Comparison: Best Built In Stove And Microwave (Updated | Nov 24th)
If you’re upgrading your kitchen, choosing between the best built-in stove and microwave can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Both appliances bring serious style and functionality, but they serve very different purposes. We’ve tested top models, compared features, and weighed real-world performance to help you decide which one fits your cooking habits and space. Whether you’re a gourmet chef or a quick-meal master, this side-by-side breakdown will guide you to the smartest, most satisfying choice for your home. Let’s find your perfect kitchen match.
- Best for spacious sensor cooking: Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven
- Best for powerful ventilation pro: 30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven
- Best for versatile auto cook: Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power
- Best for child-safe convenience: Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power
- Best for smart slim design: Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Over the Range Microwave Oven
- Best for elegant white capacity: ThermoMate 30″ White Over the Range Microwave with 1.9 Cu. Ft. Capacity
- Best for premium service bundle: GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- Best for multi-stage cooking: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
- Best for easy-clean vent: ThermoMate 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave Oven with 1.7 Cu. Ft. Capacity
- Best for 18 auto menus: Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Product Comparison: Best Built In Stove And Microwave
Frigidaire Gallery Series GMBS3068BF 2.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Oven, Trim Kit Sold Separately
- built-in trim kit available in 27″ (GMTK2768AF) and 30″ (GMTK3068AF) Sold Seperatly
- Provides 2.2 cu. ft. of cooking space, accommodating large dishes and multiple items at once for convenient and efficient cooking
- Sensors in the microwave determine and set the appropriate power levels and cook time to ensure great tasting food
- Width: 24 7/16 Inch Depth: 19 5/8 Inch Height: 13 5/8 Inch Cutout Width: 24 3/4 Inch Cutout Depth: 20 Inch Cutout Height: 16 3/4 Inch
30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven, ThermoMate 1.9 Cu. Ft. Capacity Microwave Over the Stove with One Touch, 1000 Cooking Watts, 400 CFM, 11 Power Levels, Sensor Cooking, LED Lighting, Stainless Steel
- 1000 Watts&11 Power Levels – An over-the-range microwave comes with 1000 watts of cooking power and 11 different power levels, which allows you to adjust the cooking power from 0% to 100%. Equipped with a removable glass turntable, it rotate 360° to provide even heat.
- One-Touch Cooking Options – The microwave oven features one-touch cooking buttons allow you to easily cook your favorite foods. And it has 9 auto-cook programs: popcorn, potato, veggies, pizza, snack menu, melt/soften, auto reheat, auto cook and auto defrost.
- 1.9 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity – The microwave over the range offers a large capacity of 1.9 Cu. Ft. to meet the cooking needs for any family. Equipped with a removable rack which allows you to microwave several items at once, saving your time.
- 2-Speed Powerful Ventilation – The over-the-range microwave comes with two speed ventilation, typically in the form of exhaust fans, enjoy up to a 400 CFM air flow that help to remove smoke, steam, and odors generated during cooking. The built-in LED lighting feature, which provides extra illumination over the stove, making it easier to monitor your cooking and add an extra layer of ambient light to the kitchen.
- Sensor Cooking – The microwave oven automatically adjusts the power level and cooking time to easily cook a variety of foods, so that you get optimally heated results every time.
- Dimensions – 29.92” x 15.28” x 16.42” (W*D*H), Internal dimensions: 30” x 13” x 16.5” (W*D*H); Turntable Diameter: 13.5”.
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.
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.
Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Over the Range Microwave Oven, 1.2 Cu.ft Slim Microwaves with Sensor Cook, Stainless Steel Microwaves, 1000W heating power with 400CMF vent fan
- 【Slim for more space】The slim body frees up your overhead space for your cabinet.
- 【Voice control & Smarthome compatible】Provide more conveniences in cooking with the SmartHome APP.
- 【Notifying and remotely control】You can easily control cooking and ventilation, and lets you know when it finishes.
- 【Sensor Cook & Sensor Reheat: For the best taste】The smart steam sensing technology helps to find the optimal cooking time and power without any guesswork.
- 【Auto cook menu】Feel free to create delicious dishes with the touch of a button.
ThermoMate 30″ White Over the Range Microwave with 1.9 Cu. Ft. Capacity, Over the Stove with One Touch, 1000 Cooking Watts, 400 CFM and Sensor Cooking, 11 Power Levels, LED Lighting
- 1000 Watts&11 Power Levels – An over-the-range microwave comes with 1000 watts of cooking power and 11 different power levels, which allows you to adjust the cooking power from 0% to 100%. Equipped with a removable glass turntable, it rotate 360° to provide even heat.
- One-Touch Cooking Options – The microwave oven features one-touch cooking buttons allow you to easily cook your favorite foods. And it has 9 auto-cook programs: popcorn, potato, veggies, pizza, snack menu, melt/soften, auto reheat, auto cook and auto defrost.
- 1.9 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity – The microwave over the range offers a large capacity of 1.9 Cu. Ft. to meet the cooking needs for any family. Equipped with a removable rack which allows you to microwave several items at once, saving your time.
- 2-Speed Powerful Ventilation – The over-the-range microwave comes with two speed ventilation, typically in the form of exhaust fans, enjoy up to a 400 CFM air flow that help to remove smoke, steam, and odors generated during cooking. The built-in LED lighting feature, which provides extra illumination over the stove, making it easier to monitor your cooking and add an extra layer of ambient light to the kitchen.
- Dimensions (W x D x H) – 29.92” x 15.28” x 16.42”, Internal dimensions: 30” x 13” x 16.5” (W*D*H); Turntable Diameter: 13.5”.
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
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, White, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-WH
- 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.
ThermoMate 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave Oven with 1.7 Cu. Ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, One-Touch Cooking Options, 300 CFM, LED Lighting, White
- 1.7 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity – The microwave over the range offers a large capacity of 1.7 cu. ft., with a size of 29.92×15×16.42 inch, with four auto-cook programs: reheat, popcorn, baked potato and beverage, which automatically adjusts the power and cooking time to cook a wide variety of foods with ease.
- 1000 Watts&10 Power Levels – An over-the-range microwave comes with 1000 watts of cooking power and a 10 different power levels, which allows you to adjust the cooking power from 0% to 100%. Equipped with a removable glass turntable, it rotate 360° to provide even heat.
- One-Touch Cooking Options – The microwave oven features one-touch cooking buttons allow you to easily cook your favorite foods. It is able to add up 30 seconds when you use the quick cook feature. And it comes with a safety lock that prevents children from accidental use or access.
- Two Speed Powerful Ventilation – The over-the-range microwave comes with two speed ventilation, typically in the form of exhaust fans, enjoy up to a 300 CFM air flow that help to remove smoke, steam, and odors generated during cooking. The built-in LED lighting feature, which provides extra illumination over the stove, making it easier to monitor your cooking and add an extra layer of ambient light to the kitchen.
- Easy to Clean – The over the range microwave is scratch resistance and longevity. Easy to wipe, quickly and easily wipes away and cleans spills in the microwave, giving you more time to enjoy life.
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.
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 are the key differences between built‑in and over‑the‑range microwaves?
Built‑in microwaves, like the Frigidaire Gallery Series, integrate seamlessly into cabinetry and often require a separate trim kit, giving a sleek look. Over‑the‑range models combine cooking with ventilation, providing a fan and light above the stove, which saves cabinet space but adds bulk. Choose built‑in for design continuity and over‑the‑range for added exhaust power.
How important is microwave capacity when selecting a unit for a family kitchen?
Capacity determines the size of dishes you can fit; models range from 1.2 cu ft (Midea slim) up to 2.2 cu ft (Frigidaire), which can accommodate large casseroles and multiple plates. Larger interiors are useful for batch cooking, while smaller units save space in compact kitchens. Balance capacity with your typical meal size to avoid overpaying for unused space.
Do sensor cooking and auto‑cook programs add real value?
Sensors automatically adjust power and time, reducing guesswork and delivering consistent results, as seen in ThermoMate and Farberware models. Auto‑cook menus for popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and more speed up everyday tasks and are especially handy for busy households. These features justify a modest price premium for convenience.
What should I look for in the ventilation performance of an over‑the‑range microwave?
Ventilation is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute); higher numbers like 400 CFM on ThermoMate provide stronger smoke and steam removal. Look for dual‑speed fans to adjust airflow based on cooking intensity. Adequate ventilation protects your range and keeps the kitchen odor‑free.
Are smart or voice‑controlled microwaves worth the extra cost?
Smart models, such as Midea’s voice‑controlled unit, let you start, stop, and monitor cooking from an app or smart speaker, adding convenience for tech‑savvy users. They also often include notifications when cooking finishes, reducing the chance of overcooking. If you already use a smart home ecosystem, the integration can be a worthwhile upgrade.
How does the presence of a turntable versus a flat‑bed affect cooking?
Turntables rotate food for even heating, common in most listed models, while flat‑bed designs allow larger, irregularly shaped dishes to sit flat. If you frequently cook big items like rotisserie chickens, a flat‑bed or removable rack (found on some ThermoMate units) may be more practical. Consider your typical cookware when deciding.
What safety features should I prioritize?
Look for child‑lock functions, as offered by ThermoMate’s safety lock, to prevent accidental activation. Auto‑shutoff and sensor‑based cooking also reduce the risk of overheating. These features add peace of mind, especially in homes with children.
Is a higher wattage always better for microwave performance?
Higher wattage, like the 1000 W found in many models, cooks food faster and more evenly, but it also consumes more electricity. For most household needs, 1000 W provides a good balance of speed and efficiency. If you only reheat small portions, a lower‑wattage unit may suffice and save energy.