Comparison: Best Over The Stove Microwave Shelf With Fan (Updated | Nov 24th)
That’s where over-the-stove microwave shelves with built-in fans come in—smart, space-saving solutions that do more than just hold your microwave. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one truly delivers on performance, style, and value? We’ve tested the top contenders to help you find the best fit for your kitchen, because you deserve both function and flair without the guesswork.
- Best for 300cfm vent: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
- Best for efficient vent: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
- Best for compact power: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
- Best for 6-in-1 multicooker: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer
- Best for smart touch control: Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
- Best for high airflow: 30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven
- Best for led visibility: FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity
- 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 melt sensor: GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- Best for voice-enabled slim: Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Over the Range Microwave Oven
Product Comparison: Best Over The Stove Microwave Shelf With Fan
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.
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.
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.
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection, and Bake Modes, 1.5 cu.ft., Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, EC942K6CE-SS
- Large Capacity: 1.5 cubic feet over the range microwave features a spacious interior and 13.6-inch turntable; measures 15.43″D x 29.88″W x 16.42″H.
- 6-in-1 Microwave Oven: Features six functions: microwave, air fryer, convection, combi (grill), bake, and roast for all of your culinary needs. This appliance will be your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
- Air Fry Mode: This mighty microwave cooks healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods with less oil. An easy-to-use operation will make your meal planning and cooking time seamless.
- Sensor Reheat Mode: This advanced function maintains the fresh flavor of your food–even on leftovers.
- 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.
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.
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”.
FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, Child Lock and 300 CFM
- Better cooktop visibility with LED lighting Make meal preparation and cooking simple with LED lighting that offers a clear, bright view of your cooktop.
- Interior LED Lighting LED interior microwave light stays on while your dish cooks.
- Fits-More Capacity Extra-Large microwave provides 1.8 cu. ft. of cooking space to accommodate larger cookware – even a 13″ x 9″ baking dish.
- One-Touch Cooking Options Our microwaves feature easy-to-use one-touch buttons so you can cook baked potatoes, popcorn or even add 30 seconds with the touch of a button.
- Zero-Clearance Door The microwave door opens to a 90° angle without touching any adjacent walls.
- Two Speed Ventilation Over-the-range microwave doubles as a hood offering ventilation with two fan speeds.
- Extra-Large 12-1/2″ Diameter Glass Turntable Big bowls and large casserole dishes are no problem for our extra-large glass turntable. It rotates for even 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
GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- GE USA AUTHORIZED – Includes 2 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included FULL Manufacturer Protection
- 1.9 cu. ft. capacity | Melt feature: Worry-free melting of butter, caramel, chocolate and marshmallows | Easy clean interior with steam clean | Dimensions: 16 5/16 H x 29 7/8 W x 15 9/16 D
- IN THE BOX: Recirculating Charcoal Filter Kit
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: GE 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel
- 2 Year Premium Extended Service Protection Plan
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.
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 choosing an over‑the‑range microwave with a vent fan?
Look at microwave power (watts), interior capacity (cubic feet), turntable size, and vent fan airflow measured in CFM. Higher wattage cooks food faster, while a larger capacity lets you fit bigger dishes. The vent fan’s CFM rating determines how well it removes smoke and odors, which is crucial for an open‑concept kitchen.
How does vent fan CFM affect kitchen performance and which models offer the strongest suction?
CFM (cubic feet per minute) indicates how much air the fan can move; higher CFM means quicker removal of steam, smoke, and cooking odors. Most of the Black+Decker and Midea models list a 300 CFM fan, while the ThermoMate offers up to 400 CFM for stronger ventilation. If you do a lot of stovetop cooking, choosing a 300‑400 CFM unit will keep the air clearer.
Which microwaves provide the best value for capacity versus price?
The Black+Decker 1.7 cu ft models give a solid balance of size, 1000 W power, and a 300 CFM vent at a typically lower price point than premium brands. ThermoMate’s 1.9 cu ft unit adds extra space and a 400 CFM fan, but it often costs more. For most households, a 1.7 cu ft Black+Decker or Midea MOR17BSA delivers the most kitchen bang for the buck.
Are multi‑function models like air‑fryers worth the extra cost compared to standard microwaves?
Multi‑function units, such as the Black+Decker model with air‑fry, convection, and grill modes, let you replace a countertop oven, saving counter space. However, they carry a higher price tag and may have a slightly smaller interior than a pure microwave. If you frequently want crispy, oil‑light foods, the extra cost can be justified; otherwise, a standard microwave with a good vent fan is sufficient.
How do sensor cooking and auto‑cook programs differ across the listed brands?
Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power based on moisture detection, a feature found in ThermoMate, GE, and some Midea models. Auto‑cook programs are preset menus (popcorn, pizza, defrost) that require a single button press; Black+Decker, Midea MOR17BSA, and Frigidaire all include multiple one‑touch options. Combining both gives the most convenient cooking experience, especially for beginners.
What should I consider about installation dimensions and clearance for these ovens?
Measure the width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening and compare it to each model’s external dimensions (most are around 15.4″ D × 29.9″ W × 16.4″ H). Slim models like the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ free up overhead space, while larger units may need extra clearance for the vent hood. Also verify that the door swing (90° zero‑clearance doors on Frigidaire) won’t hit adjacent cabinets.
How do the lighting options (LED vs incandescent) impact cooking convenience?
LED lighting, used by GE and Frigidaire, provides brighter, more energy‑efficient illumination and stays on while the microwave runs, making it easier to monitor food. Some Black+Decker and Midea units use traditional incandescent lights, which are dimmer and consume more power. For a well‑lit cooking area, choose a model with LED interior and cooktop lighting.
Is it better to choose a model with a larger turntable or a removable rack for cooking flexibility?
A larger turntable (13.6″–12.5″ diameter) accommodates big dishes like whole chickens, while a removable rack, as found on the ThermoMate, lets you stack items and cook multiple plates at once. If you often reheat or cook large trays, prioritize turntable size; if you need to multi‑task, a rack adds versatility. Many users find a combination of a decent‑sized turntable and an optional rack offers the most flexibility.