Does your kitchen feel a little cramped? Are you tired of countertops overflowing with appliances? Many homeowners face this exact problem. Finding the perfect microwave that saves space while still offering great features can feel like a real challenge.
Over the stove microwaves, also known as over-the-range microwaves, are popular solutions. They combine a microwave and a ventilation system into one unit. But which one fits your needs best? You have to think about size, power, and ventilation strength. Choosing the wrong model means wasted money and a kitchen that still feels cluttered.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down everything you need to know about selecting the best over the stove microwave for your home. You will learn about key features and avoid common buying mistakes. Get ready to transform your kitchen layout!
Top Over The Stove Microwave Recommendations
- 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.
- 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.
- Powerful & Efficient: 1000W output and 1550W input power for fast, even cooking. Perfect for busy kitchens.
- Large Capacity: 1.7 cu. ft. interior, ideal for a variety of meals.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Features include Veggies, Snack Menu, Auto Cook, and a specialized Potato program.
- Smart Defrosting: Time and weight defrost settings for precise and efficient thawing.
- Quick Cooking Features: Speedy +30 seconds cooking and Melt/Soften options for butter, chocolate, and more.
- Pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, veggies, pizza, hot dog, bacon, frozen dinner, rice, and soup.
- 1.7 cu.ft. interior, two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan system.
- 1000 watts with 10 power level settings, clock and kitchen timer.
- Turntable function ensures even heating without manual intervention.
- LED lighting offers a clear and bright vision for your meals on cooktops.
- 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.
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: 1000W output and 1550W input for efficient, uniform cooking – ideal for active kitchens.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 1.7 cu. ft. capacity accommodates a range of dishes, from quick bites to large meals.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: Includes options for vegetables, snacks, auto cook, and a potato program for culinary flexibility.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: Intelligent time and weight defrost settings for effective thawing.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: Quick +30 seconds function and melt/soften options for everyday convenience.
- 1000 Watts&11 Power Levels - An over-the-range microwave comes with 1000 watts of cooking power and 11 different power levels, which allows you to adjust the cooking power from 0% to 100%. Equipped with a removable glass turntable, it rotate 360° to provide even heat.
- One-Touch Cooking Options - The microwave oven features one-touch cooking buttons allow you to easily cook your favorite foods. And it has 9 auto-cook programs: popcorn, potato, veggies, pizza, snack menu, melt/soften, auto reheat, auto cook and auto defrost.
- 1.9 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity - The microwave over the range offers a large capacity of 1.9 Cu. Ft. to meet the cooking needs for any family. Equipped with a removable rack which allows you to microwave several items at once, saving your time.
- 2-Speed Powerful Ventilation - The over-the-range microwave comes with two speed ventilation, typically in the form of exhaust fans, enjoy up to a 400 CFM air flow that help to remove smoke, steam, and odors generated during cooking. The built-in LED lighting feature, which provides extra illumination over the stove, making it easier to monitor your cooking and add an extra layer of ambient light to the kitchen.
- Sensor Cooking - The microwave oven automatically adjusts the power level and cooking time to easily cook a variety of foods, so that you get optimally heated results every time.
The Smart Shopper’s Guide to Over-The-Stove Microwaves
An over-the-stove microwave, often called an Over-The-Range (OTR) microwave, saves counter space. It also includes a built-in ventilation fan and light for your cooktop. Choosing the right one involves looking at a few key things. This guide helps you find the best fit for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
These features make your microwave work better and fit your cooking style.
Ventilation Power (CFM)
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This number tells you how well the fan removes smoke and smells. Higher CFM means better cleaning power.
- Recommendation: Look for at least 300 CFM if you do a lot of frying or strong-smelling cooking.
Sensor Cooking
- This feature uses sensors to detect steam. It automatically adjusts cooking time and power. This stops food from overcooking.
Lighting
- The light shines down onto your stove. Check if the light is bright enough. Some models offer different light color options (warm or cool).
Installation Compatibility
- Check if the microwave vents outside (ducted) or just filters and recycles air inside (recirculating). Most homes can use either, but outside venting is usually stronger.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long the microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.
Exterior Finish
- Stainless Steel: This looks modern and lasts a long time. Fingerprint-resistant finishes are a big plus for busy kitchens.
- Painted Metal: These are often cheaper but can scratch or chip more easily over time.
Interior Tub Material
- Most modern microwaves use an easy-to-clean coating or stainless steel inside. Smooth surfaces wipe clean quickly. Avoid textured interiors if you hate scrubbing stuck-on food.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few specific details can greatly change your daily experience.
Noise Level
- Microwaves have two main noisy parts: the fan and the magnetron (the part that cooks). Check reviews for comments on noise. A very loud fan can interrupt conversations.
Control Panel Design
- Some panels use physical buttons that click. Others use flat, touch-sensitive glass. Glass panels look sleek, but greasy fingers sometimes make them hard to use until wiped down.
Door Mechanism
- Most OTR microwaves open with a handle. Some use a push-button release. Handles are reliable. Test the door mechanism in the store if possible; it should close securely without slamming.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your kitchen matters when picking an OTR microwave.
Small Kitchens
- If your kitchen is tight, a model with a slim profile is best. Ensure the door doesn’t swing out too far and bump into walls or cabinets.
Heavy Cooking Families
- If you frequently boil pasta or sear meat, you need high CFM ventilation (over 400). Good lighting is also essential so you can see what you are stirring on the stove.
Quick Reheaters
- If you mostly just reheat coffee or leftovers, focus on simple controls and fast start buttons (like the “Add 30 Seconds” feature). You do not need the most powerful fan.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Over-The-Stove Microwaves
Q: Do I need professional installation for an OTR microwave?
A: Most homeowners can install these, but it requires drilling into cabinets and dealing with electrical wiring and ductwork (if venting outside). Many people hire an electrician or handyman for safety.
Q: What does “recirculating” mean for ventilation?
A: Recirculating means the fan pulls air through a charcoal filter to remove smells. It then blows the cleaned air back into the kitchen. It does not remove heat or humidity.
Q: How tall should the microwave be mounted above my gas stove?
A: Safety standards usually require a minimum distance of 13 inches between the cooktop surface and the bottom of the microwave. Electric stoves can sometimes be mounted slightly lower.
Q: Can I use an OTR microwave if I don’t have an exterior vent hookup?
A: Yes. Most models come ready for recirculation. You just need to ensure the charcoal filters are installed correctly inside the unit.
Q: How often should I clean the grease filters?
A: You should clean the metal grease filters at least once a month if you cook often. They are usually removable and can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher.
Q: Will an OTR microwave fit above any stove size?
A: Standard OTR microwaves are 30 inches wide. Measure the space between your cabinets first. Some specialty models come in 27-inch or 33-inch widths.
Q: Do OTR microwaves have a “keep warm” setting?
A: Some higher-end models offer this. It uses very low power to keep plates or food warm without overcooking them. Check the specific model features.
Q: How long do these microwaves usually last?
A: With regular cleaning and normal use, a good quality OTR microwave should last between 8 to 12 years.
Q: Are sensor cooking settings accurate?
A: They are very helpful for things like popcorn or reheating soup. For complex items, the sensors help, but you might still need small manual adjustments.
Q: Does the cooktop light often burn out?
A: Modern units usually use LED lights, which last much longer than old incandescent bulbs. They rarely need replacing.