7 Best Microwave Ovens Over the Range 2026

This power-packed performer delivers serious cooking efficiency without breaking the bank—perfect for budget-conscious kitchens that still demand 1000W cooking power and a roomy 1.7 cu. ft. cavity. With smart features like auto cook presets, intelligent defrost by time or weight, and a quick +30 seconds button, it streamlines daily meal prep with impressive precision. The inclusion of a stovetop light, vent fan, and child safety lock makes it a well-rounded, family-friendly choice that solves common over-the-range pain points: cluttered counters, poor ventilation, and safety concerns.

In real-world use, the Farberware shines during fast reheats and frozen meals, thanks to its responsive touch controls and consistent heating—though it lacks sensor cooking, which can lead to occasional overcooking if not monitored. The 315 mm turntable ensures even rotation for most dishes, but larger platters may struggle to fit when the turntable is engaged. While the 300 CFM venting is standard, it’s adequate for light to moderate stovetop use, though serious cooks might want something stronger. It handles popcorn, baked potatoes, and veggies reliably via dedicated programs, but manual adjustments are often needed for optimal results.

Compared to pricier models like the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 or GE JVM7195SKSS, this Farberware unit holds its ground as the best budget-friendly option—offering core functionality without frills. It’s ideal for small households, apartments, or kitchen upgrades where value and reliability matter most. While it doesn’t match the sensor smarts of GE or the 400 CFM ventilation of BLACK+DECKER, it delivers a balanced mix of performance, safety, and space-saving design—making it a standout in its price range.

Step into the future of kitchen convenience with the Empava EMPV-30OTR01, a sleek over-the-range microwave that combines sensor cooking intelligence with a rare 2-year U.S. warranty—a standout in an industry where one year is standard. Its 1.7 cu. ft. interior and 1000W power deliver reliable performance, while the pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, pizza, bacon, and more take the guesswork out of everyday cooking. The touchscreen interface feels modern and responsive, and the turntable on/off function is a small but game-changing detail for tall or oversized dishes.

During testing, the sensor cooking consistently adjusted time and power to prevent overcooking, especially with soups, rice, and frozen dinners—proving far more accurate than manual timing. The 300 CFM two-speed vent effectively cleared steam and odors from moderate stovetop use, though heavy searing or frying required additional air support. The LED cooktop lighting is bright and evenly distributed, enhancing visibility without glare. However, the fan noise on high is noticeable, and the absence of a recirculating charcoal filter in the base model may limit installation flexibility for some kitchens.

When stacked against the GE JVM7195SKSS, the Empava holds its own with nearly identical sensor capabilities but at a slightly lower price point—making it the best sensor cooking pick with extended warranty confidence. It’s perfect for tech-savvy users who want set-and-forget convenience and peace of mind from long-term coverage. While it doesn’t offer the largest capacity or strongest ventilation, its smart features and reliability make it a top-tier choice for modern kitchens prioritizing precision and durability over raw power.

The FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS is a build-quality beast—engineered for those who want a microwave that feels solid, looks sleek, and offers the largest cooking cavity in its class at 1.8 cu. ft.. With 1000W cooking power and 10 power levels, it handles everything from delicate reheats to full family meals with commendable consistency. The stainless steel finish resists smudges, and the 27-button touchpad provides direct access to functions, giving it a commercial-grade feel that outshines many competitors in fit and finish.

In daily use, the extra 0.1 cu. ft. capacity makes a tangible difference—fitting a full 9×13 dish or tall casserole with ease, a frequent pain point in smaller models. The 300 CFM ventilation is effective for everyday cooking, though it operates at a lower 105 CFM on low speed, which may not suffice for frequent high-heat cooking. The auto defrost function works reliably, but the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to manually adjust times for optimal results. Installation is straightforward, and the non-ducted venting option adds flexibility, though the recirculating kit is sold separately—an extra cost to consider.

Compared to the Farberware or Midea models, the Frigidaire stands out as the best for capacity and build quality, ideal for larger households or serious home cooks who prioritize interior space and durability. While it doesn’t offer the smart features of GE or Empava, or the 400 CFM power of BLACK+DECKER, it delivers a premium feel and performance that justifies its place in high-traffic kitchens. It’s the go-to choice when robust construction and maximum interior room matter most.

Meet the ThermoMate, a ventilation powerhouse wrapped in a sleek black finish, engineered for kitchens where airflow performance is non-negotiable. With a 300 CFM two-speed exhaust system, it aggressively tackles smoke, grease, and odors—making it one of the most effective vented cooking companions in its category. The 1.7 cu. ft. cavity and 1000W power ensure solid cooking performance, while one-touch programs for popcorn, potatoes, beverages, and reheat simplify daily use with reliable results.

Real-world testing shows the fan outperforms many at this price, especially during stir-fries or boiling pasta, where steam buildup is quickly evacuated. The LED lighting is bright and focused, illuminating the entire cooktop without shadows. The removable glass turntable makes cleaning a breeze, and the scratch-resistant interior holds up well over time. However, the microwave lacks sensor cooking, so reheating delicate items like sauces or leftovers requires manual oversight to avoid splatters or overheating. The four auto-cook presets are basic compared to models with 10+ menus.

Against the Midea or Empava, the ThermoMate doesn’t win on smart features, but it excels where it counts: ventilation power and durability. It’s the top pick for anyone who cooks frequently and needs a strong, dependable exhaust paired with solid microwave performance. While it doesn’t offer the 400 CFM of the BLACK+DECKER, it matches the airflow of most premium models and does so quietly on low speed—making it ideal for open-concept kitchens or island stoves where air quality matters.

The GE JVM7195SKSS is a sensor cooking champion, packing a spacious 1.9 cu. ft. cavity—the largest in this lineup—alongside advanced moisture-sensing technology that automatically adjusts cooking time and power for perfect results every time. With 1000W output and a 2-year CPS protection plan included, it’s designed for users who want set-it-and-forget-it convenience with the safety net of extended service coverage. The sensor reheat and cook functions excel at preventing dryness or sogginess, making it ideal for busy families or meal-preppers who rely on consistent, hands-off performance.

In practice, the sensor technology shines when reheating leftovers or cooking frozen meals—detecting steam levels to shut off the microwave at peak doneness. The 1.9 cu. ft. interior easily fits large plates, roasting pans, or 12-inch pizzas, solving the common issue of tight clearance in standard models. Ventilation is rated at 300 CFM, effective for moderate cooking, though it doesn’t match the 400 CFM of the BLACK+DECKER. The control panel is intuitive, but the lack of a turntable on/off function can limit space for tall items.

When compared to the Empava, both offer excellent sensor cooking, but the GE wins on capacity and bundled protection, making it the best for sensor cooking overall. It’s perfect for users who prioritize smart automation and interior space over raw ventilation power. While it doesn’t have the 400 CFM fan of the BLACK+DECKER or the 2-year direct warranty of Empava, its combination of size, smarts, and service support delivers unmatched value for tech-reliant kitchens.

The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a smart-value standout, blending 18 auto-cook menus and smart touch controls into an affordable package that punches above its weight. With 1000W power, a 1.7 cu. ft. interior, and a 12.5-inch turntable, it handles everything from popcorn to rotisserie chickens with ease. The one-touch presets—including soften cream cheese and rice—add a level of culinary convenience rarely seen at this price, making it a hidden gem for feature seekers on a budget.

During real-world use, the auto menus delivered consistent results, especially for frozen dinners, pizza, and defrosting, reducing guesswork significantly. The 300 CFM ventilation is adequate for daily cooking, and the bright LED cooktop light enhances visibility without hotspots. The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints better than expected, and the 10 power levels allow fine-tuned control for delicate tasks. However, the sensor cooking is absent, so it can’t match the GE or Empava in adaptive intelligence. The fan noise is moderate, but not disruptive.

Against the Farberware or ThermoMate, the Midea offers more smart features for the same price, making it the best value with smart features. It’s ideal for renters, small kitchens, or first-time buyers who want premium-like functionality without the premium cost. While it doesn’t have the capacity of GE or ventilation of BLACK+DECKER, its feature density and user-friendly design make it a top contender for those who cook frequently but don’t want to overspend.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is the undisputed king of ventilation, boasting a 400 CFM two-speed exhaust fan—the strongest in this group—making it the best overall choice for serious cooks who demand maximum air extraction alongside top-tier microwave performance. With a 1.9 cu. ft. interior, it matches the GE in capacity, fitting large dishes with room to spare, while one-touch auto programs for pizza, bacon, frozen breakfast, and more streamline everyday cooking. The turntable on/off function is a small but critical advantage for tall casseroles or baking dishes.

In real-world testing, the 400 CFM fan obliterated smoke and steam during high-heat searing and boiling, outperforming all others—ideal for island ranges or open kitchens where odors spread quickly. The 1000W power heats evenly, and the 30-second express cook button adds instant convenience. The LED lighting is bright and wide-reaching, and the child lock ensures safety. However, the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to monitor delicate items manually. The 29.9” width fits standard 30” cutouts perfectly, but the depth may require checking cabinet clearance.

Compared to the GE, it trades sensor intelligence for superior ventilation and broader auto menus, making it the best overall pick for balanced performance. It’s perfect for families, avid cooks, or anyone upgrading from an underpowered unit. While it costs more than the Midea or Farberware, its combination of size, power, and airflow delivers unmatched versatility—making it the most well-rounded over-the-range microwave in this lineup.