7 Best Microwave Ovens Over Ranges 2026

This workhorse of a microwave delivers where it counts—power, ventilation, and reliability—making the FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS a standout for home chefs who demand consistent performance. With 1000 cooking watts, a spacious 1.8 cu. ft. cavity, and a robust 300 CFM vent, it tackles everything from reheating leftovers to clearing stubborn cooking odors in seconds. The 10 power levels offer precise control, while the auto defrost and 30-second express cook features eliminate guesswork, solving the universal frustration of unevenly heated meals. Its stainless steel build and 27-button touchpad balance durability with intuitive operation, ideal for kitchens where function meets form.

In real-world testing, this microwave shines in daily multitasking—perfectly crisping a frozen pizza on high power, gently steaming vegetables using mid-level settings, and effortlessly clearing smoke after searing meat thanks to its dual-speed 300 CFM fan. The 15.75” depth fits standard 30” cutouts without crowding cabinetry, and the 120-volt plug-in design simplifies installation. However, while the non-ducted venting works well with a recirculating kit (sold separately), it’s less effective in open-concept spaces without proper ducting. The turntable accommodates most dishes, though very large platters may require the turntable to be turned off.

Positioned as the best overall, the FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS outperforms budget models in build and consistency, edging out the Midea MOR17BSA-SS in control layout and ventilation stability. While it doesn’t offer smart features like voice control, it wins on no-nonsense reliability and balanced performance—perfect for families and frequent cooks who value dependability over gimmicks. It delivers a more refined cooking experience than entry-level units, with better airflow than similarly priced competitors, making it a well-rounded powerhouse that justifies its place above the stove.

The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a smartly engineered microwave that brings effortless automation to everyday cooking, making it the top pick for tech-savvy kitchens. Its 18 auto-cook menus—ranging from popcorn to rice and potato—leverage 1000 watts of power with precision, eliminating the need to guess cook times. The smart touch panel responds instantly, and the 12.5-inch turntable easily handles a full rotisserie chicken, solving the pain point of overcrowded interiors. With 300 CFM ventilation and dual fan speeds, it clears grease and smoke efficiently, while the bright cooktop light ensures visibility during late-night prep.

During daily use, the auto-cook functions consistently delivered perfectly reheated meals, and the 10-level power settings allowed fine-tuned control for delicate tasks like softening butter or simmering sauces. The 1.7 cu. ft. cavity is compact but well-optimized, fitting most standard plates and bowls with room to spare. However, the fan noise at high speed is noticeable in quiet kitchens, and the lack of sensor reheat means it doesn’t automatically adjust for moisture content. Still, it handles most countertop-style tasks with microwave efficiency and integrates seamlessly above the stove.

When compared to the Empava EMPV-30OTR01, the Midea offers more auto menus and a smoother interface, though both share similar wattage and venting. It’s a clear upgrade from basic models, ideal for young professionals and small households who want one-touch convenience without overspending. While it doesn’t match the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 in capacity, it outperforms it in smart usability, making it the best choice for those who value automation and ease over sheer size.

If you cook for a crowd, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is a game-changer—boasting the largest capacity in its class at 1.9 cu. ft., making it the undisputed best for large families. Its 13.5-inch turntable and spacious interior effortlessly fit oversized dishes like lasagna trays and 12-inch pizzas, solving the common issue of rotating plates that can’t accommodate bulkier meals. Backed by 1000 watts of power and pre-programmed auto menus for everything from bacon to frozen breakfast, it delivers consistent, hands-free cooking with minimal supervision. The 400 CFM two-speed vent is a major highlight—stronger than most competitors—making it ideal for high-heat stovetop cooking.

In practical use, the turntable on/off function proved invaluable when heating rectangular casserole dishes, and the 30-second express cook made quick snacks a breeze. The LED cooktop light offered excellent visibility, and the child lock added peace of mind in busy homes. However, the higher profile (16.4” height) may not fit under lower cabinets, and the controls can feel cluttered with 10 power levels and multiple presets. While it’s heavier and pricier than average, its ventilation outperforms models like the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, and the larger cavity beats the Empava by nearly 0.2 cu. ft.

This microwave is perfect for large households and serious home cooks who need both volume and ventilation. Compared to the FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS, it offers more interior space and stronger suction, though it sacrifices some compactness. For those who regularly reheat big meals or use the microwave as a secondary oven, the EM044KB19 delivers unmatched capacity and power, making it the top choice when size and performance matter most.

The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave is a hidden gem that packs premium features into an affordable, no-frills design, earning its spot as the best value for features. With 1000 watts of cooking power, auto-cook settings for veggies and potatoes, and smart defrost by time or weight, it handles daily tasks with surprising sophistication. The adjustable volume control for alerts is a rare and thoughtful touch—perfect for households that want quiet operation at night. Its 1.7 cu. ft. interior and easy-clean coating make maintenance a breeze, addressing the common pain point of messy, hard-to-wipe cavities.

In real-world testing, the melt/soften function excelled at gently warming butter and chocolate without scorching, and the speedy +30 seconds button made quick additions effortless. The vent fan and stovetop light performed reliably, though the CFM isn’t specified, suggesting it’s likely below 300 and better suited for light cooking. The white finish gives it a clean, classic look, ideal for traditional kitchens, but it may show smudges more than stainless steel. While it lacks advanced smart features, it covers all the essentials with polish.

Compared to the Empava EMPV-30OTR01, it offers more cooking intelligence—like weight-based defrost and adjustable alerts—despite a similar price. It’s a smarter pick than basic models for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to sacrifice functionality. While the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS has a stainless look and similar capacity, the Farberware delivers more nuanced cooking options, making it the best bang for your buck when you want smart features without the smart price tag.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS is a ventilation powerhouse, engineered for kitchens where clearing smoke and odors is non-negotiable—making it the best for ventilation performance. With a 300 CFM two-speed vent fan, it matches high-end models in suction strength, quickly removing steam from boiling pots and fumes from searing meat. The integrated LED light provides focused illumination, enhancing safety during stovetop cooking. Backed by 1000 watts and 10 power levels, it reheats meals evenly, while one-touch presets for popcorn, beverage, and defrost streamline daily use.

In testing, the multi-stage cooking function stood out—allowing users to start at 90% power for 10 minutes, then drop to 50% for 5—ideal for dishes that need a strong initial burst followed by gentle warming. The 12.4-inch turntable fits most dishes, though larger platters may require turning it off. While the 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is average, the 30-second express cook and quick-number presets (1-2-3 minutes) make it one of the fastest to use. However, the fan is loud on high, and the stainless steel finish shows fingerprints easily, requiring frequent wiping.

When stacked against the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, both offer 300 CFM and 1000 watts, but the BLACK+DECKER wins on cooking flexibility with multi-stage programming. It’s ideal for home cooks who use their stovetop heavily and need a microwave that ventilates like a range hood. While the FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS has similar specs, this model offers more cooking intelligence, making it a strong contender for performance-focused buyers who want powerful airflow and advanced cooking modes in one sleek package.

The Empava EMPV-30OTR01 is a budget-savvy overachiever, delivering solid performance at a low entry point, which is why it earns the title of best budget-friendly. With 1000 watts, a 1.7 cu. ft. interior, and 300 CFM dual-speed ventilation, it matches pricier models in core functionality. The sensor cooking and screen touch control add a premium feel, while pre-programmed menus for soup, pizza, and bacon simplify daily meals. Its turntable on/off function is a small but meaningful feature, allowing flat or large dishes to heat evenly—solving a common microwave limitation.

In everyday use, the 30-second express cook and child lock made it family-friendly, and the LED lighting provided excellent stovetop visibility. The 2-year manufacturer warranty—double the industry standard—is a huge trust signal, showing Empava stands behind its build quality. However, the touch controls can be unresponsive when greasy, and the fan lacks the quiet efficiency of higher-end units. While it doesn’t have weight-based defrost or voice control, it covers all the essentials without fluff.

Compared to the Farberware model, it offers similar capacity and power but adds sensor cooking, giving it a slight edge in automation. It’s a smarter pick than generic store brands, ideal for first-time buyers, renters, or kitchen upgraders on a tight budget. While the Midea MOR17BSA-SS has more auto menus, the Empava delivers better value with sensor tech at a comparable price, making it the best entry-level choice for those who want modern features without overspending.

The Midea MMO12S3ASTZ is a vision of modern kitchen efficiency, redefining space-saving design with its ultra-slim 1.2 cu. ft. profile—making it the best for tight spaces. At just 15” deep, it preserves overhead cabinet clearance, a godsend for galley kitchens or low-ceiling installations. But don’t let its size fool you: it packs 1000 watts of power, 400 CFM ventilation—the strongest in the lineup—and smart sensor cook technology that adjusts time and power based on steam detection. For renters or modernists, its voice control and SmartHome app integration offer futuristic convenience, solving the pain of manual adjustments.

In real-world use, the sensor reheat function excelled at reviving leftovers without drying them out, and the 400 CFM fan silenced smoke from stir-fries faster than most full-sized models. The compact turntable limits plate size, so large dishes won’t rotate freely, and the smaller capacity means it’s not ideal for family-sized meals. However, for solo cooks or couples, it’s perfectly proportioned. The remote notifications—alerting you when cooking finishes—are a standout perk, especially in open-concept homes.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, it trades capacity for smart features and depth, making it a polar opposite in design philosophy. While it costs more, it justifies it with voice control and superior ventilation. It’s the ideal pick for modern apartments, smart homes, or minimalist kitchens where technology and space optimization trump size. If you want the most advanced, space-conscious microwave, the MMO12S3ASTZ is unmatched in innovation and integration.