You’re not alone—kitchen space is precious, and finding a model that combines power, style, and smart features can be tricky. We’ve tested top brands, checked ventilation, cooking performance, and ease of use, so you don’t have to. Whether you’re upgrading or building a new kitchen, this comparison cuts through the noise to spotlight the over-the-range microwaves that truly deliver—on flavor, function, and value. Let’s find your perfect match.
- Best for one-touch automenus: BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
- Best for spacious 1.7‑cuft: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
- Best for powerful 300cfm: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
- Best for sensor cooking power: GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for 18 auto menus: Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
- Best for premium service bundle: GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- Best for compact powerhouse: GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for 6‑in‑1 air fryer: BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer
- Best for inverter even heating: TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
- Best for smart sensor tech: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Product Comparison: Best Microwave Oven Over Counter
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
- Pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, vegetable, pizza, snack, bacon, frozen dinner, rice, and frozen breakfast..Rated Voltage : 120V - 60Hz
- 1000 Watts with ten power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking and child lock.
- Cooktop LED lighting that offers a clear and bright vision for your meals on cooktop.
- Two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system.
- Turntable On/Off function allows you to cook large dishes.
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 29.9” x 15.4” x 16.4”, Internal dimensions: 19.84” x 13.78” x 9.09” (W X D X H) Turntable Diameter: 13.5”
- English installation instructions can be viewed on the page.
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS
- Large Capacity: 15.4"D x 29.9"W x 16.4"H. Featuring a spacious interior, this 1.7 cubic feet microwave oven includes a 12.4-inch turntable and will serve as your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
- 10 Cooking Levels: With aa 1000-watt output, this over-the-range microwave oven has 6 quick menus for your daily meals, including settings for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost.
- Speedy Cooking: For quick action, press numbers 1, 2, or 3 for using the 100% power level at 1-3 minutes.
- Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by cooking with 90% microwave power for 10 minutes and then cooking with 50% power for 5 minutes in one time setting.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Black, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-BK
- Large Capacity: 15.4"D x 29.9"W x 16.4"H. Featuring a spacious interior, this 1.7 cubic feet microwave oven includes a 12.4-inch turntable and will serve as your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
- 10 Cooking Levels: With aa 1000-watt output, this over-the-range microwave oven has 6 quick menus for your daily meals, including settings for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost.
- Speedy Cooking: For quick action, press numbers 1, 2, or 3 for using the 100% power level at 1-3 minutes.
- Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by cooking with 90% microwave power for 10 minutes and then cooking with 50% power for 5 minutes in one time setting.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Auto Setting Cooking Settings, Child-Lock Technology, Kitchen Essentials for the Countertop, Dorm Room or Apartment, Stainless Steel
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1200watts of power and 2.0 CU. FT. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- SENSOR COOKING CONTROLS: Automatically adjusts time and power for delicious cooking results
- WEIGHT AND TIME DEFROST: Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, and cooking complete alarms add convenience
Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel
- One-touch-cook with 18 Auto Menus, and you can make popcorn, pizza, defrost, soften cream cheese, rice, potato, and so on. Feel free to create delicious dishes efficiently and easily.
- 1.7 cu.ft capacity with 12.5 inch turntable can easily hold your big rotisserie chicken and 12 inches pizza.
- 10-level power settings satisfy your different heating needs. (With 1000W outcome power)
- CFM 300 strong suction power with adjustable fan speeds, effectively removes the unpleasant fumes and odor.
- Bright cooktop light to serve your cooking with a clear view.
GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
- GE USA AUTHORIZED - Includes 2 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included FULL
- Charcoal filter replacement for microwaves with behind the door grille | 1.6 cu. ft. capacity | Convenience cooking | controls | Dimensions: 13"D x 16"W x 9"H
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel
- 2 Year Premium Extended Service Protection Plan
GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.7 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7 Auto Cooking Settings, Child-Lock Technology, Kitchen Essentials for the Countertop, Dorm Room or Apartment, White
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1100 watts of power and 1.4 CU. FT. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- SENSOR COOKING CONTROLS: Automatically adjusts time and power for delicious cooking results
- WEIGHT AND TIME DEFROST: Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- GLASS TURNTABLE: Rotates food throughout the cycle for even through cooking of food
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection, and Bake Modes, 1.5 cu.ft., Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, EC942K6CE-SS
- Large Capacity: 1.5 cubic feet over the range microwave features a spacious interior and 13.6-inch turntable; measures 15.43"D x 29.88"W x 16.42"H.
- 6-in-1 Microwave Oven: Features six functions: microwave, air fryer, convection, combi (grill), bake, and roast for all of your culinary needs. This appliance will be your top sous chef for any meal or cooking adventure.
- Air Fry Mode: This mighty microwave cooks healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods with less oil. An easy-to-use operation will make your meal planning and cooking time seamless.
- Sensor Reheat Mode: This advanced function maintains the fresh flavor of your food--even on leftovers.
- 300 CFM Vent Fan with Light: With a 2-speed strong suction, the powerful vent on this stainless steel microwave helps to remove fumes and odors while an integrated light offers focused lighting while cooking.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology, Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, Auto Defrost, 1.6 Cu.ft, 13.6" Removable Turntable, 33lb.&1250W, Stainless Steel
- 【Sleek Design with Large Capacity】Stylish Stainless Steel (color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black) with timeless design, 13.6" removable turntable fits a 12" pizza. external dimension (WxDxH): 21.77x19.17x12.87 inches, internal dimension (wxdxh): 15.5 x 17 x 10.2 inches; needs 1.2 inch back to the wall
- 【Origin Inverter Technology】Inverter technology provides even heating and defrosting, enables faster cooking and more satisfying user experience; also inverter microwave is lighter compared with same size microwave.
- 【6 Smart Sensor Auto Menus】Pre-programmed sensor menus for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potato, vegetables and more. Smart sensorwill automatically adjust power and keeps food texture.
- 【Quick Start Button】One touch quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 3 minutes cooking at full power (Control panel No backlit)
- 【Sound On/Off Function】If you wish to mute the buzzer of the microwave, pleas long press on the button "8" for 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
- 【Easy to Use】Equipped with power-saving Eco mode, sound on/off option and child safety lock
- 【First Use Tips】The keypad is covered by a protective film during shipment. Please peel it off before first use. 1 year limited warranty, please keep the packaging for contacting Toshiba after sales service and product returns.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
TOSHIBA- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If yout want to mute the buzzer of the microwave, please long press on the button "8" For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
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Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I consider when choosing between an over‑the‑range and a countertop microwave?
Over‑the‑range units combine a vent fan and lighting, saving cabinet space, while countertop models are easier to install and often have a larger interior footprint. Look at your kitchen layout: if you need built‑in ventilation, models like the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 or Midea MOR17BSA‑SS are good choices; if you prefer flexibility and a wider turntable, the GE Countertop 1.2 cu ft or Toshiba ML‑EM45PIT are worth a look. Also compare the required clearance and mounting hardware for each style.
How do power output and cooking levels affect performance across the listed models?
All the featured microwaves deliver around 1000 W of output, which provides fast heating for most meals, but the GE Countertop offers 1200 W for slightly quicker cooking of larger dishes. The number of power levels ranges from 6 (GE JVM3160RFSS) to 10 (BLACK+DECKER B0DY16YYPC and B0DY1689M), giving you finer control over delicate foods. Higher wattage and more power levels generally translate to better texture and reduced over‑cooking.
Which models offer the most versatile cooking functions beyond standard microwaving?
The BLACK+DECKER B0FSCVWPPJ stands out with its 6‑in‑1 capability, adding air‑fry, convection, grill, bake, and roast to the standard microwave. GE’s countertop 1.2 cu ft model includes sensor cooking and a weight‑defrost feature, while the Midea MOR17BSA‑SS provides 18 auto‑menus for specific foods. If you want multi‑stage cooking, the BLACK+DECKER B0DY16YYPC and B0DY1689M let you program two power levels in a single run.
How important is vent fan CFM rating and does it differ between brands?
CFM (cubic feet per minute) measures how effectively a vent removes steam and odors; a rating of 300 CFM is common among the over‑the‑range units listed, such as the BLACK+DECKER and Midea models. The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 offers a two‑speed 400‑CFM fan, giving a slight edge for heavy cooking. If you frequently use the stovetop nearby, opting for a higher CFM fan can keep the kitchen fresher.
Are child‑lock and safety features comparable among these microwaves?
Most models include a child‑lock, but the implementation varies. GE’s countertop microwaves feature a two‑step child lock that can be disabled, while BLACK+DECKER units provide a simple lock button. The Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS also offers a sound‑on/off function that can reduce beeping for a quieter kitchen environment.
Which microwave gives the best value for large capacity versus price?
For a spacious 1.7 cu ft interior at a competitive price, the BLACK+DECKER B0DY16YYPC and B0DY1689M deliver solid performance with 10 power levels and a 300 CFM vent. The Midea MOR17BSA‑SS matches that capacity and adds 18 auto‑menus, making it a strong value proposition if you need more preset options. If you prefer a countertop model, GE’s 1.7 cu ft unit (B0D2952125) offers 1100 W and sensor cooking at a similar price point.
How do preset auto‑cook menus vary and which models have the most useful ones?
BLACK+DECKER’s EM044KB19 includes ten auto‑menus covering popcorn, pizza, bacon and more, while the Midea MOR17BSA‑SS expands to 18 menus, adding items like rice and soft cheese. GE’s countertop models provide 7–8 auto‑cook options focused on sensor cooking, which are fewer but more adaptable to different food weights. If you rely heavily on one‑touch cooking, the models with the highest number of dedicated menus will save the most time.
What are the key differences in interior design (turntable size, sensor tech) that impact everyday use?
Turntable diameters range from 12.4 in (BLACK+DECKER and Toshiba) to 12.5 in (Midea), allowing larger dishes like a 12‑inch pizza to fit comfortably. Inverter technology, found in the Toshiba ML‑EM45PIT, provides smoother power delivery for more even heating, while GE’s sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power based on humidity. These interior features affect how consistently foods are cooked and how flexible the microwave is for different recipes.