Finding a small above range microwave should feel like a practical upgrade, not a compromise forced by a tight kitchen layout. The right appliance needs to fit available space, suit your cooking habits, and work with your existing cabinets and ventilation setup. Yet sizing terms, installation requirements, and performance can be surprisingly difficult to compare.
This guide brings the buying process into focus without overwhelming you with technical jargon. It explains how to measure a replacement area, identify constraints that affect compatibility, and weigh everyday operation, construction, cleaning, and ownership concerns. You will also find clear guidance for setting a realistic budget and recognizing tradeoffs that are easy to overlook.
A comparison table helps shorten the shortlist by putting key considerations side by side, while buying tips show what to verify before checkout. Use these sections to compare and choose an option that makes sense for your kitchen and routine.
Our Top 10 Small Above Range Microwave Side-by-Side
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GE 1.6 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave |
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Midea 1.7 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave |
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BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave |
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BLACK+DECKER 1.5 cu ft Air Fryer Microwave |
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Check Price |
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Frigidaire 1.8 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave |
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Check Price |
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1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave |
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Stellar 1.3 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave |
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Check Price |
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Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 cu ft Over-Range Microwave |
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Check Price |
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Toshiba 1.9 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave |
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Midea 1.2 cu ft Compact Over-Range Microwave |
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Check Price |
Table of Contents
- 1. GE 1.6 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
- 2. Midea 1.7 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
- 3. BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave
- 4. BLACK+DECKER 1.5 cu ft Air Fryer Microwave
- 5. Frigidaire 1.8 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
- 6. 1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave
- 7. Stellar 1.3 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
- 8. Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 cu ft Over-Range Microwave
- 9. Toshiba 1.9 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
- 10. Midea 1.2 cu ft Compact Over-Range Microwave
Our Top Picks for Small Above Range Microwave Reviews
A small above range microwave offers a space-saving way to reheat, cook, and manage everyday meals without giving up the convenience of an over-the-range location. That makes the small above range microwave category especially appealing to compact kitchens, renters, and homeowners replacing an undersized unit. The Top 10 small above range microwave Reviewed section narrows the field with top-rated picks and direct comparisons of fit, usability, performance, and value.
1. GE 1.6 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
A cluttered counter and a microwave too small for a plate of leftovers are a familiar kitchen problem. The GE 1.6 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave handles everyday reheating, frozen snacks, and family portions without forcing you to reach for a separate countertop unit. Its above-range placement also keeps the stovetop area less crowded while making the appliance easy to reach.
Stainless steel gives the unit a clean, durable look that can blend into a busy kitchen, while 1000W output is a practical balance for quickly reheating drinks, dinner plates, and frozen favorites. The 1.6 cu. ft. cavity is useful for larger bowls, though shoppers should still measure both the cabinet opening and intended mounting space before ordering.
For weeknight meals, the straightforward controls and door-release workflow make repeated use convenient, and the integrated form factor is especially handy in galley-style kitchens. It is best for households wanting one dependable appliance for reheating and simple cooking, not for people who need extensive convection, air-frying, or grill functions. Installation should follow the manual and any required ducting setup.
- Convenient above-range design
- Useful 1.6 cu. ft. capacity
- Practical 1000W cooking power
- Stainless steel finish
- Suitable for family portions
- Helps free up counter space
- No listed air-fry or convection function
- Secure mounting and ventilation planning are essential
Get the GE 1.6 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave now:
2. Midea 1.7 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
The Midea 1.7 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave is ideal for busy families and cooks who want generous capacity without moving to a full-size countertop model. Its 1.7 cu. ft. interior can comfortably handle dinner plates, soup bowls, and leftovers, while 1000W provides useful speed for morning drinks, quick lunches, and after-dinner reheating.
The stainless steel finish suits both contemporary and practical kitchens, and the over-range design keeps the appliance off the worktop. It is a sensible fit for households that want a straightforward reheating center, enough room for larger servings, and little visual bulk. Because installation can be the most demanding part, measure the opening, check the specified clearance requirements, and plan for proper ventilation.
Daily use should appeal to anyone tired of waiting for small dishes or constantly rearranging a limited countertop. The combination of capacity and power is particularly useful for couples, families, and home cooks who prepare several meals each week. It is less suited to buyers prioritizing specialty cooking functions, very compact dimensions, or simple plug-in installation above a stove.
- Roomy 1.7 cu. ft. interior
- Effective 1000W power
- Space-saving over-range placement
- Neutral stainless steel appearance
- Good for plates and larger bowls
- Useful for everyday meal preparation
- Smaller than some 1.8 or 1.9 cu. ft. models
- Installation may require two people
Get the Midea 1.7 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave now:
3. BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave
The single standout feature of the BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave is its combination of a roomy 1.7 cu. ft. cavity and 1000W power. That balance makes it useful for more than reheating: oversized bowls and dinner plates fit more readily, and common frozen foods can be prepared without relying on a separate countertop appliance.
The black finish gives it a bold appearance that coordinates easily with dark cabinets, black appliances, or contrasting modern fixtures. Mounting it above the range reduces clutter around the stovetop and keeps the microwave within comfortable reach. It is especially practical for households that frequently move leftovers, heat beverages, or prepare quick portions of frozen food.
Capacity is the main advantage over smaller 1.5 cu. ft. units, while 1000W provides ample power for routine kitchen tasks. That makes this model attractive to families and apartment dwellers who want useful room without moving up to the largest available cavity. Careful measurement is still important, particularly in narrow kitchens where cabinet width and side clearances are limited.
- Spacious 1.7 cu. ft. cavity
- Full 1000W microwave power
- Distinctive black exterior
- Useful for oversized dishes
- Clears counter space near the range
- Strong choice for daily reheating
- No listed air-fry capability
- Black finish may not suit every kitchen
Get the BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave now:
4. BLACK+DECKER 1.5 cu ft Air Fryer Microwave
A common annoyance is keeping both a microwave and countertop air-fryer while sacrificing precious worktop space. The BLACK+DECKER 1.5 cu ft Air Fryer Microwave combines two useful functions in one installed appliance, letting users crisp suitable foods without reaching for a separate cooker. That makes it appealing to quick cooks who want more capability from an over-range microwave.
At 1.5 cu. ft., the cavity is slightly smaller than many standard over-range models, but it remains useful for reheating dinners, preparing frozen snacks, and handling appropriately sized portions. Its 900W rating is lower than the 1000W offered by some competitors, so buyers should prioritize the air-fry function rather than expecting maximum microwave power.
The stainless exterior should blend readily with many kitchen finishes, and the over-range configuration keeps the appliance close to the cooking area. It is best for households seeking an all-in-one solution and the flexibility to crisp foods with less oil than deep frying. Accessory requirements and cooking times should follow the product instructions for best results.
- Integrated air-fry function
- Eliminates need for a separate air fryer
- Two appliances combined in one unit
- Frees up valuable counter space
- Stainless steel appearance
- Convenient over-range placement
- Lower 900W output than many rivals
- Smaller 1.5 cu. ft. interior
Get the BLACK+DECKER 1.5 cu ft Air Fryer Microwave now:
5. Frigidaire 1.8 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
Picture Friday night dinner: the whole family is hungry, several plates need reheating, and the last slice of pizza needs a quick turn. The Frigidaire 1.8 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave is built for that common moment, offering enough interior room for larger dishes while freeing space beside the range by mounting the appliance overhead.
The 1.8 cu. ft. capacity sits toward the roomier end of the over-range category, which can be helpful when reheating pasta, casseroles, or family portions. Its stainless finish is easy to coordinate with popular kitchen appliances, and the elevated position makes the controls visible without using valuable worktop space. The larger cavity also gives cooks more flexibility when choosing serving dishes.
It is best suited to households that use their microwave frequently and regularly prepare enough food to justify extra capacity. Families, shared apartments, and busy weeknight kitchens may appreciate having one central appliance for leftovers, drinks, and frozen foods. As with any over-range unit, buyers should confirm cabinet clearance, hood compatibility, and ventilation requirements before installation.
- Generous 1.8 cu. ft. capacity
- Handles larger plates and bowls
- Stainless steel finish
- Clears counter space
- Convenient above-range access
- Useful for busy family kitchens
- Requires careful clearance measurement
- Ventilation setup depends on kitchen configuration
Get the Frigidaire 1.8 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave now:
6. 1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave
For the price, this 1.7 cu ft black over-range microwave covers the essentials without a very small cavity or reduced power. It combines 1000W output with enough interior room for dinner plates, soup bowls, and leftovers, making it a practical pick for buyers who want useful capacity without spending more on specialty features they may rarely use.
The black finish gives the unit a simple, versatile appearance that can work in a modern kitchen or contrast with stainless appliances. Installing it above the range keeps the main cooking surface uncluttered, while the 1.7 cu. ft. cavity offers a useful compromise between smaller 1.5 cu. ft. models and more expensive high-capacity alternatives.
Value is strongest for apartments, first-time buyers, and households that primarily reheat meals, heat drinks, and prepare frozen foods. It should appeal to anyone focused on core performance rather than air frying or convection cooking. Confirm the mounting dimensions and ventilation plan early, as a low purchase price cannot compensate for a retrofit or installation problem.
- Good core capacity for the price
- Full 1000W microwave output
- Spacious 1.7 cu. ft. interior
- Simple black exterior
- Saves worktop space
- Strong everyday reheating value
- No listed specialty cooking functions
- May require professional installation
Get the 1.7 cu ft Black Over-Range Microwave now:
7. Stellar 1.3 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
Limited counter space and cabinets crowded by small appliances are familiar frustrations in a compact kitchen. The Stellar 1.3 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave addresses that problem by using vertical space above the range instead of occupying another worktop area. It is a practical option for everyday heating when you do not routinely prepare oversized plates.
The stainless finish offers a clean, neutral appearance that can blend with common kitchen appliances, while the compact 1.3 cu. ft. cavity may suit tighter layouts better than some high-capacity models. The 24-inch mounting specification makes careful measurement especially important, including the width, height, depth, and required clearance around the stove and cabinetry.
This configuration is best for apartments, small kitchens, offices with suitable cooking areas, and buyers who prioritize a compact footprint. It can handle routine meals, leftovers, beverages, and frozen foods, but users expecting large casserole dishes or family platters may find less flexibility. A full installation plan is still necessary despite the smaller cavity.
- Compact 1.3 cu. ft. cavity
- Designed for space-conscious kitchens
- Stainless steel appearance
- Includes a vent fan
- Frees up countertop space
- Suitable for routine reheating
- Less room for oversized dishes
- 24-inch fit requires exact measurement
Get the Stellar 1.3 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave now:
8. Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 cu ft Over-Range Microwave
The Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 cu ft Over-Range Microwave is ideal for renters, first-time buyers, and homeowners replacing a basic microwave without needing specialty cooking features. Its 1.7 cu. ft. cavity offers enough flexibility for common dinner plates and soup bowls, while the stainless finish suits a broad range of kitchen styles and existing appliances.
Its practical value is the balance between capacity, familiar microwave cooking, and a space-saving installation. Placing the unit above the range keeps the counter open and creates a central reheating station, which is especially useful in apartments and moderately sized kitchens. The model is a sensible fit for people who mainly heat leftovers, drinks, frozen meals, and quick snacks.
Buyers who value simplicity should find it easier to integrate than a large specialty appliance, although the product still requires proper mounting and ventilation. It is less suitable for cooks who need air frying, convection baking, or extra-large interior space. Checking the cabinet dimensions and existing vent configuration before ordering can prevent the most common installation frustration.
- Useful 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
- Familiar everyday microwave functions
- Stainless steel finish
- Space-saving over-range placement
- Good for typical plates and bowls
- Well suited to basic household needs
- No listed air-fry function
- Ventilation compatibility should be verified
Get the Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 cu ft Over-Range Microwave now:
9. Toshiba 1.9 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave
The single standout feature of the Toshiba 1.9 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave is its large 1.9 cu. ft. interior, paired with 1000W power. That extra room makes it appealing to families who regularly reheat full dinner plates, family-size leftovers, or larger bowls and do not want to divide food into several smaller batches.
The spacious cavity can also make everyday food preparation feel less restrictive, particularly when using a big serving dish or preparing frozen foods. Its stainless steel exterior should coordinate easily with many kitchens, while the over-range location keeps counters open and places the controls near the stove. It is a strong fit for high-volume household use.
Compared with compact 1.3 to 1.5 cu. ft. options, the extra capacity is meaningful, though it may make cabinet clearance and installation planning more important. The 1000W rating supports familiar reheating and cooking tasks without shifting attention toward specialty functions. Measure the available space carefully and verify hood and ventilation compatibility before installation.
- Large 1.9 cu. ft. interior
- Full 1000W output
- Accommodates larger dishes
- Good for family-size portions
- Stainless steel finish
- Saves counter space
- Requires ample cabinet clearance
- No listed air-fry capability
Get the Toshiba 1.9 cu ft Stainless Over-Range Microwave now:
10. Midea 1.2 cu ft Compact Over-Range Microwave
A common annoyance is an over-range microwave that feels visually bulky or makes a modest kitchen feel crowded. The Midea 1.2 cu ft Compact Over-Range Microwave offers a smaller-capacity alternative, allowing buyers to reclaim the traditional advantages of an installed microwave without taking up a separate countertop location or choosing one of the largest cavities available.
Its 1.2 cu. ft. interior is most practical for individual meals, leftovers, drinks, and appropriately sized bowls, while 1000W output provides useful speed for routine cooking. The stainless steel finish offers a clean appearance that can fit neatly into compact kitchen layouts, especially where minimizing width and visual bulk matters more than handling oversized plates.
This model is best for small apartments, offices with suitable cooking facilities, and households that primarily use a microwave for quick reheating. People who regularly prepare family-size platters may find 1.2 cu. ft. limiting, but smaller external dimensions can make planning easier. Confirm the installation cutout, cabinet clearance, and ventilation setup before purchase.
- Compact 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- Full 1000W microwave power
- Space-conscious over-range design
- Stainless steel appearance
- Good for individual portions
- Frees up the countertop
- Limited room for oversized dishes
- May require careful fit verification
Get the Midea 1.2 cu ft Compact Over-Range Microwave now:
Buyer Guide for Small Above Range Microwave
1. What Is a small above range microwave?
A small above range microwave is an over-the-range model designed to occupy less space than many conventional units. It still installs above a range or cooktop and may vent outdoors or recirculate air through a cabinet setup. These appliances suit compact kitchens, apartments, and homes where every inch matters. They are best suited to everyday reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking, not oversized dishes or demanding meal preparation.
2. Key Features That Actually Matter
Focus on the factors you will encounter after installation rather than an overwhelming specification list.
- Performance in everyday scenarios: Check whether reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking feel consistent, and note any limits on food size or power needs.
- Build quality and durability: Review the door action, control responsiveness, interior finish, and construction details that receive frequent use.
- Ease of setup and maintenance: Consider whether the controls are understandable, the interior is easy to reach, and routine cleaning requires little disassembly.
- Size, capacity, and fit: Measure the opening, cabinet clearance, cooking-area width, and door-swing space before comparing models.
- Value at different budgets: Compare the functions you regularly use, useful capacity, installation requirements, and expected support rather than price alone.
- Brand reliability and warranty: Look for a service network, clear warranty terms, and replacement parts that may be needed during normal ownership.
- Compatibility with existing setups: Confirm the required height, width, depth, electrical connection, ventilation route, and cabinet configuration.
3. How to Choose the Right small above range microwave
Start with how often you expect to use the microwave and the kinds of food you prepare most. Light users may prioritize compact dimensions, straightforward controls, and easy cleaning, while frequent cooks should examine capacity, power, ventilation, and cooking consistency more closely.
Set a budget that includes installation rather than comparing purchase prices in isolation. If the microwave must replace an existing unit, use its measurements and connection type as fixed constraints. If you are designing a new kitchen, check cabinet placement and the required clearances early. Then use the Top 10 list to match your routine, budget, and tolerance for compromises with models that meet those priorities.
4. Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring installation clearances can lead to an appliance that does not fit; measure the full opening and check the manual before purchasing.
- Choosing by interior capacity alone can create frustration if the exterior crowds the cooking area; balance usable space with room for the door to open.
- Assuming every ventilation arrangement is interchangeable can complicate installation; verify whether the setup requires venting or recirculation.
- Overbuying functions rarely used can reduce value; prioritize reliable everyday operation, understandable controls, and convenient cleaning.
- Failing to consider support and warranty can make ownership harder; review coverage, repair access, and expected replacement-part availability before deciding.
Common Questions About Small Above Range Microwave
Can a small above range microwave handle normal daily meals?
For reheating, defrosting, leftovers, and simple prepared foods, a compact model can be perfectly practical. The main limitation is interior space, so check the stated capacity and compare it with the dishes you use most. Turntables and plate sizes also matter if you regularly prepare larger portions.
How do I know if it will fit my kitchen?
Measure the width, height, and depth of the opening, including cabinet trim and wall clearances. Also check the space required in front of the door and above the cooking surface. Compare those measurements with the installation specifications, and verify the electrical and ventilation requirements before ordering.
What does good build quality look like in practice?
In daily use, look for smooth door movement, responsive controls, an interior that is easy to wipe clean, and a display you can read from your normal position. These details provide a better sense of usefulness than decorative additions. Customer feedback can also reveal recurring issues with hinges, buttons, lighting, or turntable movement.
Are these microwaves reliable for long-term use?
Reliability depends on the design, installation, and frequency of use, but a well-matched model should provide consistent everyday service. Look for a clear warranty and accessible repair support. Give the appliance stable power, keep ventilation paths unobstructed, and clean grease and spills promptly to reduce avoidable problems.
How do I find the best value for my budget?
Begin with the functions and capacity you genuinely need, then include installation costs in your comparison. A lower purchase price may offer better value if it fits your space and handles your usual meals. At higher budgets, consider stronger support, easier cleaning, improved controls, or construction that better suits frequent use.
Is installation easier than replacing a full-size model?
Installation is usually straightforward when the opening, electrical connection, and ventilation match the required specifications. Compact dimensions can help with clearance, but they do not eliminate these checks. If you are connecting a new appliance or modifying cabinets, professional installation can prevent errors involving mounting, wiring, or airflow.
Final Verdict
The best small above range microwave is not simply the smallest or least expensive option. It is the model that fits your available space, handles the meals you prepare most, works with your installation, and offers dependable operation at a price that suits your budget. Use the comparison table to narrow the field, verify the measurements and connection requirements before buying, and treat installation costs as part of the total value. With those checks in place, the Top 10 list provides a practical starting point for choosing a compact appliance that supports your kitchen without creating new problems.