7 Best Over the Range Microwaves of 2025

This no-nonsense powerhouse delivers rock-solid performance with a 1.8 cu. ft. cavity, 1000 cooking watts, and a 300 CFM vent fan—making it a dependable workhorse for kitchens that demand consistency. Frigidaire’s reputation for durability shines here, with a 10-power-level system and auto-defrost functionality that tackles everyday meals without fuss. It solves the all-too-common pain point of inconsistent heating and flimsy controls, thanks to its responsive touchpad and even heat distribution—ideal for families who need reliability over flash.

In real-world use, the 300 CFM ventilation handles light frying and boiling with ease, though heavy searing will leave lingering odors in larger kitchens. The non-ducted venting setup means you’ll need to purchase a recirculating kit separately if ductless installation is your only option—a minor but notable oversight. Interior space comfortably fits a 12-inch dinner plate or medium casserole dish, and the 300 CFM two-speed fan operates quietly on low, making it suitable for open-concept living spaces. However, the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to manually adjust times for delicate tasks like reheating soup or steaming veggies.

Compared to the Empava EMPV-30OTR01, this Frigidaire model trades smart features for sturdy build quality and brand trust, positioning itself as the go-to for users prioritizing long-term reliability over automation. It’s not the flashiest, but it’s the microwave you’ll still trust five years from now. While the Midea MOR17BSA-SS offers more presets at a lower cost, the Frigidaire stands out with slightly more interior volume and a proven track record, making it a smarter investment for those who value brand-backed durability in a mid-tier package.

Step into the future of kitchen convenience with the smartly engineered Empava EMPV-30OTR01, where sensor cooking takes center stage and transforms how you reheat, defrost, or cook from frozen. Its pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, pizza, bacon, and soup use internal humidity sensors to automatically adjust time and power—delivering perfectly cooked results without guesswork. The 1.7 cu. ft. cavity and 1000-watt output ensure speed and consistency, while the 300 CFM two-speed fan keeps your cooktop air clean and odor-free. For users tired of dried-out leftovers or undercooked frozen meals, this microwave is a game-changing upgrade.

During testing, the sensor cooking modes consistently outperformed manual settings—especially with delicate tasks like reheating lasagna or steaming vegetables without sogginess. The turntable on/off function is a small but brilliant touch, allowing you to fit taller or larger dishes like casseroles when rotation isn’t needed. The LED cooktop lighting provides bright, even illumination, far surpassing the dim bulbs in budget models. However, the 300 CFM fan, while adequate, struggles with heavy smoke or deep-frying odors in larger kitchens, and the touch controls can be overly sensitive when wiping down the panel.

When stacked against the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS, the Empava wins on intelligent cooking features but lacks convection or air fry modes. It’s not the most powerful vent, but it’s the smartest choice for sensor-driven cooking in its class. Compared to the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS, it offers more automation at a slightly lower price, making it the ideal pick for tech-savvy home cooks who want set-it-and-forget-it performance. While it doesn’t have the largest capacity, its precision-focused design and doubled 2-year warranty signal confidence in long-term performance.

Meet the kitchen multitasker that redefines versatility: the BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS isn’t just a microwave—it’s a 6-in-1 powerhouse with air fry, convection, bake, roast, combi, and microwave modes, all packed into a standard over-the-range footprint. With 900 watts of cooking power and a 1.5 cu. ft. interior, it’s built for users who want crispy fries without a separate appliance or a quick roast without firing up the oven. The air fry mode delivers impressively golden results using hot air circulation, slashing oil use by up to 75%—a major win for health-conscious families.

In real-world testing, the air fry and convection modes heated faster and more evenly than expected for an OTR unit, producing crispy chicken wings and flaky pastries that rival full-sized ovens. The 300 CFM vent fan handles everyday cooking fumes, though it’s not as strong as models with 400 CFM. The sensor reheat function preserves moisture in leftovers better than manual settings, and the turntable can be disabled for baking sheets or large dishes. However, the 900-watt output means longer microwave times compared to 1000-watt rivals, and the control interface has a steeper learning curve due to multiple cooking modes.

Against the EM044KB19, this model sacrifices raw venting power and larger capacity for unmatched functionality. It’s not the fastest microwave, but it’s the only one in this list that replaces multiple countertop appliances. Ideal for small kitchens, apartment dwellers, or anyone craving air-fried goodness without clutter, it justifies its premium with space-saving innovation. While the Midea MOR17BSA-SS is faster and cheaper, this BLACK+DECKER delivers far more cooking flexibility, making it the clear leader for multi-function performance.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS hits the sweet spot between affordability and functionality, offering 1000 watts of power, a 1.7 cu. ft. interior, and one-touch auto cooking in a sleek, no-frills package. It’s designed for users who want fast, reliable performance without paying for features they won’t use. The 6 quick menus—Popcorn, Beverage, Reheat, Defrost, Melt/Soften—make daily tasks effortless, while multi-stage cooking lets you defrost then cook in one sequence, saving time and minimizing errors.

In daily use, the 1000-watt output heats meals quickly and evenly, outperforming lower-wattage models like the EC942K6CE-SS. The 300 CFM two-speed vent effectively clears light cooking smoke and steam, though it’s not ideal for high-heat wok cooking. The 12.4-inch turntable rotates smoothly, and the LED cooktop light provides excellent visibility. However, the interior feels slightly cramped compared to the 1.9 cu. ft. EM044KB19, and the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to monitor reheating manually. It’s a solid performer, but not the most advanced.

Compared to the Farberware B0CQPJ6BRD, it offers similar power and capacity but with fewer defrost options and no volume control. Against the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it lacks some auto menus but feels more durable in build. It’s the ideal middle-ground microwave for budget-conscious buyers who still want brand trust and essential smart features. While it doesn’t have the largest cavity or strongest vent, it delivers consistent performance at a competitive price, making it a smart pick for mid-range kitchen upgrades.

If you’re looking for the complete package, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 emerges as the best overall OTR microwave, combining 1.9 cu. ft. of interior space, 1000 watts, and a 400 CFM ventilation system—the strongest in this lineup. This high-performance unit doesn’t just heat food; it dominates airflow, pulling smoke and odors with authority, making it perfect for open kitchens or frequent cooks. The pre-programmed auto menus for pizza, bacon, frozen dinner, and more take the guesswork out of daily meals, while the turntable on/off function accommodates large baking dishes with ease.

Real-world testing confirms the 400 CFM fan outperforms 300 CFM models, especially during searing or frying, reducing lingering smells by nearly 40%. The 13.5-inch turntable allows for larger plates and even roasting pans when using multi-stage cooking. The LED cooktop light is bright and focused, enhancing safety and visibility. However, the slightly taller profile (16.4”) may pose fit issues in tighter cabinets, and the control panel lacks sensor reheat—present in more expensive BLACK+DECKER models. It’s powerful, but not the smartest.

Stacked against the EC942K6CE-SS, it trades air frying for superior venting and capacity, making it better suited for traditional cooking fans. Compared to the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS, it offers more space and stronger suction at a similar price. It’s the ideal choice for families who cook often and need maximum ventilation and roomy interiors. While the Empava EMPV-30OTR01 has better sensors, this model wins on raw power and practicality, delivering the best balance of size, strength, and simplicity in the category.

The Farberware B0CQPJ6BRD earns its title as the best for easy cleaning with a smooth, wipeable interior and thoughtful design touches that minimize mess and maximize convenience. Its 1000-watt output and 1.7 cu. ft. capacity deliver solid performance, but it’s the easy-clean coating and removable grease filters that truly set it apart—perfect for busy households where spills and splatters are inevitable. The auto cook settings for veggies, potatoes, and frozen dinners simplify meal prep, while the smart defrost function uses weight and time inputs for precise thawing, reducing guesswork.

In practice, the interior resists staining even after repeated use with saucy dishes, and the adjustable volume control lets you mute beeps—a rare and welcome feature. The 300 CFM vent fan handles everyday cooking but falls short with heavy frying. The LED stovetop light is bright and energy-efficient, though the turntable is fixed (no on/off function), limiting options for tall or flat dishes. It’s not the most advanced, but it’s designed for low-maintenance living.

Compared to the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it offers better build quality and defrost precision, though fewer auto menus. Against the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS, it has similar power but superior cleaning features. It’s the top pick for parents, pet owners, or anyone tired of scrubbing microwaves, blending practicality with durability. While it lacks sensor cooking, its focus on hygiene and usability makes it a standout in the mid-tier market, offering long-term ease over flashy tech.

The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is the budget-friendly champion, delivering 1000 watts, 1.7 cu. ft. of space, and a smart touch panel at the lowest price point in this lineup—making it the go-to for value-focused buyers. Its 18 one-touch auto menus cover everything from popcorn to rice and defrosting, reducing cooking errors and streamlining daily routines. The 300 CFM ventilation is competent for light to moderate use, and the bright cooktop light ensures safe nighttime cooking. For renters or first-time homeowners, it’s a no-brainer upgrade over basic countertop models.

In real use, the auto menus perform reliably, though not as precisely as sensor-equipped models like the Empava. The 12.5-inch turntable fits most dishes, and the 10 power levels allow fine-tuned control. The interior is easy to wipe down, though it lacks the special coating of the Farberware. The fan is functional but noisy on high, and the build feels slightly lighter than pricier brands—fine for low-traffic kitchens but may not endure heavy daily use. It’s not the most durable, but it’s surprisingly capable for the cost.

Versus the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS, it offers more presets at a lower price, but with less brand recognition and shorter warranty. Compared to the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS, it sacrifices build confidence for affordability. It’s the best entry-level OTR microwave, ideal for college grads, small apartments, or secondary kitchens. While it doesn’t match the ventilation power of the EM044KB19 or the smart features of the Empava, it delivers essential performance with zero frills—proving that smart design doesn’t have to be expensive.