Over-the-Range Microwaves: Sizing, Venting and Installation
How to pick an over-the-range microwave that fits: sizing, venting, power and four 30-inch models compared.
- All four models here are 30 inches wide, the standard over-the-range size, and run on 120 volts.
- Capacities range from 1.6 cu. ft. (Samsung ME16A4021AS) to 2.1 cu. ft. (Samsung ME21DG6300SR).
- Three move 300 CFM; the Samsung ME21DG6300SR moves 400 CFM and adds Wi-Fi.
- You can vent outside or recirculate through a charcoal filter; check the duct type before you buy.
An over-the-range microwave does two jobs: it heats food and it works as the range hood, with a fan and lights for the cooktop below. It saves counter space and replaces a separate hood, which is why it is so common in apartments, condos and family kitchens.
This guide explains how to size an over-the-range microwave, how venting works, and what to check before installation. It compares four models we carry from Whirlpool, Samsung and Frigidaire, using the specs listed on each product page.
Our top picks at a glance
Compare them side by sideEasy Install Pick: Whirlpool WMMS3130RS Over-the-Range Microwave
Whirlpool WMMS3130RS 30 inch Over-the-Range Microwave with 1.7 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, 10 Power Levels, Express Cooking Buttons, Dishwasher-Safe Turntable Plate (Stainless Steel)
The WMMS3130RS holds 1.7 cu. ft. with 1000 cooking watts and 10 power levels. Its fan moves 300 CFM, it has convertible venting with a recirculating kit included, and it uses a rectangular duct for outside venting. Express cooking buttons, a dishwasher-safe turntable plate and a fingerprint-resistant finish make daily use easy.
- Recirculating kit included
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
- Dishwasher-safe turntable plate
- Express cook buttons
- No sensor cooking
- 300 CFM
Magnetron Warranty Pick: Samsung ME16A4021AS Over-the-Range Microwave
Samsung ME16A4021AS 30 inch Over-the-Range Microwave with 300 CFM, 1.6 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Cooking Watts, 10 Power Levels, Auto Cook
The ME16A4021AS holds 1.6 cu. ft. with 1000 cooking watts, 10 power levels and auto cook programs. The fan moves 300 CFM. Samsung lists a 1-year parts and labor warranty plus 10 years on the magnetron, the part that makes the microwaves.
- 10-year magnetron warranty
- Auto cook
- 300 CFM
- 1000 cooking watts
- Smallest capacity here
- Incandescent lighting
Sensor Cook Pick: Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-the-Range Microwave
Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 30 inch Over-the-Range Microwave with 1.7 cu. ft. Capacity, 300 CFM, 1000 Watts Cooking Power, 10 Power Levels (Stainless Steel)
The FMOS1746BS holds 1.7 cu. ft. with 1000 cooking watts and 10 power levels. It has sensor cooking, which adjusts time by reading steam from the food, plus a child lock and an add-30-seconds button. The fan moves 300 CFM, and a charcoal filter is included for recirculating setups.
- Sensor cooking
- Child lock
- Charcoal filter
- 12 3/8-inch turntable
- 300 CFM
- No Wi-Fi
Smart Pick: Samsung ME21DG6300SR Smart Over-the-Range Microwave
Samsung ME21DG6300SR 30 inch Smart Over-the-Range Microwave with 2.1 cu. ft. Capacity, 1000 Watts Cooking Power, Auto Connectivity and SmartThings Cooking (Stainless Steel)
The ME21DG6300SR is the largest model here at 2.1 cu. ft. It has 1000 cooking watts, sensor cooking and the strongest fan here at 400 CFM. Wi-Fi and SmartThings let you monitor and control it from your phone, and Auto Connectivity can link the hood fan and light to a compatible Samsung range. It has a fingerprint-resistant finish and 10 years on the magnetron.
- 2.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 400 CFM
- Wi-Fi and SmartThings
- Sensor cooking
- Deeper and taller than the others
- Smart features work best with Samsung ranges
Over-the-Range Microwaves Compared
Whirlpool WMMS3130RS | Samsung ME16A4021AS | Frigidaire FMOS1746BS | Samsung ME21DG6300SR | |
| Model | WMMS3130RS | ME16A4021AS | FMOS1746BS | ME21DG6300SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $238 | $256 | $264 | $409 |
| Capacity | 1.7 cu. ft. | 1.6 cu. ft. | 1.7 cu. ft. | 2.1 cu. ft. |
| CFM | 300 | 300 | 300 | 400 |
| Cooking Watts | 1000 | 1000 | 1000 | 1000 |
| Height | 17 1/8" | 16 1/2" | 16 7/16" | 17 1/16" |
| Depth | 17 7/8" | 15 1/8" | 15 7/16" | 16 1/2" |
| Sensor Cook | Not included | Not listed |  | |
| Wi-Fi | Not included | Not included | Not included | |
| View | View | View | View |
How to Size an Over-the-Range Microwave
Most over-the-range microwaves, including all four here, are 30 inches wide to match a standard 30-inch range and cabinet opening. What changes is height and depth. The models here are about 16 1/2 to 17 1/8 inches tall and 15 1/8 to 17 7/8 inches deep.
Check the space between the cooktop and the cabinet above. Most installation guides call for at least 30 inches from the cooking surface to the bottom of the cabinet, and about 66 inches from the floor to the top of the microwave, but always follow the installation instructions for your model.
- Width: 30 inches for these models
- Measure cooktop to cabinet bottom
- Check the cabinet above is level and strong
- Confirm the door can open past nearby walls
Venting: Outside or Recirculating
Outside venting pushes smoke and steam through a duct to the outdoors, either up through the cabinet or out the back wall. This works best, especially over gas ranges. Recirculating sends air through a charcoal filter and back into the kitchen. It is easier to install but does not remove heat or moisture.
Airflow on these models is 300 to 400 CFM, which suits everyday cooking. If you sear, stir-fry or have a powerful gas range, a dedicated hood can move more air. Our range hood buying guide and under-cabinet range hood guide explain the options.
Power and Installation
These microwaves run on 120 volts and list 13.5 to 15 amps, so plan for a dedicated outlet in the cabinet above. Over-the-range models are heavy and mount to the wall with a bracket and to the cabinet above with bolts, so a second person helps.
If you would rather keep the microwave off the range, look at drawer models like our Sharp microwave drawers guide.
How to Install an Over-the-Range Microwave
- 01
MeasureConfirm a 30-inch wide opening and the height from cooktop to cabinet.
- 02
Plan the ventChoose outside venting or recirculating and check the duct type.
- 03
Check powerHave a dedicated 120-volt outlet in the cabinet above.
- 04
Mount securelyAttach the wall bracket into studs and bolt to the cabinet above.
Our Picks by Need
Compare every over-the-range microwave we carry.
Shop Over-the-Range MicrowavesFrequently Asked Questions
What size is an over-the-range microwave?
The four models in this guide are 30 inches wide, the standard size for over-the-range models. Height runs about 16 1/2 to 17 1/8 inches.
Can an over-the-range microwave replace a range hood?
Yes. It has a fan and cooktop lights. The models here move 300 to 400 CFM, which suits everyday cooking.
Do over-the-range microwaves need to vent outside?
No, but it works better. Most can vent outside or recirculate through a charcoal filter. The Whirlpool WMMS3130RS includes a recirculating kit.
How much clearance does an over-the-range microwave need?
Most installation guides call for about 30 inches from the cooktop to the bottom of the cabinet above. Check the installation instructions for your model.
What outlet does an over-the-range microwave need?
The models here run on 120 volts and list 13.5 to 15 amps, so a dedicated outlet in the cabinet above is the usual setup.
