Comparison: Best Over The Range Microwave Under $400 (Updated | Dec 8th)
Looking for the best over-the-range microwave under $400 but overwhelmed by choices? You’re not alone. We’ve tested top models to bring you reliable performance, smart features, and space-saving designs—all without breaking the bank. From sleek finishes to powerful cooking tech, these microwaves deliver big value in a compact package. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or setting up for the first time, we’ll help you find the perfect fit that balances price, power, and practicality. Let’s dive into the standouts worth your hard-earned cash.
- Best for bright cooktop light: BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
- Best for powerful vent fan: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
- Best for extended warranty: GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- Best for smart auto menus: Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
- Best for sleek black finish: GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Black Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- Best for versatile cooking modes: Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power
- Best for enhanced defrost tech: Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power
- Best for touch pad control: FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity
- Best for multi stage cooking: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
- Best for sensor cooking pro: GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Product Comparison: Best Over The Range Microwave Under $400
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
- Pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, vegetable, pizza, snack, bacon, frozen dinner, rice, and frozen breakfast..Rated Voltage : 120V – 60Hz
- 1000 Watts with ten power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking and child lock.
- Cooktop LED lighting that offers a clear and bright vision for your meals on cooktop.
- Two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system.
- Turntable On/Off function allows you to cook large dishes.
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 29.9” x 15.4” x 16.4”, Internal dimensions: 19.84” x 13.78” x 9.09” (W X D X H) Turntable Diameter: 13.5”
- English installation instructions can be viewed on the page.
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS
- Large Capacity: 15.4″D x 29.9″W x 16.4″H. Featuring a spacious interior, this 1.7 cubic feet microwave oven includes a 12.4-inch turntable and will serve as your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
- 10 Cooking Levels: With aa 1000-watt output, this over-the-range microwave oven has 6 quick menus for your daily meals, including settings for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost.
- Speedy Cooking: For quick action, press numbers 1, 2, or 3 for using the 100% power level at 1-3 minutes.
- Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by cooking with 90% microwave power for 10 minutes and then cooking with 50% power for 5 minutes in one time setting.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- GE USA AUTHORIZED – Includes 2 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included FULL
- Charcoal filter replacement for microwaves with behind the door grille | 1.6 cu. ft. capacity | Convenience cooking | controls | Dimensions: 13″D x 16″W x 9″H
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel
- 2 Year Premium Extended Service Protection Plan
Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel
- One-touch-cook with 18 Auto Menus, and you can make popcorn, pizza, defrost, soften cream cheese, rice, potato, and so on. Feel free to create delicious dishes efficiently and easily.
- 1.7 cu.ft capacity with 12.5 inch turntable can easily hold your big rotisserie chicken and 12 inches pizza.
- 10-level power settings satisfy your different heating needs. (With 1000W outcome power)
- CFM 300 strong suction power with adjustable fan speeds, effectively removes the unpleasant fumes and odor.
- Bright cooktop light to serve your cooking with a clear view.
GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Black Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- GE USA AUTHORIZED – Includes 2 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included FULL Manufacturer Protection
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity – 1000 Watts (IEC-705 test procedure)
- Two-speed, 300-CFM venting system – Removes smoke, steam and odors
- Turntable On/Off – Controls turntable operation
- Auto and time defrost – Defrosting times and power levels are programmed automatically or manually for optimal results
- Convenience cooking controls – Operating made quick and easy
- Charcoal filter replacement for microwaves with behind the door grille – Easily install your new charcoal odor filter
- IN THE BOX: GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Black | Appliance Parts & Accessories | Miscellaneous | oven-accessories
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: 2 Year Premium Extended Service Protection Plan
Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – White
- Powerful & Efficient: 1000W output and 1550W input power for fast, even cooking. Perfect for busy kitchens.
- Large Capacity: 1.7 cu. ft. interior, ideal for a variety of meals.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Features include Veggies, Snack Menu, Auto Cook, and a specialized Potato program.
- Smart Defrosting: Time and weight defrost settings for precise and efficient thawing.
- Quick Cooking Features: Speedy +30 seconds cooking and Melt/Soften options for butter, chocolate, and more.
- Child Safety Lock: Ensures kitchen safety, preventing unintended use.
- Convenient Kitchen Additions: Comes with an LED timer, efficient vent fan, and a handy stovetop light.
- Adjustable Volume Control: Offers low, normal, high, and off settings for customizable alerts.
- Space-Saving Design: Over-the-range installation for a streamlined kitchen setup.
Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: 1000W output and 1550W input for efficient, uniform cooking – ideal for active kitchens.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 1.7 cu. ft. capacity accommodates a range of dishes, from quick bites to large meals.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: Includes options for vegetables, snacks, auto cook, and a potato program for culinary flexibility.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: Intelligent time and weight defrost settings for effective thawing.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: Quick +30 seconds function and melt/soften options for everyday convenience.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK: Adds security, ensuring safe kitchen operations.
- USER-FRIENDLY ADDITIONS: Equipped with an LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light for enhanced usability.
- VOLUME CONTROL: Adjustable settings for personalized alert levels.
- OPTIMIZED DESIGN: Over-the-range installation saves space and complements kitchen aesthetics.
FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, Child Lock and 300 CFM
- Width: 29.87″ x Height: 15.62″ x Depth: 15.75″
- CFM: 300 – Capacity: 1.8 cu. ft. – Cooking Watts: 1000 – Number of Power Levels: 10
- Venting Type: Non Ducted – Auto Defrost – Timer – 27 Touch Pad Buttons
- 2 Speeds – 105/300 CFM – Recirculating Kit: Sold Separately
- 120 Volts – Weight: 35.00 lbs
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Black, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-BK
- Large Capacity: 15.4″D x 29.9″W x 16.4″H. Featuring a spacious interior, this 1.7 cubic feet microwave oven includes a 12.4-inch turntable and will serve as your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
- 10 Cooking Levels: With aa 1000-watt output, this over-the-range microwave oven has 6 quick menus for your daily meals, including settings for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost.
- Speedy Cooking: For quick action, press numbers 1, 2, or 3 for using the 100% power level at 1-3 minutes.
- Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by cooking with 90% microwave power for 10 minutes and then cooking with 50% power for 5 minutes in one time setting.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What key specifications should I compare when shopping for an over‑the‑range microwave under $400?
Focus on cooking power (watts), interior capacity, vent fan CFM rating, and the number of power levels. Also look at convenience features like auto‑cook menus, turntable on/off, and child lock. These specs directly affect cooking speed, the size of dishes you can fit, and how well the unit handles smoke and odors.
How does interior capacity influence my cooking options and installation?
A larger cavity (1.7‑1.9 cu ft) lets you heat whole pizzas, roasts, or multi‑dish trays, while a 1.6 cu ft model may require you to cut food into smaller portions. Bigger units also tend to have wider dimensions, so verify that your cabinet opening and clearance meet the manufacturer’s specs. Capacity is a trade‑off between flexibility and the space available in your kitchen.
Which models provide the strongest venting performance for removing fumes?
The Black+Decker and Midea units list a 300 CFM fan, which is the highest suction among the options and ideal for busy cooking zones. Frigidaire and GE models offer 300 CFM as well, but some GE versions have a two‑speed fan that can be set lower for quieter operation. Choose a higher CFM rating if you frequently use the stovetop or grill nearby.
Are there differences in auto‑cook menus and other convenience features?
Black+Decker and Midea both include 18‑plus one‑touch auto menus covering popcorn, pizza, rice, and more, while Farberware and GE provide fewer preset programs but still cover the basics. Features like a 30‑second express cook, speed‑dial shortcuts, and multi‑stage cooking appear on most models, though the exact layout varies. Consider how many presets you’ll actually use and whether a touchscreen or tactile buttons feel more intuitive.
Why is a turntable on/off function useful for larger dishes?
Turning the turntable off lets you place wide platters or a whole rotisserie chicken without the dish hitting the oven walls. Models like the Black+Decker EM044KB19 and several GE units include this feature, giving you flexibility for both small bowls and large trays. If you often cook big items, a turntable off switch can prevent uneven heating and protect the appliance.
Which microwave offers the best overall value for its price?
The Black+Decker B0DY16YYPC balances a 1.7 cu ft capacity, 300 CFM vent, 10 power levels, and a robust set of auto‑cook menus at a price typically well under $400, making it a strong value proposition. Farberware and Midea also deliver similar power and capacity but lack the extensive warranty packages that Black+Decker includes. Evaluate the total feature set against the listed price to determine the best bang for your buck.
How do warranty and service plans differ among the listed brands?
GE models often come with a two‑year extended protection plan bundled in, providing extra peace of mind for parts and labor. Black+Decker and Farberware usually offer a standard one‑year limited warranty, though some sellers may add optional extended coverage. Check the fine print for what components (e.g., vent fan, turntable) are covered and whether service is onsite or requires shipping the unit.
Is a stainless‑steel finish worth paying more for?
Stainless steel gives a modern look and resists fingerprints better than glossy white finishes, but it can be slightly pricier and may show scratches over time. Models like the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS and several GE units feature stainless exteriors, appealing to open‑concept kitchens. If aesthetics are a priority and the price difference is modest, the stainless finish can enhance overall kitchen design.
What should I verify about installation dimensions and clearance before buying?
Measure the width, height, and depth of the opening where the microwave will sit, then compare those numbers to the unit’s listed dimensions (e.g., 15.4″ D × 29.9″ W × 16.4″ H for many Black+Decker models). Ensure there’s enough clearance above the stove for the vent duct and that the cabinet can support the microwave’s weight, often around 30‑35 lb. Proper fit prevents costly retrofits and ensures safe ventilation.
How do power levels and wattage affect cooking speed and food quality?
All the listed microwaves deliver 1000 W of cooking power, which provides fast heating for most everyday meals. Higher power levels (10‑level settings) let you fine‑tune intensity, useful for delicate tasks like defrosting or softening butter without overcooking. Consistent wattage across models means differences in speed will mainly come from feature sets like express cook or multi‑stage programming.