The best cheap over the range microwave delivers essential cooking convenience and saves valuable counter space for budget-conscious kitchens. These compact appliances are perfect for smaller homes, apartments, or anyone looking to maximize their kitchen layout. However, selecting the right one can be tricky, as wattage, sensor cooking capabilities, and exhaust systems vary significantly.
A misstep could lead to undercooked meals or an ineffective ventilation solution, wasting both your investment and kitchen efficiency. To help you find the perfect fit for your culinary needs and spatial constraints, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best cheap over the range microwaves, focusing on reliability and performance.
Finding the best cheap over the range microwave often involves balancing capacity with cooking power, with models like the GE 30 Over-the-Range Microwave offering 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts.
For those prioritizing venting and a spacious interior, the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven at 1.7 cubic feet is a consideration.
Best Cheap Over the Range Microwave: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300 Best for: Large capacity cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black Best for: Small kitchen option | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode Best for: Quiet operation needs | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with Best for: Basic heating needs | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Best for: Ventilation and cooking | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best cheap over the range microwave, we prioritized key buyer concerns: build quality, real-world performance, safety features, and durability. We evaluated cooking power like the 1000-watt GE and Empava models, alongside convenient presets found on the Chefman and Frigidaire units. Venting capabilities and interior lighting were also crucial for over-the-range functionality.
We ruled out countertop-only models like the COMFEE’ and Farberware, focusing strictly on over-the-range designs to ensure comprehensive comparison for this specific category.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Venting: Crucial for Over-the-Range
When selecting an over-the-range microwave, the venting system is paramount for both functionality and kitchen air quality. Look for models like the Empava or BLACK+DECKER that clearly state their CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating – a higher CFM generally means more efficient removal of smoke and odors. Also, note whether the fan is designed for external venting or recirculating, as this affects installation and effectiveness based on your kitchen setup.
Capacity vs. Countertop Convenience
For over-the-range models, capacity is key for tackling family-sized meals. A 1.6 cu. ft.
interior, like in the GE microwave, or even a 1.8 cu. ft.
option from Frigidaire, offers ample space for larger dishes and casseroles. While countertop microwaves like the COMFEE’ or Farberware are compact, they can’t match the cooking volume and the integrated convenience of an over-the-range unit for busy kitchens.
1. GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300
Best for: Generous capacity for family meals.
A 1.6 cu. ft. interior allows for larger dishes and family-sized portions, with 1000 watts of power to heat food quickly. Its convenience cooking controls make operating the microwave fast and simple.
This microwave features a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts of cooking power, offering ample space for family meals. It includes a two-speed, 300-CFM venting system to efficiently remove smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for large items
- 1000 Watts for rapid heating
- Two-speed, 300-CFM venting
- Convenience cooking controls
Cons
- Charcoal filter requires periodic replacement for odor elimination.
For households needing robust cooking power and ventilation, this GE model provides both. It’s ideal for quickly preparing family-sized meals and maintaining a fresh kitchen environment.
2. FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Compact and easy to operate.
This .7 cu. ft. microwave includes a digital control panel offering express cooking and power level adjustments. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller kitchens.
With 700 watts of power and 10 distinct power levels, this .7 cu. ft. microwave offers versatility in cooking. It features two defrost timers for precise thawing and a child safety lock foradded household protection.
Pros
- .7 cu. ft. capacity is space-saving
- 700 Watts for everyday heating
- 10 power levels for control
- Child Safety Lock feature
Cons
- Express cooking options are limited to basic presets.
This Frigidaire microwave is perfect for individuals or small families needing a straightforward appliance for basic reheating and cooking tasks. Its compact design is a plus for limited counter space.
3. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode
Best for: Quiet operation and child safety.
A special mute function allows you to turn off all microwave beeps by holding the sound on/off button, ensuring quieter cooking times. This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave offers simple one-touch express cooking.
This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave operates at 700 watts and provides 11 power levels for varied heating needs. It includes easy auto-cook functions and two defrost settings, either by weight or by time, for convenience.
Pros
- Mute function for quiet operation
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is compact
- 700 Watts for daily use
- Defrost by weight or time
Cons
- The two-step child lock can be cumbersome for frequent access.
Ideal for those who value a quieter kitchen environment, this Comfee microwave is a good choice. Its user-friendly features and sound control make it suitable for general cooking and reheating.
4. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with
Best for: Versatile cooking presets.
Six popular presets, including popcorn, pizza, and vegetables, simplify meal preparation with just one touch. This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave provides 700 watts of power for efficient heating.
This 0.7 cu. ft. digital microwave delivers 700 watts with 10 power levels, allowing adjustments from low to high for various cooking needs. It comes with a mute button for quieter operation and a straightforward digital interface.
Pros
- Six one-touch cooking presets
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits anywhere
- 700 Watts for quick heating
- 10 power levels for customization
Cons
- Air Fry and Bake functions are not included.
For individuals looking for a compact microwave with a variety of easy-to-use presets, this Chefman model is a solid option. It simplifies common cooking tasks with its intuitive design.
5. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch
Best for: Spacious design for large meals.
A 1.7 cubic feet capacity accommodates large dishes and family-sized portions, featuring a 12.4-inch turntable for even cooking. This 1000-watt microwave oven includes six quick menus for daily meals.
This over-the-range microwave offers a spacious 1.7 cu. ft. interior and operates at 1000 watts with 10 cooking levels. It includes six specific quick menus for Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost functions.
Pros
- 1.7 cu. ft. large capacity
- 1000 Watts for powerful cooking
- 10 cooking levels available
- Includes 6 quick menus
Cons
- Manual defrost may require more attention for even thawing.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is well-suited for larger kitchens and families who often cook family-sized meals. Its generous capacity and quick menus streamline everyday cooking routines.
6. Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control,
Best for: Large capacity with two-speed vent.
A 1.7 cu. ft. interior offers ample space, complemented by a two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan system to manage kitchen air quality. This 1000-watt microwave features 10 power level settings.
This Empava over-the-range microwave boasts a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts of cooking power with 11 distinct power levels. It includes pre-programmed auto menus for common items like popcorn, potato, and pizza.
Pros
- 1.7 cu. ft. interior space
- 1000 Watts for efficient heating
- Two-speed, 300-CFM venting
- 11 power level settings
Cons
- Recirculating kit is sold separately if not using a ducted system.
Suitable for individuals who need substantial cooking capacity and effective ventilation, this Empava microwave delivers. Its auto menus and power settings simplify a variety of meal preparations.
7. Frigidaire FMOS1746BS Over-The-Range Microwave 1.7 Cu. Ft. in Stainless Steel
Best for: Convenient for larger dishes.
Accommodating larger dishes and bowls, this 1.7 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave simplifies meal preparation. It features quick start options for rapid heating and bright exterior lighting.
This Frigidaire microwave offers a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and operates at 1000 watts with a single power level setting. It includes auto cook, defrost, and manual time addition functions for flexible cooking.
Pros
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity for large items
- 1000 Watts for quick heating
- Bright exterior lighting
- Quick Start Options
Cons
- Only one power level setting is available.
For cooks who frequently use larger cookware and need a microwave with straightforward operation, this Frigidaire model is a practical choice. Its capacity is a key benefit for family use.
8. Frigidaire 1.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over-The-Range Microwave
Best for: Extra-large capacity with LED lighting.
An extra-large 1.8 cu. ft. interior provides ample cooking space, easily fitting a 13″ x 9″ baking dish. LED lighting offers clear visibility of your cooktop below.
This over-the-range microwave has a 1.8 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts of power, with one-touch cooking options for baked potatoes and vegetables. It features auto defrost and several program presets.
Pros
- 1.8 cu. ft. extra-large capacity
- 1000 Watts for rapid cooking
- Clear LED cooktop lighting
- One-touch cooking options
Cons
- Only one power level is listed, limiting cooking variability.
This Frigidaire microwave is ideal for those who need maximum interior space and excellent visibility under the unit. Its large capacity and simple one-touch features make it convenient for busy households.
9. FRIGIDAIRE FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave with
Best for: Spacious with multi-stage cooking.
A 1.8 cu. ft. capacity provides abundant room for large meals, operating at 1000 cooking watts with 10 distinct power levels. The 300-CFM venting system helps manage smoke and odors.
This 30″ stainless steel over-the-range microwave offers 1.8 cu. ft. of internal space and 1000 watts of power with 10 adjustable power levels. It includes an auto defrost function and 27 touch pad buttons for various programs.
Pros
- 1.8 cu. ft. spacious capacity
- 1000 Watts for powerful heating
- 10 power levels for control
- 300-CFM venting system
Cons
- The recirculating kit needs to be purchased separately.
For households requiring significant cooking space and versatile power options, this Frigidaire microwave is a strong contender. Its capacity and control features suit diverse culinary needs.
10. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts
Best for: Compact with simple controls.
This 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwave delivers 700 watts of power with 10 adjustable settings for precise cooking. Six one-touch options simplify preparation of common items like popcorn and pizza.
With a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700 watts of output, this Farberware microwave is efficient for everyday use. It offers multi-stage cooking and defrost options by weight or time for customized meal preparation.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact size
- 700 Watts for quick heating
- 10 power levels for versatility
- Defrost by weight or time
Cons
- Child Safety Lock requires a specific two-step activation.
This Farberware microwave is a perfect fit for smaller kitchens or individuals needing a reliable appliance for basic cooking and reheating. Its straightforward controls and defrost functions are highly practical.
Cheap OTR Microwaves: Wattage is the Real Decider
When selecting a best cheap over the range microwave, prioritize cooking power above all else; wattage directly dictates how quickly and evenly food heats.
While variations in capacity, control panel design, and even the presence of a child lock or mute function on models like the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM are notable, they are secondary to the core function of microwave cooking. The GE 30 Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, for instance, delivers a robust 1000 watts, promising faster reheating and more efficient defrosting compared to lower-powered units.
This higher wattage is crucial for achieving evenly cooked results, preventing the common issue of hot spots and cold centers that plague lesser microwaves.
Consider the stark difference: a 700-watt unit like the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts or Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts will inevitably take longer to heat the same volume of food than a 1000-watt model. This time difference becomes amplified when preparing larger meals or multiple servings.
While models like the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch boast a generous 1.7 cubic feet capacity, its cooking performance ultimately depends on its stated wattage, which isn’t consistently prioritized in its marketing details.
Similarly, the Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, also featuring 1000 watts, should offer a more consistent cooking experience than lower-wattage alternatives, even if it shares a 1.7 cu.ft. interior with some competitors. The FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu.
Ft. Microwave, Black, and other 0.7 cu.
ft. models are inherently limited by their smaller volume, but their 700-watt output means they will perform even more sluggishly than larger, similarly powered machines.
For those who prioritize efficiency and predictable results, the GE 30 Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts is the clear performance leader among budget-friendly over-the-range options.
What to Look For in a Best Cheap Over the Range Microwave
Microwave capacity and cavity size
Prioritize microwaves with at least 1.6 cubic feet of interior space to comfortably fit standard dinner plates and larger casserole dishes. When assessing the physical dimensions, ensure the microwave’s height and depth do not obstruct your view of the cooktop below and provide adequate clearance for pot lids. An interior width of 12 inches or more is essential for accommodating wider items.
For most households, a 1.6 to 1.8 cubic foot model strikes the best balance between capacity and fit. Look for models specifically designed to fit over standard 30-inch ranges for optimal integration and ease of use.
Wattage and cooking power
Opt for a microwave with a minimum of 950 watts to guarantee efficient cooking and reheating. Higher wattage, such as 1000 or 1100 watts, will significantly reduce cooking times and promote more even heat distribution, minimizing hot spots. While many cheap models offer pre-programmed buttons for common foods, their effectiveness varies; rely on wattage as the primary indicator of cooking performance.
For defrosting, higher wattage coupled with adjustable power levels ensures better results without cooking the edges of your food. A 950-watt unit is the budget-friendly sweet spot for everyday use and reliable defrosting.
Ventilation and airflow features
Select a microwave with a CFM rating of at least 300 for effective ventilation, especially if you do a lot of cooking. If you have an external venting system, aim for the highest CFM your budget allows for maximum smoke and odor removal. For recirculating setups, look for multiple fan speeds, with a higher setting actively reducing noise disruption and offering better air purification.
Easy-to-remove and clean filters, ideally dishwasher-safe metal mesh, are crucial for maintaining optimal airflow and appliance longevity. A minimum of 300 CFM with at least two fan speeds is recommended for adequate kitchen air quality.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need to reheat large dishes or cook for multiple people, choose a microwave with a larger capacity, like 1.7 cu. ft. or more.
- If you have limited counter space and want to free up your stovetop, look for an over-the-range model with good ventilation.
- If ease of use is a priority and you want quick meal prep, opt for a microwave with convenient presets and express cooking options.
- If you have young children, select a model with a child lock feature for added safety.
Quick Best Cheap Over The Range Microwave Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space: Accurately measure the height, width, and depth available above your cooktop before shopping.
- Assess Wattage Needs: Consider how quickly you need food heated; higher wattage generally means faster cooking.
- Check Venting Options: Determine if you need external venting or if a recirculating model will suffice for your kitchen.
- Evaluate Capacity: Ensure the internal volume is large enough to accommodate your typical meal sizes and dishes.
- Review Control Panel Layout: Look for an intuitive interface with easy-to-use buttons and clear displays.
- Consider Noise Level: If noise is a concern, check product reviews for information on fan and operational sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Wattage For A Best Cheap Over The Range Microwave?
Most budget-friendly over-the-range microwaves offer substantial cooking power, typically ranging from 950 to 1100 watts. This ensures food heats quickly and evenly, making meal preparation efficient. Higher wattage generally translates to better performance for various cooking tasks.
How Does Capacity Affect The Performance Of A Best Cheap Over The Range Microwave?
Microwave capacity, measured in cubic feet, determines how much food you can fit inside. Larger capacities are more versatile for family meals or larger dishes, while smaller ones are adequate for basic reheating. Choose a size that matches your household’s needs.
What Are The Most Important Ventilation Features On A Best Cheap Over The Range Microwave?
Key ventilation features include CFM (airflow volume) and the fan speed options. Higher CFM effectively removes cooking odors and steam. Both recirculating and externally vented options are available, so select based on your kitchen setup and exhaust needs.
Are Presets Useful On A Best Cheap Over The Range Microwave?
Yes, pre-programmed settings on a best cheap over the range microwave simplify cooking many common items. They optimize time and power for specific foods like popcorn, potatoes, or beverages, reducing guesswork. Many offer convenient one-touch operation.
What Is The Average Interior Height Of A Best Cheap Over The Range Microwave?
The interior height of a best cheap over the range microwave varies, but many are designed to accommodate standard dinner plates. You should look for models with at least 8-9 inches of usable interior height to ensure most dishes fit comfortably. This allows for versatile use.
Final Words
Investing in a best cheap over the range microwave can significantly upgrade your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics without breaking the bank. These units offer essential cooking power and convenient ventilation, streamlining meal prep and cleanup. With the right model, you can enjoy efficient cooking and a more organized culinary space.