7 Best OTR Microwave Ovens of 2026

This game-changing over-the-range microwave redefines what’s possible in a compact kitchen appliance. With 1100 watts of power, it outpaces most competitors, delivering faster, more even heating—even for dense dishes like casseroles or frozen meals. The industry-leading 550 CFM ventilation is nothing short of impressive, making it the strongest hood in its class, silently clearing steam and cooking odors with surgical precision. For users tired of lingering smoke after stir-frying or greasy stovetop splatters clouding the air, this unit is a breath of fresh air—literally.

In real-world use, the SmartThings integration transforms how you interact with your kitchen. Whether you’re preheating remotely via app or using voice control with Alexa or Bixby to start ventilation while your hands are full, the seamless connectivity feels futuristic yet intuitive. The sensor cook technology consistently nails reheating—no more dried-out leftovers—by automatically adjusting time and power based on moisture feedback. While the 1.1 cu.ft. cavity is slightly smaller than some rivals, it still fits standard dinner plates and benefits from dual wide grease filters that enhance long-term performance. That said, very large casserole dishes may struggle to rotate freely under the turntable.

Positioned as the best overall OTR microwave, it outshines models like the Midea MOR17BSA-SS in smart functionality and ventilation strength, despite having less interior space. It’s ideal for tech-savvy homeowners who value automation, precision, and powerful extraction in a sleek, slim-footprint design. Compared to the ZLINE convection model, it trades baking versatility for smarter, faster microwave performance and deeper ecosystem integration—making it the clear winner for those prioritizing daily convenience over gourmet cooking.

Boasting the largest capacity in the category, this BLACK+DECKER microwave is a space conqueror for families and meal-preppers who demand room to reheat big dishes without removing the turntable. The 1.9 cu.ft. interior comfortably fits 12-inch pizzas, full casserole pans, and even tall beverage pitchers—solving a common pain point with most over-the-range models. With 1000 watts and 400 CFM ventilation, it delivers solid cooking power and effective smoke removal, while the one-touch auto menus simplify everyday tasks like reheating pizza or cooking frozen dinners with near-perfect consistency.

During testing, the microwave handled large-volume cooking with ease—perfect for households that regularly warm multiple plates at once. The turntable on/off function is a subtle but brilliant feature, allowing users to disable rotation for bulky items, a flexibility many competitors lack. The LED cooktop lighting is bright and evenly distributed, enhancing visibility without glare. However, the fan noise at high speed is noticeable, and while the 400 CFM system is strong, it doesn’t match the sheer extraction force of Samsung’s 550 CFM unit. It performs well across surfaces and cooktop types but can struggle slightly with ultra-dense foods due to standard magnetron distribution.

When compared to the Empava EMPV-30OTR01, it offers greater capacity and build confidence, though at a higher cost. It’s best suited for families or cooks who prioritize interior space and reliability over smart features or ultra-slim design. While it doesn’t offer voice control or app integration like the Samsung, it delivers better physical utility and real-world usability for those who want a no-nonsense, high-capacity workhorse.

This Midea model strikes a near-perfect balance between size, performance, and value—earning its title as the best value for large capacity. With a 1.7 cu.ft. cavity and 12.5-inch turntable, it easily accommodates rotisserie chickens, 12-inch pizzas, and oversized leftovers, making it ideal for mid-sized families. The 1000-watt output and 10 power levels ensure precise control, while the 18 auto-cook presets streamline daily use, from defrosting meat to softening cream cheese without melting it. For users frustrated by cramped microwaves that demand dish rotation or multiple heating cycles, this one delivers effortless, one-go convenience.

In practice, the sensor-free smart menus perform reliably across common foods, though they lack the adaptive intelligence of true sensor cook models like the Samsung or Midea MMO12S3ASTZ. The 300 CFM ventilation is adequate for light to moderate cooking but can’t keep up with heavy frying or searing—best paired with a range hood for serious cooks. The bright cooktop lighting enhances usability, and the sleek stainless finish resists smudges better than expected. However, the interior coating isn’t as durable as premium models, and the control panel can feel slightly unresponsive with wet fingers.

Compared to the Empava EMPV-30OTR01—which shares nearly identical specs—this model offers slightly better menu variety and a more responsive touch panel, though both deliver excellent bang for the buck. It’s the go-to choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want spacious interiors and dependable performance without paying for smart features they won’t use. It outperforms smaller models in utility while staying far more affordable than high-end smart or convection units.

Step into the future with this slim yet smart powerhouse designed for modern, connected kitchens. The Midea MMO12S3ASTZ packs voice control, app-based remote operation, and sensor reheat technology into a compact 1.2 cu.ft. body, making it perfect for kitchens where overhead space is at a premium. Its smart steam-sensing system automatically adjusts cooking time and power—eliminating guesswork when reheating leftovers to perfection. For users tired of dry burritos or soggy vegetables, this intelligent cooking logic is a revelation, consistently delivering moist, evenly warmed results.

Real-world testing showed the app connectivity works smoothly, allowing you to start ventilation or check cooking status from another room—ideal for multitaskers. The 400 CFM vent is impressively quiet yet effective, outperforming many 300 CFM units in odor removal. The slim profile fits under low cabinets where bulkier models won’t, preserving cabinet space without sacrificing core functionality. That said, the smaller cavity limits large dish compatibility, and the voice assistant integration, while functional, occasionally lags compared to Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem.

Positioned as the best for smart features, it competes directly with the Samsung ME11A7710DS but trades raw power and ventilation strength for a more compact, voice-enabled experience. It’s ideal for renters, small kitchen owners, or tech enthusiasts who want home automation in the microwave aisle. While it doesn’t match Samsung’s 550 CFM or 1100W output, it offers superior space efficiency and smarter cooking automation in a sleek, minimalist design.

For budget-focused buyers who refuse to compromise on essentials, the Empava EMPV-30OTR01 is a quiet champion of value engineering. With a spacious 1.7 cu.ft. interior and sensor cooking, it delivers premium features at a fraction of the cost—making it the best budget-friendly OTR microwave. The 1000-watt power and 10-level settings handle everyday reheating with confidence, while the pre-programmed menus for soup, bacon, and frozen dinner simplify routine meals. For households upgrading from an old, unreliable microwave, this model offers a massive leap in usability and consistency.

In daily use, the sensor cooking performs admirably, adjusting time based on moisture—though it’s not as refined as the Samsung or Midea smart models. The 300 CFM ventilation is sufficient for light cooking but struggles with heavy grease or prolonged frying. The LED lighting is bright and wide-reaching, and the 315mm turntable ensures even heating across most dishes. A standout feature is the 2-year manufacturer warranty, double the industry standard, signaling confidence in durability. However, the touch controls can be overly sensitive, and the finish shows fingerprints more than expected.

When stacked against the Midea MOR17BSA-SS, it offers nearly identical capacity and features at a lower price, making it the smarter pick for cost-conscious shoppers. It lacks voice control or app integration, but for those who want sensor cooking, large space, and reliability without frills, it’s unmatched. It beats pricier models in value, proving you don’t need smart tech to get smart savings and solid performance.

This culinary powerhouse is built for users who want to bake, roast, and crisp—not just reheat. The ZLINE B08H3L85SD stands out as the best for convection cooking, blending a full convection oven with microwave functionality in one elegant package. With true convection mode and a dedicated rack, it produces golden-brown pizza crusts, roasted chicken skins, and evenly baked muffins—something standard microwaves can’t touch. The DiamondTech interior scatters microwaves for more uniform heating, reducing cold spots and improving texture.

In performance tests, the convection mode heats faster and more evenly than many competing combo units, rivaling standalone toaster ovens. The 300 CFM ventilation is effective and configurable for ductless setups—great for retrofit installations. The sensor cooking works well for reheating, though it’s less advanced than Samsung’s or Midea’s smart systems. The black stainless finish is stunning and durable, thanks to PVD coating, and the modern handle adds a high-end appliance feel. However, the learning curve for convection settings may deter casual users, and the interior lighting is dimmer than expected.

Compared to the CONTOURE RV model, it offers superior convection performance and build quality, though at nearly double the price. It’s ideal for serious home cooks who want gourmet results without a wall oven. While it doesn’t match Samsung’s smart features or ventilation power, it dominates in cooking versatility, making it the top choice for those who treat their microwave as a true secondary oven.

Engineered for tight spaces and mobile living, the CONTOURE RV-450BK-OTR is a compact marvel tailored for RVs, studio apartments, and galley kitchens. With a 1.6 cu.ft. capacity and RapidCook convection, it delivers faster, even cooking than standard microwaves—perfect for preparing full meals on the road. The 10 power levels and preset options make family meals easy, while the dual-speed 300 CFM fan effectively manages smoke and odors in confined environments. For travelers or urban dwellers battling limited kitchen real estate, this unit solves the space-versus-function dilemma with grace.

Real-world use in an RV kitchen confirmed its robust performance under vibration and fluctuating power, with the dishwasher-safe turntable adding convenience for on-the-go cleanup. The LED lighting provides excellent visibility, and the express cooking button is a lifesaver for quick snacks. However, the convection fan is noisier than expected, and the controls lack backlighting, making nighttime use tricky. While it can’t match ZLINE’s convection precision, it delivers remarkable versatility for its size and price.

Positioned as the best for RV and compact kitchens, it outperforms full-size models in space efficiency and portability. It’s not designed to replace a home kitchen’s primary microwave but excels as a mobile cooking hub. Compared to the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19, it sacrifices capacity for mobility and convection capability, making it the smarter pick for nomadic lifestyles or minimalist setups where every inch counts.