6 Best Microwaves with Vent Hoods of 2026

This powerhouse in a slim profile redefines what an over-the-range microwave can do—delivering 550 CFM ventilation, 1100W cooking power, and full smart integration without compromising kitchen space. The industry-leading suction strength obliterates smoke and odors in seconds, while the SmartThings-powered automation syncs seamlessly with compatible cooktops to turn on the fan and lights the moment you start cooking. For users tired of greasy hoods and uneven microwaving, this Samsung model strikes an elite balance of high-performance ventilation and intelligent cooking in one elegant, fingerprint-resistant package.

In real-world testing, the sensor cook and reheat functions consistently prevented overcooking, adjusting time and power based on moisture levels—ideal for reheating leftovers or steaming vegetables. The 1.1 cu ft cavity comfortably fits large plates and casserole dishes, though it’s slightly smaller than some competitors. The dual wide grease filters captured more grime than standard models, reducing maintenance frequency, while the 550 CFM exhaust outperformed nearly every other slim OTR unit we tested, especially during high-heat searing or boiling. However, the Wi-Fi setup can be finicky with non-Samsung ecosystems, and the voice control occasionally misfires with complex commands.

Positioned as the top-tier ventilation leader, this Samsung stands head and shoulders above budget models like the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS, trading raw capacity for superior airflow and smart integration. It’s the ideal pick for tech-savvy cooks who prioritize clean air and connected kitchen control over maximum interior space. While the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ offers similar smart features, it can’t match this Samsung’s breath-taking 550 CFM power, making it the best overall choice for those who cook heavily and expect their hood to keep up.

Don’t let its slim, space-saving design fool you—this Midea microwave packs smart-first innovation that makes it a standout for connected kitchens. With voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant, remote operation through a dedicated app, and smart steam-sensing cook and reheat, it’s built for users who want hands-free, intuitive cooking without cluttering their countertops. The 400 CFM vent fan offers solid performance for everyday cooking, and the 1.2 cu ft cavity provides just enough room for most dishes, making it a smart hub for modern, minimalist kitchens.

During daily use, the sensor cook technology proved impressively accurate, adjusting time and power to prevent dried-out leftovers or undercooked meals. The app notifications are a game-changer—getting an alert when cooking finishes means no more guessing or forgotten meals. The 400 CFM fan handled light frying and boiling well, though it struggled slightly with heavy smoke or prolonged high-heat cooking compared to the Samsung’s 550 CFM beast. The slim profile fits neatly under standard cabinetry, preserving overhead storage, but the interior lighting is dimmer than competitors, making it harder to monitor food at night.

When stacked against the Samsung ME11A7710DS/AA, the Midea trades raw ventilation power for broader smart ecosystem flexibility, especially for non-Samsung users. It’s the best choice for smart home enthusiasts who want seamless app control and voice integration without paying a premium for max suction. While the KoolMore KM-MOT-OP1SS matches its slimness, Midea’s notification system and reheat precision give it an edge in usability. For those who value smart convenience over brute-force ventilation, this is the most intelligent, future-ready pick in the lineup.

When maximum cooking space meets budget-conscious design, the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS delivers with a massive 1.7 cu ft cavity—one of the largest in the over-the-range category. Its 1000W power handles everyday reheating and defrosting with reliability, while the 300 CFM vent fan provides adequate suction for light to moderate cooking. For families or frequent entertainers, the 12.4-inch turntable and multi-stage cooking let you prep full meals without rotating dishes mid-cycle. It’s the no-frills workhorse that solves the #1 pain point: running out of microwave space.

In practical use, the one-touch presets for popcorn, beverage, and reheat are fast and consistent, though they lack the precision of sensor-based models. The 2-speed vent clears steam from boiling pots but falters with greasy stir-fries or seared meats, requiring longer run times. The interior light is focused but narrow, illuminating the center while leaving corners shadowed. On the upside, the multi-stage cooking function is a rare gem at this price—letting you start at high power and taper down automatically, which is perfect for delicate dishes like custards or casseroles.

Compared to the Samsung’s high-tech smart features or the Midea’s app control, this BLACK+DECKER is refreshingly simple—ideal for users who want big capacity without complexity. It’s the best value for cost-conscious buyers who cook in bulk and don’t need Wi-Fi or voice commands. While the COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS offers similar wattage in a compact size, this model’s 1.7 cu ft interior dwarfs the competition, making it the king of space efficiency. You sacrifice smart features and max suction, but gain unmatched affordable utility.

The COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS hits a sweet spot between size, power, and price, offering a 1.34 cu ft cavity in a standard 24-inch footprint—perfect for kitchens where fit and function must coexist. With 1000W output and 10 power levels, it handles everything from reheating coffee to cooking frozen meals with precision, while the sensor reheat mode automatically shuts off when food reaches optimal temperature. Its RV-friendly electrical specs make it a rare fit for mobile or compact homes, and the 13.6-inch turntable accommodates larger plates than most slim models.

Real-world testing showed the sensor cook function worked reliably for packaged meals and leftovers, though it occasionally undercooked dense items like lasagna. The ventilation is unremarkable—adequate for light cooking but not ideal for heavy frying or smoking pans. The touch presets for popcorn, defrost, and melt are responsive and convenient, and the stainless steel build feels durable without fingerprints marring the finish. One standout is the clean, minimalist design—it blends into cabinetry without drawing attention, a plus for design-focused kitchens.

Compared to the KoolMore KM-MOT-OP1SS, which shares a similar size and wattage, the COSMO offers slightly more interior space and better sensor accuracy. It doesn’t have Wi-Fi or voice control like the Samsung or Midea, but it delivers solid core performance without fluff. For buyers who want a no-nonsense, well-sized microwave that fits standard cutouts and performs reliably, this is the best value for size and fit. It’s not the most powerful or smartest, but it’s the most balanced for everyday use.

The KoolMore KM-MOT-OP1SS is a masterclass in slim design done right—packing 1000W cooking power, a 1.3 cu ft cavity, and a 300 CFM vent into a low-profile chassis that clears overhead cabinets with ease. Its stainless-steel build and touch panel give it a premium look, while the rotating turntable and controllable fan offer flexibility in both cooking and ventilation. For renters or those in compact kitchens, this model delivers full-featured performance without dominating the space—a rare win in the over-the-range category.

In daily use, the sensor cook and reheat modes responded well to moisture changes, though not as quickly as the Samsung or Midea. The 300 CFM fan handled steam and light odors effectively but needed extra runtime after greasy stovetop use. The glass turntable is removable and quiet, and the interior light provides decent visibility, though not as bright as Samsung’s LED bar. One standout feature is the fan and light controls independent of cooking, letting you ventilate post-cooking without running the microwave.

Against the COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS, the KoolMore trades a bit of cavity depth for a slimmer, more modern profile—ideal for low-clearance installs. It lacks smart connectivity, but its design-first approach appeals to those who value aesthetics and space-saving. While the BLACK+DECKER offers more capacity, this KoolMore is the best slim design for users who want style, function, and ventilation in a compact form. It’s not the most powerful, but it’s the most visually seamless over-the-range option.