Is your kitchen counter cluttered with appliances? Do you dream of more space while still needing that quick microwave fix? You are not alone! Many homeowners face the tough choice of fitting a microwave into a busy kitchen layout. Finding the perfect microwave that saves space and works well can feel like a puzzle.
Above stove microwaves, also called over-the-range (OTR) models, are popular for a reason. They combine a microwave and a ventilation hood into one unit. However, choosing the right one involves tricky decisions about size, power, and venting types. You worry about installation and whether it will truly clear up your counter space. Getting it wrong means wasted money and a less functional kitchen.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down everything you need to know about above stove microwaves. Learn the key features, understand the different installation types, and discover how to pick the best model for your cooking style and budget. Get ready to transform your kitchen workflow!
Top Above 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.
- Spacious 1.7 Cu.Ft Capacity for Family Meals: Designed for busy households, this over-the-range microwave features a generous 1.7 cu.ft interior and a 13.5-inch rotating glass turntable. Easily fits large plates, casseroles, and multiple servings for everyday family cooking.
- 1000W Power with 10 Precision Cooking Levels: Powered by 1000 watts and 10 adjustable power levels, this microwave oven handles everything from quick reheating to full cooking. Auto defrost by time or weight ensures even, reliable results while preserving food texture.
- 300 CFM Ventilation Keeps Air Fresh: Equipped with a 2-speed 300 CFM exhaust fan, this over stove microwave efficiently removes smoke, steam, and cooking odors. Helps maintain a cleaner, more comfortable kitchen environment during everyday cooking.
- Bright LED Cooktop Lighting & Child Lock: Dual LED lights illuminate your stovetop clearly for safer cooking at night or in low light. The built-in child safety lock prevents accidental operation, making it a family-friendly choice.
- Space-Saving Over-the-Range Design, Easy to Clean: Mounts neatly above your range to free up valuable counter space. The smooth interior resists stains and splatters, allowing for quick, hassle-free cleaning after meals.
- 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.
- 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.
- One-touch-cook with 18 Auto Menus, and you can make popcorn, pizza, defrost, soften cream cheese, rice, potato, and so on. Feel free to create delicious dishes efficiently and easily.
- 1.7 cu.ft capacity with 12.5 inch turntable can easily hold your big rotisserie chicken and 12 inches pizza.
- 10-level power settings satisfy your different heating needs. (With 1000W outcome power)
- CFM 300 strong suction power with adjustable fan speeds, effectively removes the unpleasant fumes and odor.
- Bright cooktop light to serve your cooking with a clear view.
- 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.
Choosing the Best Over-the-Range Microwave: Your Complete Buying Guide
An over-the-range (OTR) microwave does more than just heat your leftovers. It saves counter space and often includes a powerful ventilation fan for your stovetop. Picking the right one needs a little homework. This guide helps you find the perfect model for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, certain features make a big difference in how you use your microwave every day.
Power and Performance
- Wattage: Look for microwaves with 1000 watts or more. Higher wattage means faster cooking and reheating.
- Ventilation Power (CFM): This measures how much smoke and odor the fan pulls out. For serious cooks, aim for 300 CFM or higher. For light use, 200 CFM might be enough.
Convenience and Control
- Sensor Cooking: This is a lifesaver! The microwave uses sensors to detect steam and adjusts the cooking time automatically. This prevents overcooking.
- Easy-to-Clean Surfaces: Nobody likes scrubbing grease. Look for smooth interiors that wipe down easily.
- Child Lock: A safety feature that prevents little hands from starting the microwave accidentally.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how it looks in your kitchen.
Exterior Finish
Most OTR microwaves come in stainless steel, black, or white. Stainless steel looks modern, but fingerprints show easily. Decide which color best matches your other appliances.
Interior Construction
The inside should be tough. Ceramic enamel interiors are very durable and resist scratching better than painted metal. They are often easier to clean too.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all microwaves are built the same. Pay attention to these details to ensure you get a quality product.
Improving Quality
- Inverter Technology: This technology provides a steady stream of power, which cooks food more evenly than traditional microwaves that cycle the power on and off.
- Two-Speed Fan Settings: Having a low and high setting for the vent fan gives you more control over kitchen air quality.
Reducing Quality (Watch Outs)
- Cheap Plastic Buttons: If the control panel feels flimsy or the buttons stick, the longevity might be short. Quality microwaves use responsive, well-built touchpads.
- Loud Operation: Check reviews for noise levels. A very loud fan or a humming microwave can annoy everyone in the kitchen.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you actually use your kitchen. This helps match the features to your needs.
The Busy Family Cook
If you cook big meals often, prioritize high CFM ventilation and sensor cooking. You will use the powerful fan frequently to clear steam from boiling pots.
The Small Apartment Dweller
Space is key here. Make sure the dimensions fit perfectly between your cabinets. A lower wattage might be acceptable if you only reheat snacks or defrost small items.
Installation Consideration
Remember, these units must be installed above the range. Check the required mounting height clearance between the cooktop and the bottom of the microwave. Professional installation is often recommended to ensure the fan vents outside correctly, if possible.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Over-the-Range Microwaves
Q: What is the standard size for an OTR microwave?
A: Most standard OTR microwaves are 30 inches wide. This width fits between most standard kitchen cabinets. Always measure your space before buying!
Q: Do I have to vent an OTR microwave outside?
A: No, you don’t have to. OTR microwaves can usually be set up for either external venting (to the outside) or recirculating (filtering the air and blowing it back into the kitchen). External venting is always better for smoke removal.
Q: How hard is it to install an OTR microwave?
A: Installation involves mounting the heavy unit to the wall studs and connecting it to the electrical outlet. It can be tricky because the unit is heavy. Many people hire an installer for safety and proper venting hookup.
Q: What does CFM mean for the vent fan?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the fan moves. Higher CFM means stronger suction to clear smoke and odors from your stovetop.
Q: Are OTR microwaves louder than countertop models?
A: Often, yes, especially when the fan is running on high. Since they house a powerful fan system, they tend to be louder than simple countertop units.
Q: What is the difference between sensor cooking and regular cooking?
A: Regular cooking requires you to set the time manually. Sensor cooking uses a humidity sensor to tell when food is done, automatically stopping the process to prevent burning or drying out.
Q: Can I use an OTR microwave if I have an electric cooktop instead of gas?
A: Yes, you certainly can. The microwave vent system works just as well over electric burners as it does over gas burners.
Q: How do I clean the grease filters in the fan?
A: Most grease filters are removable metal screens. You usually wash them by hand with warm, soapy water or sometimes place them safely in the dishwasher. Check your manual!
Q: Does the light underneath the microwave help with cooking?
A: The light underneath is designed primarily to illuminate your stovetop so you can see what you are cooking. Some models offer different brightness settings.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of an OTR microwave?
A: With regular use and care, a good quality OTR microwave usually lasts between 8 to 12 years. Proper cleaning of the fan filters extends its life.