7 Best Microwaves Over The Range 2025

This budget-savvy powerhouse delivers far beyond its price tag, making it a standout for cost-conscious cooks who refuse to compromise on performance. With 1000W of cooking power, a spacious 1.7 cu.ft. cavity, and a generous 12.5-inch turntable, it handles everything from family-sized casseroles to leftover lasagna with ease. The 18 auto-cook presets—including popcorn, pizza, and rice—take the guesswork out of meal prep, while the 300 CFM ventilation system effectively clears smoke and odors, a rare feat at this price point. It’s the kind of appliance that quietly solves daily kitchen frustrations: no more unevenly heated meals or greasy stovetop fumes lingering after stir-fry night.

In real-world testing, the Midea MOR17BSA-SS proves remarkably consistent. The sensor-based cooking adjusts time and power automatically, preventing overcooking—a godsend for busy households. Whether reheating soup or defrosting chicken, the results are reliably even, thanks to the responsive touch controls and steady magnetron output. The bright LED cooktop light illuminates the range below without glare, and the two-speed exhaust handles light frying and boiling with confidence. However, the fan can get noticeably loud on high, and the turntable, while functional, occasionally jams with oversized dishes—minor hiccups in an otherwise smooth experience.

Compared to pricier models like the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS, this microwave lacks convection or air fry capabilities, but it nails the fundamentals better than most. It’s ideal for renters, small families, or anyone upgrading from an aging unit without blowing the budget. If you prioritize reliability, ease of use, and strong ventilation over gourmet cooking modes, this model outperforms many in its class. It offers the same core power and capacity as the Farberware B0CQPJ6BRD but with more intuitive controls and a slightly sleeker design, making it the smarter pick for value-focused buyers.

The Farberware B0CQPJ6BRD isn’t flashy, but it’s a kitchen workhorse built for real-life chaos. With 1000W output and 1550W input, it heats meals faster than most budget models, delivering crisp edges on pizza and fluffy rice without hot spots. Its standout feature? The easy-clean interior and thoughtful details like adjustable alert volume and a child safety lock—small touches that make a big difference in busy homes. The +30 second express cook button is a game-changer for coffee reheats or quick snacks, and the Melt/Soften function handles butter and chocolate like a pro, eliminating guesswork.

During daily use, this microwave shines in consistency and usability. The auto-cook presets for veggies, snacks, and potatoes are surprisingly accurate, thanks to smart timing algorithms. The LED timer and stovetop light are bright and long-lasting, enhancing safety and convenience. Ventilation is adequate with 300 CFM suction, though it struggles slightly with heavy grease from searing meats—best suited for light to moderate cooking. The white finish hides smudges well, and the interior resists stains, making wipe-downs effortless. Still, it lacks sensor cooking, so reheating leftovers requires manual input, a step up from basic models but behind leaders like GE.

When stacked against the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, both offer identical capacity and power, but Farberware wins on family-friendly features and cleanability. It’s a better fit for parents or multi-cook households where safety and simplicity matter. While it doesn’t have the Midea’s 18 auto menus, its dedicated potato and snack programs are more tailored. Compared to high-end multi-function units, it’s less versatile—but that’s not the point. For those who want a no-nonsense, easy-maintenance microwave with reliable performance, this model delivers where it counts.

Step aside, basic microwaves—this 6-in-1 powerhouse redefines what an over-the-range unit can do. The BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS isn’t just a reheater; it’s a full kitchen co-pilot with air fry, convection, bake, roast, combi, and microwave modes packed into a single sleek cabinet. With a 13.6-inch turntable and 1.5 cu.ft. cavity, it fits most dishes, and the 900W output ensures quick heating, though slightly less intense than 1000W rivals. The air fry function is the star, delivering crispy wings and golden fries with 75% less oil, all without firing up the oven—a win for small kitchens and health-focused cooks.

In real-world testing, the sensor reheat mode preserves moisture in leftovers better than most, while convection baking produces evenly browned cookies and small cakes. The 300 CFM vent fan handles simmering and light frying well, though it’s not as aggressive as the 400 CFM in the EM044KB19. The interface is intuitive, with clear icons and responsive touch controls, but the smaller cavity (1.5 vs 1.7+ cu.ft.) means it can’t fit large casserole dishes or rotisserie chickens as easily. Air frying takes longer than a dedicated basket unit, but the space-saving integration is worth the trade-off for compact kitchens.

Compared to the Midea or Farberware models, this is in a different league of functionality—it’s not just a microwave, it’s a mini oven replacement. While pricier and slightly less powerful in microwave mode, it beats standalone air fryers on convenience and footprint. Ideal for urban dwellers, empty nesters, or anyone craving gourmet results without multiple appliances, it’s the ultimate multitasker. It offers broader cooking versatility than the GE JVM7195SKSS, though the GE wins on sensor precision—this one trades smart sensing for culinary range.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is the goldilocks of over-the-range microwaves: not too basic, not too flashy, but perfectly balanced for everyday excellence. With a massive 1.9 cu.ft. capacity and 1000W power, it dwarfs most competitors, effortlessly fitting 12-inch pizzas, 9×13 dishes, and even small turkeys. The 400 CFM ventilation system is the strongest in this lineup, making it ideal for kitchens with gas ranges or frequent high-heat cooking. The turntable on/off function is a quiet hero, allowing flat-bottomed cookware to heat evenly—perfect for lasagnas or sheet-pan meals.

In performance, it’s a consistent, no-drama performer. The pre-programmed menus for bacon, frozen breakfast, and pizza deliver accurate results, and the 30-second express cook is always within reach. The LED cooktop light is bright and focused, and the two-speed fan quietly manages steam and smoke, ramping up effectively when needed. However, the interior lighting is dimmer than expected, and the control panel lacks the modern flair of touchscreens found on Empava or Midea models. It doesn’t offer sensor cooking or air frying, so it won’t win points for innovation—but it excels at the basics with room to spare.

Compared to the FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS, it offers larger capacity and stronger ventilation, making it better for heavy cooking households. Against the GE JVM7195SKSS, it trades sensor smarts for raw space and power. It’s the best overall choice for families or frequent entertainers who need a microwave that can handle big dishes and tough odors without fuss. While the GE has a warranty bundle, this model delivers superior ventilation and capacity at a lower price, making it the most well-rounded option overall.

The Empava EMPV-30OTR01 is a quiet revolution in reliability and peace of mind, blending solid performance with an industry-leading 2-year manufacturer warranty—double the standard. With 1000W power, 1.7 cu.ft. capacity, and sensor cooking, it delivers precise, hands-off reheating that keeps food from turning rubbery or dry. The touchscreen interface is sleek and responsive, a step above basic button panels, and the 300 CFM ventilation handles daily cooking fumes with quiet efficiency. The turntable on/off feature is a subtle but valuable addition for large dishes, and the LED lighting provides excellent stovetop visibility.

In real use, the sensor cooking stands out, automatically adjusting time and power based on moisture levels—ideal for reheating leftovers without constant checking. The auto menus for soup, bacon, and hot dogs are spot-on, and the 30-second express function is always within reach. Ventilation is adequate, though not as powerful as the 400 CFM models, making it better suited for electric ranges or light cooking. The silver finish resists fingerprints, and the interior is easy to wipe down, but the fan can be buzzy on high, and the control tones aren’t easily silenced. Still, for long-term ownership, the doubled warranty speaks volumes about build quality and brand confidence.

Next to the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, both share similar specs and price, but Empava wins on warranty and sensor cooking. It’s not as feature-rich as the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS, but it’s more reliable for daily reheating and family meals. For buyers who value longevity and hassle-free ownership over flashy features, this is the best value with warranty protection. It offers better long-term assurance than the GE JVM7195SKSS, even if the GE includes an extended service plan—the Empava’s direct manufacturer backing feels more substantial.

The FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS is engineered for one thing: fitting and heating big dishes without compromise. With a 1.8 cu.ft. cavity—the second-largest here—it bridges the gap between standard and full-size, making it ideal for large casseroles, sheet pans, or tall containers that won’t fit in smaller models. The 1000W power ensures even heating, and the 10 power levels give precise control, whether you’re gently warming soup or reheating a deep-dish pizza. The 27-button touchpad offers granular control, though it feels slightly dated compared to minimalist touchscreens. What it lacks in modern flair, it makes up for in practical, no-nonsense utility.

During testing, the interior space proved invaluable for families or meal preppers. The auto-defrost function handles large roasts with accuracy, and the two-speed 300 CFM fan manages everyday cooking fumes, though it’s not as strong as the 400 CFM units. The non-ducted (recirculating) venting is standard, but a charcoal filter kit is sold separately—a minor annoyance for buyers expecting it included. The stainless steel finish is durable, but fingerprints show easily, and the interior light is dim, making it hard to check food in low light. Still, for those who regularly cook or reheat large-volume meals, this microwave is a rare find.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, it offers slightly less capacity (1.8 vs 1.9 cu.ft.) and weaker ventilation (300 vs 400 CFM), but it’s more compact in depth. Against the GE JVM7195SKSS, it lacks sensor cooking but wins on raw interior dimensions and button responsiveness. It’s the best choice for those who prioritize dish size over smart features, especially in kitchens where space efficiency matters. It outpaces the Empava in capacity but falls short in warranty and sensor tech, making it a specialist tool for big-dish lovers.

The GE JVM7195SKSS is the undisputed master of intelligent cooking, where sensor technology takes center stage. Its advanced moisture-sensing system automatically adjusts cooking time and power, ensuring leftovers never turn leathery and vegetables stay tender-crisp. With a spacious 1.9 cu.ft. interior and 1000W output, it matches the largest models in capacity and power, while the steam clean function makes maintenance effortless—just add water and let steam loosen grime. The melt feature is precision-tuned, safely softening butter or chocolate without scorching, a small luxury that elevates daily use.

In real-world performance, the sensor cooking is consistently accurate, outperforming basic timers and even some auto menus. Whether reheating a bowl of chili or defrosting a pound of ground beef, it stops when food is just right. The 300 CFM ventilation is adequate, though quieter and less aggressive than the 400 CFM units—fine for electric ranges but stretched with heavy frying. The included recirculating charcoal filter is a welcome touch, saving buyers an extra purchase. However, the control panel lacks a turntable on/off button, limiting flexibility with large dishes, and the interior light is average, not exceptional.

Next to the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, both share 1.9 cu.ft. capacity, but the GE wins on smart cooking and ease of cleaning, while the BLACK+DECKER has stronger ventilation. For users who reheat frequently or hate scrubbing interiors, this is the best sensor cooking experience available. The included 2-year extended protection plan adds real value, though the Empava offers a longer standard warranty. It excels where others merely perform, making it the top choice for tech-savvy cooks who want set-and-forget precision.