Cooking in a small kitchen can be frustrating when bulky appliances take up precious counterspace or steam from boiling pots lingers without proper ventilation. A microwave over the range gives you a practical solution by combining cooking power with built-in ventilation. It also frees up counters while helping keep your kitchen air clear.
But what makes these microwaves so popular in modern kitchens? Find out in our guide below. We’ll explore the advantages of choosing an over the range microwave instead of a countertop or conventional oven, and talk about the features that make them a smart addition to any kitchen. We’ve also reviewed models from trusted brands that deliver performance, style, and reliability you can count on.
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Shop MicrowavesBenefits of Microwaves Over the Range
An over the range microwave with an exhaust fan helps streamline kitchen tasks by combining cooking and ventilation in a single appliance. These units save counter space while effectively removing steam, smoke, and odors during cooking, which traditional microwaves cannot handle alone. Many homeowners prefer over the range microwaves because they simplify meal prep and provide multiple power settings
Additionally, these types of microwaves can include features like sensor cooking and LED lighting to illuminate the cooktop. Integrating these functions eliminates the need for a separate vent hood to give you a cleaner, more efficient kitchen workflow. This makes them a practical choice for busy households that need both performance and functionality.
5 Features to Look for in Over the Range Microwaves
Choosing the right over the range microwave model is about features that enhance performance, usability, and efficiency. Here are five key aspects to consider when shopping for the best over the range microwave.
✅ Powerful Ventilation
An effective microwave over the range can act as a vent hood to remove steam, smoke, and cooking odors. Venting strength is measured in CFMs, with higher numbers indicating stronger airflow. Some models reach up to 500 CFM Motor Class to provide professional-level ventilation performance that keeps your kitchen air clear and fresh.
→ Learn more: Are Professional or Commercial Ranges Overrated?
✅ LED and Halogen Lighting
Integrated lighting brightens your stovetop for better visibility while cooking. Adjustable high and low settings on select models allow you to create the right ambiance or simply illuminate the cooktop. LED and halogen lights improve safety and precision when sautéing or simmering on your cooktop below.
✅ Flexible Cooking Functions
Modern over-the-range microwaves do more than reheat. Features like Air Fry Mode and Multifunction Oven modes allow grilling, baking, roasting, and steaming. Sensor Steam cycles automatically adjust for optimal results, which makes your microwave a versatile cooking tool that reduces reliance on a separate oven.
✅ High Wattage Cooking
Wattage determines cooking speed and consistency. Most over-the-range microwaves range from 600 to 1,200 watts, but some microwave over the range models have 1,000 watts or more to handle tasks like defrosting, reheating, or even crisping, steaming, and air frying with ease. Higher wattage ensures even results across a variety of foods.
→ Learn more: Should You Choose a Rangetop or a Cooktop?
✅ Sleek Design and Size Options
These microwaves come in various dimensions, from compact 24-inch units to standard 30-inch models, with capacities around 1.7 to 2.0 cubic feet. Some brands have low-profile and flush-mounted options, as well as finishes like stainless steel and black stainless steel for a tailored, integrated look while preserving kitchen space.
Featured Over the Range Microwaves
Looking for the perfect over the range microwave to add to your kitchen? Here are a handful of our popular models to check out:
GE® Series 1.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave
Shop this GE® Over the Range Microwave
A busy weeknight is easier when an appliance steps in with real support, and that’s exactly what GE delivers with this microwave. The 1.9 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts give you enough room and power to reheat, cook, or defrost without uneven results, helped by sensor-based adjustments that fine-tune time and heat. Its four-speed 400-CFM venting fan system keeps steam and smoke under control, while the steam-clean interior and indicator-light charcoal filter make upkeep straightforward. The melt setting, turntable on/off control, and clean stainless steel finish round out a microwave that’s practical, polished, and built for everyday kitchens.
Featured GE #JVM7195SKSS Review: “I have really enjoyed my microwave and recommend this model. It's also very nice looking in my kitchen. I'm still learning all the advantages but so far everything I used it for has been top notch.” -Chc17
Samsung Bespoke 2.1 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave
Shop this Samsung Bespoke Over the Range Microwave
A kitchen becomes more intuitive when your appliances anticipate what you need, and Samsung leans into that idea with smart features that actually lighten the load. Auto Connectivity and Wi-Fi controls let you manage ventilation, lighting, and cook times through the SmartThings™ App, and voice control adds another layer of hands-free ease in this over the range microwave. The 2.1 cu. ft. interior, 1000-watt power, and Sensor Cook settings handle everything from quick reheats to larger meals with consistent results. Its Bespoke design, auto-dimming touch controls, and scratch-resistant ceramic enamel interior give it a modern feel.
Featured Samsung Bespoke #ME21DG6700SR Review: “I love this microwave. Its sleek design integrates seamlessly with my kitchen design while still giving that functionality you expect from a microwave. It is very large inside and outside cleans easily.” -Luv2shop
Frigidaire Gallery® 1.9 Cu. Ft. Smudge-Proof® Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave
Shop this Frigidaire Gallery® Over the Range Microwave
This Frigidaire over-the-range microwave has a 1.9 cu. ft. interior, Sensor Cook, and Quick Start settings handle everyday meals smoothly, while the Push-to-Open PureAir® filter door and indicator light make routine maintenance far less tedious. Its three-speed, 400-CFM fan manages steam and odors effectively, and the Zero-Clearance door is a real advantage in tighter layouts. Smudge-Proof® stainless steel, bright LED lighting, and the Effortless Clean™ interior round out a microwave built for busy households that want style and practicality in one place.
Featured Frigidaire #GMOS1962AF Review: “Really enjoy using my new microwave. It is a perfect size, with many features that I use daily. The 10 and 30 second is great. Baked potatoes come out fast and done nicely. The no fingerprint free is great.” -janbar
Café™ 1.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave
Shop this Café™ Over the Range Microwave
Cafe makes busy weeknights manageable with this microwave over the range model. Its air fry mode, fast cook convection feature, and sensor controls help you make everyday meals faster while keeping results consistent. The steam cook button is a standout for anyone who wants vegetables or rice ready with minimal steps, and Chef Connect syncs lights, vents, and clocks with your range. Stainless steel finishes, bright LED lighting, and a steam-clean interior round out a microwave that feels polished, capable, and reassuringly practical for busy homes.
Featured Café #CVM517P2RS1 Review: “Love my GE Cafe Microwave. It is also a convection oven & airfryer! It's a good size to cook or air fry. The controls are easy to operate. It's nice & quiet! Great power options.” -Sherry Raye
LG Studio 1.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over the Range Microwave
Shop this LG Studio Over the Range Microwave
This LG over the range microwave features Air Fry and convection cooking, letting you crisp, bake, or roast without extra appliances or preheating. Humidity-sensing technology and 11 Auto Cook settings ensure food is cooked evenly and precisely, while ThinQ’s Scan-to-Cook makes frozen meals nearly hands-free. Sleek SmoothTouch™ glass controls, a print-proof stainless steel finish, and a 1.7 cu. ft. interior, complete a microwave that gives you more space on your counters and a place to store food once cooked.
Featured LG #MHES1738F Review: “I bought this microwave in an LG Studio bundle and absolutely love all the features. Last night I steamed artichokes! The cheerful ditty as oppose to a buzz when the timer goes off makes me happy! I now have all white with rose gold handles that classes up my kitchen significantly.” -LG63
Whirlpool® 1.1 Cu. Ft. Black Over The Range Microwave
Shop this Whirlpool® Over the Range Microwave
A busy kitchen benefits from appliances that have multiple cooking methods, and Whirlpool delivers with this model. The 1.1 cu. ft. over the range microwave gives you Air Fry, Roast, and Grill modes, so you can crisp, caramelize, and sear foods without using the oven. Hidden venting, adjustable LED cooktop lighting, and accessory tracks enhance usability and keep your kitchen clean and bright.
Featured Whirlpool #WMMF7330RB Review: “I got this Air Fry Over microwave installed into my new construction home and I can honestly say it’s one of my favorite features about our new house. It has such a sleek and elegant design. I could not be more happier with my new appliance.” -Quoi23
KitchenAid® 2.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave
Shop this KitchenAid® Over the Range Microwave
KitchenAid brings professional-inspired style to the home kitchen with this over-the-range microwave. Its 2.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1000-watt power make cooking, reheating, and defrosting quick and efficient, and the sensor functions ensure evenly cooked results without guesswork. The Sensor Steam/Simmer cycle allows precise steaming and simmering, and the stoppable turntable accommodates larger or oddly shaped dishes. It pairs well with other appliances like wall ovens.
Featured KitchenAid #KMHS120ESS Review: “Bought this microwave so everything matched. It is the quietest microwave we ever owned. Nice features and does no protrude out from the cabinets. Heats water up fast. Had to replace the surface light bulb which is an incandescent bulb. Exhaust fan is also whisper quiet and sometimes using low speed you cannot hear it and may leave it on. Has a quality feel to it. Worth the extra money.” -eddieTV
→ Learn more: Your Guide to the Best Wall Ovens for Every Budget
Over the Range Microwave FAQs
Installing an over-the-range microwave starts with securing the mounting bracket to the wall studs. You need to make sure it lines up with the template that comes with the appliance. After that, the unit is lifted onto the bracket and held in place while you attach the top bolts through the cabinet above to lock it in securely. The final step is connecting the venting and power, checking that the ductwork is sealed properly, and that the microwave sits level before tightening everything down.
Replacing a microwave over the range starts with researching the features you need, such as ventilation strength, wattage, and cooking functions, then comparing brands that provide those exact capabilities. Once you narrow down your options, measure your existing cutout and mounting points so you know the new model will fit the space without extra modifications. The final step is visiting a local appliance shop, where a specialist can confirm compatibility with your setup and help you choose a model that aligns with your kitchen layout and daily cooking needs.
GE stands out as the best brand that makes over-the-range microwaves. Many GE units deliver around 1000 watts, which is enough for quick reheating, defrosting, and everyday cooking. GE over the range microwave models have vent fans that handle smoke and odors, which keep kitchen air comfortable.
You can find a wide selection of over the range microwaves at BlvdHome, where models come in a variety of sizes, finishes, and designs suited to modern kitchens. Our inventory includes units from trusted brands such as GE, Café, KitchenAid, and more, so you have more options whether you prioritize power, ventilation, or sleek appearance. Visit our store or browse our website so you can compare features side-by-side and pick the model that fits your kitchen layout and cooking habits.
Why Trust BlvdHome?
The roots of this family business began as early as the pioneer settlement of Southern Utah. One descendant of those 1861 pioneers was Lester Wittwer. In 1928, he started a trucking business with other family members, delivering homegrown fruits and vegetables to many outlying areas. The story of BlvdHome began in 1974 when Lester’s son Tony decided to venture off into the furniture world - with two full-time employees and a small showroom of only 8,000 square feet. Today, BlvdHome has 5 retail locations with over 160,000 sq. ft. of showroom space, located in St. George, Utah, Hurricane, Utah, Cedar City, Utah, Mesquite, Nevada, and a new Las Vegas location. With over 230 amazing team members, BlvdHome continues to deliver on a commitment to customer service that started over 90 years ago.
Shop Microwaves at BlvdHome
At BlvdHome, we provide quality name-brand appliances, furniture, and mattresses for great prices. Shop online or visit us today at one of our locations in Utah or Nevada. In the meantime, browse our website to shop BlvdHome Bargain Barn and check out our flooring selections to increase your home value. More available than ever, our experts at BlvdHome are always happy to help you choose an over the range microwave, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
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