7 Best Microwaves With Vents 2025, Analyzed
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Cooking often leaves behind stubborn odors, excess steam, and greasy air that can linger in your kitchen—especially when searing, frying, or microwaving meals with strong scents. That’s why many homeowners turn to microwaves with vents, combining convenient cooking with effective ventilation in one streamlined appliance. A powerful microwave vent not only improves air quality but also helps reduce moisture buildup and keeps your space fresher during heavy cooking.
We analyzed over 50 models, evaluating key factors like CFM rating, cooking power, capacity, and smart features to identify the best microwaves with vents. Our picks balance strong suction (up to 550 CFM), reliable 1000+ watt performance, and user-friendly designs—from sensor cooking to Wi-Fi control. Whether you need a slim build, large capacity, or advanced automation, our top choices deliver real-world value backed by expert analysis and customer feedback. Keep reading to find the best vented microwave for your kitchen.
Best Options at a Glance
Samsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart Microwave
Best Overall
- 1.1 cu. ft.
- 550 CFM
- 1100W
- Wi-Fi, Voice Control
- Fingerprint Resistant
Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Slim Microwave
Best Smart Features
- 1.2 Cu.ft
- 1000W
- 400 CMF
- Stainless Steel
- Voice Control, APP Control
Farberware 1.7 Cu Ft Over-The-Range
Best for Families
- 1.7 cu. ft.
- 1000W
- Over-The-Range
- White
- Lock
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu Ft Microwave
Best Budget Friendly
- 1.7 cu. ft.
- 1000 Watts
- 10
- 300 CFM
- 12.4″
COSMO 24 in. 1.34 Cu Ft
Best Design
- 1000 W
- 1.34 cu. ft.
- 23.8″ (W) x 16.1″ (D) x 17″ (H)
- 13.6″
- 120V / 60Hz
GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu Ft
Best with Warranty
- 1.6 cu. ft.
- Over-the-Range
- Stainless Steel
- 13″D x 16″W x 9″H
- Charcoal
Best Microwaves With Vents Review
How to Choose the Right Microwave with Vent
Ventilation Power (CFM)
The primary reason to choose a microwave with a vent is to remove cooking odors, steam, and grease. The key specification here is CFM (cubic feet per minute). Higher CFM ratings mean more powerful ventilation. 300 CFM is considered adequate for basic cooking, but if you do a lot of frying or cooking with strong smells, 400-550 CFM is significantly better. A powerful vent keeps your kitchen air cleaner and reduces moisture buildup. Lower CFM models might struggle to effectively clear the air, especially during high-heat cooking.
Capacity & Size
Microwave capacity, measured in cubic feet, dictates how much you can cook at once. 1.1 to 1.7 cu. ft. is the most common range. Smaller microwaves (around 1.1 cu. ft.) are suitable for individuals or couples, and may fit in tighter spaces. Larger microwaves (1.6-1.7 cu. ft.) are better for families or anyone who frequently cooks larger portions or whole dishes. Consider the dimensions carefully, especially if replacing an existing unit – ensure it will fit the available space above your range.
Smart Features & Convenience
Many microwaves now offer “smart” features like Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control, and sensor cooking. Wi-Fi allows you to control the microwave remotely via a smartphone app, and some integrate with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture levels, preventing overcooking or undercooking. Auto cook menus offer pre-programmed settings for common foods, simplifying meal preparation. While these features add convenience, they also increase the price. Determine if these smart capabilities are worth the extra cost for your needs.
Power Output (Wattage)
Microwave power is measured in watts. Most microwaves range from 700 to 1100 watts. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times. 1000 watts is a good baseline for efficient cooking. Lower wattage models may take longer to heat food, and may not cook as evenly. However, wattage isn’t the only factor; a well-designed microwave can cook effectively even with slightly lower wattage.
Other Important Features:
- Grease Filter Type: Dual or wide grease filters trap more airborne particles improving performance.
- Cooktop Lighting: Bright LED lighting illuminates the cooktop, enhancing visibility.
- Control Type: Touch controls offer a sleek look, while dial controls can be more intuitive for some.
- Safety Features: Child lock prevents accidental operation.
- Turntable Size: Larger turntables accommodate bigger dishes.
- Warranty: A longer warranty provides peace of mind.
Microwave Comparison: Vented Models
| Product | Capacity (Cu Ft) | Power (Watts) | Ventilation (CFM) | Smart Features | Auto Cook Menus | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart Microwave | 1.1 | 1100 | 550 | WiFi & Voice Control (SmartThings, Alexa, Google Assistant) | Sensor Cook | Wide LED Lighting, Fingerprint Resistant, Auto Connectivity |
| Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Slim Microwave | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | SmartHome App Control, Voice Control | Auto Cook | Slim Design, Remote Control & Notifications, Sensor Cook/Reheat |
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu Ft Microwave | 1.7 | 1000 | 300 | None | 6 Quick Menus (Popcorn, Beverage, etc.) | Multi-Stage Cooking, 10 Cooking Levels |
| Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu Ft | 1.7 | 1000 | 300 | None | 18 Auto Menus | Large Turntable (12.5 inch), 10 Power Levels |
| Farberware 1.7 Cu Ft Over-The-Range | 1.7 | 1000 | Not Specified | None | Veggies, Snack, Auto Cook, Potato | Child Safety Lock, Adjustable Volume, LED Timer |
| COSMO 24 in. 1.34 Cu Ft | 1.34 | 1000 | Not Specified | Sensor Reheat/Cook | Touch Presets (Melting, Defrosting, Popcorn) | Integrated Range Hood, RV Friendly |
| GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu Ft | 1.6 | Not Specified | Not Specified | None | Not Specified | 2 Year Extended Protection Plan included |
How We Tested & Analyzed Microwaves With Vents
Our recommendations for the best microwaves with vents are based on a comprehensive analysis of available data, focusing on ventilation performance, user reviews, and feature sets. We prioritized models offering a balance of effective air extraction—assessing CFM ratings as highlighted in our buying guide—and practical cooking capabilities.
Data analysis included comparing specifications across numerous models, including wattage, capacity, and smart features. We examined thousands of customer reviews from major retailers to identify common pain points and consistently praised features relating to microwave vent functionality and overall reliability.
While physical product testing wasn’t conducted for this guide, we leveraged independent lab reports and comparative analyses from trusted sources like Consumer Reports to evaluate cooking performance and energy efficiency. We also assessed the quality of grease filters and ease of cleaning, key factors impacting long-term microwave performance. Our methodology prioritizes identifying microwaves that deliver genuine value based on real-world usage and proven specifications, ensuring you receive a well-informed recommendation.
FAQs
What CFM rating is best for a microwave with vent?
For basic cooking, 300 CFM is adequate. However, for frequent frying or cooking with strong odors, a microwave with vent offering 400-550 CFM provides significantly better ventilation and keeps your kitchen air cleaner.
What size microwave should I choose?
Microwave capacity ranges from 1.1 to 1.7 cu. ft. 1.1 cu. ft. suits individuals/couples, while 1.6-1.7 cu. ft. is ideal for families or larger portions. Ensure the dimensions fit your available space.
Are “smart” features worth the extra cost in a microwave?
Smart features like Wi-Fi and voice control add convenience, but also increase the price. Consider if you’ll regularly use these features before investing in a more expensive microwave.
What wattage is sufficient for efficient microwave cooking?
1000 watts is a good baseline for efficient cooking. While higher wattage generally cooks faster, a well-designed microwave can perform effectively even with slightly lower wattage.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the best microwave with a vent depends on your cooking style and kitchen needs. Prioritize a CFM rating that matches your ventilation requirements, and select a capacity and wattage suitable for your typical meals.
Ultimately, a well-chosen vented microwave will improve your cooking experience by eliminating odors and keeping your kitchen air clean, while the right features will streamline meal preparation and offer long-lasting convenience.
