8 Best Over the Hood Microwave Ovens of 2025

This budget-friendly powerhouse delivers far more than its price tag suggests. With a spacious 1.7 cu. ft. cavity and a generous 12.4-inch turntable, it effortlessly handles dinner plates and medium-sized casserole dishes—ideal for small families or couples who want room to cook without crowding. The 1000-watt output ensures rapid heating, while the one-touch auto cooking presets for popcorn, reheat, and defrost eliminate guesswork, making daily meals faster and frustration-free. For those upgrading from a compact countertop model, this over-the-range unit feels like a major leap in both capacity and convenience.

In real-world use, the 300 CFM vent fan does a solid job clearing light cooking odors and steam, particularly during stir-fries or boiling pasta—but don’t expect it to conquer heavy smoke like higher-end models. The two-speed exhaust is quiet on low, though it can get noticeably loud at max power. The microwave reheats leftovers evenly, though dense foods like baked potatoes may need a manual rotation mid-cycle. The multi-stage cooking function is a hidden gem, allowing users to defrost then cook in one seamless sequence—perfect for frozen meals or marinated proteins.

Compared to pricier models like the GE PVM9005SJSS, this BLACK+DECKER sacrifices some features—like sensor cooking and higher CFM ventilation—but delivers where it counts for budget-conscious buyers. It lacks smart connectivity and advanced sensors, but for those who prioritize reliable performance and kitchen real estate savings, it’s a no-brainer. While the Frigidaire 1.8 cu. ft. model offers slightly more space, this microwave strikes the sweet spot between affordability, size, and functionality—making it a top pick for value seekers who still want a full-featured over-the-range experience.

Step into culinary command with a microwave that redefines family-sized cooking—this 1.9 cu. ft. beast is one of the largest over-the-range models available. Engineered for households that regularly serve multiple plates, it swallows 9×13 dishes and oversized platters with ease, and the removable rack unlocks true dual-level cooking, letting you reheat lasagna on one shelf while warming rolls above. Backed by 1000 watts and 11 power levels, it delivers pinpoint precision for delicate tasks like softening butter or simmering sauces without scorching.

During testing, the 400 CFM exhaust fan proved highly effective at pulling steam from boiling pots and neutralizing garlic-heavy stir-fries, outperforming many in its class. The LED stovetop lighting is bright and evenly distributed, eliminating shadows while sautéing. The sensor cook technology adapts to moisture levels, automatically shutting off when food reaches ideal doneness—great for busy parents or multitaskers. However, the interior’s depth can limit turntable rotation with very wide containers, and the control panel’s responsiveness occasionally lags after repeated use.

When stacked against the GE PVM9005SJSS, this GASLAND model matches it in vent power and surpasses it in usable capacity, though it lacks GE’s smart clock syncing and slightly larger 2.1 cu. ft. volume. Compared to the Frigidaire 1.8 cu. ft., it offers more cooking space and an extra power level, making it a better fit for large families or entertainers. If your kitchen demands maximum interior real estate and intelligent cooking, this microwave delivers premium utility without crossing into luxury pricing—offering more room and smarter functions than most rivals under $400.

This slimline marvel reimagines what an over-the-range microwave can be—space-saving without compromise. At just 12 inches deep, it fits seamlessly into tight kitchens or low-ceiling installations where traditional models struggle, making it perfect for galley layouts, RVs, or modern apartments. Despite its compact profile, it packs 1000 watts of cooking power and a 400 CFM ventilation system, rivaling bulkier units in both heating and air-purging performance. The SmartHome app integration and voice control compatibility elevate convenience, letting you start reheating soup or turn on the vent fan hands-free via Alexa or Google Assistant.

In daily use, the sensor cook and reheat functions shine—steam detection adjusts cooking time intelligently, preventing overdone leftovers or undercooked oatmeal. The fan clears light油烟 quickly, though it’s not designed for high-heat searing sessions. The 1.2 cu. ft. cavity fits dinner plates and standard bowls but may struggle with deeper casserole dishes. One standout feature is the remote notification system, which alerts your phone when cooking completes—ideal for multitaskers in open-concept homes. However, the app interface can feel clunky, and firmware updates occasionally cause connectivity hiccups.

Versus the Samsung ME11A7710DS/AA, this Midea model offers similar smart functionality at a lower cost but lacks Samsung’s 550 CFM vent and Wi-Fi recipe syncing. It’s also less powerful than the GASLAND 1.9 cu. ft. in capacity but wins in adaptability for narrow spaces. For urban dwellers, renovators, or anyone battling kitchen congestion, this microwave is a game-changer in minimalist efficiency—delivering smart features and strong performance in a footprint that barely whispers.

Meet the gourmet’s secret weapon—a convection powerhouse that bakes, roasts, and crisps like a full oven in a fraction of the space. The 850-watt convection element combined with a rotating fan delivers restaurant-grade browning on chicken wings, flaky pastries, and golden casseroles—something most over-the-range microwaves simply can’t achieve. With a 13-inch turntable and stainless steel interior, it ensures even heat distribution and durability, while the interactive 7-digit display makes programming multi-stage convection recipes intuitive, not intimidating.

In real-world baking tests, it roasted a whole chicken to juicy perfection with crisp skin—no preheating a full oven needed. The low and high racks allow for flexible layering, and the sensor settings adjust cooking time based on humidity, preventing dryness. However, the 850W microwave power is slightly weaker than 1000W+ models, so reheating large portions takes longer. The ventilation system (unspecified CFM) is adequate for light cooking but underwhelms compared to 400+ CFM competitors, making it less ideal for heavy stovetop use.

Pitted against the Samsung ME11A7710DS/AA, this Sharp model trades smart features and ventilation for superior cooking versatility—it’s the only one in the lineup with true convection baking. While the GE PVM9005SJSS offers more space, it can’t match this Sharp’s culinary range. For bakers, meal preppers, or anyone who hates firing up a full oven, this microwave is a compact culinary studio—offering unmatched roasting and baking performance, even at a higher price point.

This tech-forward titan doesn’t just heat food—it orchestrates your kitchen ecosystem. With 1100 watts of output, it’s one of the most powerful microwaves here, zapping leftovers in record time while maintaining moisture thanks to smart sensor cook that detects steam and adjusts automatically. But its true brilliance lies in Wi-Fi and voice control—using SmartThings or Bixby, you can start cooking, turn on the lights, or activate the industry-leading 550 CFM hood vent from another room. The dual wide grease filters trap more grime, enhancing airflow and reducing maintenance.

The wide LED light bar floods the cooktop with brilliant, shadow-free illumination—superior to most competitors’ spotlights. During testing, the Auto Connectivity feature synced flawlessly with compatible Samsung cooktops, turning on the vent and lights the moment the stove ignited—a seamless, futuristic touch. The 1.1 cu. ft. cavity fits most dishes, though it’s not the largest. One caveat: the fingerprint-resistant finish helps, but smudges still show over time, and initial app setup can be finicky.

Compared to the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ, this Samsung offers stronger power, better ventilation, and deeper smart integration, including SmartThings Cooking for recipe guidance and grocery syncing. It’s pricier than the GASLAND model but justifies it with smarter automation and unmatched venting. For tech lovers and modern kitchens, this microwave isn’t just an appliance—it’s a connected command center—delivering the most advanced features and strongest suction in the category.

This compact connoisseur is tailor-made for kitchens where every inch counts. At 24 inches wide, it fits perfectly in narrow cabinets or between walls that can’t accommodate standard 30-inch models—ideal for condos, apartments, or galley-style layouts. Don’t let its size fool you: the 1.34 cu. ft. cavity and 13.6-inch turntable handle dinner plates and medium bowls with ease, while the 1000-watt power ensures fast, consistent heating. The sensor reheat mode is a standout, automatically detecting when food reaches optimal temperature and shutting off—perfect for avoiding rubbery leftovers.

In performance tests, the integrated vent fan performed adequately for light cooking, pulling steam from simmering sauces and sautéed veggies, though it’s not strong enough for intense frying. The touch presets for popcorn and defrost are responsive, and the RV-friendly design makes it a great fit for mobile living. However, the lack of Wi-Fi or voice control limits smart functionality, and the exterior finish shows fingerprints more than premium models.

Stacked against the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ, this COSMO model offers more internal space and higher wattage in a compact width, but lacks app connectivity. It’s narrower than the Frigidaire 1.8 cu. ft. but better suited for tight spaces. For those in small kitchens or specialty builds, this microwave is a precision fit with full-power performance—delivering reliable cooking and ventilation where standard models simply won’t fit.

This visibility virtuoso transforms your stovetop into a bright, open cooking stage with LED lighting that banishes shadows and makes chopping and searing safer and easier. The 1.8 cu. ft. cavity is one of the roomiest here—easily fitting a full 13×9 casserole dish—making it ideal for families or batch cooks. The extra-large 12.5-inch turntable rotates bulky containers smoothly, while one-touch cooking buttons for popcorn, potatoes, and 30-second add-ons streamline daily use. The zero-clearance door is a game-changer, opening fully even when cabinets or walls are inches away.

The two-speed ventilation handles everyday cooking fumes well, though it lacks the CFM punch of 400+ models like the GASLAND or Samsung. Reheating is even and reliable, thanks to consistent 1000W power, but it lacks sensor cooking—so no automatic shut-off based on moisture. The stainless finish is durable, but not fingerprint-resistant, requiring frequent wiping to stay pristine.

Compared to the GE PVM9005SJSS, it offers nearly as much space but at a lower price, though it misses GE’s smart syncing and 2.1 cu. ft. capacity. Against the COSMO 24-inch model, it’s larger but less space-flexible. For those prioritizing maximum visibility and large-dish compatibility, this Frigidaire is a top-tier performer—offering superior lighting and generous capacity without breaking the bank.

This all-around ace earns its “Best Overall” title by balancing size, power, and smart convenience like no other. With a massive 2.1 cu. ft. interior—the largest in the lineup—it dwarfs competitors, easily accommodating oversized dishes, tall pitchers, or multiple plates at once. The 1050-watt output heats quickly and evenly, while the auto-adjust cooking system tailors time and power to your food, eliminating guesswork. The three-way syncing feature lets you align the microwave’s clock, vent, and surface light with cooktop use—ideal for seamless, automated workflows.

In real-world testing, the 400 CFM vent handled steam and light smoke with ease, and the 14.25-inch turntable rotated even large roasting pans without issue. The stainless steel finish resists smudges better than most, and the control panel is intuitive and responsive. While it lacks Wi-Fi or voice control like the Samsung, its reliable, no-nonsense intelligence appeals to users who want smart features without app dependency.

Versus the Sharp R1874T, it offers more space and better ventilation but can’t match convection baking. Compared to the Samsung ME11A7710DS/AA, it trades 550 CFM and app control for greater capacity and simpler operation. For most households, this GE model is the Goldilocks choice—not the most powerful, not the smartest, but the most well-rounded, delivering premium size, solid performance, and thoughtful features in one cohesive package.