavier and harder to mount
• Larger size may be unnecessary for light microwave use

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Buyers who choose a 1.9-cubic-foot model often focus on the roomy interior and ventilation strength. People with larger families may value the ability to fit bigger dishes without turning or rearranging them. The over-the-range setup also helps clear a counter that would otherwise hold a large countertop appliance.

Common concerns include the appliance’s size, installation work, and fan sound. More airflow can also mean a more noticeable operating sound at higher settings. Some buyers may find the controls or setup different from an older microwave. I recommend reading the full installation information and checking the cabinet and range area before placing an order.

My Recommendation

This is my pick for shoppers who want the most interior space and the strongest listed ventilation in this group. It is worth buying when you cook often and have a suitable 30-inch-style installation area. It is less appealing for small kitchens or light use. My rating is 4.5 out of 5.

Category	Rating
Cooking Power	4.4/5
Interior Capacity	4.8/5
Ventilation	4.7/5
Installation Practicality	3.9/5
Value for Larger Households	4.5/5
Overall Rating	4.5/5

How to Choose the Best Above Oven Microwave

Choosing the best above oven microwave takes more than comparing wattage. The unit must fit the kitchen, clear the range, connect to power, and vent in a way that suits the home. I suggest checking the product page and installation guide before you focus on appearance. A model that looks perfect may still fail if the cabinet width or vent path does not match.

1. Measure the Range and Cabinet Area

Start with width, height, depth, and clearance. Measure the space above the range, not just the old microwave. Check the distance from the cooktop to the bottom of the cabinet or microwave opening. Also check whether the door can open without hitting a wall, trim piece, or nearby cabinet.

Most over-the-range models use a common range width, but small differences still matter. Look at the manufacturer’s installation instructions for mounting height and cabinet requirements. Do not rely only on the product title. If your kitchen has a low cabinet, deep shelf, or unusual backsplash, ask an installer to review the space.

Remember the weight. A countertop microwave can sit on a strong surface. An above oven microwave hangs from a mounting system. Many installations need two people, and some homes need electrical or vent changes. A professional can reduce the risk of damage and can confirm that the appliance sits level.

2. Match Capacity, Power, and Ventilation to Your Cooking

Capacity tells you how much room sits inside the unit. The 1.6-cubic-foot GE model works for normal plates and bowls. The 1.7-cubic-foot models offer a little more room. The 1.9-cubic-foot BLACK+DECKER model gives you the most space in this group. Bigger is not always better, since a larger body may need more room above the range.

All five models listed here provide 1,000 watts of cooking power. That level works well for common microwave tasks. Still, cooking time can vary by food, container, starting temperature, and portion size. Follow the instructions on packaged food and stir food when needed. A turntable, even heating, and simple time controls can matter more than a small power difference.

Ventilation deserves close attention. A range hood or microwave fan helps move steam, smoke, and cooking odors away from the cooktop. The 1.9-cubic-foot BLACK+DECKER model lists 400 CFM, which makes it the most appealing option here for buyers who place high value on airflow. Check whether your kitchen uses external venting or recirculation. The installation method can change how well the fan works.

3. Compare Controls, Cleaning, Finish, and Long-Term Value

Look for controls that you can read and use without guesswork. One-touch buttons can help with common foods, while a clear timer helps with basic reheating. A bright display may be useful in a dark kitchen. If several people use the microwave, simple controls can reduce mistakes.

Cleaning also affects daily value. Food splashes build up fast above a range. A smooth door and easy-to-wipe front can save time. Stainless steel often matches other appliances, but it may show fingerprints. Black surfaces can look sharp but may show dust. White surfaces can brighten the kitchen but may reveal food marks. Choose the finish you will keep clean.

Finally, compare the full cost. Include the microwave, delivery, installation, vent work, and possible removal of the old appliance. A lower price may not be a better deal if the unit does not fit or requires costly changes. Check the warranty, return rules, replacement parts, and seller support. These details help separate the best above oven microwave from a model that only looks good in a listing.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

For most kitchens, I recommend the GE 30-inch model as the best above oven microwave for balanced size, power, and daily value. Choose the 1.9-cubic-foot BLACK+DECKER if you need more room and 400 CFM ventilation.

Measure first, confirm the vent setup, and plan safe installation. The right above oven microwave can save counter space and make everyday cooking easier.

FAQs Of best above oven microwave

What is the best above oven microwave for most kitchens?

The GE 30-inch model is the best all-around choice for many kitchens. It offers 1.6 cubic feet of space, 1,000 watts, and a familiar 30-inch format.

Is a 1.7-cubic-foot microwave large enough for a family?

Yes, a 1.7-cubic-foot microwave can suit many families. It usually fits standard dinner plates, bowls, and common cooking containers.

Which model has the strongest listed ventilation?

The BLACK+DECKER 1.9-cubic-foot model lists 400 CFM. It is the strongest ventilation choice among the models compared here.

Do I need professional installation for an above oven microwave?

Professional installation is often wise because the appliance must mount securely above the range. An installer can also check power, clearance, and vent requirements.

How do I know if an above oven microwave will fit?

Measure the opening width, height, depth, cooktop clearance, and nearby cabinet space. Then compare those measurements with the model’s official installation guide.