Comparison: Best Black Over The Stove Microwave (Updated | May 13th)

If you are looking for a straightforward workhorse that doesn’t overcomplicate your morning routine, this BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu. ft. model is a solid contender. What really stands out to me is the Multi-stage Cooking feature. It is incredibly practical for those recipes that need a high-heat start to get things moving followed by a lower simmer to finish through without drying out the edges. It’s the kind of “set it and forget it” convenience that makes a difference when you’re multitasking in a busy kitchen.

I’d recommend this specifically for families or home cooks who rely on “express” buttons. Having the 1-3 minute quick start keys means you aren’t standing there punching in digits while your coffee gets cold. It’s built for the high-traffic kitchen where speed is the priority. The 300 CFM vent is decent, providing enough suction to keep the air clear during standard stovetop simmering.

The trade-off here is the traditional incandescent lighting. In a world where almost everything is moving toward crisp, cool LEDs, the integrated light on this unit can feel a bit dim and dated. If you really rely on your microwave to illuminate your entire range for precision cooking, you might find the glow a little lackluster compared to more modern, high-intensity options.

There is a reason GE is a household name, and this 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range unit leans into that reputation for reliability. The standout feature here isn’t just the microwave itself, but the 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack included in the bundle. In an era where appliances can feel disposable, having that extra layer of authorized protection provides a lot of peace of mind for a long-term investment. It feels like a safe, smart purchase for someone who wants to avoid the headache of unexpected repairs.

This is the perfect choice for a rental property owner or a homeowner who prefers a classic, simple interface. It doesn’t have a million confusing buttons; it focuses on Auto and Time Defrost and convenience controls that anyone can figure out in seconds. It’s about getting the job done without a steep learning curve.

However, the 1.6 cubic foot capacity is slightly smaller than the 1.7 or 1.9 standards seen elsewhere. While it still fits most standard dinner plates, you might feel the squeeze if you frequently try to fit oversized rectangular casserole dishes or very tall containers. It’s a minor sacrifice in volume for a very dependable brand name.

The Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. microwave brings a certain level of culinary flexibility to the table that I find quite impressive. While many microwaves just offer a “cook” button, this one includes specific programs for potatoes, vegetables, and snacks. It feels like it was designed by people who actually cook real meals rather than just reheating leftovers. The 1000W output is paired with a 1550W input, which suggests it has the internal muscle to maintain consistent heat throughout a longer cooking cycle.

This is a great fit for parents with small children, thanks to the Child Safety Lock. It’s an essential feature for peace of mind, ensuring that little hands can’t start the unit accidentally. If you find yourself frequently thawing meat for dinner, the intelligent weight defrost is another reason to pick this over a basic model, as it takes the guesswork out of food safety.

One thing to keep in mind is the aesthetic; while it is a sleek black, the branding and button layout are quite prominent. If you are going for a minimalist, “hidden” appliance look in a high-end kitchen, the busy control panel might stand out more than you’d like. It’s a functional look, but definitely not a “stealth” one.

The ThermoMate 1.7 Cu. Ft. microwave is a breath of fresh air because of its LED lighting system. Most over-the-range units use dull yellow bulbs, but the LED here actually illuminates the stovetop with a crisp, clear light that makes a genuine difference when you’re searing or sautéing below. It gives the whole kitchen a more modern, upgraded feel. The 360° rotating glass turntable is also notably smooth, ensuring you don’t end up with those annoying cold spots in the middle of your soup.

I think this is the “best bang for your buck” option for someone doing a DIY kitchen refresh. It has a high-end look and features like One-Touch Cooking and a 300 CFM fan without the premium price tag of the major legacy brands. It’s a smart way to get a contemporary look on a budget.

The downside is that ThermoMate isn’t as widely known as some of the “big box” brands. This can sometimes make finding specific replacement parts or local repair technicians a bit more of a challenge down the road compared to a brand you can find in every hardware store. It’s a trade-off between modern features and long-term brand ubiquity.

When you look at the GASLAND 1.9 Cu.ft. model, the first thing that hits you is the sheer size and power. With 1.9 cubic feet of interior space, it is significantly roomier than most of its competitors. But the real star is the 400 CFM ventilation fan. Most microwaves in this category top out at 300 CFM, so that extra 100 CFM of suction is a game-changer if you do a lot of heavy frying or high-heat cooking that tends to get smoky.

This is the ultimate choice for a large family or someone who loves to host. The inclusion of a removable rack effectively doubles your cooking surface, allowing you to heat up multiple side dishes at once. If you’re often frustrated by the “one dish at a time” limitation of microwaves, this solves that problem beautifully.

The trade-off for all that space is the physical footprint. It’s a big unit, and if your cabinet clearance is tight or your kitchen is particularly cramped, this microwave can feel a bit imposing. You’ll want to measure your space twice to make sure that 1.9 cubic feet of glory doesn’t overwhelm your cooking area.

This version of the BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu. ft. OTR microwave offers the same reliable performance as its siblings but is often sought after for its 1000 Watts of power and 10 distinct cooking levels. What stands out to me is the Speedy Cooking function. Being able to hit 1, 2, or 3 and have the machine instantly jump into a full-power cycle for that many minutes is the kind of intuitive design that makes a kitchen feel efficient. It’s about reducing the friction between you and your meal.

I’d recommend this for someone who wants a reliable, mid-range appliance from a brand they recognize. It’s a “safe” choice that balances features like Multi-stage cooking with a straightforward interface. It’s particularly good for those who use their microwave for more than just popcorn—the melt and soften settings are surprisingly accurate for baking prep.

One honest downside is that the vent fan, while powerful at 300 CFM, can be quite loud on its highest setting. If you have an open-concept living space, the roar of the exhaust might compete with your television or conversation. It clears the air well, but you’ll definitely know it’s running.

The GASLAND 1.7 Cu.ft unit stands out for its Sensor Cooking technology. Instead of just guessing how long a plate of leftovers needs, the sensors track the steam and adjust the time accordingly. It’s a high-end feature that prevents that rubbery, overcooked texture that ruins a good meal. Coupled with the Dual Heat Zones, it’s a surprisingly sophisticated piece of tech for the price point, making it feel more like a smart appliance than a basic box.

This is a great pick for busy professionals who want their food heated perfectly without having to babysit the microwave. The easy-clean interior is another huge plus; it’s designed to resist stains, so a quick wipe-down usually handles any accidental splatters. It’s low-maintenance and high-performance.

One trade-off is the turntable size. While the interior is a standard 1.7 cu. ft., the 13.5-inch plate is great, but the way the interior is shaped means you have to be careful with very wide, square dishes. If the dish corners catch on the sides, it can stop the rotation, so you might find yourself limited to rounder cookware to get the full benefit of that even heating.

The GE JVM6175DKBB is a premium step up in the world of black over-the-range microwaves. What makes it stand out is the inclusion of the Recirculating Charcoal Filter Kit right in the box. Many microwaves require you to buy these filters separately if you aren’t venting to the outside, but GE includes it, making the installation process much smoother for those in apartments or condos. It’s a thoughtful “complete package” approach.

This is the best option for renters or homeowners who don’t have external ducting. Since it’s designed to work efficiently as a recirculating unit, you won’t have to worry about grease and odors just being blown back into your face. The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is the sweet spot for most users, offering plenty of room without being overly bulky.

The downside is the price point. Because it’s a GE and comes bundled with an Extended Protection Plan and a filter kit, the upfront cost is higher than some of the “budget” brands. You’re paying for the brand security and the convenience of the bundle, which might be overkill if you’re just looking for the cheapest way to heat up a burrito.