7 Best Above Range Microwave Ovens 2026

This workhorse of a microwave delivers serious cooking power with its 1000W output, making it a go-to for fast, consistent results in high-traffic kitchens. The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity handles everything from family-sized casseroles to multiple side dishes, while Auto Cook and specialized programs like Potato and Veggies take the guesswork out of daily meals. Its Easy Clean interior and wipeable surfaces are a game-changer for anyone tired of battling stubborn splatters—this model genuinely makes maintenance effortless. If you want a no-nonsense, reliable over-the-range microwave that excels at daily meal prep without fuss, this one checks all the boxes.

In real-world use, the 1550W input power ensures rapid heating, and the Speedy +30 seconds function is perfect for quick top-ups without navigating menus. The stovetop LED light and two-speed vent fan are practical additions, improving visibility and clearing light cooking odors effectively—though it’s not designed for heavy grease extraction. The turntable accommodates most standard dishes, but larger 9×13 pans may require careful placement. While the defrost function is accurate, it lacks the intelligence of sensor-based systems, relying instead on manual weight or time input.

Compared to the Frigidaire 1.8 cu. ft. model, this Farberware offers slightly less space and fewer premium features, but it shines in cleanability and user-friendly operation. It’s ideal for home cooks prioritizing simplicity and durability over smart tech or max capacity. For those who want a solid, dependable performer that’s easier to maintain than most, this model delivers more practical value than the pricier Midea slim variant, despite lacking voice control or sensor cooking.

With its spacious 1.8 cu. ft. interior, this Frigidaire microwave redefines what large-capacity convenience looks like in an over-the-range design. It effortlessly fits a 13″ x 9″ baking dish, making it a standout for families or anyone who regularly reheats full casseroles. The extra-large 12.5″ glass turntable ensures even cooking, while one-touch buttons for popcorn and potatoes deliver instant usability. What truly sets it apart is the zero-clearance door—a lifesaver in tight kitchens where swing space is limited—making it one of the most thoughtfully engineered models in its class.

During testing, the LED cooktop and interior lighting provided excellent visibility, turning midnight snacks and late dinners into safer, more enjoyable experiences. The two-speed ventilation system handles light frying and steaming well, though it’s not a replacement for a professional hood. The microwave heats evenly across most containers, but dense foods like thick stews benefit from manual stirring due to the lack of sensor cooking. While it lacks auto-defrost by weight, the one-touch functions streamline everyday tasks without overwhelming users with complexity.

Pitted against the GE JVM7195SKSS, it offers slightly less capacity (1.8 vs 1.9 cu. ft.) but better usability and door design. It’s the sweet spot between size, functionality, and build quality, making it ideal for home chefs who need room to cook but don’t want to sacrifice convenience. Compared to the budget Galanz model, it offers superior fit and finish, lighting, and turntable size, justifying its higher cost for those who value long-term durability and kitchen integration.

Don’t let the price tag fool you—this budget-savvy Galanz packs a serious punch, offering 1000W of cooking power and 11 variable power levels in a sleek stainless steel body. It’s perfect for renters or first-time buyers who want full functionality without overspending. The 9 auto-cook programs, including Pizza, Popcorn, and Reheat, are surprisingly accurate, and the ECO mode is a rare find at this price, helping reduce standby energy use. With a heavy-duty aluminum handle and wipeable interior, it feels sturdier than expected for an entry-level model.

In daily use, the 30-second express cooking button becomes a reflex, ideal for quick reheat jobs. The 2-speed exhaust fan clears light steam and odors efficiently, though it’s no match for heavy searing. The 1.7 cu. ft. cavity handles standard dishes well, but lacks internal lighting—making it harder to monitor food in dim kitchens. While the turntable rotates smoothly, the absence of an interior light is a noticeable compromise. Still, for basic reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking, it performs reliably without hiccups.

When stacked against the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ, it lacks smart features and voice control but delivers core functionality at less than half the cost. It’s a smarter buy than the Farberware for budget-focused users who still want auto programs and ECO efficiency. For those who need maximum value without frills, this Galanz outperforms its price point, making it the clear choice for economical kitchen upgrades.

This ultra-slim Midea microwave is a space-saving marvel, designed for kitchens where every inch counts. At just 1.2 cu. ft., it’s the most compact over-the-range option here, yet it still packs 1000W power and a powerful 400 CFM vent fan—stronger than many full-sized models. Its smart sensor cooking adjusts time and power based on steam detection, delivering perfectly reheated leftovers without dry edges. But the real magic? Voice control and app integration let you start cooking or check status remotely—ideal for tech-savvy users who want a connected kitchen experience.

In practice, the sensor cook function excels with moist foods like pasta and soups, automatically stopping before overcooking. The 400 CFM exhaust handles intense stir-fries and boiling pots with ease, outperforming most 300 CFM competitors. However, the small interior limits dish size—no 9×13 pans or large roasters fit comfortably. The turntable is smaller too, so bulky mugs or wide bowls may not rotate fully. While the LED lighting is bright, the lack of physical buttons means you’re reliant on touch or voice, which can be finicky with wet hands.

Compared to the Empava model, it offers superior ventilation and smart features but sacrifices capacity. It’s not for large families, but for studio apartments, RVs, or modern minimalist kitchens, it’s unmatched. Against the Galanz, it’s far more advanced but much pricier, making it a luxury pick for small-space dwellers who refuse to compromise on tech.

This Midea strikes a perfect balance between automation and power, making it the top pick for menu-driven cooking. With 18 auto-cook programs, from popcorn to rice and softening cream cheese, it turns kitchen novices into confident meal prep pros in seconds. The 1.7 cu. ft. interior and 12.5″ turntable easily fit a rotisserie chicken or 12-inch pizza, while the 300 CFM ventilation quietly removes smoke and odors during stovetop use. The smart touch panel feels modern and responsive, and the 10 power levels give precise control for delicate tasks like melting chocolate.

In real-world testing, the auto menus delivered consistent results, especially for frozen meals and reheating. The ventilation is adjustable and effective for everyday cooking, though not for heavy frying. The bright cooktop light enhances safety, but the lack of internal lighting means you’ll need ambient light to check food mid-cycle. It heats evenly, but dense items still benefit from manual rotation since there’s no sensor cooking. The build quality feels solid, and the stainless steel finish resists smudges better than most.

Next to the Empava model, it offers more auto programs and better usability, though both share similar specs. Compared to the Farberware, it adds more automation and a larger turntable for just slightly more. For families who cook diverse meals regularly, this Midea delivers smarter convenience than the basic Galanz, making it the best value for those who love one-touch simplicity.

Boasting the largest capacity in the lineup at 1.9 cu. ft., this GE microwave is a true powerhouse for big-batch cooking and family meals. It swallows 9×13 dishes, large pizzas, and full casserole pans with room to spare—making it ideal for entertainers or households that cook in bulk. The sensor cooking technology automatically adjusts power and time based on moisture levels, ensuring perfectly reheated lasagna or steamed veggies without guesswork. Paired with a premium 2-year protection plan, it’s built for long-term reliability and peace of mind.

During testing, the sensor reheat function preserved texture and moisture, outperforming manual settings on other models. The ventilation system is robust, effectively clearing steam from boiling pots and frying pans. While the turntable is large enough for most dishes, very wide containers may require the turntable to be removed—though that’s standard for this class. It lacks detailed feature descriptions, but its size and sensor tech alone make it a top performer for real-world usability.

Compared to the Frigidaire 1.8 cu. ft. model, it offers more space and smarter cooking, though at a slightly higher cost. Against the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ, it trades slimness for capacity and simplicity, making it better for large families than small apartments. For those who prioritize cooking volume and automated precision, this GE delivers unmatched utility, especially when stacked against non-sensor models like the Farberware or Galanz.

This Empava microwave brings restaurant-grade convenience to home kitchens with its advanced sensor cooking and precision touch controls. The 1.7 cu. ft. cavity pairs perfectly with pre-programmed menus for popcorn, bacon, soup, and frozen dinners, all optimized through steam-sensing technology that prevents overcooking. With a 300 CFM two-speed vent fan, it clears cooking fumes efficiently, and the turntable on/off function lets you cook large, flat dishes like sheet pan meals without rotation. Backed by a rare 2-year manufacturer warranty, it signals serious confidence in durability.

In daily use, the sensor programs consistently delivered ideal results, especially for delicate foods like scrambled eggs or reheated rice. The LED cooktop lighting is bright and evenly distributed, enhancing nighttime cooking safety. The touchscreen is responsive, though it can be sensitive to accidental touches. While the 1000W power heats quickly, it doesn’t match the raw output of higher-wattage commercial units—but it’s more than sufficient for home use. The lack of voice control keeps it simpler than the Midea slim model, which some users may prefer.

Compared to the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it offers sensor cooking where the other relies on timers, giving it a clear edge in food quality. Against the Galanz, it’s far more advanced and reliable, justifying its higher cost. For cooks who value precision and consistency, this Empava outperforms non-sensor models, making it the best choice for those who want smart cooking without smart-home complexity.