7 Best Over the Oven Microwaves 2025

The Empava EMPV-30OTR01 commands attention with its sleek touchscreen interface and 1.7 cu.ft. spacious interior, delivering a premium feel without the luxury price tag. Its 1000-watt power output ensures rapid heating, while the 300 CFM two-speed venting system tackles kitchen odors and smoke with confidence—perfect for busy weeknight cooks who demand performance and ease. The intuitive sensor cooking modes take the guesswork out of reheating leftovers or defrosting proteins, making it a standout for users craving smart, hands-off operation in a high-traffic kitchen.

In real-world testing, the Empava shines when handling everyday tasks like reheating soup or popping popcorn, thanks to its pre-programmed auto menus and 30-second express cook. The 315 mm turntable accommodates most standard dinner plates, and the turntable on/off function is a subtle but valuable perk when roasting a whole chicken or baking a casserole. While the fan is effective, it’s not the quietest on high speed, and the interior LED lighting, though functional, doesn’t match the brilliance of higher-end models. Still, for over-the-stove use, its precise dimensions (29.88” wide) ensure a seamless fit above most standard ranges.

Compared to the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, the Empava offers a more refined touchscreen experience and better build quality, though at a slightly higher cost. It doesn’t bring air frying or convection cooking to the table like the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS, but it excels in reliability, ease of use, and user-centric design. Ideal for those prioritizing intuitive controls and consistent performance, this model strikes a balance between tech-forward features and kitchen practicality—offering sharper responsiveness and a more polished interface than budget rivals.

The BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS redefines what an over-the-range microwave can do, packing six cooking modes—including air fry, convection, and roast—into a single, space-saving unit. With 900 watts of cooking power and a 13.6-inch turntable, it’s engineered for versatility, turning crispy fries, roasted vegetables, or baked casseroles with surprising finesse. The air fry mode is its crown jewel, using rapid hot air circulation to deliver golden, crunchy results with minimal oil—perfect for health-conscious families tired of deep frying.

During testing, the sensor reheat function preserved moisture in leftovers better than most competitors, avoiding the dreaded rubbery texture. The 300 CFM vent fan handles grease and steam from stovetop cooking with ease, though it’s noisier than quieter models like the Frigidaire. While the 1.5 cu.ft. capacity is slightly smaller than others in this lineup, it’s still roomy enough for 9×13 dishes, and the integrated cooktop lighting ensures visibility under the hood. However, the convection mode, while functional, takes longer than a full-size oven—best for smaller meals or quick roasts.

Against the GE Profile PVM9179SRSS, it offers similar air frying capabilities at a fraction of the cost, though with less refined temperature control. Compared to the basic Midea model, it’s a culinary powerhouse, trading simplicity for expansive functionality. This microwave is ideal for compact kitchens where counter space is scarce but cooking demands are high—those who want air frying convenience without buying a separate appliance will find unmatched value here, even if raw power lags slightly behind 1000W models.

The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a masterclass in budget-smart engineering, delivering 1000 watts of power and a 1.7 cu.ft. interior at a price point that undercuts nearly every other model here. Its 18 one-touch auto menus make it a dream for busy households—popcorn, pizza, rice, and defrost settings respond quickly and consistently, minimizing guesswork. The 300 CFM ventilation system is surprisingly effective for the cost, clearing smoke and odors with two-speed control, while the bright cooktop light enhances safety and usability during night cooking.

In daily use, the Midea handles reheating and basic cooking with impressive reliability. The 12.5-inch turntable rotates smoothly and fits most standard dishes, though larger casserole pans may require the turntable to be disabled. While it lacks advanced features like air frying or convection, the 10 power levels allow fine-tuned control, from gentle defrosting to full-power boiling. The smart touch panel is responsive, though not as sleek as Empava’s screen, and the build quality feels slightly lighter—still, it’s more than adequate for standard kitchen demands.

When stacked against the Frigidaire 1.8 cu.ft. model, the Midea sacrifices a bit of capacity and LED interior lighting but wins on price and value. It doesn’t offer the tech flair of GE or BLACK+DECKER’s high-end units, but for renters or first-time homeowners, it’s a no-frills workhorse. This is the go-to choice for those who want dependable performance without overspending, proving you don’t need bells and whistles to get a microwave that does the job right—offering more features than similarly priced rivals.

The Frigidaire 1.8 cu.ft. microwave sets a new benchmark for overall balance, merging spacious design, smart ergonomics, and consistent performance into a single, well-rounded package. Its extra-large 1.8 cubic feet capacity stands out, effortlessly fitting a 13×9 baking dish or a full rotisserie chicken—ideal for families or meal preppers needing room to move. The zero-clearance door is a game-changer, allowing the microwave to open fully even in tight spaces, while LED cooktop and interior lighting ensures visibility during every stage of heating.

Real-world testing confirms its strength in even cooking and user convenience. The one-touch cooking buttons for popcorn, potatoes, and 30-second add-ons make it incredibly accessible, especially for kids or elderly users. The 12.5-inch glass turntable rotates smoothly, and the two-speed vent fan handles moderate stovetop use with ease, though it’s not as powerful as 400 CFM models. While it lacks advanced cooking modes like air frying, its no-nonsense approach delivers reliability and ease—perfect for kitchens where simplicity and space matter most.

Compared to the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it offers more interior room and better lighting but at a higher cost. Against the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, it has slightly less venting power but a more refined fit and finish. This model is best for those who prioritize capacity and usability over multi-functionality—families, home cooks, and small kitchens benefit most. It doesn’t have the flash of high-tech rivals, yet it outperforms in practicality and daily usability, making it the most well-rounded choice in the lineup.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK is a value-packed performer, blending 1000 watts of power, 1.7 cu.ft. capacity, and 300 CFM ventilation into a sleek, affordable design that punches above its weight. Its one-touch auto cooking menus—including popcorn, defrost, and reheat—deliver consistent results with minimal effort, while multi-stage cooking allows for complex heating sequences, like simmering then crisping, all in one go. The speedy 1-2-3 minute shortcut buttons are a small but brilliant touch for busy users who need fast access to high-power heating.

In practice, this microwave handles daily tasks with quiet confidence. The 12.4-inch turntable fits most standard dishes, and the two-speed vent fan effectively clears cooking fumes, though it’s not as strong as 400 CFM units. The black finish resists fingerprints better than stainless steel, a subtle win for low-maintenance kitchens. While it lacks air frying or convection, its precision in basic microwave functions makes it a reliable anchor for everyday cooking—ideal for apartments, dorms, or secondary kitchens.

Against the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it offers nearly identical specs but with a more intuitive multi-stage cooking feature and slightly better build. Compared to the pricier GE Profile, it forgoes high-end extras but delivers better value for essential performance. This is the pick for those who want premium features at a mid-tier price—a smart, no-waste investment for practical users who cook often but don’t need gourmet modes.

The GE Profile PVM9179SRSS is the pinnacle of over-the-range innovation, combining 1.7 cu.ft. of cooking space with true air fry technology and a premium stainless steel build that exudes high-end sophistication. Its advanced air frying system uses rapid convection and optimized heat distribution to crisp wings, fries, and even roasted vegetables with restaurant-quality results—no separate appliance needed. Backed by smart sensors and precise temperature control, it outperforms budget multi-function models in consistency and browning, making it a serious contender for culinary enthusiasts.

In real-world use, the microwave excels at multi-mode cooking, allowing seamless transitions from air frying to reheating with minimal cleanup. The 300 CFM vent fan is whisper-quiet on low and powerful on high, effectively managing smoke and odors without disrupting conversation. While it doesn’t offer the largest capacity in the lineup, the interior is thoughtfully designed for optimal airflow during air frying, and the touch controls respond with luxury-grade precision. However, the lack of detailed features in the listing suggests some software or smart features may be underdocumented.

Stacked against the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS, it delivers superior air fry performance and build quality, though at nearly double the price. Compared to the Frigidaire, it trades raw capacity for gourmet functionality. This model is ideal for those who want restaurant-style results in a built-in format—home chefs who value precision, design, and versatility will find it worth the investment, even if basic users may not need its full capabilities.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is an undersung giant, claiming the title of largest capacity in class with a cavernous 1.9 cu.ft. interior—big enough to fit a full 15-inch pizza or multiple dinner plates side by side. Paired with 1000 watts of power and a 13.5-inch turntable, it’s built for families, entertainers, or anyone tired of rotating dishes to fit. Its 400 CFM venting system is the strongest in this lineup, making it ideal for heavy stovetop cooking, especially with gas ranges that produce more smoke and steam.

Testing reveals it shines in high-volume and high-heat scenarios—reheating multiple leftovers, baking potatoes, or defrosting large cuts of meat with ease. The pre-programmed auto menus respond quickly, and the turntable on/off function allows flat cooking for sheet pans or lasagna. While it lacks air frying or convection, its raw utility is unmatched. The fan is powerful but loud on high, and the interior lighting, while functional, doesn’t match the brilliance of LED-equipped rivals. Still, for sheer cooking real estate and ventilation muscle, it’s a powerhouse.

Compared to the Frigidaire 1.8 cu.ft., it offers more space and stronger venting, making it better for active kitchens. Against the Midea, it delivers superior airflow and capacity but at a slightly higher cost. This is the go-to for those who need maximum space and powerful extraction—large households, serious cooks, or open-concept kitchens benefit most. It doesn’t have the gourmet flair of GE, but in practical firepower and roominess, it outclasses nearly every other model.