9 Best Stainless Steel Over-the-Range Microwaves (October 2026)
The best stainless steel over-the-range microwaves include the GE 1.6 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave (JVM3160RFSS) for simple everyday cooking, the BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave for multi-stage cooking, and the Midea 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave for one-touch menu variety.
On this page (3 sections)
The best stainless steel over-the-range microwave for most kitchens is the GE JVM3160RFSS, with 300 CFM ventilation, one-touch cooking and a turntable you can switch off. For more room and higher stated airflow, consider the ThermoMate 1.9 cu ft model.
A stainless finish is only one part of the decision. Match the microwave to the cabinet opening, vent route and dishes you use, then compare capacity and controls.
Use our guide to standard over-the-range microwave dimensions before choosing a model. If you want to compare a wider mix of finishes and features, see our best over-the-range microwave ovens.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for simple everyday cookingGE 1.6 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave (JVM3160RFSS)
9.2/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for multi-stage cookingBLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless
8.9/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for one-touch menu varietyMidea 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
8.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itFrigidaire FFMV1846VS 1.8 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for a larger interior - 5
Check itFrigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for quick start options - 6
Check itThermoMate 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless
Best for higher stated airflow - 7
Check itThermoMate 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless
Best for basic auto-cook programs - 8
Check itEmpava 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for a broad auto-menu range - 9
Check itStellar Coll 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for sensor reheat and cooking
Which stainless steel over-the-range microwaves suit different kitchens?
The GE is the strongest all-around fit for common cooking and ventilation needs, while the other models add capacity, auto menus or airflow options. We compared stated capacity, fan details, cooking controls and dimensions to make the differences easier to scan.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Ventilation | Dimensions | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE 1.6 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave (JVM3160RFSS) | simple everyday cooking | 1.6 cu ft | 300 CFM, 2 speeds | 29.87 W x 15.56 D x 16.12 H in | 9.2 |
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless | multi-stage cooking | 1.7 cu ft | 300 CFM, 2 speeds | 29.9 W x 13.2 D x 16.4 H in | 8.9 |
| Midea 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave | one-touch menu variety | 1.7 cu ft | 300 CFM | 29.9 W x 13.5 D x 16.4 H in | 8.7 |
| Frigidaire FFMV1846VS 1.8 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave | a larger interior | 1.8 cu ft | 300 CFM, 2 speeds | 29.87 W x 15.75 D x 15.62 H in | 8.3 |
| Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave | quick start options | 1.7 cu ft | 29.88 W x 15.44 D x 16.44 H in | 8.2 | |
| ThermoMate 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless | higher stated airflow | 1.9 cu ft | Up to 400 CFM, 2 speeds | 29.92 W x 15.28 D x 16.42 H in | 8.0 |
| ThermoMate 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless | basic auto-cook programs | 1.7 cu ft | Up to 300 CFM, 2 speeds | 29.92 W x 15 D x 16.42 H in | 7.7 |
| Empava 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave | a broad auto-menu range | 1.7 cu ft | 300 CFM, 2 speeds | 29.88 W x 15 D x 15.75 H in | 7.6 |
| Stellar Coll 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave | sensor reheat and cooking | 1.9 cu ft | 29.8 W x 15.4 D x 16.4 H in | 7.3 |
GE 1.6 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave (JVM3160RFSS): Best for simple everyday cooking
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- 300 CFM ventilation
- Two-speed fan
- One-touch express cooking
- Turntable on/off
One-touch express cooking and 4 convenience settings keep common tasks simple. The turntable can be switched off for larger or unusually shaped dishes.
Pros
- One-touch express settings
- 300 CFM, two-speed fan
- Turntable on/off option
Cons
- Lowest capacity among these picks
- Charcoal filter is replaceable
The GE JVM3160RFSS pairs a 1.6 cu ft interior with a two-speed 300 CFM fan. Its one-touch express settings and 4 convenience cook settings suit kitchens where quick controls matter more than extra capacity.
You can turn the turntable off for larger or oddly shaped dishes. A replaceable charcoal filter helps remove fumes and cooking odors, and the child lock can be disabled when it isn't needed.
Its width is just under 30 in. Compare the full dimensions and mounting requirements with your opening before you choose it, especially if you're replacing an older unit.
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless: Best for multi-stage cooking
- 1.7 cu ft capacity
- 1,000 W output
- 300 CFM vent fan with light
- Six quick menus
- Multi-stage cooking
A multi-stage setting can switch from one power level to another within a single cooking sequence. Six quick menus cover common foods and tasks.
Pros
- Multi-stage cooking
- 300 CFM vent fan with light
- Six quick menus
Cons
- No specific venting configuration is given
- Compare its dimensions with your opening
The BLACK+DECKER gives you 1.7 cu ft of capacity and multi-stage cooking. Set one power level and time, then have the microwave continue at a different level without starting a second sequence.
Six quick menus cover daily foods such as popcorn, beverages, reheating and defrosting. The two-speed 300 CFM vent fan includes a light, so it brings both cooking presets and cooktop illumination into one unit.
Its depth is 13.2 in, shallower than several picks here. Compare that measurement with your cabinet and installation plan.
Midea 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for one-touch menu variety
- 1.7 cu ft capacity
- 18 auto menus
- 300 CFM ventilation
- 10 power levels
- 12.4 in turntable
The 18 auto menus include options for foods such as popcorn, pizza, rice and potatoes. A 12.4 in turntable fits the capacity-focused design.
Pros
- 18 auto menus
- 300 CFM adjustable fan
- 10 power levels
Cons
- No specific venting configuration is given
- Capacity is smaller than the 1.8 and 1.9 cu ft picks
The Midea stands out for 18 one-touch auto menus, including popcorn, pizza, rice and potatoes. Its 1.7 cu ft capacity and 12.4 in turntable give you a useful middle option between the GE and the larger 1.8 and 1.9 cu ft models.
A two-speed fan rated at 300 CFM handles ventilation, while 10 power levels give you manual control when a preset doesn't fit. The cooktop light adds illumination over the range.
Choose it if you want many preset choices without stepping up to a 1.9 cu ft cavity. Read our high-CFM over-the-range microwave picks if stronger stated airflow is a priority.
Frigidaire FFMV1846VS 1.8 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for a larger interior
- 1.8 cu ft capacity
- 1,000 cooking watts
- 300 CFM ventilation
- Auto defrost
- 10 power levels
This Frigidaire gives you more stated capacity than the 1.6 and 1.7 cu ft options. It also has auto defrost and a two-speed vent fan.
Pros
- 1.8 cu ft capacity
- Auto defrost
- 300 CFM fan with 2 speeds
Cons
- Recirculating kit is sold separately
- Venting is described as non-ducted
Frigidaire's FFMV1846VS offers 1.8 cu ft of capacity and 1,000 cooking watts. Auto defrost, 10 power levels and a two-speed fan give it a familiar set of everyday controls.
The ventilation details call out 105 and 300 CFM speeds and a non-ducted venting type. A recirculating kit is sold separately, so check what your kitchen needs before choosing this model.
At 15.62 in high, it is shorter than several of the 1.7 cu ft models listed here. Compare the height and the installation instructions with your cabinet opening.
Frigidaire FMOS1746BS 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for quick start options
- 1.7 cu ft capacity
- Quick start options
- Bright exterior lighting
- Larger dishes and bowls fit
Quick start options and bright exterior lighting are the clearest stated reasons to consider this stainless model. Its 1.7 cu ft capacity sits in the middle of this group.
Pros
- Quick start options
- Bright exterior lighting
- 1.7 cu ft capacity
Cons
- Ventilation details are not specified
- Cooking power details are not specified
The Frigidaire FMOS1746BS offers 1.7 cu ft of capacity, quick start options and bright exterior lighting. Those are the clearest reasons to consider it if a simple start and visible cooktop matter to you.
Its dimensions are 29.88 W x 15.44 D x 16.44 H in. Cooking power and ventilation details aren't specified in the provided product data, so check those points if they matter to your setup.
This option makes sense when the stated capacity and controls fit your needs. For a comparison focused on black finishes, see our black over-the-range microwave picks.
ThermoMate 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless: Best for higher stated airflow
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- Up to 400 CFM airflow
- Sensor cooking
- 11 power levels
- Removable rack
The largest capacity here pairs with a two-speed fan rated up to 400 CFM. Sensor cooking and a removable rack add options for different meals.
Pros
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- Up to 400 CFM airflow
- Sensor cooking
Cons
- Largest capacity may not be needed for every kitchen
- Compare its dimensions with your space
The ThermoMate OTR772S combines 1.9 cu ft capacity with airflow up to 400 CFM. It also includes sensor cooking, 11 power levels, a removable rack and a two-speed fan.
Those features suit a kitchen that needs room for larger dishes or values a higher stated fan rating. The dimensions are about 30 in wide, so check clearance and the cabinet opening before you commit.
If you are comparing airflow ratings across models, our guide to over-the-range microwave CFM explains what to check beyond the number.
ThermoMate 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless: Best for basic auto-cook programs
- 1.7 cu ft capacity
- 300 CFM ventilation
- Four auto-cook programs
- 10 power levels
- Child safety lock
Four auto-cook programs cover reheat, popcorn, baked potato and beverage. The two-speed fan is rated up to 300 CFM.
Pros
- Four named auto-cook programs
- 300 CFM fan with 2 speeds
- Child safety lock
Cons
- Fewer auto-cook programs than some picks
- Capacity is 1.7 cu ft
This ThermoMate is a 1.7 cu ft option with a two-speed fan rated up to 300 CFM. Its four auto-cook programs cover reheat, popcorn, baked potato and beverage, with 10 power levels for manual settings.
A child safety lock and add-30-seconds quick cook feature round out the controls. Its dimensions are 29.92 W x 15 D x 16.42 H in, so compare them against the available space and mounting instructions.
Choose it when the listed programs cover the foods you microwave most. The 1.9 cu ft ThermoMate above adds sensor cooking, a removable rack and a higher stated airflow rating.
Empava 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for a broad auto-menu range
- 1.7 cu ft capacity
- Nine pre-programmed auto menus
- 300 CFM fan
- 10 power levels
- Cooktop LED lighting
Nine auto menus include popcorn, potato, veggies, pizza, bacon and rice. A two-speed 300 CFM fan and cooktop LED lighting round out its core features.
Pros
- Nine auto menus
- 300 CFM, two-speed fan
- Cooktop LED lighting
Cons
- Listed color is silver
- Check that the silver finish suits your kitchen
Empava includes 9 pre-programmed menus, a two-speed 300 CFM fan and cooktop LED lighting. Its 1.7 cu ft cavity and 10 power levels put it in the middle of this roundup for capacity and control range.
The finish is silver rather than stainless steel, so check whether that appearance suits the other appliances in your kitchen. The dimensions are 29.88 W x 15 D x 15.75 H in.
This model is worth considering when its menu range and height fit your priorities. Confirm the finish and installation details before buying.
Stellar Coll 1.9 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for sensor reheat and cooking
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- Sensor reheat and cook mode
- Six pre-programmed options
- Optional rack
Sensor reheat and cook mode detects when food is done and turns the microwave off. An optional rack supports two-level cooking.
Pros
- Sensor reheat and cook mode
- 1.9 cu ft capacity
- Optional rack for two-level cooking
Cons
- Ventilation CFM is not specified
- Its name is Stellar Coll and its brand is COSMO
The Stellar Coll offers 1.9 cu ft capacity and a sensor reheat and cook mode that detects when food is done. Six pre-programmed options cover common tasks, and an optional rack supports two-level cooking.
Its name is Stellar Coll, its brand is COSMO, and its model is COS-3019ORM2SS. Its ventilation CFM isn't specified, so this is a weaker match if fan airflow is a key requirement.
Check the model name and ventilation setup when comparing it with other 1.9 cu ft options.
How do you choose the right stainless steel microwave?
Start with fit and venting, then decide how much capacity and control variety you'll use. A model with the right features still needs to match your cabinet, mounting position and ventilation route.
What dimensions matter for an over-the-range microwave?
Compare width, height and depth with the available opening, and follow the installation instructions for clearances and mounting. Many of these microwaves are about 30 in wide, but their heights and depths vary.
Our standard microwave dimensions guide covers the measurements to take. If you're replacing an existing unit, our replacement guide explains what to match before removing the old microwave.
How much capacity should you choose?
Choose capacity based on your usual cookware and the largest dishes you need to heat. The models here range from 1.6 to 1.9 cu ft, but turntable diameter and interior shape also affect what fits.
A 1.7 cu ft microwave can be a reasonable middle ground for everyday meals. If large casseroles or multiple dishes are common, compare the larger models' interior and turntable details.
What should you know about ventilation?
Check whether your kitchen exhausts air outdoors or recirculates it, then confirm that the microwave supports the needed setup. CFM gives an airflow rating, but the route and installation affect how the system works in your kitchen.
The GE, BLACK+DECKER and Midea models list 300 CFM ventilation. The ThermoMate 1.9 cu ft model lists up to 400 CFM, while the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS describes non-ducted venting and a separately sold recirculating kit.
Which controls are useful for everyday cooking?
Look for controls that match your routines. One-touch starts can save steps for repeated tasks, while multiple power levels and multi-stage cooking offer more control over longer recipes.
The Midea has 18 auto menus, the widest stated menu range here. BLACK+DECKER offers multi-stage cooking, and GE lets you switch off its turntable for larger or oddly shaped dishes.
Which stainless steel over-the-range microwave should you choose?
Choose the GE JVM3160RFSS for everyday controls, a 300 CFM fan and a turntable that switches off. Choose the Midea for a broad set of auto menus, the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS for 1.8 cu ft capacity, or the ThermoMate 1.9 cu ft model for the largest capacity and highest stated airflow in this group.
Before buying, confirm the cabinet fit and venting method. For a wider comparison across brands and finishes, browse our over-the-range microwave guide.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for simple everyday cooking
GE 1.6 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave (JVM3160RFSS)
9.2/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for multi-stage cooking
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless
8.9/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for one-touch menu variety
Midea 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
8.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What should you check before choosing a stainless steel over-the-range microwave?
Check the opening width, height and depth, then compare them with the microwave's dimensions and installation instructions. Also confirm whether your kitchen needs ducted or recirculating ventilation, and whether the model supports that setup.
Capacity, fan airflow and controls help narrow the options after fit and venting are clear.
Is stainless steel the same as silver?
No. Stainless steel and silver are separate finish descriptions in these picks.
Empava is described as silver, while the other models are described as stainless steel.
If matching nearby appliances matters, check the finish appearance before ordering.
How much capacity is useful in an over-the-range microwave?
A 1.6 cu ft model can suit everyday reheating and smaller dishes, while 1.8 or 1.9 cu ft options offer more stated interior capacity. The right fit depends on the dishes and cookware you use most.
Check turntable size and usable interior dimensions when a particular plate or casserole must fit.
Does a higher CFM number always mean better ventilation?
A higher CFM rating means the fan is rated to move more air, but the installed result also depends on the vent route and setup. Compare the microwave's ducting options with your kitchen before treating airflow as the deciding factor.
For more detail, see our guide to choosing a microwave fan CFM.
