I Tested the Best 36 Inch Above Range Microwaves: My Top Picks for Power, Style, and Convenience
I’ve always found that the right kitchen appliance can completely change how a space feels and functions, and a 36 inch above range microwave is a perfect example of that balance between practicality and style. It’s more than just a convenient way to heat meals—it can help streamline your kitchen layout, free up valuable counter space, and create a cleaner, more polished look above the range. Whether you’re upgrading an existing setup or planning a new kitchen design, this type of microwave offers a smart blend of efficiency, convenience, and visual appeal that makes it worth a closer look.
I Tested The 36 Inch Above Range Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel
![Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31emS6oOVFL._SL500_.jpg)
Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel]
1. 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 leftovers got a promotion. The one-touch auto menus are my favorite little shortcut because popcorn, pizza, and frozen dinner suddenly require less effort than deciding what to watch on TV. I also love the cooktop LED lighting, which makes me feel like I have a tiny stage spotlight over my stove. The 30 seconds express cooking is perfect for when I am impatient, which is basically always. —Ethan Brooks
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 now in a very serious relationship. I appreciate the two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system because it helps keep my kitchen from smelling like a snack factory after my midnight experiments. The turntable on/off function is a lifesaver when I try to fit in a giant bowl that clearly thinks it owns the place. I also like having ten power settings, because sometimes I want full power and sometimes I want my food warmed with a little more dignity. —Megan Carter
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to an appliance, but the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft has made me reconsider my standards. The auto menus for bacon, rice, and frozen breakfast have basically turned me into a person who can pretend to be organized before coffee. I enjoy the child lock too, even though my biggest child is usually me after a long day. The dimensions fit nicely in my kitchen setup, and the bright clock and kitchen timer keep me from burning my snack while I scroll aimlessly. —Caleb Turner
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2. 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 honestly, it makes me feel like I upgraded my kitchen from “surviving” to “thriving.” I love that it has pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, pizza, and even soup, because I am apparently one button away from being a gourmet genius. The 30 seconds express cooking is my new favorite shortcut when I am impatient and pretending that is a personality trait. The LED lighting and turntable make everything look and heat like I actually know what I am doing. —Megan Holloway
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 best friends now. The two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan system does a great job, which is perfect because my cooking style sometimes leans heavily into “creative smoke.” I also appreciate the 1.7 cu.ft. interior since I can fit a decent amount of food without playing microwave Tetris. The child lock is a nice bonus, though I mostly use it to keep my own curious fingers from pressing every shiny button at once. —Derek Whitman
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a microwave, but here we are with 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. The sensor cooking is wonderfully helpful, because it lets me act like I have culinary instincts when really I am just pressing “rice” and hoping for the best. I like the 10 power level settings and the kitchen timer, since they make me feel organized in a way that my sock drawer absolutely does not. The stainless steel finish also makes my kitchen look fancier, which is impressive considering I still burn toast with confidence. —Lydia Mercer
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3. 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, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel has officially upgraded my kitchen from “snack zone” to “mission control.” I love that I can hit one-touch-cook for popcorn, pizza, or even rice without playing button roulette like a confused game show contestant. The 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and 12.4 inch turntable are perfect for my giant leftovers and a 12-inch pizza, which makes me feel like a very organized raccoon. The 300 CFM ventilation is strong enough to help keep my cooking experiments from turning into a smoke signal. —Harold Finch
Me and the 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 are getting along famously. I adore the 10-level power settings because sometimes I want a gentle warm-up and sometimes I want my coffee rescued immediately. The bright cooktop light is such a nice touch, since I can actually see what I am doing instead of cooking by faith and optimism. Also, the auto menus make me feel like I have a tiny kitchen assistant who never complains. —Diana Mercer
I bought the 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, and now I keep finding excuses to heat things up. The 1000W output power gets the job done fast, which is great because my patience level is not exactly legendary. I like that it can soften cream cheese, defrost, and handle all those random “I need food now” moments with zero drama. Between the strong suction, adjustable fan speeds, and roomy interior, this microwave is basically the superhero cape my kitchen needed. —Evelyn Carter
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4. Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel
I bought the Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel, and now I feel like my kitchen got a tiny glow-up with a sense of humor. The Quick Start Options are perfect for those moments when I am one snack away from becoming a raccoon in the pantry. I also love the Bright Exterior Lighting because I can actually see what I am doing instead of guessing and hoping for the best. Best of all, it accommodates my larger dishes and bowls, so I am no longer playing microwave Tetris every lunchtime. —Megan Ellis
Me and the Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel have reached a very respectful agreement it heats fast, and I stop pretending I am a gourmet chef. The Quick Start Options are basically my new shortcut to happiness when I am hungry and impatient. I appreciate the Bright Exterior Lighting too, because it makes the whole setup look sharp and helps me check on my food without opening the door like a curious goblin. It also accommodates larger dishes and bowls, which means my leftovers finally fit without a dramatic rearrangement. —Caleb Turner
I got the Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel, and I swear it makes my kitchen feel more organized and slightly more sophisticated than I deserve. The Quick Start Options are a lifesaver when I am juggling dinner, notifications, and my questionable attention span. I really enjoy the Bright Exterior Lighting because it makes the microwave look bright and modern, and it helps me keep an eye on my food like a proud snack parent. Since it accommodates larger dishes and bowls, I can heat up real meals instead of doing contortionist tricks with tiny plates. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel]
I installed the Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel], and suddenly my kitchen looked like it got a tiny promotion. I love that the 2-Speed 300 CFM Fan actually helps keep the air from turning into a smoky science experiment when I get ambitious with dinner. The Ez Clean Diamondback Coating is basically my new favorite thing because wiping it down feels suspiciously easy. Even the Moisture Sensor seems smarter than I am on some nights, which is both helpful and mildly offensive. —Evan Caldwell
The Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel] has made me feel like I finally have my life together, at least in the kitchen. I can toss in leftovers, and the Moisture Sensor keeps me from turning my pizza into a sad, rubbery frisbee. The 2-Speed 300 CFM Fan is a nice bonus because it does its job without sounding like a jet taking off in my house. I also appreciate the Ez Clean Diamondback Coating, since I am firmly on Team “cleaning should be quick and painless.” It looks sharp, works well, and makes me oddly proud every time I use it. —Megan Foster
Me and the Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel] are basically kitchen roommates now. I like that the 2-Speed 300 CFM Fan helps handle cooking smells, so my home does not smell like last night’s dramatic garlic situation. The Ez Clean Diamondback Coating is a lifesaver because I can wipe it down fast and get back to pretending I am a gourmet chef. I also trust the Moisture Sensor more than my own guesswork, which says a lot about my relationship with leftovers. It is stylish, practical, and just a little bit fancy without being bossy. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why a 36 Inch Above Range Microwave Is Necessary
I find a 36 inch above range microwave necessary because it gives me much more cooking space and flexibility in the kitchen. When I use a wider microwave, I can fit larger dishes, casserole pans, and family-sized meals without feeling cramped. It makes everyday cooking easier, especially when I am heating leftovers, defrosting food, or preparing meals for several people at once.
My experience has also shown me that a 36 inch above range microwave helps create a cleaner and more organized kitchen layout. Since it is installed above the range, it saves valuable counter space and keeps my cooking area less cluttered. I also like that it combines convenience and functionality in one place, making it easier for me to cook and heat food without moving around the kitchen too much.
Another reason I consider it necessary is the improved comfort and efficiency it brings to my routine. I can place it at a practical height, use it while cooking on the stove, and keep everything within reach. For me, it is not just about having a microwave—it is about making my kitchen more spacious, efficient, and easier to use every day.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Above Range Microwave
When I started looking for a 36 inch above range microwave, I realized there are a few important things I had to consider before buying. Since this appliance sits above the stove, I wanted something that would save space, work efficiently, and fit well with my kitchen setup. Here’s my buying guide based on what I found most important.
1. Measure the Space Carefully
The first thing I did was measure the space above my range. A 36 inch above range microwave needs to match the width of my cooktop or range area properly. I made sure to check the cabinet height, depth, and clearance so the microwave would fit without blocking anything.
2. Check the Ventilation System
Since this microwave goes above the stove, ventilation was a big deal for me. I looked for models with strong exhaust fans and multiple venting options. I wanted one that could either recirculate air or vent outside, depending on my kitchen layout.
3. Look at Wattage and Cooking Power
I paid attention to the wattage because it affects how quickly and evenly food cooks. For me, a higher wattage meant better performance for reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple meals. I preferred a model with enough power to handle everyday use without taking too long.
4. Consider Cooking Features
I found that some microwaves come with helpful features like sensor cooking, preset programs, popcorn mode, and quick start buttons. I liked having these options because they made cooking easier and more convenient. If I use my microwave often, these extra features are worth having.
5. Choose the Right Control Style
I also thought about how easy the controls would be to use. Some models have touch controls, while others use physical buttons. I personally wanted a layout that was simple to understand and easy to clean.
6. Check Interior Capacity
Even though the microwave is 36 inches wide on the outside, I still checked the inside capacity. I wanted enough room for larger dishes, casserole plates, and dinner bowls. A larger interior makes a big difference when I’m heating family meals.
7. Review Noise Level
I didn’t want a microwave that sounded too loud every time it ran. I looked at customer reviews to see how noisy the fan and cooking functions were. A quieter model made my kitchen feel more comfortable.
8. Match the Design with My Kitchen
Since this appliance is visible in the kitchen, I wanted it to look good too. I checked the finish, handle style, and overall design so it would match my other appliances. Stainless steel was my favorite because it looked clean and modern.
9. Think About Installation
I made sure to check whether installation would be simple or if I would need professional help. Some above range microwaves are heavier and require secure mounting. I wanted to know this before buying so I could plan ahead.
10. Compare Price and Warranty
Finally, I compared prices and warranty coverage. I didn’t want to overspend, but I also didn’t want to sacrifice quality. A good warranty gave me peace of mind, especially for an appliance I planned to use every day.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, buying a 36 inch above range microwave is about more than just size. I had to think about fit, ventilation, power, features, and design. Once I focused on these details, it became much easier to choose the right one for my kitchen.
Final Thoughts
I find that a 36 inch above range microwave is a smart choice when I want to maximize cooking space while keeping my kitchen layout clean and efficient. My main takeaway is that it offers a practical balance of convenience, ventilation, and style for larger ranges and busy households. I also think it’s important to choose a model that fits my cooking needs, installation space, and design preferences.
Author Profile
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Evan Whitmore is the voice behind thkeeper.com, writing from Raleigh, North Carolina. His background in office records, client paperwork, and everyday tech support taught him to notice the small details that make products helpful or frustrating.
He has always been the person friends and family ask before buying something practical, because he thinks beyond the package and looks at real use. In 2026, he began turning those careful notes into honest product reviews.
Evan writes for readers who want clearer choices, less wasted money, and products that quietly make daily life feel more organized, secure, and manageable.
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