Detailed Reviews of the Best Microwave Oven Under 12000

BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch - Powerful two-speed, 400-CFM ventilation fan.

This over-the-range microwave presents a comprehensive set of features suitable for most family kitchens. The 1000-watt power output, combined with ten distinct power levels, provides ample flexibility for everything from defrosting to full cooking. Its pre-programmed menus for common items like popcorn and potatoes are a convenient time-saver, and the 30-second express cook button is perfect for quick reheating.

A notable highlight is the two-speed, 400-CFM venting system, which is quite effective at clearing smoke and odors from the cooktop. The integrated LED light brightly illuminates the stove area below. The ability to disable the turntable is a particularly useful function, allowing the microwave to accommodate larger, rectangular casserole dishes without issue.

The unit feels well-equipped, balancing essential functions with thoughtful extras like a child lock and kitchen timer, making it a functional kitchen centerpiece.

Pros

• Powerful two-speed, 400-CFM ventilation fan.
• Turntable can be turned off to accommodate large or odd-shaped dishes.
• Bright LED lighting provides clear visibility of the cooktop below.
• Features 1000 watts with 10 adjustable power levels.
• Includes multiple convenient pre-programmed cooking menus.
• Offers a 30-second express cook option and a child safety lock.

Cons

• Installation may require careful measurement and reviewing the instructions provided on the product page.
• The number of auto-cook presets might be overwhelming for users who prefer manual operation.

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SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven w/ 550 CFM Hood Vent - Powerful 550 CFM ventilation system is highly effective for its size.

This Samsung over-the-range microwave packs a lot of functionality into a slim design. The most notable feature is the powerful 550 CFM ventilation system, which is quite effective at clearing steam and cooking odors, a significant upgrade over many standard models. The wide LED light bar does an excellent job of illuminating the entire cooktop surface evenly.

Inside, the 1.1 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for everyday meals and reheating, and the 1100W of power heats food quickly.

The Sensor Cook function is a helpful addition, automatically adjusting cooking times to prevent over- or under-cooking. While the smart features like Wi-Fi and voice control are convenient for those integrated into the SmartThings ecosystem, they may be less utilized by others. The fingerprint-resistant finish is practical and helps maintain a clean appearance in the kitchen with minimal effort.

Pros

• Powerful 550 CFM ventilation system is highly effective for its size.
• Bright, wide LED lighting provides excellent cooktop visibility.
• Sensor Cook technology takes the guesswork out of cooking times.
• Smart features like Wi-Fi and voice control offer remote operation.
• Fingerprint-resistant finish helps keep the appliance looking clean.
• Auto Connectivity syncs fan and light with compatible Samsung cooktops.

Cons

• The 1.1 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger families or oversized cookware.
• Full smart functionality is dependent on using the SmartThings app and compatible devices.

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Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel - Versatile cooking with 18 preset menus and 10 power levels.

This over-the-range microwave offers a solid set of features for an everyday kitchen. Its 1.7 cubic foot capacity, paired with a 12.5-inch turntable, is spacious enough to accommodate family-sized dishes like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza. The 1000 watts of power, adjustable across 10 levels, provides good flexibility for everything from gentle defrosting to quick reheating.

The 18 auto-cook menus are a convenient touch for common tasks like making popcorn or softening butter, simplifying meal prep. A key feature is the 300 CFM ventilation fan, which includes adjustable speeds to help clear smoke and odors from the cooktop below. The addition of a bright cooktop light is also a practical feature, improving visibility over your range.

It appears to be a well-rounded unit that covers all the essential functions for a combination appliance.

Pros

• Versatile cooking with 18 preset menus and 10 power levels.
• Good 1.7 cu.ft capacity suitable for larger plates and dishes.
• Effective 300 CFM, two-speed ventilation fan to clear kitchen fumes.
• 1000W output provides sufficient power for most cooking needs.
• Includes a bright cooktop light to illuminate the stove surface.

Cons

• The 300 CFM fan may not be powerful enough for very high-output or professional-style stovetops.
• Lacks more advanced features like sensor cooking or convection capabilities.

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30" Over the Range Microwave Oven - Good 1.7 cu. ft. capacity suitable for most households.

This over-the-range microwave offers a solid set of features for a standard kitchen setup. The 1.7 cu. ft.

capacity is ample for most family-sized dishes, and the 1000 watts of power handle reheating and cooking tasks effectively. I found the one-touch buttons for popcorn and baked potatoes to be convenient for quick meals. The two-speed, 300 CFM ventilation fan does a decent job of clearing steam and light cooking odors, and the built-in LED provides bright, useful light over the cooktop.

The glass turntable ensures food cooks evenly, and the interior is simple to wipe down after use. The addition of a child safety lock is a thoughtful touch for families. While it may not have advanced sensor cooking, it reliably covers all the essential functions you would expect from a modern microwave.

Pros

• Good 1.7 cu. ft. capacity suitable for most households.
• Two-speed 300 CFM fan provides adequate ventilation for everyday cooking.
• Bright LED lighting effectively illuminates the cooktop below.
• Simple one-touch cooking options and a +30 seconds button for convenience.
• Includes a child safety lock for added security.

Cons

• The 300 CFM ventilation might be underpowered for heavy-duty or high-heat cooking.
• Auto-cook programs are limited to just a few basic options.

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COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave with Automatic Presets - Smart sensor cooking prevents over- or under-heating.

This microwave offers a solid set of features for everyday use. With 1000 watts and 11 distinct power levels, it provides good control for everything from melting butter to cooking a full meal. The highlight is the smart sensor, which automatically adjusts cooking time by detecting when food is done, a feature that works well for reheating leftovers without drying them out.

The 7 one-touch presets cover the most common tasks like popcorn and potatoes, and the smart defrost function is effective for both time- and weight-based thawing. The unit's exterior dimensions suggest it is an over-the-range model, so be sure to measure your space. While it doesn't have an overwhelming number of advanced features, it reliably handles all the core functions you'd expect from a modern microwave.

The US-based customer support and 1-year warranty provide a reasonable amount of consumer protection.

Pros

• Smart sensor cooking prevents over- or under-heating.
• 11 power levels offer precise cooking control.
• Convenient presets for common food items.
• Effective defrosting options by weight or time.
• US-based customer support team.

Cons

• The 1-year limited warranty is standard but not exceptional.
• Fewer auto-cook presets than some competing models.

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Cafe CWL112P 24 Inch Wide 1.2 Cu. Ft. Built-In Mic - Spacious 1.2 cubic feet interior accommodates larger items.

This countertop appliance offers a solid combination of size and power for everyday use. The 1.2 cubic feet capacity is quite generous, comfortably fitting larger dinner plates or medium-sized casserole dishes, making it suitable for a small family. With 1500 watts of power, it heats up quickly and cooks food evenly, which helps save time.

The inclusion of a timer function is a necessary basic for controlled cooking, and it operates as expected. Since it uses a standard 120V connection, setup is effortless and requires no special wiring. While it doesn't appear to have many complex features, it performs its core functions reliably.

It's a practical, no-frills unit that focuses on providing ample space and sufficient power for common cooking and reheating tasks.

Pros

• Spacious 1.2 cubic feet interior accommodates larger items.
• High 1500W power provides fast and even heating.
• Includes a straightforward and essential timer function.
• Compatible with standard 120V household outlets.

Cons

• The high wattage may result in greater energy consumption.
• Based on the description, it may lack advanced cooking presets or modes.

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Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven - Powerful 1000W output for efficient cooking.

This over-the-range microwave offers a solid combination of power and capacity for everyday kitchen use. With 1000 watts of output power and a 1.7 cu. ft.

interior, it handles everything from reheating leftovers to cooking larger meals efficiently. The variety of pre-programmed settings, including options for vegetables, potatoes, and snacks, adds a good degree of convenience. The intelligent defrost function, which works by time or weight, is a particularly useful feature for thawing food evenly.

Additional functionalities like the +30 seconds button, melt/soften options, and an adjustable volume control enhance its usability. The integrated vent fan, stovetop light, and child safety lock are practical inclusions for a family kitchen, making this a well-rounded appliance. Its space-saving design is a clear benefit for those looking to integrate their microwave neatly above their stove, completing a modern kitchen setup.

Pros

• Powerful 1000W output for efficient cooking.
• Spacious 1.7 cu. ft. interior accommodates large dishes.
• Multiple pre-set cooking and defrost functions for convenience.
• Includes essential over-the-range features like a vent fan and light.
• User-friendly additions such as a child lock and +30 seconds button.
• Adjustable volume for cooking alerts is a thoughtful touch.

Cons

• The number of features and settings may present a slight learning curve.
• As an over-the-range unit, installation can be complex and may require professional help.

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Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. interior fits large dishes and family-sized meals.

This 2.2 Cu. Ft. microwave is a solid choice for those needing a large-capacity unit for a busy household.

Its 1200 watts of power heat food quickly, and the spacious interior can easily handle large plates, casserole dishes, and even a whole chicken as described. The humidity sensor is a standout feature, doing a good job of reheating leftovers without drying them out, which is a common issue with powerful microwaves. The six auto-cook menus are convenient for everyday items like beverages and oatmeal.

The auto-defrost function is also quite effective, providing a more even thaw for meat and poultry compared to basic time-based defrosting. Additional functions like the sound on/off option, eco mode, and a child lock are practical touches that enhance the user experience. Overall, it's a capable and feature-rich appliance that performs its core functions very well.

Pros

• Spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. interior fits large dishes and family-sized meals.
• High 1200W power ensures fast and efficient cooking.
• Humidity sensor provides excellent, even reheating results.
• Effective auto-defrost programs for different types of food.
• Useful quality-of-life features like sound on/off and eco mode.

Cons

• The large capacity results in a significant footprint, requiring ample counter space.
• While the auto-cook menus are useful, the selection of six presets is somewhat limited.

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FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30" Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with 1.8 cu. ft. Capacity - Generous 1.8 cu. ft. capacity fits large cookware.

This over-the-range microwave offers a solid combination of capacity and practical features. The 1.8 cu. ft.

interior is genuinely spacious, easily fitting larger items like a 9x13 inch casserole dish, which is a significant plus. The LED lighting is a noticeable upgrade over older models, providing a clear, bright view of both the cooktop below and the food cooking inside. The one-touch options for popcorn and potatoes are convenient for quick, everyday tasks.

A particularly thoughtful design choice is the zero-clearance door, which opens to a full 90 degrees without hitting an adjacent wall—a real problem-solver in certain kitchen layouts. The two-speed ventilation system functions as expected for an over-the-range unit, helping to clear smoke and odors from the stovetop. It's a functional and well-designed appliance that covers all the essential bases for a modern kitchen.

Pros

• Generous 1.8 cu. ft. capacity fits large cookware.
• Bright LED lighting for both the interior and cooktop.
• Zero-clearance door is ideal for installation next to walls.
• Large turntable accommodates bigger plates and dishes.
• Simple one-touch buttons for common cooking tasks.

Cons

• The two-speed fan may be basic for heavy-duty cooking.
• Lacks more advanced features like sensor cooking or convection modes.

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GE JVM6175SKSS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor M - Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for better results.

This GE over-the-range microwave is a solid, functional appliance for a modern kitchen. At 1.7 cu. ft.

and 1000 watts, it has ample space and power for typical daily tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting meats, and cooking frozen meals. The sensor cooking feature is a standout, as it intelligently adjusts the cooking time and power level, which helps prevent overcooked or undercooked food. The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system does an adequate job of clearing smoke and odors from the stovetop below.

Convenience features like the one-touch 'add 30 seconds' button and the option to turn the turntable off are practical additions. The bundled 2-year extended warranty offers extra peace of mind on top of the standard manufacturer's protection, making it a well-rounded package.

Pros

• Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for better results.
• Two-speed, 300-CFM fan helps clear stovetop smoke and odors.
• Bundled 2-year extended warranty provides extra protection.
• Flexible defrost options with both weight and time settings.
• Turntable can be turned off to accommodate larger, rectangular dishes.
• Includes a charcoal filter for recirculating ventilation.

Cons

• 1000-watt power is standard but may cook slower than higher-wattage models.
• The 300-CFM vent is suitable for average cooking but might be insufficient for heavy smoke or steam.

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Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Microwave Oven Under 12000

Type, Capacity, and Power

When searching for the best microwave oven under 12000, first consider its type and size. The products listed are primarily Over-the-Range (OTR) models, which save counter space and include ventilation, but there are also countertop and built-in options. Capacity, measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.), is crucial. A 1.7-1.8 cu. ft. model is great for families, while a larger 2.2 cu. ft. unit is ideal for big dishes. Power, measured in watts (W), determines cooking speed. Most models offer 1000W-1200W, which is excellent for everyday use, while a 1500W model provides even faster heating.

Ventilation Performance (CFM)

For Over-the-Range models, the ventilation fan is a key feature. Its power is measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), indicating how much air it moves. A higher CFM is better for clearing smoke, steam, and odors. The listed products range from 300 CFM, which is adequate for light cooking, to a powerful 550 CFM in the Samsung model, which is highly effective for heavy-duty cooking like searing or frying. Consider your cooking habits to choose the appropriate ventilation power.

Smart Features and Cooking Technology

Modern microwaves offer advanced technology to simplify cooking. Look for Sensor Cook, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting humidity, preventing guesswork. Smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control, seen in the SAMSUNG model, allow for remote operation. Other convenient functions include one-touch presets for common foods, a +30 seconds button for quick time additions, and the ability to turn the turntable off to accommodate large, rectangular dishes.

Convenience and Safety

Small details can significantly enhance your user experience. Bright LED lighting for the cooktop and interior is a common and valuable feature for visibility. A fingerprint-resistant finish keeps the appliance looking clean with minimal effort. For households with children, a child safety lock is an essential feature to prevent accidental operation. Thoughtful additions like adjustable alert volumes, eco mode, and flexible defrost options (by weight or time) also add to the overall convenience of the appliance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Microwave Oven Under 12000

What is the most important feature for an Over-the-Range microwave?

For an Over-the-Range microwave, the most critical feature is its ventilation system, measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). A powerful fan, like the 400-CFM or 550-CFM options, is essential for effectively removing smoke, steam, and cooking odors from your kitchen. While cooking power and capacity are important, the ventilation performance is what distinguishes it from a standard countertop model and directly impacts your kitchen’s air quality, making it a top consideration for this type of appliance.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch this is a solid and versatile over-the-range microwave that covers all the essential bases. with its powerful venting, flexible cooking space, and user-friendly features, it is a recommended choice for households looking for a reliable and functional appliance.