The Farberware FMR17BLKD1 earns a 4.4-star rating across 1,190 reviews at $289.99, placing it among the more trusted and affordable full-size OTR microwaves available. The 1.7 cu ft electric cavity at 1000W covers standard household needs, and the black finish suits kitchens with dark appliance suites.
Budget-minded buyers who want a well-reviewed, full-size 30-inch OTR in a black finish. With 1,190 reviews backing a 4.4 rating, this is a low-risk choice for basic microwave-and-ventilation needs in a mid-size household.
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Buyers who need more than 5 power levels for nuanced cooking tasks, or who want a convection feature, should look elsewhere. Those upgrading to a premium kitchen will find the Farberware name and plastic-forward build less fitting than a stainless steel option from Sharp or GE.
Capacity 1.7 cu ft
Heating Electric
Wattage 1000 W
Power levels 5
Installation Over-The-Range
Width 29.76 in
Priced 33% below the category median ($431.77 across 38 tracked models)
Power levels of 5 - lower than 82% of the 38 models we track
Width of 29.76 in - narrower than 66% of the 38 models we track
Our scorecard
4.4/5overall
Owner rating4.4/5
4.4 average across 1,190 owner ratings
Value for money4.4/5
$171 per cubic foot, below the category median
Popularity4.6/5
1,190 owner reviews, more than most models here
Storage space3.9/5
1.7 cu ft, roomy for this category
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other kitchen ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, range hoods and microwaves we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
A 4.4-star average across 1,190 verified purchasers is a reliable signal of consistent performance in the real world. At $289.99, the FMR17BLKD1 sits comfortably below mid-market OTR pricing while offering the core capabilities buyers in this category need: a 1.7 cu ft interior, 1000W output, and an over-the-range installation that replaces a separate hood with integrated ventilation.
The 12.24-inch turntable is functional but smaller than some competitors at this price tier, meaning wider containers may have clearance issues. Five power levels is a step down from the 10 or 11 levels found on many comparable units, which limits precision on tasks like gradual defrosting.
At 29.76 inches wide, this unit installs in a standard 30-inch OTR opening. The black finish and touchscreen controls create a cohesive panel appearance. The absence of smart-home connectivity is expected at this price and is not a practical limitation for most buyers.
Pros
4.4 stars across 1,190 reviews, strong, large-sample buyer approval
Competitive $289.99 price for a full 1.7 cu ft cavity
1000W output for standard cooking speed
Touchscreen controls for a clean panel look
29.76-inch width fits standard 30-inch OTR cabinet openings
Cons
Only 5 power levels, below the 10-11 offered by many competitors
12.24-inch turntable is smaller than typical OTR turntables
Black finish may show fingerprints more readily
Voltage and weight not published
Specifications
Capacity
1.7 cu ft
Heating
Electric
Wattage
1000 W
Power levels
5
Installation
Over-The-Range
Width
29.76 in
Controls
Touchscreen
Color
Black
Turntable
12.24 in
Dimensions
17.28 X 29.76 X 16.33 In
Smart
Not Smart Home Compatible
Performance notes
The 1.7 cu ft cavity at 1000W handles typical household reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking efficiently. The 12.24-inch turntable accommodates most standard dinner plates and bowls, though wider casseroles or platters may not spin freely. Five power levels provide basic control, enough for low, medium, and high adjustments, but lacks the fine increments useful for delicate tasks. The touchscreen interface occupies the control panel without physical buttons. Dimensions of 17.28 x 29.76 x 16.33 inches (H x W x D) place this in the standard OTR size envelope.
What buyers say
With 1,190 reviews at 4.4 stars, this Farberware has earned a consistent reputation among real buyers. At under $300, buyer expectations are set for reliable everyday performance rather than premium features, and the review data suggests it delivers on that expectation. Occasional concerns in this price tier typically involve control interface responsiveness and long-term durability, common tradeoffs at this price level.
Does the Farberware FMR17BLKD1 vent cooking fumes effectively?
This unit is designed as an over-the-range microwave that includes an integrated ventilation fan, as is standard for OTR models. However, ventilation airflow in CFM is not published for this unit. For heavy cookers generating significant smoke or steam, checking the CFM rating with the manufacturer before purchase is advisable.
How does the 5 power level count compare to other OTR microwaves?
Most OTR microwaves in this category offer 10 or 11 power levels. Five levels gives you basic step control, roughly equivalent to low, medium-low, medium, medium-high, and high, but limits the fine adjustments useful for gently defrosting delicate proteins or maintaining a precise warm setting.
Will this microwave fit a 30-inch cabinet opening?
At 29.76 inches wide, the FMR17BLKD1 is designed for the standard 30-inch OTR cutout. The unit is 17.28 inches tall and 16.33 inches deep. Measure your cabinet opening height and depth as well, and confirm the mounting bracket hardware matches your existing installation before ordering.
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