7 Best Range Microwaves of 2025

This powerhouse performer redefines what you expect from an over-the-range microwave, blending 1000 watts of cooking precision with a cavernous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity that effortlessly handles family-sized meals. The 400 CFM ventilation system stands out as one of the strongest in its class, making quick work of smoke and cooking odors—ideal for busy kitchens where stovetop and microwave duties overlap. With sensor cooking intelligence and one-touch auto programs, it removes the guesswork from reheating leftovers or defrosting proteins, delivering consistently even results thanks to the 360° rotating glass turntable.

In real-world use, this microwave shines when multitasking—simultaneously venting steam from a boiling pot while reheating last night’s dinner with zero performance lag. The dual-speed exhaust fan offers flexibility: quiet mode for light cooking, high power for searing or frying. Its spacious interior fits a full 12-inch pizza or large casserole dish, and the removable rack allows you to heat multiple items vertically—a rare feature that boosts efficiency. However, the turntable must be removed for rack use, which slightly interrupts workflow, and the control panel, while intuitive, lacks the modern touch interface found on higher-end models.

Positioned as the best overall, the ThermoMate outmuscles rivals like the Empava EMPV-30OTR01 in both ventilation strength and interior space, though it’s pricier than budget picks like Galanz. It strikes a near-perfect balance between power, capacity, and smart features, making it ideal for families and frequent cooks who demand reliability without sacrificing performance. Compared to similarly sized models, it offers superior airflow and more cooking programs than the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS, justifying its place at the top of the category.

The Empava EMPV-30OTR01 earns its title as the best warranty pick with a 2-year manufacturer-backed guarantee—a rare confidence booster in a market where most offer only one. Behind that assurance lies a solid performer: 1000 watts of cooking power, a 1.7 cu. ft. interior, and a 300 CFM two-speed vent that handles everyday kitchen fumes with ease. The touchscreen interface adds a modern flair, offering smooth navigation and features like 30-second express cook and child lock, catering to safety-conscious households.

During testing, the microwave proved reliable for daily tasks—reheating coffee, defrosting ground beef, or popping store-bought popcorn—all with consistent, predictable results. The turntable on/off function is a small but meaningful win, allowing flat-bottomed dishes to heat evenly without rotation. While the 300 CFM fan is adequate for light to moderate cooking, it struggles with heavy grease or intense steam compared to the 400 CFM ThermoMate. The internal depth feels slightly cramped for deeper dishes, and the LED lighting, though bright, doesn’t fully eliminate shadows across the cooktop.

When stacked against the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it offers a similar footprint and power but stands out with its extended warranty and sleek screen touch controls. It’s a smart middle ground for users who want modern aesthetics and peace of mind without paying a premium for smart features like Wi-Fi. For those prioritizing long-term reliability over bells and whistles, the Empava delivers where it counts—especially when compared to budget models with shorter support lifespans.

Step into the future with the slim yet mighty Samsung ME11A7710DS/AA—a microwave that packs 1100 watts of cooking power and an industry-leading 550 CFM ventilation system into a surprisingly compact 1.1 cu. ft. frame. This is the smartest over-the-range microwave available, leveraging Wi-Fi and voice control via SmartThings, allowing you to start reheating soup or turn on the hood fan using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Bixby—all from another room. The wide LED light bar casts a brilliant, shadow-free glow across the entire cooktop, transforming nighttime cooking into a well-lit experience.

In practice, the sensor cooking adapts flawlessly to moisture levels, preventing overcooked oatmeal or rubbery leftovers. The Auto Connectivity feature is a game-changer: when you ignite your compatible Samsung cooktop, the microwave’s fan and lights activate automatically, streamlining your workflow. Despite its smaller cavity, it handles standard dinner plates and mugs with ease, though large casserole dishes won’t fit. The 550 CFM suction outperforms nearly every competitor, making it ideal for open-concept kitchens where odors travel fast—but this power comes with increased noise on high speed.

Compared to the ThermoMate B0D6G28G8V, it sacrifices interior space for cutting-edge automation and ventilation superiority. It’s the clear choice for tech-savvy users who value seamless integration and hands-free control over sheer capacity. While it costs more than most, its smart ecosystem advantages and unmatched venting power justify the investment for those building a connected kitchen.

The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a quiet achiever that delivers exceptional value with a clean design, 18 auto-cook menus, and 1000 watts of power—all at a wallet-friendly point. Its smart touch panel feels premium for the price, offering responsive controls and a modern look that blends seamlessly into contemporary kitchens. The 1.7 cu. ft. interior handles most family-sized dishes, and the 12.5” turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring even heating whether you’re warming a slice of lasagna or steaming frozen dumplings.

Real-world testing shows it performs reliably across everyday tasks, with the 300 CFM ventilation effectively clearing light smoke and steam—though it’s not built for heavy frying marathons. The bright LED cooktop light enhances visibility, and the 10 power levels give precise control over delicate tasks like softening butter or melting chocolate. One limitation is the lack of sensor cooking, meaning you’ll manually adjust times more often than with higher-end models. Still, for basic reheating and defrosting, it’s more than capable.

Pitted against the Galanz GLOMJA17S2B-10, it offers double the auto-cook options and a slightly more refined interface, making it a smarter long-term buy despite the modest price bump. It’s the ideal pick for renters or first-time homeowners who want a no-frills, dependable microwave without sacrificing style or functionality. While it doesn’t match the ThermoMate in power or venting, it offers the best balance of features and affordability in its class.

If maximum cooking space is your priority, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 stands tall as the best large capacity option, boasting a 1.9 cu. ft. interior—among the largest in the category. This microwave dominates when it comes to volume, easily accommodating oversized dishes, stacked containers, or a whole rotisserie chicken, all while delivering 1000 watts of power for consistent heating. The 400 CFM dual-speed ventilation matches the ThermoMate in strength, effectively clearing steam and odors, and the LED cooktop lighting provides excellent visibility for nighttime cooking.

In daily use, it handles high-volume reheating with ease, making it a strong contender for large families or entertainers. The turntable on/off function allows flat items like baking sheets to heat evenly, a feature often missing in budget models. However, the internal depth is shallower than expected for its width, limiting taller cookware. The control panel is straightforward but lacks the modern touch or smart features of pricier units, and the 9 auto-cook programs are functional but not as diverse as Midea’s 18.

Compared to the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS, it offers greater capacity and stronger ventilation, making it a better fit for heavy kitchen use. It’s the top choice for those who cook in bulk and need space above all else, even if it means sacrificing some tech flair. While it doesn’t have sensor cooking like the Samsung, it delivers superior interior volume and airflow at a more accessible price point.

The Galanz GLOMJA17S2B-10 is the undisputed champion of budget-friendly performance, delivering core microwave essentials without the premium markup. With 1000 watts of power, 11 power levels, and a 1.7 cu. ft. interior, it handles everyday tasks like reheating, defrosting, and popcorn with dependable accuracy. The 9 auto-cook programs cover the basics, and the 30-second express function makes quick snacks effortless—perfect for college dorms, small apartments, or secondary kitchens.

In real-world use, the 2-speed exhaust fan manages light cooking fumes adequately, though it’s no match for intense stir-frying. The ECO mode is a thoughtful addition, reducing standby power consumption—a small but meaningful win for eco-conscious buyers. The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints better than expected, and the heavy-duty aluminum handle feels sturdy. However, the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to monitor food closely, and the interior lighting is dimmer than competitors.

Against the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it trades auto-menu variety for a lower price tag and ECO mode, making it the go-to for minimalists who want reliable basics without extras. It’s ideal for first-time buyers or those replacing an old unit on a tight budget. While it doesn’t offer the smart features of Samsung or the capacity of BLACK+DECKER, it delivers the best bang for the buck in the lineup.

The Frigidaire FFMV1846VS positions itself as the best for families with a balanced mix of 1.8 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts of power, and a child lock for added safety—features that resonate with parents and busy households. Its 27-touchpad button layout offers granular control, letting users fine-tune cooking times and power levels with precision. The 300 CFM two-speed fan handles everyday kitchen ventilation well, and the auto-defrost function takes the guesswork out of thawing meats and frozen meals.

In practice, it performs reliably for family routines—reheating school lunches, cooking frozen dinners, or venting steam from boiling pasta. The non-ducted venting means it can be installed without external ductwork, a major plus for older homes or apartment kitchens. However, the recirculating kit is sold separately, adding unexpected cost. The internal height is limited, making it tricky to fit tall mugs or deep bowls, and the lack of sensor cooking places it behind leaders like ThermoMate.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, it offers slightly less capacity and weaker airflow, but its family-focused design and safety features give it an edge for homes with kids. It’s a dependable, no-nonsense microwave that prioritizes functionality and ease of use over flash. While it doesn’t lead in any single category, it delivers solid all-around performance ideal for family-centered kitchens.