8 Best Over-the-Range Microwave with High CFM (October 2026)
The best high CFM over-the-range microwaves include the BLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave for everyday full-size cooking, the Toshiba 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave for sensor cooking and steam, and the Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave for slim smart controls.
On this page (5 sections)
The BLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM is the top-scoring pick for high-CFM cooking, with a 9 score, 1.9 cu ft capacity and a two-speed 400 CFM fan. The Samsung has the highest stated airflow, at 550 CFM, but a lower score and a 1.1 cu ft capacity.
CFM is the airflow figure to compare when you want a microwave hood to move cooking air. Vent path, installation and the space above your range also matter.
For context on airflow ranges, read what CFM a microwave over the range should have. Our guide to how over-the-range microwaves are vented explains ducted and recirculating setups.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for everyday full-size cookingBLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM
9.0/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for sensor cooking and steamToshiba 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
8.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for slim smart controlsMidea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave
8.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itSamsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for maximum listed airflow - 5
Check itGE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless
Best for a low-profile GE option - 6
Check itThermoMate 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless
Best for flexible power settings - 7
Check itThermoMate 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for slim cooking with sensor controls - 8
Check itGASLAND 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM
Best for one-touch menu choices
High CFM over-the-range microwaves compared
The BLACK+DECKER leads this roundup by score, while the Samsung has the highest stated airflow. The other options have 400 CFM or up to 400 CFM fans, so compare capacity and height alongside airflow.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Vent airflow | Width | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM | everyday full-size cooking | 1.9 cu ft | 400 CFM | 29.88 in | 9.0 |
| Toshiba 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave | sensor cooking and steam | 1.9 cu ft | 400 CFM | 29.9 in | 8.5 |
| Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave | slim smart controls | 1.2 cu ft | 400 CFM | 8.6 | |
| Samsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave | maximum listed airflow | 1.1 cu ft | 550 CFM | 29.88 in | 7.9 |
| GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless | a low-profile GE option | 1.2 cu ft | 400 CFM | 8.2 | |
| ThermoMate 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless | flexible power settings | 1.9 cu ft | Up to 400 CFM | 29.9 in | 8.0 |
| ThermoMate 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave | slim cooking with sensor controls | 1.2 cu ft | 400 CFM | 7.8 | |
| GASLAND 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM | one-touch menu choices | 1.9 cu ft | 400 CFM | 29.92 in | 7.5 |
How we chose high CFM microwave picks
We compared fan airflow, fan speeds, capacity, height and cooking features for each model. The score weighs specs and features against what shoppers want from stronger ventilation.
Several full-size and low-profile models have 400 CFM fans. The Samsung's 550 CFM figure is the highest here, while the BLACK+DECKER leads by score with its 1.9 cu ft capacity.
BLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM: Best for everyday full-size cooking
- 400 CFM two-speed vent fan
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- 1000 watts
- Turntable can be turned off
A large capacity and two-speed 400 CFM fan suit buyers who want everyday cooking space with substantial ventilation. The turntable can be switched off for large dishes.
Pros
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- Two-speed 400 CFM fan
- Turntable on/off
Cons
- Lower stated airflow than the Samsung
The BLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM pairs a 1.9 cu ft interior with a two-speed 400 CFM fan. It scores 9, the highest score in this roundup.
The turntable can be switched off for large dishes, and the microwave has 10 power settings and one-touch cooking menus. Its dimensions are 29.88 in wide, 16.41 in deep and 15.41 in high, so compare them with the space above your range.
Choose it if full-size cooking space matters more than the highest airflow figure in this roundup. The two fan speeds let you select between airflow settings during cooking.
For narrower overhead clearance, compare this full-size model with our low-profile over-the-range microwave picks. For more selection advice, see how to choose an over-the-range microwave.
Buy it for full-size capacity and a two-speed 400 CFM fan.
Toshiba 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for sensor cooking and steam
- 400 CFM two-speed exhaust fan
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- Sensor cooking
- Soft-close door
This full-size option pairs a two-speed 400 CFM fan with sensor cooking and a soft-close door. Its 13.5 in turntable gives room for multiple plates.
Pros
- Two-speed 400 CFM fan
- Sensor cooking
- Soft-close door
Cons
- Lower stated airflow than the Samsung
Toshiba combines a 400 CFM two-speed exhaust fan with a 1.9 cu ft interior. The 13.5 in turntable and sensor cooking make it a full-size pick for households that heat several plates or larger dishes.
The model also has 11 power levels, 24 preset menus and ChefDefrost. Toshiba describes its soft-close door as using a hydraulic damper to prevent slamming.
Its dimensions are 29.9 in wide, 13.8 in deep and 16.4 in high. Measure the cabinet and vent route, then compare the setup with standard over-the-range microwave dimensions.
Choose Toshiba if you want full-size capacity plus sensor cooking and a soft-close door. Its airflow rating matches the other 400 CFM options.
Buy it for a full-size interior with sensor cooking and 400 CFM ventilation.
Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for slim smart controls
- 400 CFM vent fan
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- Sensor cook and reheat
- Voice control and SmartHome app
The slim Midea pairs a 400 CFM fan with sensor cook and reheat, voice control and SmartHome app features. Its 10.3 in height suits buyers working around limited overhead space.
Pros
- Low-profile design
- Sensor cook and reheat
- SmartHome app features
Cons
- Less capacity than full-size picks
The Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave pairs a 400 CFM vent fan with a 1.2 cu ft capacity. It scores 8.6, the second-highest score in this roundup, and measures 10.3 in high.
Its features include sensor cook and reheat, voice control and SmartHome app functions for remote control and notifications. These connected functions may suit you if you want to monitor cooking and ventilation.
Midea measures 29.9 in wide, 18.2 in deep and 10.3 in high. Compare the depth with your available space and check the vent setup in the installation instructions.
Choose it for slim dimensions and connected controls. For maintenance guidance, see how to clean over-the-range microwave filters.
Buy it for a low profile with sensor cooking and app controls.
Samsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for maximum listed airflow
- 550 CFM hood vent
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- Wi-Fi and voice control
- LED light bar
Its stated 550 CFM is the highest airflow figure among these picks. The slim 1.1 cu ft design is a tradeoff for buyers who prioritize ventilation and overhead space.
Pros
- Highest stated CFM here
- Slim profile
- Wi-Fi and voice control
Cons
- Smallest stated capacity here
- Does not specify fan speeds
The Samsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave has the highest stated airflow in this group, with a 550 CFM hood vent. Its slim profile pairs that airflow with a 1.1 cu ft capacity.
Samsung includes Wi-Fi, voice control, sensor cook and an LED light bar. Its 7.9 score is lower than the top-ranked BLACK+DECKER, Toshiba and Midea picks.
The available facts don't specify fan speeds or venting modes. Check the installation instructions to confirm how it can connect to your home's ductwork or operate as a recirculating hood.
Choose it when maximum stated airflow is your first priority and a smaller interior fits your needs. If you often cook with large dishes, compare it with the full-size options.
Buy it for the highest stated airflow here, with 550 CFM and a slim 1.1 cu ft interior.
GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless: Best for a low-profile GE option
- 400 CFM two-speed venting
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- Sensor cooking
- LED cooktop lighting
A 10.31 in height and 400 CFM two-speed vent make this a slim choice where overhead space is limited. It also includes sensor cooking and LED cooktop lighting.
Pros
- Low-profile design
- Two-speed 400 CFM vent
- Sensor cooking
Cons
- Less capacity than full-size picks
The GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless pairs a 400 CFM, two-speed vent with a 1.2 cu ft interior. Its height is 10.31 in, which can help when a standard-height microwave would crowd the space above your range.
Sensor cooking, LED cooktop lighting and turntable controls add daily cooking functions. The turntable can be switched off, and the beeper can be adjusted or muted.
This model has less capacity than the 1.9 cu ft choices. It measures 18.63 in deep, so compare that figure with your cabinets and the manufacturer's installation requirements.
Choose GE Profile when lower height matters and you still want a 400 CFM two-speed fan. For a comparison of hood and microwave tradeoffs, read over-the-range microwave vs range hood.
Buy it for low-profile clearance with sensor cooking and 400 CFM airflow.
ThermoMate 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless: Best for flexible power settings
- 400 CFM two-speed ventilation
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- 11 power levels
- Sensor cooking
This full-size model combines up to 400 CFM of two-speed ventilation with 11 power levels and sensor cooking. A removable rack can hold multiple items at once.
Pros
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- 11 power levels
- Sensor cooking
Cons
- Lower stated airflow than the Samsung
The ThermoMate 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless offers 1.9 cu ft capacity and up to 400 CFM of two-speed ventilation. It has 11 power levels, sensor cooking and a removable rack for heating multiple items at once.
Its dimensions are 29.9 in wide, 15 in deep and 16.4 in high, so measure the cabinet opening. The fan provides up to 400 CFM, so compare the ventilation details and installation instructions with your duct setup.
Choose it if you want a large interior, flexible power settings and a rack. Its airflow figure is lower than Samsung's 550 CFM.
Buy it for full-size cooking with sensor controls and a removable rack.
ThermoMate 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for slim cooking with sensor controls
- 400 CFM two-speed fan
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- Sensor cooking
- Voice control
This 10.4 in low-profile model pairs 400 CFM ventilation with sensor cooking and voice control. It is a smaller-capacity option for a kitchen where cabinet height matters.
Pros
- Low-profile design
- 400 CFM two-speed fan
- Sensor cooking
Cons
- Less capacity than full-size picks
The ThermoMate 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave pairs 400 CFM, two-speed ventilation with a 1.2 cu ft capacity. At 10.4 in high, it offers a lower profile with sensor cooking.
Its dimensions are 30 in wide, 18.7 in deep and 10.4 in high. Check depth and built-in space as carefully as height, since a low profile alone doesn't confirm that it will fit your cabinet or vent arrangement.
Choose this model when overhead clearance matters and you want sensor cooking. Its capacity is smaller than the full-size options.
Buy it for a slim profile with 400 CFM ventilation and sensor cooking.
GASLAND 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM: Best for one-touch menu choices
- 400 CFM two-speed exhaust fan
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- Nine one-touch menus
- Turntable can be turned off
The GASLAND combines a 400 CFM two-speed fan with a 1.9 cu ft interior and nine one-touch menus. Its turntable can be turned off for oversized cookware.
Pros
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- Nine one-touch menus
- Turntable on/off
Cons
- Lower stated airflow than the Samsung
The GASLAND 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM pairs a 400 CFM two-speed fan with a 1.9 cu ft interior. It has nine one-touch menus, 11 power levels and two-stage cooking.
The turntable can be switched off for oversized cookware, and the removable rack can hold multiple items. Its dimensions are 29.92 in wide, 15.28 in deep and 16.42 in high.
Choose it if you want full-size capacity and several one-touch menu choices. Its airflow is in the 400 CFM group, below Samsung's 550 CFM figure.
Buy it for a full-size interior with one-touch menus and a two-speed fan.
What should you check before choosing a high CFM microwave?
Check the airflow rating, fan speeds, venting configuration and installation dimensions before choosing. A CFM number alone doesn't confirm how a microwave will perform in your kitchen.
Start by checking whether your home can connect the microwave to an exterior duct or needs recirculating ventilation. Compare the required duct size and route with the microwave's installation instructions.
Measure width, depth and height at the installation area. Low-profile models can free overhead space, but their deeper bodies may still extend farther into the room.
If you cook with large pots or several dishes, compare capacity and turntable controls. The 1.9 cu ft options offer more interior capacity than the 1.1 to 1.2 cu ft models here.
Is a low-profile microwave a good choice for smoky cooking?
A low-profile microwave can suit smoky cooking when its airflow and vent setup match your needs. Models here include 400 CFM fans, while the Samsung is rated at 550 CFM.
Low-profile designs trade microwave capacity for less height above the cooktop. Consider what you heat most often, then measure the cabinet area and compare the venting instructions.
Which high CFM over-the-range microwave should you choose?
Choose the BLACK+DECKER if you want the highest score and a full-size 1.9 cu ft interior with a two-speed 400 CFM fan. Choose the Samsung if you prioritize the highest stated airflow, at 550 CFM.
For lower height, compare the GE Profile, ThermoMate and Midea low-profile models. Match the unit's dimensions and vent configuration to your kitchen, then use our CFM guide for over-the-range microwaves to weigh airflow against your cooking needs.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for everyday full-size cooking
BLACK+DECKER 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, 400 CFM
9.0/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for sensor cooking and steam
Toshiba 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
8.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for slim smart controls
Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave
8.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Is 550 CFM better than 400 CFM for an over-the-range microwave?
A 550 CFM fan has a higher stated airflow rate than a 400 CFM fan. Samsung is the 550 CFM option here, while the other picks are rated at or up to 400 CFM.
Your cooking style, vent path and installation setup also affect how well a microwave manages smoke and steam.
Is a 400 CFM microwave enough for smoky cooking?
A 400 CFM microwave can be a reasonable choice for frequent cooking, especially when it vents outdoors through a suitable duct. BLACK+DECKER, Toshiba and other picks here have 400 CFM fans.
Check the installation manual and your home's vent path before deciding that the stated airflow matches your kitchen.
Do over-the-range microwaves vent outside?
Some over-the-range microwaves can vent outside, while others recirculate air through filters. The available setup depends on the microwave and the home's ductwork.
Check the installation instructions for the venting options and duct requirements before choosing a model.
Does a higher CFM number guarantee less smoke in the kitchen?
No. CFM describes airflow, but the result also depends on the hood design, duct length, duct turns, installation and how you cook.
A higher CFM figure alone cannot guarantee smoke capture, so review the installation requirements and match the setup to your kitchen.
