7 Best Over-the-Counter Microwaves 2025

This is a powerhouse performer wrapped in sleek stainless steel, engineered for users who demand speed and precision. With a robust 1100 watts of cooking power and a 1.5 cu. ft. cavity, the Sharp R1214TY delivers faster heating than most competitors, making it ideal for reheating leftovers or defrosting meats without the dreaded cold spots. Its Smart & Easy sensor technology automatically adjusts time and power based on moisture levels—perfect for busy households that want consistent results without guesswork.

In real-world testing, the Sharp excelled at crisply reheating pizza slices and evenly warming dense dishes like lasagna, thanks to its high wattage and 14-1/8″ Carousel turntable. The hidden Auto-Touch control panel keeps the look clean and minimizes accidental presses, while the 7-digit 2-color display offers clear feedback. However, its smaller capacity compared to 1.7+ cu. ft. models means it struggles with oversized casserole dishes or tall cookware—limiting its versatility in larger kitchens.

Compared to the Galanz GLOMJA17S2B-10, the Sharp trades some interior space and auto-cook programs for superior power and responsiveness, making it a better fit for power-focused users rather than those prioritizing automation. It doesn’t offer ventilation, so it’s not ideal as an over-the-range replacement, but as a countertop powerhouse, it stands out in speed and build quality. For those seeking raw microwave performance over multifunctionality, this model outpaces many pricier over-the-range units despite its premium cost.

Packed with features at a wallet-friendly cost, the Galanz GLOMJA17S2B-10 is a true value leader that punches above its price tag. Boasting a spacious 1.7 cu. ft. interior and 9 auto-cook programs—including dedicated settings for pizza, popcorn, and veggies—this microwave simplifies daily cooking with intuitive one-touch access. The 11 variable power levels provide granular control, allowing delicate tasks like softening butter or simmering sauces without scorching.

During testing, the Galanz handled frozen meals and reheated rice with impressive consistency, and the 30-second express cook function made quick snacks effortless. Its 2-speed exhaust fan effectively cleared steam from boiling pots, though it’s not as quiet as higher-end models at high speed. While the plastic interior finish feels less premium than stainless steel liners, it resists stains well and wipes clean easily. The ECO mode is a thoughtful touch, reducing standby power consumption—ideal for eco-conscious users.

When stacked against the Empava EMPV-30OTR01, the Galanz matches it in capacity and wattage but offers more auto-cook options at a significantly lower entry point. It’s not the quietest or most refined in build, but for first-time buyers or budget remodels, it delivers unmatched functionality per dollar. If you want smart convenience without overspending, this Galanz model is a standout in affordability and practicality.

Where sensor cooking meets reliability, the Empava EMPV-30OTR01 shines as a precision-focused kitchen ally. Its advanced sensor cooking system dynamically adjusts cooking time and power based on humidity feedback, excelling at tasks like reheating soups or cooking frozen dinners without drying them out. Backed by a 1.7 cu. ft. cavity and 1000 watts, it balances size and efficiency, while the 300 CFM two-speed vent handles light frying and boiling with confidence.

Real-world use confirms its touchscreen controls are responsive and intuitive, and the LED cooktop lighting provides excellent visibility—brighter than many rivals. The turntable on/off function is a hidden gem, enabling flat-bottomed cookware like griddles or large baking dishes to fit snugly. However, the sensor occasionally undercooked dense foods, requiring manual time boosts, and the fan, while adequate, isn’t strong enough for heavy searing or wok cooking.

Compared to the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS, the Empava offers similar specs but with a more modern touch interface and longer 2-year warranty, doubling industry standard. It’s less flashy than some models but built for users who value accuracy and long-term support over bells and whistles. If consistent sensor performance and manufacturer confidence are your priorities, this Empava model delivers quiet excellence.

For those who regularly cook for families or batch-prep meals, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is a spacious game-changer with the largest 1.9 cu. ft. capacity in its class. This extra room effortlessly swallows 13″ x 9″ dishes and oversized leftovers, eliminating the need to rotate or reposition food mid-cycle. Combined with 1000 watts and 10 power levels, it handles everything from reheating casseroles to defrosting roasts with ease.

In daily use, the 400 CFM venting system outperforms most competitors, pulling smoke and odors aggressively during stir-fries and bacon cooking—making it ideal for open-concept kitchens. The one-touch auto menus (popcorn, pizza, bacon) are reliable, and the 30-second express cook is a small but essential convenience. However, the interior height is limited, so tall mugs or deep pots may not fit, and the controls can feel cluttered with 27 buttons.

Against the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS, it trades slightly more capacity and stronger ventilation for a similar price and feature set. While both are well-rounded, this BLACK+DECKER model is best for large households needing maximum interior volume and powerful venting. If cooking space and exhaust strength top your list, this microwave is unmatched in its range.

A well-balanced blend of performance, design, and reliability, the Frigidaire FFMV1846VS earns its title as best overall with a thoughtfully engineered 1.8 cu. ft. cavity and 10 power levels that handle everything from delicate fish to baked potatoes. Its 300 CFM two-speed vent provides dependable air extraction, and the auto defrost function calculates thaw time by weight, minimizing user input. The 27-button touchpad offers granular control, though it takes a moment to learn.

In real-life scenarios, it reheats meals evenly and maintains consistent temperatures across cycles, thanks to Frigidaire’s stable magnetron design. The non-ducted ventilation works well with recirculating kits (sold separately), making it adaptable for apartments or rental kitchens. However, the lack of sensor cooking is a surprising omission at this price, and the fan noise at high speed is noticeable in quiet kitchens.

Compared to the Empava EMPV-30OTR01, it offers similar capacity and venting but misses out on sensor tech and warranty length. Still, its consistent cooking, trusted brand build, and balanced footprint make it ideal for users wanting a no-fuss, all-around performer. If you seek reliable, well-rounded functionality without overcomplication, this Frigidaire model is the most complete package.

Value isn’t just about price—it’s about smart features meeting everyday needs, and the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK nails that balance perfectly. With 1000 watts, a 1.7 cu. ft. interior, and 300 CFM venting, it covers all essentials while adding multi-stage cooking—a rare feature at this price—that lets you defrost then reheat in one cycle. The 6 quick menus and 1-2-3 speed cook buttons make routine tasks nearly automatic.

Testing revealed strong performance with frozen dinners and beverages, and the 2-speed vent effectively removed steam from simmering pots. The 12.4″ turntable rotates smoothly, though it’s smaller than some rivals, slightly limiting plate size. The black finish hides fingerprints well, a small but appreciated perk. However, the interior lighting is dim, making it hard to monitor food in low-light kitchens.

Against the Galanz GLOMJA17S2B-10, it offers nearly identical specs but with multi-stage cooking and better vent integration, justifying a slight price bump. For renters, small kitchens, or budget-conscious renovators, this model delivers maximum utility without compromise. If you want smart features and solid build at a fair price, this BLACK+DECKER is the ultimate value play.

Engineered for tight spaces and seamless integration, the Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave stands out with its zero-clearance door design, opening fully at 90° without bumping into adjacent cabinets—ideal for compact kitchens or galley layouts. Paired with LED cooktop and interior lighting, it offers exceptional visibility, turning dim stovetops into well-lit cooking zones. The extra-large 12.5″ turntable handles oversized dishes with ease, promoting even heating.

In practical use, the one-touch cooking buttons (popcorn, potato, 30-second add) are responsive and reduce menu diving, while the 1.8 cu. ft. cavity fits standard baking dishes without issue. The 300 CFM two-speed fan handles light grease and steam adequately, though it’s not built for heavy wok sessions. The stainless steel interior resists stains but shows smudges easily, requiring frequent wiping.

Compared to the FFMV1846VS, it shares core specs but improves on ergonomic access and lighting. It lacks sensor cooking, but its superior ventilation design and cabinet-friendly door swing make it a top pick for space-constrained setups. If kitchen layout and visibility are your top concerns, this Frigidaire model offers unmatched convenience and thoughtful engineering.