Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
You want an above-range microwave that pulls steam away, fits your biggest baking dish, and does not rattle your kitchen. The right one sits flush, stays quiet, and makes you forget it is there until you need it. This guide covers the seven models that do that — with the exact specs, not the hype.
I am Rikta, founder of FitlyFast. I put this guide together by comparing manufacturer specs and patterns across real customer reviews. You get the real strengths and trade-offs of each pick, not marketing spin.
Whether you are replacing a failing unit or planning a new kitchen, you need an above range microwave that installs cleanly, vents effectively, and heats evenly. Here are the specs that separate a reliable workhorse from a frustrating regret.
Quick Picks
- COSMO 30 in. 1.9 cu ft Over the Range Microwave — Best Overall
- GASLAND 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave — Premium Ventilation
- BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave with Air Fryer, Convection, and Bake Modes — Multi-Function Marvel
- Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over-The-Range Microwave — Solid Value
- Midea 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave — Sleek Install
- Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave — Low Profile
- BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent, 1.7 cu. ft. — Budget Champion
How To Choose The Best Above Range Microwave
Matching the microwave to your kitchen size and cooking style is the key. The wrong size leaves a gap, hits a cabinet, or blocks the outlet. Here are the points to check first.
Your cabinet opening is the first test
Measure the width of your cabinet opening — most standard units fit a 30-inch opening, but some are narrower. Also check the depth from the wall to the front of the cabinet. A microwave that sticks out looks awkward and may hover too close to the cooktop.
Ventilation matters more than you think
An above-range microwave doubles as a range hood by pulling smoke and steam up and out. The fan power is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute — how much air it moves). A 300 CFM fan handles basic steam and light cooking odors. A 400 CFM fan is better if you sear meat or stir-fry often. Two-speed fans let you use a quiet low setting when you only need a little air movement.
Cooking power and capacity go together
Most above-range microwaves deliver 1000 watts of cooking power, which is enough for even heating. The real difference is interior capacity. A 1.7 cubic foot model can hold a medium casserole dish. A 1.9 cubic foot model fits a large baking dish or a platter. Check the turntable diameter too — a bigger turntable means larger bowls rotate without hitting the walls.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Capacity | Vent Fan | Power | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COSMO 1.9 cu ft | Sensor cooking and quiet operation | 1.9 cu ft | — | 1000W | $356.99Amazon |
| GASLAND 1.9 cu ft | Powerful ventilation and presets | 1.9 cu ft | 400 CFM | 1000W | $369.99$399.99PrimeAmazon |
| BLACK+DECKER 6-in-1 1.5 cu ft | Versatile air fry and convection | 1.5 cu ft | 300 CFM | 900W | $455.99Amazon |
| Frigidaire 1.8 cu ft | Great value and LED lighting | 1.8 cu ft | Two-speed | 1000W | $309.00$399.00Amazon |
| Midea 1.7 cu ft | Easy installation and solid basics | 1.7 cu ft | 300 CFM | 1000W | $249.99$288.99Amazon |
| Farberware 1.7 cu ft | Low profile fit under cabinets | 1.7 cu ft | Two-speed | 1000W | $269.99$299.99Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft | Budget-friendly with solid features | 1.7 cu ft | 300 CFM | 1000W | $249.99$287.99Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. COSMO 30 in. 1.9 cu ft Over the Range Microwave
$356.99as of Jul 9, 5:38 AMThe quiet cooker that takes the guesswork out of reheating with sensor detection.
You do not have to guess when food is done. The sensor reheat and cook mode detects moisture in the food and turns itself off automatically, so you avoid dried-out edges or a messy spill. You get six pre-programmed cooking options including popcorn, potato, and veggies, all controlled through a touch panel on the front.
Buyers report it is noticeably quiet while running. The white LED cooktop lights help you see your pots clearly. One owner who replaced an RV microwave said it is lighter than the old unit and fits a standard 30-inch opening with no trouble. The reversible turntable adds flexibility for odd-shaped dishes. Compared to the Midea below, the COSMO offers a larger 1.9 cu ft capacity and sensor cooking that the Midea lacks, though neither model includes convection or air-fry modes.
The catch: there is no backlighting on the control panel, which several reviewers found annoying in a dim kitchen. The persistent beep at end of each cycle cannot be silenced, so it will wake the house if you reheat late at night.
Quiet workhorse: The 1.9 cu ft capacity and sensor reheat make this the strongest all-around choice for families who cook large meals and want even reheating without checking on it.
Warning: No panel backlight and a fixed end-of-cycle beep — plan your kitchen lighting and late-night snacks accordingly.
Reach for this if: You need the most interior space possible and want automatic sensor cooking that stops when your dish is ready.
Look elsewhere if: You cook in a dim kitchen and need illuminated controls, or silence is non-negotiable.
2. GASLAND 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave
$369.99$399.99Prime priceas of Jul 9, 5:38 AMThe vent-power pick that clears smoke and steam faster than the rest.
When you sear steak or stir-fry at high heat, a 300 CFM fan may not keep up. The GASLAND jumps to a 400 CFM ventilation system with two fan speeds. That pulls smoke and odors from your cooktop more aggressively. Its 1.9 cubic foot capacity matches the COSMO, so you still get a large interior for big dishes. It includes a removable rack for multi-level cooking that the Farberware and BLACK+DECKER budget models do not offer. You also get 11 power levels and 9 one-touch preset menus for popcorn, pizza, veggies, and more, all through a touchscreen interface.
Another advantage is the two-stage cooking function. That lets you program two different power levels in one cycle — start with high power for boiling, then finish with a lower setting for simmering. This is useful for multi-step recipes. The built-in LED cooktop light keeps your range well lit. GASLAND claims its fan runs quieter than normal conversation. The 1.9 cu ft model also leads the budget-friendly BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft on capacity and vent strength, making it a noticeable step up for anyone who cooks with serious heat.
One thing to note: GASLAND does not have a long track record of customer reviews for this model. Real-world feedback is thin compared to the COSMO or Frigidaire units.
Strong ventilation: The 400 CFM fan and two-speed control make this the best choice for heavy-duty cooking that produces lots of steam and smoke.
Consider: Newer brand with less review history — check your return policy before buying.
Best for: Home cooks who often sear, fry, or boil at high heat and want a vent that keeps up.
Skip if: You prefer a brand with a long-established service track record and a deep library of user reviews.
3. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave with Air Fryer, Convection, and Bake Modes
$455.99as of Jul 9, 5:38 AMThe do-it-all appliance that replaces an air fryer and a convection oven too.
Most above-range microwaves only microwave. This BLACK+DECKER gives you six cooking modes in one unit: microwave, air fryer, convection, combi-grill, bake, and roast. You can microwave a bowl of soup, then air-fry chicken wings with less oil — no separate countertop appliance needed. The 900-watt output is slightly lower than the 1000-watt competition. The trade-off is versatility. You get sensor reheat for leftovers and a 300 CFM two-speed vent fan that handles steam and light smoke. The 1.5 cubic foot capacity and 13.6-inch turntable are on the smaller side, so it fits best in tighter cabinet spaces or kitchens where every inch counts.
Owners mention the air-fry mode makes crispy food with minimal oil and the controls are simple to navigate. One reviewer called it a great 5-in-1 oven that works well and is not too loud. Unlike the COSMO or GASLAND models, this one includes a child safety lock that is enabled by default. That is a plus if you have kids, but one owner noted it interrupts the clock function until you disable it. The door latch is firm and the build feels solid, though the 900W power means it runs a touch slower on high-heat tasks than a standard 1000W unit.
The main limitation is that 1.5 cubic feet is noticeably smaller than the 1.9 cubic foot models above. You cannot slide a 13×9 baking dish in easily. It also uses 900 watts instead of 1000 watts, so reheating takes a few extra seconds per minute.
Versatility winner: Six cooking functions in one over-the-range unit save counter space and expand what you can cook beyond just reheating.
Trade-off: Smaller capacity and lower wattage than dedicated units — you swap raw power for multi-function flexibility.
Ideal if: You want to clear countertop appliances and are happy to accept a slightly smaller interior and 900W in exchange for air-fry, convection, and bake modes.
Not for: Large-family cooks who regularly heat big casseroles or need the fastest possible heating times.
4. Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over-The-Range Microwave
$309.00$399.00as of Jul 9, 5:38 AMThe reliable mid-range pick with LED lighting that actually helps you see.
Frigidaire uses a zero-clearance door that opens 90 degrees without hitting adjacent walls or tall cabinets. That small detail makes a big difference in tight kitchens. The 1.8 cubic foot interior sits between the 1.7 and 1.9 cubic foot options, giving you a solid middle ground that fits a 13×9 baking dish. The interior LED light stays on while the microwave runs, so you can watch your food through the window without opening the door. Cooktop visibility gets a boost from the LED lighting underneath. Customers note it is bright enough to see saute pans clearly.
The microwave includes one-touch buttons for popcorn, baked potato, beverage, and veggies, plus an auto-defrost setting. It has two-speed ventilation, though Frigidaire does not publish a specific CFM number for this model. Reviewers point out installation is generally easy, especially if you are replacing an existing over-the-range unit, because it uses the same mounting system. One owner noted that precise top bolt alignment can be tricky if your cabinets are not perfectly level, so have a helper and a level ready. Another reviewer mentioned the unit arrived with two small dents on the top and door.
Compared to the Midea and Farberware, the Frigidaire offers a slightly larger 1.8 cu ft interior and LED lighting that stays on during cooking. But the inner material is plastic rather than stainless steel, which some users feel is less premium.
Smart design: The zero-clearance door and continuous interior LED lighting make everyday use more convenient than many competitors.
Downside: Plastic interior lining instead of stainless steel — a durability concern for very heavy use.
Good for: Kitchens with tight clearance on the sides of the microwave and cooks who want to watch their food while it heats.
Skip if: You strongly prefer a stainless steel interior for easier cleaning and long-term durability.
5. Midea 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave
$249.99$288.99as of Jul 9, 5:38 AMThe OEM-quality workhorse that slides into an existing bracket with no fuss.
Midea is a major original equipment manufacturer (OEM — a company that builds products for other brands). That means this unit carries proven engineering without the brand markup. It offers 18 auto-cook menus covering popcorn, pizza, defrost, rice, potato, and soften cream cheese, all through a touchscreen panel. With 1.7 cubic feet of capacity and a 12.4-inch turntable, it handles a rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza without bumping the walls. The 300 CFM vent fan has adjustable speeds to pull steam and odors from your cooktop. The LED cooktop light gives a clear view of your pots.
Shoppers say that installation is straightforward because the unit fits standard 30-inch openings and often reuses the existing wall bracket. One reviewer noted their Midea fit an RV bracket without any adjustments. It is also sturdy, with a solid door handle that feels more premium than the price suggests. The controls are intuitive, and reviewers consistently mention even heating. Compared to the Farberware below, the Midea has a sleeker look with a touchscreen instead of physical buttons and offers more auto-cook presets.
The trade-offs: buyers report the transformer hums while running — louder than the Samsung it replaced, according to one owner. The range light is also dimmer than some would like, and the end-of-cycle beep is persistent. It lacks advanced sensor cooking like the COSMO.
Proven build: Made by a top OEM, the Midea offers reliable performance and 18 presets in an easy-to-install package.
But: Transformer hum during cooking and a dim range light are common owner complaints.
Best for: Anyone replacing an old unit who wants a straightforward swap with a solid, brand-agnostic microwave that just works.
Consider another if: You are sensitive to electrical hum noises or need the brightest possible cooktop illumination.
6. Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave
$269.99$299.99as of Jul 9, 5:38 AMThe low-profile microwave that tucks neatly under shallow cabinets without crowding your cooktop.
At just 10.375 inches tall, this Farberware is a true low-profile model. It gives you extra clearance above your cooktop while still delivering 1000 watts of cooking power. The 1.7 cubic foot interior is standard for this class, fitting medium casserole dishes and weeknight meals. It includes sensor cook technology that detects when food is ready and shuts off. It also has auto-defrost with time and weight settings, a +30-second quick-start button, and melt/soften options. The two-speed vent fan and LED cooktop lights are built into the compact frame.
Buyers consistently praise the appearance and even heating. One buyer mentioned the even heat distribution, accurate melt and soften presets, and the clear LED display. Another noted it is a good fit for small spaces and runs at a low noise level. The stainless steel interior makes cleanup easier than the plastic-lined Frigidaire. Compared to the BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft below, the Farberware adds sensor cook features and a lower overall height. That helps when you have a tile backsplash or a decorative hood cover that limits space.
The downsides: several owners point out that the buttons are not illuminated, making them hard to see in a dim kitchen. The interior height is only 6.5 inches, which may limit very tall dishes. The top mounting bracket has a tricky alignment process. Some units arrive with a slight door gap that does not affect function but looks imperfect.
Space-saver: The low profile (10.375″H) is the key selling point if your upper cabinets sit unusually low or you want more clearance above the stove.
Watch for: Non-illuminated buttons, a short 6.5″ interior height, and a tricky installation alignment.
Great for: Kitchens with limited vertical space between the cooktop and upper cabinets, or if you simply prefer a less bulky look above your range.
Not for: Cooks who regularly heat tall bottles, large roasting pans, or any dish over 6.5 inches in height.
7. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent, 1.7 cu. ft.
$249.99$287.99as of Jul 9, 5:38 AMThe entry-level workhorse that covers the basics without breaking your budget.
If you need an above-range microwave that does the core job — 1000 watts, 1.7 cubic feet, vent fan, cooktop light — without extra bells and whistles, this BLACK+DECKER is a straightforward choice. It offers 10 power levels and six quick menus for popcorn, potato, beverage, melt and soften, reheat, and defrost. The 300 CFM two-speed fan handles moderate steam and odors. The integrated LED light focuses on your cooktop. Multi-stage cooking lets you program two power levels in a single cycle, which is a nice feature at this price point. The dimensions of 29.9 inches wide, 15.4 inches deep, and 16.4 inches tall mean it fits a standard 30-inch opening.
Owners mention it is easy to use with a clear display and push-button door that opens smoothly. One reviewer called it the perfect microwave after trying three other options, appreciating the size and function. Another said it is a great buy even now, praising the compact design and affordable price. The child safety lock is included, though one owner warns it resets after any power interruption — meaning a brief blackout can leave the microwave locked until you manually unlock it. Compared to the Farberware above, this BLACK+DECKER lacks sensor cook and has a non-low-profile height, but it hits the same price tier with a simpler feature set.
The biggest complaints: it is loud while running, and the heating can be slightly less powerful than a 1100-watt model. One damaging review noted that the door shell fell off after some use, and the warranty process was difficult. That single review stands out as a cautionary flag.
No-fuss value: Covers all the essentials at an entry-level price with 1000W output and multi-stage cooking.
Risks: Multiple owners describe it as loud, and the child lock auto-resets after a power outage — plus one report of a door failure and poor customer service.
Pick this if: Your budget is tight and you need a functional 1000W microwave with a vent fan that fits a standard opening.
Avoid if: Noise level is a concern for your open-concept kitchen, or you want a brand with a proven service history.
Understanding the Specs
Cubic Feet (Capacity)
This measurement tells you how much interior space the microwave has for your dishes. A 1.7 cu ft model can hold a medium casserole dish and a standard dinner plate. A 1.9 cu ft model can fit a larger 13×9 baking dish or a platter with room to spare. If you regularly cook for a family or use oversized cookware, lean toward the larger end of the range.
CFM (Vent Fan Strength)
CFM stands for cubic feet per minute — how much air the fan can move. A 300 CFM fan works well for light steam and cooking odors. A 400 CFM fan pulls smoke and heavy steam away faster, which matters if you sear, stir-fry, or boil frequently. Two-speed fans give you a quiet low setting for gentle ventilation and a high setting for heavy smoke.
Watts (Cooking Power)
Nearly all over-the-range microwaves use 1000 watts, which is enough to heat leftovers evenly and cook frozen meals according to package directions. A 900-watt model heats slightly slower than a 1000-watt model, but that difference matters most if you are in a hurry. Higher wattage does not always mean better cooking; even heat distribution is just as important.
Low Profile Height
A standard OTR microwave stands between 16 and 17 inches tall. A low-profile model like the Farberware at 10.375 inches gives you more vertical space between the microwave and your cooktop, which is helpful if your cabinets sit lower than normal or if you cook with tall stockpots. Always check your own clearance before buying, because a standard-height model may block your view of the back burners.
FAQ
Will an above-range microwave fit my 30-inch cabinet opening?
Can I install an above-range microwave myself?
Do all above-range microwaves have a built-in vent fan?
What is the difference between recirculating and externally vented?
Why does an above-range microwave have a child safety lock?
What does sensor cook or sensor reheat mean?
How long does an over-the-range microwave typically last?
Is an above-range microwave better than a countertop model?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For the majority of shoppers, the above range microwave winner is the COSMO 1.9 cu ft because it combines the most spacious interior with sensor cooking and quiet operation. If you want maximum ventilation power, grab the GASLAND 1.9 cu ft. And for a versatile kitchen upgrade that adds air fry and convection, the BLACK+DECKER 6-in-1 model is the one to beat.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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