7 Best Microwaves with Range Hoods 2025

This power-packed powerhouse redefines what an over-the-range microwave can do—especially when space and performance collide. With a class-leading 550 CFM hood ventilation, it outperforms nearly every competitor in smoke and odor extraction, making it ideal for serious home cooks who demand clean air without bulk. Add in 1100 watts of cooking power and SmartThings integration, and you’ve got a kitchen workhorse that’s as intelligent as it is strong, solving the everyday frustration of lingering cooking smells and clunky controls.

In real-world use, the Samsung ME11A7710DS shines brightest under pressure—literally. Whether simmering sauces or air-frying leftovers, the sensor cook technology consistently delivers perfectly reheated meals with zero guesswork. The wide LED light bar floods the cooktop below with brilliant, shadow-free illumination, turning nighttime cooking into a precise task rather than a guessing game. While the 1.1 cu ft cavity is slightly smaller than some rivals, the slim profile fits seamlessly above standard ranges, preserving upper cabinet space—though dense or oversized dishes may rotate unevenly on the turntable due to height constraints.

Positioned against the GE JVM3160RFSS and KoolMore KM-MOT-OP1SS, this Samsung model trades raw interior volume for cutting-edge smart features and superior ventilation. It’s the clear choice for tech-forward kitchens where automation and air quality matter more than maximum capacity. For those already invested in Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem, the seamless control—like auto-activating the vent when the cooktop ignites—feels like magic. It delivers premium performance, smarter operation, and bolder ventilation in a sleeker form than the budget-focused GE or the basic KoolMore.

Don’t let its modest branding fool you—this ventilation-savvy workhorse punches well above its weight when it comes to clearing smoke and steam. The 300 CFM exhaust motor operates with surprising efficiency, tackling greasy stir-fries and boiling pots with a quiet confidence that belies its price point. For kitchens lacking a dedicated hood, the KoolMore KM-MOT-OP1SS steps in as a true hybrid hero, combining solid microwave performance with range-hood-level air management in a space-saving 24-inch build.

During testing, the 1.3 cu ft cavity proved roomy enough for large casserole dishes and family-sized meals, while the rotating turntable ensured even heating across dense foods like mashed potatoes or lasagna. The stainless-steel finish resists smudges better than expected, and the intuitive touch panel responds reliably—even with damp hands. However, the fan lacks variable speed settings beyond low and high, and it struggles slightly with heavy oil-laden air during prolonged frying sessions, requiring manual filter cleaning more often than higher-CFM models.

Stacked against the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ and the COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS, this KoolMore unit strikes a balance between size, power, and ventilation clarity. It’s not as smart or connected as the Samsung, nor as spacious as the GE, but it delivers dependable venting where it counts—making it perfect for compact kitchens or renters upgrading from weak stock hoods. With stronger airflow than most in its class and a larger interior than slimline models, it offers practical gains without the premium smart-tech tax.

When kitchen real estate is at a premium, the ultra-slim Midea MMO12S3ASTZ steps in like a stealth organizer—quietly reclaiming overhead space without sacrificing core functionality. At just a fraction of the depth of traditional over-the-range units, it tucks neatly above cooktops while still delivering impressive 400 CFM ventilation, making it one of the most space-smart ventilation solutions on the market. For apartment dwellers or modern kitchens with shallow cabinets, this Midea model solves the all-too-common clash between design and utility.

Performance-wise, the 1000-watt output handles everyday reheating and defrosting with speed and consistency, and the sensor cook and reheat functions take the guesswork out of meal prep—perfect for busy households. The smart home compatibility allows remote start and doneness alerts via app, adding convenience without complexity. However, the fan, while strong for its size, can’t match the sheer extraction force of the 550 CFM Samsung, and the internal lighting is noticeably dimmer, making it harder to monitor food in low-light settings.

Compared to the bulky GE JVM3160RFSS and wider KoolMore unit, the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ trades cubic inches for sleek integration, making it ideal for minimalist or small-footprint kitchens. It’s not built for large families or heavy-duty cooking, but for urbanites and design-focused users, it delivers smart features, solid power, and unmatched slimness in one polished package. While it doesn’t offer the raw capacity of the GE or the convection versatility of the Sharp, it maximizes efficiency where space is the ultimate luxury.

With its spacious 1.34 cu ft cavity, the COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS is a volume virtuoso—perfect for families or meal preppers who regularly heat large containers and sheet-pan leftovers. This microwave doesn’t dazzle with smart features, but it excels where it matters: consistent cooking power and reliable sensor operation. The 1000-watt output heats evenly across most dishes, and the sensor reheat mode automatically shuts off when food reaches ideal temperature, preventing overcooking—a small but meaningful win for busy households.

In daily use, the touch presets for popcorn, defrost, and softening are responsive and intuitive, reducing button-mashing frustration. The integrated vent fan performs adequately for light to moderate cooking, though it falls short during high-heat searing or deep frying, where more powerful units like the Samsung truly dominate. Still, for general ventilation needs—boiling water, sautéing veggies, simmering sauces—it keeps the air fresh without disruptive noise. The RV-friendly electrical specs also make it a smart pick for mobile or compact living setups.

When compared to the GE JVM3160RFSS and Midea MMO12S3ASTZ, the COSMO model stands out for offering the largest capacity in a standard 24-inch footprint. It’s not as budget-friendly as the GE, nor as slim as the Midea, but it gives you maximum interior space with dependable performance—a rare combo in this category. For users who prioritize cooking volume and simplicity over smart tech or ultra-slim design, this COSMO unit delivers practical excellence with no frills, no fuss.

If you’re looking to bake, roast, and crisp—not just reheat—then the Sharp R1874T is a game-changing convection champion. Unlike standard microwaves, this model adds true convection cooking with a heating element and fan, transforming it into a mini oven capable of golden-brown chicken, flaky pastries, and even roasted vegetables—tasks most over-the-range units can’t touch. The 850-watt microwave power pairs seamlessly with convection mode, offering versatility that bridges the gap between microwave speed and oven-quality results.

Real-world testing reveals impressive multi-mode performance: switching from microwave to convection bake is intuitive via the 7-digit interactive display, and the included low and high racks allow flexible food placement. The 13-inch turntable ensures even rotation, though convection-only cooking requires removing it, which interrupts workflow slightly. Ventilation is functional with a built-in exhaust, but at no stated CFM, it’s clearly not the focus—this unit prioritizes culinary expansion over air purification, making it less ideal for kitchens reliant on strong hood performance.

Pitted against the Samsung ME11A7710DS and GE JVM3160RFSS, the Sharp R1874T sacrifices smart features and massive capacity for unmatched cooking flexibility. It’s heavier, pricier, and less connected, but for bakers, roasters, or anyone tired of underwhelming microwave meals, it’s a culinary upgrade in disguise. While the Samsung dominates ventilation and the GE wins on budget, the Sharp delivers gourmet potential in an over-the-range shell, making it the top pick for foodies who want real oven results without extra appliances.

For budget-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on interior space, the GE JVM3160RFSS is a no-nonsense giant-killer—offering a massive 1.6 cu ft capacity at a fraction of the cost of premium models. This microwave devours large plates, deep bowls, and family-sized meals with ease, making it a standout for households that regularly reheat leftovers or cook for crowds. With 10 power levels and reliable sensor cook, it handles everyday tasks efficiently, and the included 2-year extended protection plan adds peace of mind rarely seen at this price.

In practice, the 850-watt output (lower than some) means slightly longer cook times for dense foods, and the ventilation system is functional but unremarkable, best suited for light smoke and steam. The controls are straightforward, with convenient preset buttons for popcorn, defrost, and beverage heating—ideal for users who want simplicity over smart features. However, the bulky 29.9-inch width may not fit all cabinets, and the finish shows fingerprints more easily than higher-end stainless models.

When stacked against the COSMO and Samsung models, the GE wins on pure volume and value, though it lacks the smart connectivity, strong ventilation, or convection cooking of its pricier rivals. It’s not built for tech lovers or serious cooks, but for families, dorms, or secondary kitchens needing big capacity and dependable basics, it’s unmatched. While the Samsung offers smarter air control and the Sharp delivers gourmet cooking, the GE delivers maximum space and minimum cost—a rare combo in the over-the-range world.