The best over-the-range microwaves of 2024

We live in the age of the air fryer, but a solid over-the-range microwave can still prove useful for just about any level of cook. While microwaves have gotten better looking and easier to use over the years, the underlying technology hasn’t changed all that much. But, in recent years, even professional chefs have again started acknowledging just how handy a tool a solid microwave can be, especially if they leave space for prep work. The models on this list free up precious countertops for your other kitchen gadgets. But they don’t sacrifice performance or features. Between venting into a hood and resting at eye level, the best over-the-range microwaves will spoil you with their simplicity and space savings.

How we chose the best over-the-range microwaves

Like so many other kitchen appliances, you’ll find a wide range of models on the market. Generally, you’ll want to ensure the model you choose fits your culinary needs and budgetary restrictions. It’s easy to lust after the high-end models, but they may have you paying for features you’ll never even use in the first place.

This list of microwaves considers numerous factors, such as overall customer ratings, affordability, and availability. After all, what’s the point in recommending a microwave that isn’t sold in stores anymore? Some brands you may recognize as reliable in reputation, some you may not be familiar with but are long-time trusted kitchen appliance brands.

The best over-the-range microwaves: Reviews & Choice

We look at three specifications when buying an over-the-range microwave: wattage, capacity, and external size. Does it heat up fast? Is it big enough on the inside? And exactly how big is it? Answering those questions kicks off your decision tree, sprinkling in some additional features like handle type, color, and digital features.

Best overall: GE JNM3163DJBB

See It

Why it made the cut: This reliable model offers a ton of useful features in an attractive design that would make Jack Donaghy proud.

Specs

• Capacity: 1.6 cubic ft.
• Wattage: 1000W
• Size (inches): 16.7h x 30w x 15d
• Popcorn button: Yes 

Pros

• Large capacity
• Built-in venting system
• Affordable

Cons

The GE JNM3163DJBB is exactly what you’d expect in a modern microwave, which is why it’s at the top of this list. For most people, a microwave is a utility device that serves the simple purpose of reheating food. With simple digital controls, including an add-30-seconds button, a moderate 1.6 cubic feet of cooking capacity, and no useless novelty features to drive up the price, this is your typical family microwave.

It has a two-speed 300-cfm built-in ventilation system that can get a little loud at times, depending on whether you’re running the fan or not. Its 1000-watts of cooking power delivers quicker performance than a smaller microwave, so it might take some trial and error to get those Hot Pockets right above frozen-in-the-middle but below stuffed-with-hot-lava. 

The GE JNM3163DJBB comes in black, white, and brushed stainless steel to match your current appliance color scheme. There are also some presets, and you can switch the turntable off and on. Overall, the GE JNM3163DJBB meets our expectations of what a microwave should be and how it should perform.

Best budget: Amana AMV2307PFS

See It

Why it made the cut: Often on sale, this microwave is one of the cheapest yet just as powerful options on the market.

Specs

• Capacity: 1.6 cubic ft.
• Wattage: 1000W
• Size (inches): 17h x 30w x 15d
• Popcorn button: Yes

Pros

• Push button latch
• Charcoal filters
• Powerful vent

Cons

• No sensor cooking
• Taller than most microwaves

Coming in usually just above