7 Best Over Oven Microwaves of 2025

This slim powerhouse redefines what over-the-range microwaves can do in tight kitchens. With a compact 1.2 cu.ft. design that saves overhead space without sacrificing performance, the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ is a game-changer for small kitchens where every inch counts. Its smart integration with voice assistants and home automation apps brings modern convenience to everyday cooking—imagine starting your microwave from another room or getting alerts when your meal is done, all through seamless smart connectivity. For users tired of bulky microwaves crowding their cabinets, this model delivers space-saving elegance with brainy tech baked in.

Performance-wise, the 1000W motor ensures fast, consistent heating, while the steam-sensing auto cook and reheat functions take the guesswork out of meal prep. During testing, it perfectly reheated leftovers without drying them out—thanks to precise moisture detection—and handled frozen dinners with ease. The 400 CFM vent fan impresses too, clearing smoke from seared meats and steam from boiling pots efficiently. However, the smaller cavity can be limiting for larger dishes—don’t expect to fit a full-size casserole. Still, for its size, the ventilation and cooking power punch well above its class.

Compared to the roomier Frigidaire (1.8 cu.ft), the Midea trades capacity for ultra-slim sophistication and smart control, making it ideal for apartment dwellers or minimalist kitchens. It’s not the most powerful vent, but 400 CFM is solid for moderate cooking. If you value voice-controlled operation and a sleek footprint over massive interior space, this is your go-to. While it lacks the multi-cooking modes of pricier BLACK+DECKER models, it outshines them in smart-home synergy and space efficiency—offering a smarter, more connected experience than similarly priced units.

When cooking space matters most, the Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave stands tall as the undisputed king of capacity. With a cavernous 1.8 cubic feet interior, it effortlessly swallows a 13″ x 9″ baking dish—something most over-the-range models can’t dream of. The extra-large 12.5″ glass turntable ensures even cooking, while the zero-clearance door is a revelation for tight kitchen layouts, swinging open 90° without bumping into adjacent walls. For families or frequent entertainers, this microwave solves the real pain point of “can’t fit the dish” that plagues smaller units.

In real-world use, the one-touch presets—like popcorn, baked potato, and 30-second add-ons—deliver consistent, no-fuss performance, shaving seconds off meal prep. The dual-speed ventilation (300 CFM max) handles light frying and boiling well, though it struggles with heavy grease-laden air compared to 400+ CFM models. LED lighting under the hood provides excellent cooktop visibility, making nighttime cooking safer and easier. Still, the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to manually adjust times for delicate tasks, which can lead to overcooked leftovers if you’re not careful.

Pitted against the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ, this Frigidaire wins on sheer volume and family-friendly usability, but loses on smart features and slimness. It’s the ideal pick for those who prioritize large dish compatibility and simple, reliable operation over high-tech bells and whistles. Compared to similarly priced models, it offers unmatched interior space and thoughtful touches like the full-swing door—making it a better value for households that cook big, even if it lacks AI-powered sensors or app control.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK is a budget-savvy workhorse that packs pro-level features into an affordable frame. With a generous 1.7 cu.ft. cavity and 1000W power, it heats meals quickly and evenly—perfect for families or meal preppers who need reliability without the premium price tag. The 300 CFM two-speed vent effectively clears cooking odors and steam, while the integrated LED light illuminates the stovetop with crisp clarity. What truly sets it apart is its multi-stage cooking function, allowing you to defrost, then cook at different power levels—all in one programmed cycle—ideal for busy cooks juggling multiple dishes.

During testing, the six auto-cook menus delivered consistent results for popcorn, beverages, and frozen dinners, though they lacked the precision of sensor-based models. The 12.4″ turntable handled most standard dishes well, though oversized casseroles required turning off the rotation. Ventilation is adequate for everyday use but can’t match the 400 CFM models when dealing with high-heat searing or stir-frying. Still, for its price, the performance-to-cost ratio is exceptionally balanced, making it a standout for value-focused buyers.

Against the pricier Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it offers nearly identical specs at a slightly higher cost, but with more cooking flexibility thanks to multi-stage programming. It doesn’t have smart features or air frying, but it nails the fundamentals better than most in its range. If you want a no-nonsense, high-capacity microwave with smart cooking logic and dependable ventilation, this BLACK+DECKER delivers more bang for your buck than almost any other in the lineup.

This 6-in-1 culinary powerhouse transforms your over-the-range microwave into a full-fledged countertop oven alternative. The BLACK+DECKER EC942K6CE-SS doesn’t just reheat—it air fries, bakes, roasts, and conveys with precision, thanks to its 13.6″ turntable and multi-function design. With 900W microwave power plus convection and grill elements, it crisps chicken wings to golden perfection and bakes muffins with even browning—something no standard microwave can claim. For small kitchens lacking oven space, this is a space-saving revolution that eliminates the need for extra appliances.

In real-world tests, the air fry mode delivered crispy fries using 80% less oil than deep frying, while the sensor reheat function preserved moisture in leftovers far better than manual settings. The 300 CFM vent handles light cooking fumes well, though heavy smoke overwhelms it—this isn’t a replacement for a range hood. The 1.5 cu.ft. interior is slightly smaller than others, so large roasting pans won’t fit, but it’s optimized for the types of dishes you’d actually air fry or bake. The interface is intuitive, though first-time users may need time to master the combo cooking modes.

Compared to the Frigidaire 1.8 cu.ft., it trades space for versatility and gourmet functionality, making it ideal for foodies and health-conscious cooks. It’s pricier than basic models, but when you consider it replaces an air fryer and convection oven, the value shines. While the Midea smart model wins on connectivity, this BLACK+DECKER dominates in kitchen functionality—offering more cooking methods and creative freedom than any other over-the-range microwave here.

The Empava EMPV-30OTR01 is a sensor-cooking specialist built for precision and peace of mind. With advanced humidity-sensing technology, it automatically adjusts cooking time and power to prevent overcooking—making it ideal for reheating leftovers, steaming veggies, or popping popcorn without dry, rubbery results. The 1.7 cu.ft. interior offers ample space, and the touchscreen interface feels modern and responsive, a step above basic button panels. Backed by a rare 2-year manufacturer warranty, it signals long-term confidence in durability—a rarity in this category.

In testing, the sensor programs consistently outperformed manual settings, especially with delicate tasks like reheating pasta or cooking rice. The 1000W power heats quickly, and the 300 CFM two-speed fan handles everyday cooking fumes with ease. LED cooktop lighting is bright and evenly distributed, improving stovetop safety. However, the vent isn’t as strong as the 400 CFM models, so heavy frying leaves lingering odors. The turntable-on/off function is a small but meaningful perk for flat dishes, though the lack of multi-stage cooking limits advanced programming.

Stacked against the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK, it offers smarter cooking logic and better build assurance for a slightly higher price. While it doesn’t have air frying or convection, it excels where most users need it: reliable, hands-off reheating and defrosting. For anyone who hates dried-out food or forgets to check the microwave, this model’s AI-driven sensor system is worth the upgrade—delivering smarter, more consistent results than any other in the lineup at its price point.

The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is the complete package—a best-in-class all-rounder that balances size, power, and performance like no other. With a massive 1.9 cu.ft. interior, it’s the largest capacity model in the lineup, easily fitting oversized plates and deep dishes. The 400 CFM vent fan is among the strongest here, effectively clearing smoke and odors from high-heat cooking—making it a true alternative to a range hood. Combine that with 1000W power, one-touch auto menus, and a turntable-on/off function, and you’ve got a microwave that handles every kitchen task with ease.

Real-world testing confirmed its dominance: it reheated large portions evenly, vented stir-fry smoke efficiently, and its LED lighting turned a dim stovetop into a well-lit workspace. The 13.5” turntable spins smoothly, and the pre-programmed settings (bacon, frozen dinner, pizza) delivered consistent results. Only in sensor cooking does it fall short—it lacks the smart moisture detection of Midea or Empava models, so delicate foods require manual attention. But for sheer utility and ventilation muscle, it’s unmatched.

Compared to the Frigidaire 1.8 cu.ft., it offers more space and stronger suction, while beating the Midea in capacity and venting despite lacking smart features. It doesn’t have air frying, but it dominates in core functionality—cooking, venting, and lighting. For most households, this is the most balanced, capable microwave available—delivering superior performance across all key categories without overcomplicating the experience.

The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is the budget champion that refuses to compromise on essentials. Priced aggressively, it still delivers a spacious 1.7 cu.ft. interior, 1000W power, and 300 CFM ventilation—matching premium models in core specs. Its 18 auto-cook presets cover everything from popcorn to softening cream cheese, making daily meals effortless. The smart touch panel feels sleek and responsive, and the bright cooktop light ensures safe nighttime cooking. For cost-conscious buyers, this microwave maximizes value without skimping on performance.

In practice, it heats food quickly and evenly, though without sensor technology, results vary slightly with delicate items. The turntable handles standard dishes well, but larger pans require the turntable to be turned off. Ventilation is adequate for boiling and light frying but can’t match 400 CFM units when dealing with heavy smoke. Still, for under $250, it outperforms expectations—offering the same capacity as models $100 more.

Versus the BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CF-BK, it offers more presets and a lower price, though it lacks multi-stage cooking. It doesn’t have smart controls like its MMO12S3ASTZ sibling, but it nails the basics better than any budget pick should. If you want a reliable, spacious, and affordable microwave with zero frills but full function, this Midea is the smartest buy—delivering premium-level cooking space and power at a true bargain price.