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Buying guide

The Best Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens

We compared six over-the-range microwave ovens on owner ratings, specs, and price. The BLACK+DECKER model excels for its balance of features and cost.

Updated

The bottom line

The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven is our top pick for its combination of features, performance, and price. It has pre-programmed auto menus, 1000W power, and a 400-CFM venting fan, all for $229. The closest alternative is the GE Over-the-Range Microwave, which is slightly cheaper at $201.2 but has a lower CFM rating. For those on a budget, the GE model is a good choice, offering trusted performance and a powerful ventilation system at a lower price point.

Top pick
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave OvenBLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven $229.00

Best balance of features and price

The BLACK+DECKER model has pre-programmed auto menus, 1000W power, and a 400-CFM venting fan for $229. Owners rate it 8.8/10 from 12383 ratings. Skip it if you need a larger capacity or higher CFM rating.

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Budget pick
GE Over-the-Range MicrowaveGE Over-the-Range Microwave $201.20

Best budget option

The GE model has a space-saving design, trusted performance, and a powerful 2-speed ventilation system for $201.2. Owners rate it 8/10 from 1473 ratings. Skip it if you need more power or additional features.

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The field, ranked

  1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven Best balance of features and price 9.0/10 $229.00 Amazon
  2. GE Over-the-Range Microwave Best budget option 8.0/10 $201.20 Amazon
  3. Midea Over the Range Microwave Oven Good value with one-touch cooking 8.0/10 $288.99 Amazon
  4. Stellar Over the Range Microwave, Vent Fan, Stainless Design with some durability issues 7.0/10 $339.99 Amazon
  5. TOSHIBA Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Quiet operation with intelligent cooking features 7.0/10 $319.99 Amazon
  6. 30 Inch Over the Range Microwave Oven Large capacity with basic features 6.0/10 $369.99 Amazon

Where the differences show up in daily use

The BLACK+DECKER model's pre-programmed auto menus and 400-CFM venting fan are effective in daily use. Owners frequently mention the convenience of the auto menus and the effectiveness of the venting fan in removing odors and steam. The GE model, while cheaper, has a lower CFM rating and fewer features, which may impact its performance in a busy kitchen.

What owners complain about after buying

Owners of the Stellar model have reported issues with the exhaust adapter being cheap and some users have reported dents on arrival. These issues have not been reported for the other models, indicating a potential quality control issue with the Stellar model.

How this was put together

This guide is based on owner ratings, specs, and prices of six over-the-range microwave ovens. We did not test any products hands-on. The evidence is thinnest on the Toshiba and Stellar models, which have fewer owner ratings and less detailed specs.