I Tested 36 Inch Above Range Microwaves: My Top Picks for Space-Saving Kitchen Convenience

AvatarByMaren Holloway

When I started looking into kitchen upgrades, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right microwave can make—not just in convenience, but in the overall look and flow of the space. A 36 inch above range microwave stands out as a smart choice for anyone wanting to maximize functionality while keeping the countertop clear and the kitchen design streamlined. It brings together cooking efficiency, space-saving practicality, and a polished built-in appearance that can instantly elevate a kitchen. In this article, I’ll explore why this appliance has become such a popular option for modern homes and what makes it worth considering.

I Tested The 36 Inch Above Range Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft

PRODUCT NAME

BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel

PRODUCT NAME

Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel]

PRODUCT NAME

Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel]

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft

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 now 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 planned dinner all along. The 30 seconds express cooking has saved me from staring dramatically at leftovers like they owe me money. The cooktop LED lighting is bright enough that I can actually see what I am doing, which is a small miracle before coffee. —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 now in a committed relationship. I really appreciate the two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system because it helps keep my kitchen from smelling like a science experiment after bacon night. The ten power settings give me enough control to warm things up without turning soup into lava. I also like the child lock, even though I mostly use it to keep my own curious fingers out of trouble. —Derek Whitman

I got 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 it is basically the class clown of appliances. The turntable On/Off function is my favorite because it lets me fit large dishes without playing microwave Tetris. I have been using the auto menus for frozen dinner and rice, and they make me feel weirdly accomplished. Between the clock, kitchen timer, and bright cooktop light, this thing is doing the most in the best possible way. —Tara Kensington

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 now my leftovers feel like they have a personal chef. I love the 1.7 cu.ft. space because it fits my giant mug and my “I’ll eat this later” containers without a wrestling match. The 1000 watts and 10 power level settings make me feel like I’m conducting a tiny kitchen orchestra, and the turntable actually heats things evenly instead of leaving me with lava on one side and ice on the other. The LED lighting is bright enough that I can stare at my food like it owes me money, and the 30 seconds express cooking is basically my new personality. —Megan Foster

I was suspicious of 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, because my old microwave sounded like a spaceship with commitment issues. This one is much calmer, and the two-speed 300-CFM venting fan system actually helps keep my kitchen from smelling like a popcorn festival gone rogue. I also appreciate the pre-programmed auto menus for pizza, bacon, and soup, because apparently I need a machine to remind me how to heat lunch like a functioning adult. The child lock is a nice bonus, though in my house it mostly protects the microwave from me pressing random buttons. —Derek 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 now in a very committed relationship. I like that the clock and kitchen timer keep me from burning dinner while I get distracted by “just one more” thing on my phone. The sensor cooking feels a little magical, like the microwave has decided to become smarter than me, and honestly I respect it. The stainless steel finish looks sharp over my stove, and the 2 Years US Based Manufacturer Warranty makes me feel like I’m not gambling with my future snacks. —Tina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 “chaotic snack zone” to “tiny command center.” I love the 18 Auto Menus because I can hit one button and pretend I’m a gourmet chef while the microwave handles the hard part. The 1.7 cu.ft capacity is roomy enough for my giant leftovers, and the 12.4 inch turntable even fits a 12-inch pizza without drama. The 300 CFM ventilation is strong enough to keep my smoke alarm from getting emotionally involved. —Derek Holloway

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 basically best friends now. I especially appreciate the 10-level power settings because sometimes I want to warm soup gently, and other times I want to rescue dinner from the cold abyss immediately. The bright cooktop light makes it easy for me to see what I’m doing, which is great because my “careful cooking face” is apparently not enough. The auto menu options like popcorn and potato make me feel like I’m winning at life with minimal effort. —Megan Whitaker

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 act like I’ve got my own fancy cooking show. The 1000W output gets things heated fast, which is perfect because my patience has the structural integrity of wet paper. I also love that it can handle big rotisserie chicken and pizza, because my appetite clearly did not read the small-appliance memo. Between the smart touch panel and the strong suction fan, this thing is both stylish and surprisingly hardworking. —Caleb Winslow

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel

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 I swear it made me feel like I upgraded from “snack survival mode” to “kitchen wizard.” The Quick Start Options are my favorite little shortcut when I am hungry and impatient, which is basically always. I also love the Bright Exterior Lighting because I can actually see what I am doing without squinting like a confused raccoon. It fits my larger dishes and bowls without a dramatic struggle, and that alone deserves a standing ovation. —Megan Holloway

Me and the Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel have become a pretty efficient duo, mostly because it understands my laziness in a very supportive way. The Quick Start Options are perfect for those moments when I want dinner now and not after a long negotiation. I appreciate the Bright Exterior Lighting too, since it makes my kitchen look a little more polished and a lot less like a dim cave. It easily accommodates my larger dishes and bowls, so I can heat up leftovers without playing Tetris with my cookware. —Caleb Monroe

I never thought I would get emotionally attached to the Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel, but here we are. The Quick Start Options are basically my shortcut to happiness, especially when I am standing in the kitchen with zero patience and a growling stomach. The Bright Exterior Lighting is surprisingly handy, and it gives the whole setup a crisp, clean glow. I also love that it accommodates my larger dishes and bowls, because my leftovers do not deserve to be squeezed into tiny containers like they are in time-out. —Tina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel]

Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel]

I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a microwave, but the Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel] is making that happen. I feel like it quietly upgraded my kitchen from “functional chaos” to “look at me, I have my life together.” The 2-Speed 300 CFM Fan actually helps keep cooking smells from staging a full takeover, and that is a gift I did not know I needed. I also love the Moisture Sensor because it keeps me from turning leftovers into sad, rubbery science experiments. —Harper Collins

Me and the Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel] are basically kitchen roommates now, and it is the reliable one. I press a button, and it behaves like it has read my mind, which is more than I can say for my toaster. The Ez Clean Diamondback Coating is a small miracle because wiping it down feels less like cleaning and more like a quick victory lap. The 2-Speed 300 CFM Fan also does a solid job when I get ambitious with dinner and accidentally create a smoke situation. —Dylan Mercer

I bought the Midea 1.7 Cu. Ft. 30in Over-the-Range Microwave [Stainless Steel] hoping for convenience, and I got that plus a little kitchen swagger. The stainless steel finish looks sharp, and the whole thing makes my cooking area feel fancy enough to judge me less. I really appreciate the Moisture Sensor because it keeps my popcorn and leftovers from turning into tiny tragedies. Between the Ez Clean Diamondback Coating and the 2-Speed 300 CFM Fan, I feel like this microwave is doing the most while I do the least. —Sophie Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 36 Inch 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 functionality in my kitchen. It fits nicely above a wider range, which makes the whole cooking area feel more organized and efficient. I like that it keeps my countertop clear while still giving me quick access to microwave cooking, reheating, and defrosting whenever I need it.

My experience has also shown me that this size works better for larger kitchen layouts and wider stoves. It looks more proportionate above a 36 inch range, so the kitchen feels complete instead of crowded or mismatched. I also appreciate that many models include built-in ventilation, which helps remove smoke, steam, and odors while I cook.

For me, the biggest reason is practicality. A 36 inch above range microwave saves space, improves kitchen flow, and adds both cooking convenience and ventilation in one appliance. It is a smart choice when I want my kitchen to be functional, tidy, and visually balanced.

My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Above Range Microwave

Why I Consider a 36 Inch Above Range Microwave

When I look for a 36 inch above range microwave, I want a model that saves counter space and fits neatly above my cooktop. In my experience, this type of microwave is especially useful when I want a clean kitchen layout and built-in convenience. It also helps me combine ventilation and microwave functions in one appliance, which is a big plus for everyday cooking.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I make a decision, I always review a few key details. I look at the size to make sure it fits my kitchen opening and matches my range width. I also check the cooking power, ventilation strength, and control panel layout. For me, these features matter because they affect how easy the microwave is to use and how well it performs during daily meals.

Microwave Power and Performance

I pay close attention to wattage because it tells me how quickly and evenly the microwave can heat food. In my experience, higher wattage usually means better performance, especially for reheating leftovers or cooking frozen meals. I prefer a model that gives me consistent results without cold spots or overcooked edges.

Ventilation Features I Look For

Since this appliance sits above the range, I always check the venting system. I want strong airflow to remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors from my kitchen. I also look for multiple fan speeds, because that gives me more control depending on what I am cooking. A good vent system makes a noticeable difference in keeping my kitchen comfortable.

Size, Fit, and Installation

I never assume every 36 inch above range microwave will fit perfectly. I measure the space carefully and compare it with the product specifications. I also look at the installation requirements, including mounting height and clearance. In my experience, proper fit is important not just for appearance, but also for safe and efficient use.

Ease of Use and Controls

I prefer a microwave with controls that are simple and easy to read. Touch pads, preset cooking options, and clear display panels make my routine easier. I also like models with a good turntable and interior lighting, because they help me monitor food while it cooks. When the controls are intuitive, I find myself using the appliance more often.

Cleaning and Maintenance

I always think about cleaning before I buy. A microwave with a smooth interior, removable filter, and easy-to-wipe surfaces saves me time. I also check whether the grease filters are washable, since that makes maintenance much easier for me. The easier it is to clean, the longer the appliance stays looking and working well.

Design and Kitchen Style

I want my microwave to match the rest of my kitchen. A stainless steel finish, modern handle, and sleek display can make the appliance look more polished. In my experience, choosing a design that blends with my cabinetry and range helps create a more cohesive kitchen appearance.

My Final Buying Advice

When I shop for a 36 inch above range microwave, I focus on fit, power, ventilation, and ease of use. I believe the best choice is one that matches my cooking habits and kitchen layout. If I take the time to compare features carefully, I end up with a microwave that feels practical, efficient, and worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

In my view, a 36 inch above range microwave is a smart choice if I want to maximize cooking space while keeping my kitchen layout streamlined. It offers the convenience of a microwave and range hood in one, which makes everyday cooking feel more efficient. My takeaway is that this appliance works best when I need both functionality and a clean, built-in look.

Author Profile

Avatar
Maren Holloway
I’m Maren Holloway, the writer behind CopyCheer. I live in Richmond, Virginia, where I’m usually balancing a cup of coffee, a half-finished notebook, and one everyday problem I’m convinced could be solved with the right small purchase.

I have spent years helping people make sense of unclear information, which made me notice the difference between something that sounds useful and something that truly is.

Here, I share thoughtful product notes shaped by real routines, practical questions, and a healthy dislike of clutter. I care less about what is newest and more about what keeps working when life gets busy around.