7 Best Small Over the Range Microwaves 2026

This budget-savvy powerhouse delivers far beyond its price tag, packing 1000W of cooking strength and a spacious 1.7 cu.ft. interior that handles everything from family-sized casseroles to weeknight leftovers with ease. With 11 variable power levels and 9 smart auto-cook presets—including dedicated buttons for pizza, popcorn, and veggies—this Galanz model eliminates guesswork and streamlines daily cooking. It’s the kind of kitchen workhorse that solves real pain points: slow reheating, inconsistent results, and clunky interfaces—all without asking you to downsize your meals or your expectations.

In real-world use, the 30-second express cook function is a game-changer for busy mornings, while the two-speed exhaust fan effectively clears light cooking fumes, especially during quick stovetop tasks. The stainless steel interior resists stains and simplifies cleanup, and the heavy-duty aluminum handle feels solid after repeated use. However, the ventilation isn’t designed for heavy-duty frying or prolonged high-heat cooking—it’s best suited for light to moderate kitchen ventilation needs. The turntable accommodates most standard dinner plates, but very large dishes may require turning off the rotation function, which isn’t always intuitive.

Compared to the pricier Midea and BLACK+DECKER models, the Galanz trades some smart features and slightly lower CFM power for unbeatable value. It’s the ideal pick for renters, small households, or anyone upgrading from an aging unit without wanting to invest in high-end tech. If you’re after reliable performance, generous capacity, and essential automation at a low entry cost, this Galanz punches well above its weight—offering nearly the same core functionality as models $100 more, minus the bells and whistles.

The GE JVM3160RFSS stands out not for raw power or smart tech, but for its unmatched peace of mind—thanks to a 2-year extended protection plan bundled right in. With 1.6 cu.ft. of interior space and reliable 1000W cooking performance, it delivers consistent results for reheating, defrosting, and simple meals. While it lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or voice control, its straightforward design and authorized GE reliability make it a trusted choice for users who prioritize long-term support over cutting-edge automation. It solves a major buyer hesitation: the fear of costly repairs down the line.

Performance-wise, this microwave handles everyday tasks smoothly, with responsive controls and even heating across most food types. The behind-the-door charcoal filter system simplifies maintenance, and the compact 13-inch depth fits neatly above standard ranges without overwhelming smaller kitchens. However, the absence of express cook buttons or customizable presets makes it feel slightly outdated compared to competitors in the $250+ range. The ventilation is adequate for light cooking, but don’t expect it to tackle greasy stir-fries or heavy smoke with ease.

When stacked against the Farberware or Midea models, the GE trades features for service-backed security—a rare win in the over-the-range category. It’s best suited for cautious buyers, first-time homeowners, or secondary kitchens where simplicity and warranty coverage matter more than smart menus or high-CFM suction. While it doesn’t offer the broad capacity of the 1.7 cu.ft. Galanz or the 400 CFM power of BLACK+DECKER, it delivers solid performance with a safety net few others provide—making it a low-risk, high-reliability play in a market full of feature-focused risks.

Sleek, compact, and precision-built for tight spaces, the COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS is a kitchen space optimizer that doesn’t sacrifice performance. At just 23.8 inches wide, it fits perfectly in narrow cutouts where most over-the-range microwaves won’t, making it a top contender for small kitchens, RVs, or galley-style layouts. Despite its 1.34 cu.ft. chamber, the 1000W output ensures fast, even cooking, while sensor reheat and cook modes take the guesswork out of meal prep—automatically adjusting time and power based on steam detection. It’s engineered for users who need maximum function in minimal footprint.

In daily use, the touch presets for melting, defrosting, and popcorn respond quickly and accurately, and the integrated 300 CFM vent fan handles moderate stovetop steam and odors effectively. The turntable spins smoothly, and the RV-friendly electrical design broadens its usability beyond traditional homes. However, the smaller cavity struggles with larger plates or deep dishes—rotisserie chickens or wide casserole pans simply won’t fit. Also, the control panel, while modern, can be overly sensitive, leading to accidental inputs during cleaning.

Against the BLACK+DECKER’s 1.9 cu.ft. capacity or the Galanz’s 1.7 cu.ft., the COSMO clearly sacrifices space for fit—but that’s the point. It’s not meant to compete on volume; it wins on dimensional precision and smart automation. For apartment dwellers, tiny home builders, or anyone renovating a compact kitchen, this COSMO model offers a rare blend of sensor intelligence and spatial efficiency. It delivers more tech per inch than any other small-footprint microwave, outperforming similarly sized units with features usually found in larger, pricier models.

The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a feature-forward performer that blends smart convenience with serious cooking flexibility, making it a standout for tech-savvy cooks who want more than basic heating. Its 18 auto-cook menus—including rice, pizza, popcorn, and softening cream cheese—turn complex tasks into one-touch operations, while the 300 CFM ventilation system keeps kitchens clear of cooking odors with two adjustable fan speeds. With a 1.7 cu.ft. cavity and 12.5-inch turntable, it comfortably fits large dishes, and the smart touch panel responds with precision, adding a modern feel to everyday use.

Real-world testing shows the 1000W power heats evenly, though dense foods like thick stews benefit from manual stirring due to the lack of inverter technology. The bright LED cooktop light is a small but meaningful upgrade, offering excellent visibility for nighttime cooking. Ventilation performs well for sautéing and boiling, but it can’t match the 400 CFM systems in heavier-duty models. One minor gripe: the touchpad can be unresponsive with damp fingers, which may frustrate during active cooking sessions.

Compared to the Farberware and Galanz models, this Midea offers more automation and a cleaner interface, though at a slightly higher cost. It’s ideal for young professionals, busy parents, or anyone who values hands-off cooking and clutter-free controls. While the BLACK+DECKER delivers stronger suction, the Midea counters with broader menu options and smoother design integration, making it a better pick for those who prioritize culinary versatility over raw venting power.

If there’s one over-the-range microwave that earns the title “best overall”, it’s the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19—a well-balanced fusion of power, space, and smart design. With a massive 1.9 cu.ft. interior, it swallows whole rotisserie chickens, large lasagnas, and 12-inch pizzas with room to spare, while the 400 CFM two-speed venting system tackles smoke and grease with authority. The 1000W output and ten power levels deliver consistent results, and the one-touch auto menus—from bacon to frozen breakfast—make weekday meals faster and more reliable. This is the microwave that solves the twin pain points of limited space and weak ventilation.

In practice, the turntable on/off function is a subtle but critical win—allowing users to cook large, flat dishes without obstruction. The LED cooktop lighting is bright and evenly distributed, far surpassing many competitors in visibility. The 30-second express cook button is perfectly placed for quick boosts, and the child lock adds essential safety. However, its 29.9-inch width may be too wide for some standard 24-inch cutouts, requiring professional cabinetry adjustments. Also, the interface, while functional, feels slightly dated compared to Midea’s sleek touchpad.

Stacked against the Galanz and Farberware, this BLACK+DECKER model offers more capacity and stronger ventilation, justifying its higher price for serious cooks. It’s the best choice for families, frequent entertainers, or anyone upgrading from a cramped, underpowered unit. While the COSMO wins on compact fit and the Midea on smart menus, this one dominates in utility and airflow, delivering a more complete kitchen experience—especially when high-performance venting and large meals are non-negotiable.

The Farberware 1.7 cu.ft. microwave is a no-nonsense, safety-conscious performer that balances value, reliability, and family-friendly features in a clean, white-finish package. With 1000W of power and a spacious 1.7 cu.ft. cavity, it handles everything from frozen dinners to meal prep with consistent results. What sets it apart is the child safety lock, a rare inclusion in this segment, making it a top pick for homes with curious kids. Add in time and weight defrost, +30 seconds express cook, and adjustable volume alerts, and you’ve got a microwave built for real-life chaos.

Performance is solid across the board: the vent fan manages light cooking fumes, the LED stovetop light provides excellent visibility, and the auto-cook settings (especially for potatoes and veggies) hit the mark more often than not. However, the white exterior shows fingerprints and smudges easily, requiring frequent wiping to maintain its clean look. Also, while it has a snack menu and melt/soften options, it lacks sensor cooking or app connectivity, keeping it firmly in the mid-tier feature bracket.

Compared to the similarly priced Midea MOR17BSA-SS, the Farberware trades touch-panel elegance for practical safety and customization, like volume control and dedicated defrost modes. It’s a better fit for budget-focused families, safety-conscious users, or secondary kitchens where simplicity and child protection matter most. While it doesn’t offer the voice control of the slim Midea MMO12S3ASTZ, it delivers more thoughtful everyday features than the basic Galanz, making it a smarter value play for households with kids.

The Midea MMO12S3ASTZ redefines space-saving with its ultra-slim 1.2 cu.ft. profile, designed for kitchens where every inch counts. But don’t let its compact size fool you—this microwave packs 1000W of cooking power, 400 CFM ventilation, and full smart-home integration, including voice control via app and remote notifications. The sensor cook and reheat functions use steam detection to automatically adjust cooking time, ensuring perfect results without overcooking. It’s the ideal solution for modern kitchens that demand minimal visual impact without sacrificing high-end functionality.

In real-world use, the smart features shine: receiving a phone alert when cooking finishes or starting the vent fan remotely adds genuine convenience. The 400 CFM suction rivals much larger models, effectively clearing油烟 from stir-fries and boiling pots. However, the small cavity limits dish size—large plates or deep bowls won’t fit, and the turntable stops short of full rotation with bulky items. Also, the app setup can be finicky, requiring multiple attempts to pair with Wi-Fi, which may frustrate less tech-savvy users.

Against the BLACK+DECKER’s larger capacity or the Galanz’s budget appeal, this Midea model wins on design innovation and smart connectivity. It’s best for urban dwellers, tech enthusiasts, or anyone renovating a minimalist kitchen where sleek, invisible appliances are prized. While it costs significantly more, it delivers a premium, integrated smart experience that no other model in this list matches—making it the clear leader in smart, space-efficient design, even if it sacrifices some cooking real estate.