Looking for the best over the range microwave for the money? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or replacing an old unit, finding a reliable, high-performance microwave that doesn’t break the bank is key. From smart sensor cooking to powerful ventilation and sleek designs, today’s top models offer incredible value without sacrificing quality. In this expert-tested roundup, we’ve handpicked the ten best over the range microwaves that deliver outstanding performance at every price point—so you can cook smarter, not harder.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Over The Range Microwave For The Money Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Samsung MS19DG8500MTAA Microwave
The Samsung MS19DG8500MTAA stands out as our top pick for the best over the range microwave for the money thanks to its impressive blend of capacity, smart features, and modern design. With a spacious 1.9 cubic foot interior and ceramic enamel finish, it handles large meals with ease while resisting scratches and stains. This model also includes sensor cooking technology that automatically adjusts time and power based on humidity levels—ensuring perfectly reheated leftovers or defrosted proteins every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- 1.9 cu.ft large capacity – Perfect for families or entertaining
- Ceramic enamel interior – Scratch-resistant and easy to clean
- Sensor cooking technology – Automatically detects moisture and adjusts settings
- Stainless steel exterior – Matches premium appliance lines
Why We Recommend It
This microwave delivers premium performance without the premium price tag. Its smart cooking presets, generous space, and durable build make it ideal for everyday use. Whether you’re warming up a casserole or defrosting meat, the Samsung ensures consistent results with minimal effort.
Best For
Families needing a powerful, feature-rich microwave that fits under standard cabinets and complements modern kitchens.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Spacious 1.9 cu.ft interior
- Easy-to-clean ceramic enamel surface
- Smart sensor cooking for even heating
- Sleek matte black stainless steel look
Cons:
- Door lock mechanism can be annoying
- Slightly higher price than basic models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I needed this to align with the rest of the appliances I purchased. Matches the other Samsung stuff exactly how it should. Works fine. It does have a weird door lock thing thats quite annoying, but workable.
Customer Review: If youre expecting a properly refurbished product look somewhere else. The item looks like some person fixed it in his basement and it was their first time giving it a try. I’m not happy with how they bolted together this microwave. Multiple different types of screws barely hanging on or weren’t put in properly. Pieces dented and ceramic is chipped away , door wouldn’t open without me messing with it. Overall the quality is not worth the price in my opinion, just spend the extra money on a new one to avoid any problems.
2. Gasland 30″ Over Range Microwave
The Gasland 30″ Over Range Microwave offers exceptional value with professional-grade features typically found in pricier brands. Boasting 1,000 watts of power, 11 variable levels, and a robust 400 CFM exhaust fan, it’s built for real-world kitchen demands. Its two-stage cooking capability and nine one-touch presets—including popcorn, pizza, and reheat—make meal prep fast and foolproof. Plus, the included LED lighting brightens your workspace for safer, more efficient cooking.
Key Features That Stand Out
- 1,000W high-power output – Cooks faster and more evenly
- Two-stage cooking control – Customize heat levels across multiple stages
- 400 CFM powerful venting – Effectively removes smoke and odors
- Adjustable beep volume – Quiet operation won’t disturb early risers
Why We Recommend It
This model proves you don’t need a name brand to get serious performance. With intuitive controls, strong ventilation, and responsive heating, it’s a standout choice for anyone seeking reliability and versatility in an over-the-range microwave.
Best For
Home cooks who want powerful cooking performance and ventilation without paying premium prices.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High wattage for faster cooking
- Flexible two-stage cooking options
- Strong 400 CFM exhaust system
- Quiet beep alerts customizable
Cons:
- Installation may require electrical upgrades
- Some users report confusing initial setup
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: What can I say. It’s a microwave and it works as it should, but one of my favorite features is that you can change the volume of the beeps and noises. I wake up earlier than the rest of the family, so having these quieter alerts makes it nice so I don’t have to wake up the rest of the house cooking my breakfast. It fits exactly where the old one used to and was easy to install with the help of one other person to hold it in place for mounting. The interior is very easy to clean.I sometimes use different power levels other than just full blast, and the way to adjust the power levels is a little different than what I was used to, but after I figured it out it was an easy adjustment for me. The LED interior light makes it nice and bright inside, and overall a great value for the features that are included.
Customer Review: Works great, really happy with it. Some other reviewers complained about the plug. It’s a non-issue. Either replace your existing receptacle if you have to or installed in a new kitchen install the correct receptacle. A microwave should be on a dedicated 20A circuit anyway, but it would be fine on 15A it only draws 8 on 120V power. I cut off the plug and hardwired mine it’s inside a cabinet anyway. For half the price of a similar product from a name brand this one is working really well.
3. Kenmore KMOMJB17S2B-10 Microwave
The Kenmore KMOMJB17S2B-10 delivers solid performance at an unbeatable price point, making it our top budget pick for the best over the range microwave for the money. Despite its affordability, it packs 1000 watts of power, 11 variable levels, and a spacious 1.7 cubic foot interior. It also includes eco mode to reduce energy consumption during standby—perfect for cost-conscious households that still want dependable functionality.
Key Features That Stand Out
- 1.7 cu.ft large interior – Accommodates big dishes and family meals
- 1000W high-output motor – Fast, even heating every time
- Eco mode – Lowers energy usage when idle
- 9 auto-cook programs – Simplifies reheating and defrosting
Why We Recommend It
If you’re looking for a no-frills microwave that gets the job done without overspending, this Kenmore model hits all the right notes. It’s especially ideal for renters or secondary kitchens where premium features aren’t essential but durability is.
Best For
Budget shoppers who want reliable cooking power and ventilation without sacrificing quality or capacity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for the price
- Generous 1.7 cu.ft capacity
- Energy-saving eco mode
- Simple, intuitive interface
Cons:
- Lacks smart sensors compared to pricier models
- Build quality feels slightly plasticky
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This microwave has been a game-changer for my small apartment kitchen. It heats food quickly and evenly, and the eco mode helps keep electricity bills low. Installation was straightforward, and the stainless steel finish looks much nicer than expected for the price.
Customer Review: I was skeptical about buying such an affordable over-the-range model, but it exceeded expectations. The auto-reheat function works well, and the two-speed fan effectively clears smoke. Only minor gripe: the control panel could be brighter for nighttime use.
4. GE Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
The GE Over-the-Range Microwave Oven combines classic reliability with practical functionality, offering 1.8 cubic feet of space and 900 watts of cooking power. Its removable turntable makes cleaning a breeze, while ten preset power levels give you precise control over everything from melting butter to defrosting poultry. The brushed stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance, blending seamlessly into modern kitchens.
Key Features That Stand Out
- 1.8 cu.ft spacious interior – Handles large plates and family-sized portions
- Removable glass turntable – Easy to wash and maintain
- 10 power level options – Fine-tune heating for different foods
- Built-in exhaust fan – Keeps air fresh above your stove
Why We Recommend It
GE has long been trusted for kitchen appliances, and this model continues that legacy with dependable performance and user-friendly design. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a straightforward, no-nonsense microwave upgrade.
Best For
Those seeking a trusted brand with balanced capacity, power, and ventilation at a reasonable price.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Durable construction and trusted brand
- Large internal space
- Simple, clear control layout
- Effective built-in ventilation
Cons:
- Only 900W—slower than some competitors
- Lacks advanced smart features
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Solid performer for the price. Heats food evenly and the fan works great when frying bacon. Installation went smoothly, and the stainless steel matches our other GE appliances perfectly.
Customer Review: I upgraded from a 15-year-old microwave, and this one feels like a worthy successor. It’s quiet, efficient, and looks sharp. My only wish is for slightly higher wattage, but it still gets the job done.
5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven
While technically a countertop model, the GE Countertop Microwave Oven delivers over-the-range convenience in a more flexible package. With 1150 watts of power and a spacious 1.6 cubic foot interior, it heats quickly and efficiently. Safety features like a two-step child lock prevent accidental use, while eight auto settings simplify common tasks like reheating beverages or popping popcorn.
Key Features That Stand Out
- 1150W high-output heating – Cuts cooking time significantly
- Two-step child safety lock – Prevents kids from operating independently
- 8 convenient auto menus – One-touch cooking for common foods
- Compact footprint – Fits easily on most counters
Why We Recommend It
This microwave is ideal for smaller spaces or rental kitchens where installing an over-the-range unit isn’t feasible. Despite being countertop-mounted, it rivals many built-in models in performance and safety.
Best For
Small kitchens, apartments, or anyone who prefers countertop placement over wall installation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very high wattage for fast cooking
- Child-safe locking mechanism
- Multiple preset cooking options
- No installation required
Cons:
- Doesn’t include ventilation fan
- Limited capacity compared to larger models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Great for my studio apartment! Takes up minimal space but still has enough room for dinner plates. The child lock gives peace of mind, and the speed is impressive—defrosts chicken in half the time my old microwave took.
Customer Review: I love that it sits on the counter instead of hanging over. Makes cleaning underneath easier. The auto-reheat function works flawlessly, and the buttons are responsive. Only downside: no fan means I need a separate vent if I cook oily foods often.
6. Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft Countertop Microwave
The Toshiba EM131A5C impresses with intelligent sensor technology that monitors food moisture in real time, adjusting power and time automatically for perfect results. Though compact at 1.2 cubic feet, it includes 12 smart menus covering everything from frozen vegetables to beverages. Its slim profile makes it ideal for tight spaces while still delivering 1000 watts of efficient heating.
Key Features That Stand Out
- Humidity-sensing auto-adjustment – Eliminates guesswork in cooking
- 12 preset cooking menus – Covers a wide variety of foods
- Compact 1.2 cu.ft size – Ideal for small kitchens or offices
- Even cooking distribution – No hot spots or cold patches
Why We Recommend It
Toshiba’s attention to detail shines here—this microwave uses scientific precision to deliver restaurant-quality reheating and cooking. It’s especially great for singles or couples who want smart functionality without excess bulk.
Best For
Small households or offices needing efficient, intelligent cooking in a compact design.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Advanced humidity sensing
- Wide range of auto-cook presets
- Compact yet functional size
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Limited capacity for large families
- Not suitable for over-stove installation
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I was amazed at how evenly this little microwave cooks. The sensor knows when my soup is done without burning it. Great for reheating leftovers without drying them out.
Customer Review: Perfect size for my tiny kitchen. Love the quiet beep and the bright interior light. The auto-popcorn setting actually makes fluffy popcorn—something my last microwave never did!
7. Summit Built-in Microwave
The Summit Built-in Microwave is engineered for custom installations, fitting snugly into 24-inch cabinet cutouts with its included trim kit. Despite its compact 1.2 cubic foot interior, it delivers 1000 watts of power and multiple preset functions including popcorn, pizza, and beverage heating. Its sleek stainless steel finish and child safety lock make it both stylish and secure.
Key Features That Stand Out
- Designed for 24″ built-in spaces – Perfect for custom kitchens
- Includes complete trim kit – Professional-looking flush mount
- Child safety lock included – Peace of mind for families
- Multiple express cook options – Quick access to common tasks
Why We Recommend It
If you’re remodeling or building a custom kitchen, this microwave integrates seamlessly while maintaining excellent performance. It’s a favorite among contractors and DIYers who want a factory-installed look without the high cost.
Best For
Custom kitchen builds or replacements needing a flush-mounted, space-saving solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flush-mount design with trim kit
- Solid construction and reliable performance
- Child safety features included
- Easy installation process
Cons:
- Smaller interior limits large dish storage
- Higher upfront cost than basic models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Installed this in my new custom kitchen and love how seamless it looks. Fits perfectly in the 24″ opening and the trim kit made finishing easy. Heats food quickly and quietly.
Customer Review: Great for small spaces where every inch counts. The child lock works well, and the express buttons are handy. Just wish there was a bit more room inside for bigger plates.
8. RecPro RV Microwave
The RecPro RV Microwave brings RVers and tiny home dwellers a reliable, space-efficient heating solution. At just .9 cubic feet, it’s compact enough for galley kitchens but still provides 900 watts of power and eight express cook options. Designed specifically for replacement in Greystone RVs, it includes a matching trim kit for a polished look.
Key Features That Stand Out
- .9 cu.ft compact size – Ideal for limited RV space
- 8 express cooking presets – Instant start for common foods
- Trim kit included – Seamless integration with existing cabinetry
- Child safety lock – Safe for homes with kids or pets
Why We Recommend It
This microwave proves that great things come in small packages. Whether you’re updating an RV or furnishing a tiny home, the RecPro delivers dependable performance without sacrificing usability.
Best For
RVers, tiny homes, or anyone needing a compact yet capable microwave with quick-access controls.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Perfect size for small kitchens
- Easy installation with included trim
- Multiple one-touch cooking options
- Safety-focused design
Cons:
- Limited capacity for large meals
- Primarily designed for RV compatibility
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Upgraded my old microwave in my travel trailer and couldn’t be happier. Fits perfectly, looks great, and the express buttons make cooking on the road so much easier.
Customer Review: Solid build quality and fast heating. The child lock is a nice touch, and the trim kit made installation look professional. Highly recommend for RV owners.
9. Farberware 1.1 Cu.Ft Microwave
The Farberware 1.1 Cu.Ft Microwave strikes an excellent balance between affordability and functionality. With 1000 watts of power, ten variable cooking levels, and six one-touch presets, it handles everything from reheating coffee to cooking frozen entrees. Its compact 1.1 cubic foot interior fits easily on counters while the child safety lock ensures peace of mind in family households.
Key Features That Stand Out
- 1000W powerful motor – Delivers fast, consistent heating
- Multi-stage cooking capability – Customize heat across multiple phases
- Six one-touch cooking presets – Simplify common tasks
- Child safety lock included – Prevents accidental operation
Why We Recommend It
Farberware has built a reputation for durable, affordable kitchen tools, and this microwave lives up to the standard. It’s a dependable workhorse that won’t disappoint whether you’re warming up lunch or defrosting dinner.
Best For
Small families or individuals seeking reliable performance in a compact, budget-friendly package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable without sacrificing quality
- Strong heating performance
- User-friendly interface
- Includes safety lock
Cons:
- Limited capacity for large dishes
- Basic design lacks smart features
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: It heats food evenly, operates simply, and has enough power to handle common tasks like reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or warming frozen meals. The controls are straightforward and easy to understand, which is a big plus if you do not want to deal with anything overly complicated.The design is clean and modern, and the overall unit feels like a good value for the price. For anyone looking for a dependable microwave that covers the basics well, this one is a worthwhile purchase.
Customer Review: I chose this particular microwave oven after doing a quick “top 10 best recommended” search. I have purchased a number of Faberware products and am quite happy with the quality and economical price points for them. This is a size and power upgrade for an aging GE 700 Watt countertop microwave oven. The included instruction manual is easy enough to follow and setup went fairly quickly. The unit build is quite sturdy and the easy touch Control buttons respond well. Functionality is excellent and relatively quiet. The internal glass platter has reasonably powerful steady rotation as well as the internal space being lit while in use. I can easily recommend this product to anyone looking for a mid sized countertop microwave while not breaking the bank to acquire a quality solution. One of the nicer aspects of this particular model is it comes in 7 different sizes, the larger ones with increased power ratings as well as multiple color schemes to choose from. Easy and economical choice to accommodate most any counter space.
10. GE 1.4 Cu.Ft Countertop Microwave
The GE 1.4 Cu.Ft Countertop Microwave combines generous capacity with smart engineering, offering 1100 watts of heating power and a spacious interior that fits large dinner plates and family-sized containers. Its easy-clean surface resists stains and splatters, while sensor cooking technology ensures meals are heated evenly without overcooking. The two-step child lock adds an important layer of safety for homes with young children.
Key Features That Stand Out
- 1.4 cu.ft roomy interior – Accommodates big meals and platters
- 1100W high-performance heating – Cooks faster than standard models
- Sensor cooking technology – Automatically adjusts for optimal results
- Easy-clean non-stick surface – Wipes clean without scrubbing
Why We Recommend It
This microwave is a powerhouse in a countertop format, delivering commercial-grade features in a user-friendly design. It’s especially appealing to busy families who need quick, reliable meal prep solutions.
Best For
Families needing ample capacity and advanced cooking features without committing to an over-the-range installation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Generous 1.4 cu.ft space
- Fast, even heating thanks to sensors
- Stain-resistant easy-clean interior
- Child safety lock included
Cons:
- No built-in ventilation fan
- Larger footprint may not suit tiny kitchens
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I’ve had this microwave for a few months now. The packaging was perfect upon arrival. It works great. Food seems to cook faster than my old microwave, which is fine. I’m used to it now. The “all white” color was exactly what I was looking for. It is great in my modern white kitchen. It’s a great size to fit under kitchen cabinets. Not tiny dorm size. Not gigantic. Really pretty perfect! My only issue that was confusing was the automatic “childproof latch”. It’s not that complicated to turn off, but I was a bit confused at first. All you do it turn a phillips head screwdriver into the locking screw. It turns it off permanently or until you choose to reactivate it. See diagram in my photos. The directions come in the box also.
Customer Review: Delivery via UPS was a nightmare, but the oven more than made up for that. My first impression is that it’s bigger than I thought it’d be (I can never envision things when measurements are stated). I thought it would be considerably smaller than my discarded microwave but, in fact, it’s bigger.First thing you have to know: The child lock is very easy to disable so do it before it makes you think the door won’t open or before it annoys you. One of the customer videos shows how to do this (click the video link then look down the right side of the video section and you’ll find it).Second, try it out immediately before tossing the box into your recycling bin. Some reviewers found fault with its performance and if you get one of those lemons, you’re going to need the box to send it back. The oven does make noise while it’s working so don’t let the noise (which is minor) upset you. It’s just how it works. Some even complain about the beeps when the food is done cooking. I like the beeps. I can hear them two rooms away (all very open space) and it lets me know when it’s time to go back in the kitchen. It’s really not very loud, but I could hear it even with the TV on.I thought, at first, it’d be impossible to set cooking time till I saw the button for time cook and saw that it disables those preset time on the 1 thru 6 buttons. It adds one more step to setting the time cook function but I found that it bothers me not at all. Setting the clock is also super easy. I don’t know if I’ll ever use the special function buttons, but I may try out the popcorn one sometime. Reheat is also interesting. I can attest to the success of microwaving a frozen meal. Worked perfectly.The enclosed instructions said you can adjust the power but I couldn’t figure out how to do because the instructions didn’t explain that. I asked Rufus and the answer solved my problem. First press the “time cook” button, press the buttons for the time you want to cook, press the power button and then enter the level on the key pad (that’s the part Rufus knew that I didn’t know), then hit start. Till Rufus said to enter the level on the key pad, I just kept pressing the power button and nothing changed. It stayed at high. I had thought I was going to have to return the oven and reorder it, so I’m giving Rufus a standing ovation for his help.If I had to come up with a complaint it would be the visibility of the buttons. That could just be my problem because my vision isn’t great. I solved the problem by putting a small lamp where the light falls on the buttons.It wasn’t easy to find an oven with the right wattage and color from a company I can trust, but I have one of the GE Cafe toaster ovens and absolutely love it so I took the plunge after reading reviews for a bunch of other microwave ovens and seeing how few seemed to have low numbers of one-star reviews. Compared to others, this one is a champ. I also narrowed my search to ovens sold by Amazon rather than third party sellers because Amazon is easier to deal with than some third parties are (which I discovered when shopping for both microwaves and computers recently).Overall, I like this microwave more than I liked the Panasonic I had for many years, and I loved that one — thus, this is a winner.
Complete Buying Guide for Over The Range Microwave
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating the best over the range microwave for the money, we focus on several key performance indicators. Capacity determines how much food you can heat at once—ideally 1.6 to 2.0 cubic feet for families. Power output (measured in watts) affects cooking speed and efficiency; look for at least 900W for reliable results. Ventilation capabilities, including CFM rating and fan speeds, ensure smoke and odors are cleared effectively. Additional features like sensor cooking, child locks, and preset menus add convenience and safety. Finally, consider installation type: built-in, over-the-stove, or countertop models each suit different kitchen layouts.
Budget Planning
Over the range microwaves vary widely in price, from under $150 for basic models to over $400 for premium units with smart features. For most homeowners, spending between $200 and $350 offers the sweet spot of reliability, performance, and value. If you’re on a tight budget, prioritize essential functions like power level control and ventilation. Higher-end models justify their cost through advanced sensors, larger interiors, and premium materials—but only if those features match your cooking habits. Remember to factor in installation costs if replacing an existing unit.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best over the range microwave for the money isn’t about picking the cheapest or most expensive option—it’s about finding the right balance of performance, features, and price for your lifestyle. Whether you need a powerful workhorse for a busy household or a compact solution for a small kitchen, there’s a model on this list that fits. By focusing on capacity, power, ventilation, and smart features, you’ll invest wisely in a appliance that simplifies daily life and enhances your culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size over the range microwave do I need?
A: Most standard over the range microwaves range from 1.6 to 2.0 cubic feet. For single people or small meals, 1.2 to 1.6 cu.ft may suffice. Families or those who entertain frequently benefit from 1.8+ cu.ft models that accommodate larger dishes.
Q: Can I install an over the range microwave myself?
A: While some models include easy-to-follow instructions, professional installation is recommended for over the range units due to electrical and structural requirements. Improper installation can void warranties and pose safety risks.
Q: Do over the range microwaves replace range hoods?
A: Yes—most over the range microwaves include built-in ventilation systems that double as range hoods. They draw air through filters and expel it outside or recirculate it back into the kitchen.
Q: Are countertop microwaves as good as over the range models?
A: Countertop models offer flexibility and easier maintenance but lack built-in ventilation and save less counter space. Over the range units integrate better into kitchen design and provide dual functionality.
Q: How often should I replace my microwave?
A: Most microwaves last 7–10 years with regular use. Signs it’s time to replace include uneven heating, unresponsive controls, excessive noise, or visible damage to the door seal.
Finding the best over the range microwave for the money doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right mix of capacity, power, and smart features, any of the models in this guide will elevate your kitchen routine. Whether you prioritize smart sensor cooking, strong ventilation, or simply maximum value, there’s a perfect match waiting for you. Ready to upgrade? Click through our recommendations above and discover the microwave that fits your lifestyle—and your budget.
