You’d agree with me that every kitchen deserves a microwave. You can get many cooking functions out of this appliance, from preheating your food to defrosting meat and baking small cakes.
These built-in or countertop microwaves can be inconvenient, especially for small kitchens or homeowners like me who need all the storage space they can get.
Luckily, there are microwaves with range hoods to go over your gas range to help save space and create a sleek kitchen design. Sadly, they are not created equal. Some models are noisy, and I need a model that wouldn’t get everyone up or pissed at me for using the lousy microwave in such late or early hours.
I searched for months and tried a couple of models (returned most of them, anyway), and here are the 5 best and quietest over-the-range microwaves that stood out and are worth your hard-earned money.
Top 5 Quietest Over-the-Range Microwave
| Rank | Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | FRIGIDAIRE FGBM19WNVF 30″ Microwave | Programmable |
| 2. | GE JVM3160RFSS 30″ Microwave Oven | Convenience Controls |
| 3. | Sharp R1874T 850W Over-the-Range Microwave | Turntable, Racks |
| 4. | BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Microwave Oven | Timer, Turntable |
| 5. | Galanz GLOMJB19S2SWZ-10 Microwave | Removable Turntable |
Is Buying a Quiet OTR Microwave Worth It?
It depends on who is asking. If you come back later and have to whip up something to eat without waking everyone up, then purchasing the quietest over-the-range microwave should not be up for debate. This silent appliance features muted buttons, whisper-quiet motors, and doors that close softly for ZERO disturbance.
Also, homeowners sensitive to loud noise should invest in this quiet model. It’s a good buy for people easily irritated by lousy appliances.
Even better, microwaves designed to function without noise are usually of higher quality than standard options. They come with loads of new, innovative features and functions. So, users get more value for money than their typical counterparts.
Quietest Over-the-Range Microwave Reviews
1. FRIGIDAIRE FGBM19WNVF 30″ Over The Range Microwave
Taking the lead is the FRIGIDAIRE FGBM19WNVF 30″ Over Range Microwave for all of the right reasons. This model offers smart Sensor Cooking, 1000 Watts of cooking power, and a large 1.9 Cu. ft. cooking space and a decent 300 CFM vent system at a more affordable price than its competitors. I’m recommending this gorgeous appliance as the best over-the-range microwave because of its reasonably priced value.
This unit looks gorgeous out of this box, and its stainless steel design will work with any kitchen setting. Also, the exterior casing is smudge-proof, which helps protect its pristine look from annoying fingerprints.
Furthermore, this appliance comes with a bottom control panel, which is easier to access than placed on the door’s right side. That’s not the best thing about the control panel. It comes with a dedicated touch button for every function, from cooked baked potatoes to adding 30 seconds.
In terms of cooking performance, this model performs like any other 1000W microwave I’ve tried. However, I love how reliable the Sensor Cooking function is. You can heat up just about anything in its family-perfect 1.9 Cu. Ft cooking space to perfection. It automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level based on the food’s moisture content. So, no more guessing when whipping your favorite dish.
Noise-wise, this is one of the quietest over-the-range microwaves I’ve ever tested. I could heat soup for several minutes without waking up the whole neighborhood.
Pros:
- Beautiful stainless steel design
- Large 1.9 Cu. Ft. cooking space
- Bottom control panel for easier access
- Its venting system offers two options: recirculate or vent outside through the duct.
- Low noise performance
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- I wished it had more cooking programs than six
- The fan reaches up to 300 CFM. However, it only has two-speed options.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
If you are on a budget, the GE JVM3160RFSS is worth considering. This silent over-the-range microwave has a sizable 1.6 Cu. Ft. cooking capacity is ideal for an individual or small-sized family.
This unit offers up to 10 power levels and max power of 1,000 watts, like the FRIGIDAIRE FGBM19WNVF. You can cook just about anything you want with this well-priced unit. Also, it comes with only two fan speeds and six handy cooking programs. But considering its low price point, this is a win for budget shoppers.
Although it does not have a recirculatory vent system like my top choice, this microwave can be attached to an external duct vent to quickly and effectively remove cooking fumes.
Furthermore, it’s available in different color options, from silver stainless steel to cream and white. This way, you can improve your kitchen aesthetic for a clean and elegant appearance.
On the downside;
The stainless steel is not smudge-proof like the FRIGIDAIRE FGBM19WNVF, and wiping them off can be challenging. In addition, this unit’s control panel is a tad counterintuitive. The power button, cook time button, etc., are scattered around the numeric keypads. Plus, these keypads do not come with backlighting.
Pros:
- Perfect over-the-range microwave for budget shoppers
- It comes with several power levels, cooking modes, and fan speed
- Easy to install, thanks to its detailed instruction guide
- Super quiet when it’s on
Cons:
- The light is dim. So, you might have to replace it
3. Sharp R1874T 850W Over-the-Range Microwave
The Sharp R1874T is another excellent OTR microwave that would make a great addition to your kitchen. Aside from its beautiful design, this unit brings superior convection heating, the most interactive display, and smart sensor settings.
While this microwave does not pack as much power as FRIGIDAIRE FGBM19WNVF, its 850 Watts max power is enough to roast, bake, broil, crisp, and brown your food.
Thanks to its superior convection heating mode and turnable function, this microwave cooks your food better and evenly. You can turn off the turntable to fit large pans and trays in its average 1.1 Cu. Ft. inner chamber. Also, it’s one of the few OTR microwaves with racks. This allows you to cook more food at once, saving time and reducing energy consumption.
This control panel and LCD are among the most intuitive and interactive systems I’ve seen on any microwave. The buttons and keypads are well arranged. So you don’t have to hunt for them when you need them.
Pros:
- It offers 4-way convection heating, allowing you to bake, crisp, brown, and roast.
- Backed by a 10-year manufacturer warranty for a no-risk purchase
- It’s integrated with a top-tier exhaust system offering three hassle-free venting option
Cons:
- It has a 240 CFM exhaust fan that sometimes struggles to get the smoke out as quickly as the FRIGIDAIRE FGBM19WNVF.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven
If you want a premium OTR microwave oven, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is your best choice. You don’t have to take my word for it. There are thousands of customers who are extremely satisfied with this microwave.
One of the first that stood out for me was the stylish, ergonomic handle, which makes opening the door hassle-free. This appliance has a sufficient cooking space of 1.9 Cu. Ft. to allow you to cook plenty of your recipes for enough servings.
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is the best of them, with a higher airflow of 400 CFM. This unit immediately removes the smoke, odor, and steam from your kitchen almost immediately. This is a big plus, considering I hate getting choked on smoke.
It’s easy to mount and install since it comes with everything you need to get it done without a professional. This way, you can save money on installation.
The best part is it comes with a bank of pre-programmed menus for precise cooking like frozen dinner, frozen breakfast, vegetables, potato, popcorn, etc. Thanks to its intelligent sensor technology, this top-selling microwave can automatically switch between its 10 power levels to ensure you never burn a meal again.
Pros:
- It has an Express cooking mode to whip up your meals in less than 60 seconds
- Child lock feature so your kids don’t mistakenly operate and get themselves injured
- The door has an ergonomic handle for extra convenience
- Super bright Cooktop LED lighting to see whatever you are cooking without needing additional lights
- A 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it out for FREE
Cons:
- Quality control could be better
5. Galanz GLOMJB19S2SWZ-10 Over The Range Microwave
The Galanz GLOMJB19S2SWZ is the next best thing to the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19. It comes with a stylish heavy-duty aluminum handle for easy access to the cooking chamber.
However, it stands out beautifully with its gray cavity design. It adds exciting visuals to your kitchen and ensures you don’t waste time cleaning an appliance.
Although almost everything is the same as BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, it brings more functions, options, and modes. This unit is integrated with the same 400 CFM vent system. But instead of 2-speed options, this unit comes with 4-speed options.
Also, it comes with a pre-programmed mode I use daily to reheat my pizza, make popcorn, and even casserole. Thanks to its large 1.9 Cu. Ft. capacity, I could make a meal for 4 – 5 hungry people at a go.
Pros:
- It has the highest power levels, up to 11, to ensure you can cook anything
- It features the best Sensor Cook & Reheat Technology to get your meal piping hot and perfect
- 4-speed 400 CFM vent to keep your kitchen smoke and humid free
- Super quiet performance
- Backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons:
- Buttons tend to peel off after a couple of months
What to Know Before Purchasing a Quiet Over-the-Range Microwave
OTR microwaves are pretty different from countertop models in some crucial ways. For example, their mode of installation, space requirement, etc. Therefore, it’s crucial to equip yourself with the right information about these silent appliances before buying them.
Here are some of the most important factors to consider when shopping for the best microwave with a quiet exhaust fan:
Design
Everyone wants to purchase an eye-catching appliance to improve their kitchen decor. However, you shouldn’t be carried away with aesthetics alone. It’s vital that the appliance is made of stainless steel for durability.
Furthermore, most OTR microwaves share a similar design. One of the few differences is the control panel’s position. Some models have the control panel to the right of the door, like your regular models. But I recommend purchasing a unit with bottom control panels for easier access. However, it’s a matter of preference.
Venting
OTR microwaves are equipped with exhaust fans, which perform similarly to regular range hoods. They are effective for removing steam, smoke, and odors.
If you are a casual home chef, a venting system with a 300-400 CFM fan will do the trick. For an avid chef or a busy kitchen, I recommend purchasing one with a higher CFM. Some models with solid venting systems equipped with up to 600 CFM fans deliver massive airflow.
Capacity
Over the range, microwaves come in varying capacities. The right appliance for you should have enough cooking space for your household. If you have a small family or a student, you would be better off with a small 1 Cu. Ft. microwave. Also, it works well for people with limited kitchen space. On the flip side, for people with large kitchens or households, you should go for a bigger unit, especially if you tend to host guests more frequently.
Noise Level
The reason you are on the hunt for the quietest over-the-range microwave is that you want to cook without disturbing others. Therefore, it is essential to consider the unit’s features and technology designed to offer whisper quiet cooking experience. While all microwaves will make some noise, models with inverter technology are more tolerable than regular ones.
On top of that, some models have features like a sound-off button, which I will talk about shortly to minimize noise.
Sound Off Button
One of the primary sources of noise is the keypad and notification sounds. Not all OTR microwaves have a dedicated key or function to turn off the sound. Models that let you turn off the beeping sound and keypad tone can be quieter than standard models.
Turntable off function
You are not only looking to purchase the quietest over-the-range microwave but also the best one for your cooking needs. Some microwaves feature a turntable off button to stop the plate from rotating. This feature particularly comes in handy when cooking with large, rectangular trays or pans.
Cooking settings
For a seasoned chef, you likely know your way around these appliances to cook your delicacies to perfection. This might not be the case with regular home chefs. So, it’s best to consider models with pre-programmed cooking modes to help you cook your meals perfectly without googling, watching YouTube, or guessing.
The best over-the-range microwave for home chefs should be equipped with sensors to adjust the cooking power, time, and temperature based on the food’s moisture content. This way, there is less chance of overcooking or burning your culinary treats.
Convection or Conventional
Shoppers mostly ignore this factor, which can either make or break your experience with these versatile appliances.
Models with conventional microwaving technology cook your food by directing the microwave frequencies through the container. This explains the slow microwave.
Conversely, the convection method offers the best of both radiant heating methods and basic microwave technology. This heating mode delivers even heat throughout the microwave’s cooking chamber for quick and even cooking results.
Another benefit of the conventional method is it supports a wider range of cooking than the conventional option. This technology allows you to bake and cook light meals. However, not all OTR microwaves utilize convection technology to cook food.
So, if you are shopping for a versatile OTR microwave, buy one that heats your food using convection technology.
Related FAQs
Not all microwaves are built to go over your range. If you want to maximize your kitchen space and storage, it’s best to consider microwaves with exhaust fans. Also, you want to ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated to avoid issues with the OTR microwave.
Microwaves are one of the noisy kitchen appliances. However, when they make a humming noise, it’s either the magnetron or the fan at fault. If you need to know what a magnetron is, it’s a main component that converts electricity into intense heat. A fault magnetron is a common cause of the irritating noise.
While most brands will likely tout their product as quiet, you’ll soon find that their claims are far from the truth. Although all microwaves make a noise, some are just annoying. So, it’s essential to consider the noise level of these appliances before purchasing them.
No, not all over-the-range microwaves have exhaust fans.
Conclusion
If you made it all the way here, you are serious about making the right choice. OTR microwaves are a better buy than countertop units if you want to get the most out of your kitchen space and money.
I’ve reviewed the top 5 quietest over-the-range microwaves. They offer amazing cooking functions, operate quietly, and keep your kitchen odor and smoke-free.
If you are still on the fence, go for my favorite FRIGIDAIRE FGBM19WNVF 30″ Over The Range Microwave. It’s the best over-the-range microwave on the market, with thousands of pleased customers.
