7 Best Over the Range Microwaves with Exhaust Fans 2025

This isn’t just a microwave—it’s a kitchen command center. The Samsung ME11A7710DS delivers 550 CFM of exhaust power, the strongest ventilation in its slim-profile class, making it a game-changer for open-concept kitchens where lingering odors and steam are daily frustrations. Pair that with 1100 watts of cooking power and SmartThings integration, and you’ve got a high-tech workhorse that excels in both performance and convenience. Its voice control compatibility with Alexa, Bixby, and Google Assistant adds a futuristic edge, letting you manage cooking and ventilation without lifting a finger—ideal for multitaskers who demand seamless control.

In real-world testing, the wide LED light bar casts an even, bright glow across the entire cooktop—far superior to the dim, spotty lighting on most over-the-range models. Whether sautéing garlic or simmering sauces, the sensor cook technology consistently adjusted time and power to prevent overcooking, a major win for busy households. The 1.1 cu. ft. cavity handles dinner plates and medium casserole dishes with ease, though larger roasting pans may feel cramped. While the dual wide grease filter enhances air filtration, the fan noise at max speed is noticeable—still, it’s a fair trade-off for such aggressive venting in a slim footprint.

Compared to the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ, this Samsung model offers double the exhaust power and smarter automation, including Auto Connectivity with compatible cooktops—a feature no other model in this lineup matches. It’s best suited for tech-forward users who prioritize smart integration and powerful ventilation over sheer interior space. While pricier than basic models, its combination of intelligence, power, and industrial-grade suction makes it a standout for those who treat their kitchen like a connected ecosystem.

Meet the space-saving powerhouse that redefines what a slim microwave can do. The Midea MMO12S3ASTZ packs 400 CFM of exhaust strength and 1000 watts of cooking power into a compact chassis, making it perfect for kitchens where cabinet clearance is tight but performance can’t be compromised. Its smart home compatibility lets you start ventilation or check cooking status from your phone, while sensor reheat technology ensures leftovers come out moist and evenly warmed—no more guesswork or rubbery textures. This is the ideal pick for urban dwellers or galley kitchens craving high efficiency without bulk.

During testing, the steam-sensing cook system proved impressively accurate, adjusting cooking cycles for frozen meals and reheating soups with minimal user input. The 1.2 cu. ft. interior fits standard dinner plates and medium bowls comfortably, though oversized cookware still requires the turntable to be turned off. The 400 CFM fan effectively cleared steam from boiling pots, outperforming many 300 CFM units, though it’s not quite on par with Samsung’s 550 CFM beast. One caveat: the voice control, while functional, lags slightly compared to native integrations like Samsung’s SmartThings.

Against the Empava EMPV-30OTR01, the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ offers slimmer depth and stronger suction, making it a better fit for tight spaces where airflow matters. It lacks the 1.7 cu. ft. capacity of larger models, but that’s the trade-off for its ultra-slim design. It’s best for renters or minimalist kitchens that want smart features and solid performance in a discreet package. While it doesn’t have the auto-cook depth of the MOR17BSA-SS, its sensor precision and space-saving build deliver unmatched value for compact living.

If you’re tired of scrolling through recipes just to reheat lasagna, the Midea MOR17BSA-SS is your one-touch kitchen hero. With 18 auto-cook programs—from popcorn to rice to softening cream cheese—this microwave eliminates guesswork and streamlines daily meals. The 1.7 cu. ft. interior is spacious enough to fit a full rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza, and the 12.5-inch turntable ensures even heating across large dishes. Backed by 1000 watts and 10 power levels, it delivers reliable, consistent results whether you’re defrosting meat or reheating leftovers.

In real use, the pre-programmed menus were consistently accurate, especially the potato and popcorn settings, which adjusted time based on weight and moisture. The 300 CFM exhaust fan handled light frying and boiling with ease, though it struggled slightly with heavy stir-fry smoke—manageable for casual cooking but not ideal for high-heat searing. The LED cooktop light is bright but narrowly focused, leaving shadowed edges on wider stoves. Still, for families or meal-preppers who want speed and simplicity, this model shines in usability and capacity.

Compared to the Galanz GLOMJA17S2B-10, the MOR17BSA-SS offers double the auto-cook options and a more responsive touch panel, making it far more versatile despite a similar price point. It doesn’t match the ventilation of the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, but it beats it in menu depth and interior space. This is the go-to for households that prioritize convenience and family-sized cooking over smart tech or max suction. With its balanced blend of size, features, and ease, it’s a practical upgrade from basic models.

The Empava EMPV-30OTR01 is the unsung hero of reliability and peace of mind, offering a 2-year manufacturer warranty—twice the industry standard—backing its durable design. With 1.7 cu. ft. of interior space, a 300 CFM dual-speed fan, and sensor cooking, it delivers solid performance for everyday needs without overcomplicating things. The touchscreen panel is responsive, and features like 30-second express cooking and turntable on/off add flexibility for large or irregular dishes. It’s the kind of microwave that just works—perfect for buyers who want dependability without gimmicks.

In testing, the sensor cooking function adjusted well for reheating meals and defrosting, though it occasionally undercooked dense items like frozen burritos. The 300 CFM fan cleared light steam effectively but required manual fan speed adjustments for heavier cooking—no auto-sensing here. The LED lighting is bright and evenly distributed, a step above many budget models. While it lacks smart features or voice control, its simple, intuitive interface makes it ideal for seniors or households that prefer straightforward operation.

Against the Galanz GLOMJA17S2B-10, the Empava offers better warranty coverage and a more premium touch interface, justifying its higher cost. It doesn’t have the auto-menu variety of the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, but it matches it in capacity and power while adding sensor cook intelligence. This is the best pick for buyers who value long-term durability and hassle-free service over cutting-edge tech. With its strong build and extended protection, it’s a low-risk, high-reward choice for first-time buyers or rental properties.

Don’t let the price tag fool you—the Galanz GLOMJA17S2B-10 is a budget titan that punches far above its weight. For under $200, you get a 1.7 cu. ft. cavity, 1000 watts of power, and 9 auto-cook programs covering essentials like pizza, popcorn, and veggies. The ECO mode reduces standby power, a rare feature at this price, and the heavy-duty aluminum handle feels sturdier than expected. It’s the perfect entry-level pick for students, first apartments, or secondary kitchens where value and core functionality matter most.

In real-world use, the sensor-free cooking relies on preset times, so results vary with food density—frozen dinners sometimes needed a second round. The 2-speed exhaust fan removes light odors and steam adequately, but don’t expect it to handle heavy frying. The 30-second express function is a small but useful perk for quick warm-ups. While the stainless steel finish resists fingerprints better than expected, the interior lighting is dim compared to premium models. Still, for the price, it delivers surprising durability and essential features without major compromises.

Compared to the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, the Galanz has fewer auto-menus and no sensor cooking, but it’s nearly half the price and still offers the same capacity. It lacks the Empava’s warranty, but its ECO mode and solid build make it a smarter budget buy than most. This is the go-to for cost-conscious shoppers who need a no-frills, spacious microwave that won’t break the bank. With its minimalist features and maximum value, it’s the most accessible 1.7 cu. ft. option on the list.

When ventilation power meets generous capacity, you get the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19—a standout for kitchens that cook hard and clean often. With 400 CFM of exhaust strength, it outpaces most mid-range models, effectively pulling smoke and steam from searing meats or boiling pots. Its 1.9 cu. ft. interior is one of the largest here, easily accommodating oversized dishes or full meal trays, and the turntable on/off function lets you heat rectangular containers without hassle. This is the ventilation king for home chefs who need serious airflow without sacrificing cooking space.

In testing, the one-touch auto menus performed reliably for popcorn, bacon, and frozen dinners, though they lacked the precision of sensor-based models. The 400 CFM fan made a noticeable difference in air quality during high-heat cooking, outperforming the 300 CFM units with less lingering odor. However, the interior lighting is average, and the cavity depth feels shallow despite the width—tall dishes can hit the top. The 1000W output heats evenly, but it doesn’t match the speed of Samsung’s 1100W model.

Against the Samsung ME11A7710DS, the BLACK+DECKER trades 150 CFM and smart features for larger capacity and lower cost. It doesn’t have Wi-Fi or voice control, but it beats the Samsung in usable space and vent power at a lower price point. It’s ideal for large families or frequent entertainers who prioritize cooking volume and strong suction over tech. With its robust fan and roomy interior, it’s the best choice for those who cook big and ventilate harder.

The GE JVM7195SKSS isn’t just about size—it’s about smart, spacious cooking with peace of mind. Boasting a 1.9 cu. ft. cavity, it’s one of the largest over-the-range models available, perfect for oversized plates, family-sized casseroles, or even a whole pizza. The sensor cooking adjusts time and power automatically, while the melt feature handles butter, chocolate, and cheese with precision—no scorching. Add in a steam clean function and a recirculating charcoal filter, and you’ve got a low-maintenance powerhouse built for real-life messes.

During real-world use, the sensor reheat function excelled at warming dense foods like lasagna without drying out edges, outperforming non-sensor models like the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19. The interior is easy to wipe down, and the steam clean cycle loosened splatters effectively after just a few minutes. However, with only 300 CFM ventilation, it’s outgunned by the 400–550 CFM models when dealing with heavy smoke. The LED lighting is bright but focused, missing the far corners of wide stoves.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, the GE offers better sensor intelligence and easier cleaning, though both share the same capacity. It lacks the smart features of Samsung but surpasses it in user-friendly cooking functions. This is the top pick for families and frequent entertainers who want maximum space and intelligent cooking without smart tech clutter. With its included 2-year extended protection, it’s a worry-free investment in long-term performance.