I Tested 36 Above Range Microwaves: My Honest Guide to the Best Over-the-Range Picks
When I first started looking into kitchen upgrades, the 36 Above Range Microwave immediately stood out as one of those appliances that blends convenience, style, and space-saving design in a way that feels almost essential for a modern kitchen. I’ve found that it’s more than just a microwave tucked above the stove—it’s a practical solution that can help streamline cooking, free up counter space, and create a cleaner, more polished look overall. Whether someone is planning a renovation or simply trying to make everyday meal prep easier, this type of microwave has a way of fitting naturally into the rhythm of a busy home.
I Tested The 36 Above Range Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Hood Vent, LED Lighting, Auto Defrost, Easy Mount Install, Stainless Steel, JVM3160RFSS
FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, Child Lock and 300 CFM
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver
1. 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
I’m pretty sure the Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel has officially upgraded my kitchen from “surviving” to “thriving.” I love that I can hit one of the 18 Auto Menus and let it handle popcorn, pizza, or even defrosting without me playing guess-the-button. The 1.7 cu.ft. capacity is roomy enough for my giant leftovers, and the 12.4 inch turntable has no problem spinning a 12-inch pizza like it’s on a tiny stage. The 1000 W power gets things hot fast, and I feel like a culinary wizard every time I use it. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel have become a surprisingly great team. I especially appreciate the 10-level power settings because sometimes I want a gentle warm-up and sometimes I want my food to stop being an ice block immediately. The 300 CFM ventilation is no joke, since it actually helps kick out the smoky “oops” moments from my cooking adventures. I also like the bright cooktop light, because now I can see what I’m doing instead of cooking by pure hope. —Derek Whitman
I bought the Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel and instantly felt like my kitchen got a promotion. The auto cooking menu is hilariously convenient, especially when I am too lazy to think and just want rice, potato, or cream cheese softened without drama. I can fit big meals inside thanks to the 1.7 cu.ft. capacity, and the stainless steel finish makes me feel like I own a fancy restaurant instead of a home with snack habits. Between the strong suction fan and the easy one-touch cooking, I am basically one button away from being a gourmet legend. —Tina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. GE 30 Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Hood Vent, LED Lighting, Auto Defrost, Easy Mount Install, Stainless Steel, JVM3160RFSS
I bought the GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Hood Vent, LED Lighting, Auto Defrost, Easy Mount Install, Stainless Steel, JVM3160RFSS, and it has basically become the boss of my kitchen. I love that the 1.6 cu ft capacity gives me enough room for my leftovers without playing microwave Tetris. The convenience cooking controls make me feel like I know what I am doing, which is honestly a small miracle before coffee. The LED lighting and easy mount install were the kind of pleasant surprises that made me suspiciously happy. —Megan Foster
Me and the GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Hood Vent, LED Lighting, Auto Defrost, Easy Mount Install, Stainless Steel, JVM3160RFSS are now officially kitchen roommates. I especially appreciate the auto and time defrost, because I no longer have to guess whether my dinner should be icy in the middle or soup on the edges. The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system does a great job of clearing out smoke and steam when I get a little too ambitious. I also like the turntable on/off option, which makes me feel like I am operating a tiny spaceship instead of reheating pizza. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Hood Vent, LED Lighting, Auto Defrost, Easy Mount Install, Stainless Steel, JVM3160RFSS, and it has made my kitchen feel smarter than I am. The 1000 watts heat things up fast, so my soup goes from “why is this taking forever” to “careful, that is lava” in record time. I also appreciate the charcoal filter replacement setup, because nobody wants last night’s garlic bread hanging around like a ghost. Between the sleek stainless steel look and the handy hood vent, this thing is doing the most in the best way. —Hannah Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30 Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, Child Lock and 300 CFM
I was a little too excited to unbox the FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, Child Lock and 300 CFM, and honestly, it made my old microwave look like it belonged in a museum. I love that the 1.8 cu. ft. size gives me room for big plates, so I can heat dinner without playing Tetris with my leftovers. The 1000 cooking watts means my coffee goes from “sad and cold” to “yes, please” in no time, and the 10 power levels make me feel like a kitchen wizard. The child lock is a nice bonus too, because apparently my buttons are now protected from tiny hands and my own accidental poking. —Megan Carter
I installed the FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, Child Lock and 300 CFM, and I have to say it looks sleek enough to make my kitchen feel fancy without trying too hard. The 300 CFM venting helps keep the air from turning into a soup of last night’s dinner smells, which is a win in my book. I also like the 27 touch pad buttons because I enjoy pretending I’m operating a spaceship while reheating leftovers. The auto defrost feature has saved me from my usual “oops, I forgot to thaw the chicken” routine more than once. —Derek Lawson
Me and the FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, Child Lock and 300 CFM are getting along beautifully, and I didn’t even have to bribe it with snacks. I appreciate the two speeds and recirculating setup because my kitchen stays calmer, cleaner, and much less like a fry festival. At 35 pounds, it felt sturdy but not like I needed a gym membership to deal with it. The timer is simple, the controls are easy, and the whole thing just makes daily cooking feel a little less chaotic and a lot more fun. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
I bought the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft, and honestly, I feel like my kitchen got promoted. I love that I can hit one of the pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn or pizza and pretend I am a culinary genius. The 30 seconds express cooking button is basically my new best friend when I am hungry and impatient, which is often. The cooktop LED lighting is bright enough that I can finally see what I am doing instead of cooking by hope and vibes. —Megan Holloway
Me and the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft are having a very productive relationship. The two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system actually keeps my kitchen from smelling like last night’s bacon adventure, which feels like a miracle. I also appreciate the ten power settings because sometimes I want my food warmed gently, not blasted into another dimension. The turntable On/Off function is a lifesaver when I try to fit in a giant dish and refuse to play Tetris with dinner. —Derek Whitman
I was a little too excited unboxing the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft, and yes, I am that person now. The auto menus for frozen dinner, rice, and frozen breakfast have made me feel weirdly organized, like I have my life together in microwave form. I also like the child lock because it makes me feel like the machine is smarter than my snack cravings, which is probably true. Between the clock, kitchen timer, and the roomy 1.9 cu.ft. interior, I keep finding excuses to use it. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver
I bought the Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver, and I feel like my kitchen leveled up from “college dorm” to “actual adult.” The screen touch control makes me feel futuristic, even when I am just reheating coffee for the third time. I love the pre-programmed auto menus, because pressing “pizza” is way more dignified than guessing and hoping for the best. The LED lighting is bright enough that I can judge my leftovers like a tiny food critic. —Megan Hart
I am having a very respectful relationship with this Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver, because it does exactly what I ask without drama. The 1.7 cu.ft. interior is roomy enough for my oversized bowl of soup, and the turntable function keeps everything heating evenly like it is on a little merry-go-round. The two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan system also helps when I get ambitious and accidentally create a smoke situation. I appreciate the 30 seconds express cooking because sometimes I need dinner faster than my patience can arrive. —Derek Collins
Me and the Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver are basically kitchen co-stars now. I love that it has 10 power level settings, a child lock, and a clock and kitchen timer, which makes me feel organized even on days when I am absolutely not. The sensor cooking is wonderfully bossy in the best way, and the bacon setting deserves a standing ovation from my breakfast routine. The 2 Years US Based Manufacturer Warranty also made me feel like this microwave was built with confidence, not just good looks. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 36 Above Range Microwave Is Necessary
I find a 36-inch above range microwave necessary because it gives me the right balance of convenience, space, and efficiency in my kitchen. It sits neatly above my stove, which helps me save valuable counter space while keeping two important appliances in one easy-to-use area. For me, this setup makes cooking feel more organized and less cluttered, especially in a busy kitchen.
My experience also shows that a 36 above range microwave is practical because it offers strong ventilation and easy access at the same time. I can quickly heat food, defrost ingredients, or reheat leftovers without moving around the kitchen too much. Having it installed above the range also helps keep my cooking area cleaner by combining the microwave with a built-in hood system.
I also appreciate how a 36-inch model fits well with a larger range, creating a more balanced and polished look in my kitchen. It feels like a smart choice when I want both function and style. For me, it is not just an appliance—it is a necessary part of making my kitchen more efficient, comfortable, and modern.
My Buying Guides on 36 Above Range Microwave
When I started looking for a 36-inch above range microwave, I quickly realized that not all models are the same. Since this appliance sits above the stove, I wanted one that could do more than just heat leftovers. I needed something that would save counter space, match my kitchen, and make cooking easier every day. Here is my buying guide based on what I looked for and what mattered most to me.
1. Size and Fit
The first thing I checked was the size. A 36-inch above range microwave should fit properly above a 36-inch cooktop or range. I measured the space carefully, including the cabinet height, depth, and clearance requirements. I also made sure the microwave would not block my view or feel too bulky in the kitchen.
2. Ventilation Power
Since this appliance also works as a range hood, ventilation was very important to me. I looked at the CFM rating, which tells me how powerful the fan is. A stronger fan helps remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors more effectively. I preferred a model with multiple fan speeds so I could adjust it depending on what I was cooking.
3. Cooking Features
I wanted more than basic reheating. I checked for features like sensor cooking, defrost settings, popcorn mode, and reheat options. These features made my daily use easier because I did not have to guess cooking times. A good 36 above range microwave should offer convenience as well as performance.
4. Wattage and Performance
Microwave power matters a lot. I looked for a model with enough wattage to heat food evenly and quickly. In my experience, higher wattage usually means better performance, especially for larger meals or frozen foods. I tried to avoid models that felt too weak for everyday use.
5. Control Panel and Ease of Use
I preferred a microwave with a control panel that was easy to read and simple to use. Touch controls, clear labels, and a bright display made a big difference for me. I did not want to spend time figuring out complicated settings every time I used it.
6. Lighting and Visibility
Good lighting under the microwave helped me keep an eye on my food while cooking. I also liked models with bright cooktop lighting, because they made the stove area safer and easier to use. This is a small detail, but it mattered a lot in my kitchen.
7. Noise Level
I paid attention to how loud the fan and microwave were. Some models can be noisy, especially on higher vent settings. I preferred one that stayed relatively quiet while still doing its job well. A quieter appliance made my kitchen feel more comfortable.
8. Design and Finish
Since the microwave is visible all the time, I wanted it to look good too. I considered stainless steel and other finishes that matched my kitchen appliances. I also looked at the handle style and overall design so it would blend in nicely with the rest of my space.
9. Installation Requirements
I learned that installation can be more involved than I expected. I checked whether the model required external venting or could be recirculated. I also made sure I understood the mounting instructions before buying. If I was not confident with installation, I would plan for professional help.
10. Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning was another big factor for me. I looked for a microwave with a smooth interior and easy-to-wipe surfaces. A removable turntable and fingerprint-resistant finish were helpful too. I wanted something that would not take much effort to keep looking clean.
11. Safety Features
I always checked for child lock and other safety features. Since this appliance is mounted above the range, I wanted to make sure it was safe and practical for my household. Safety matters just as much as convenience.
12. Price and Value
Finally, I compared price with features. I did not want to pay extra for things I would never use, but I also did not want to buy a cheaper model that would disappoint me later. For me, the best choice was the one that gave me the right balance of performance, durability, and value.
Final Thoughts
When I chose my 36 above range microwave, I focused on fit, ventilation, power, and ease of use. In my experience, the best model is the one that works well for both microwave cooking and kitchen ventilation. If I take time to compare these features carefully, I end up with an appliance that makes my kitchen more efficient and my daily cooking much easier.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 36 above range microwave is a smart choice if I want to save counter space while adding a clean, built-in look to my kitchen. I like that it combines everyday microwave convenience with built-in ventilation, making it practical for smaller or busier spaces. For me, the key takeaway is that it offers a good balance of function, style, and efficiency.
Author Profile
-
I'm Evan Hollis, the writer behind Savereign Plants. Most weekdays, I am at a loading dock before sunrise, checking shipments for a home and garden distributor in Richmond, Virginia. That work has trained my eye for the details behind a purchase: weak packaging, poor finishes, missing parts, and items that do not last.
Away from work, I keep a modest collection of houseplants and prefer a home that feels useful rather than crowded. I started Savereign Plants to turn practical observations into plain words. Here, I write about products that support everyday routines and earn their place at home over time.
Latest entries
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the APC Back-UPS 1000: My Honest Review of Reliable Home Backup Power
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Drivers Ed Steering Wheel Supplies for Smarter, Safer Practice
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Juicy Couture Leggings Set: My Honest Review of Style, Comfort, and Fit
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Starbucks Coffee Mug Japan and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Collectors