Does your kitchen feel a little… incomplete? Maybe you’re dreaming of more counter space or a sleek new look above your stove. That’s where the Over The Range (OTR) microwave steps in! These handy appliances do double duty, heating your leftovers while also pulling smoke and steam out of the air. It sounds simple, but picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle.
Choosing an OTR microwave brings up real questions. Will it fit just right? Does it have enough power to actually vent your cooking smells? And how do you decide between all the different features and price tags? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you need a machine that blends cooking power with ventilation skill.
Don’t worry! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to know—from CFM ratings to installation tips—so you can choose an OTR microwave that fits your kitchen and your lifestyle perfectly. Get ready to upgrade your cooking space easily!
Top Over The Range Microwave Oven 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- GE USA AUTHORIZED - Includes 2 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included FULL Manufacturer Protection
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity - 1000 Watts (IEC-705 test procedure)
- Two-speed, 300-CFM venting system - Removes smoke, steam and odors
- Turntable On/Off - Controls turntable operation
- Auto and time defrost - Defrosting times and power levels are programmed automatically or manually for optimal results
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
An Over-the-Range (OTR) microwave is a smart addition to any kitchen. It saves counter space because it sits above your stove. This guide helps you choose the best one for your home. We look at what matters most.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, certain features make a big difference in how you use your microwave.
Cooking Power and Size
- Wattage: This measures how fast your microwave cooks. Look for models between 900 and 1,200 watts. Higher wattage means quicker reheating.
- Capacity: OTR microwaves come in different sizes. Measure your space first! Standard sizes fit most openings, but large families might need a bigger interior space (around 1.9 cubic feet).
Ventilation Power
Since this microwave sits over your stove, it also acts as a range hood. This is very important.
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This rating shows how much air the fan moves. Higher CFM means better smoke and odor removal. For serious cooking, aim for 300 CFM or higher. Lower CFM models are fine for light use.
- Venting Options: Check if it vents outside (ducted) or just filters the air and blows it back into the kitchen (recirculating/ductless). Ducted is always better for strong cooking smells.
Convenience Features
- Sensor Cooking: This feature senses steam released during cooking. It automatically adjusts time and power. This prevents overcooking your food.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Some interiors use non-stick coatings. This makes wiping up spills much easier.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials affect how long your microwave lasts and how it looks.
Exterior Finish
Most OTR microwaves use stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel looks modern and resists smudges better on high-quality models. Plastic parts should feel sturdy, not flimsy. Check the door hinges; they should open and close smoothly.
Interior Tub Material
The inside tub is usually metal or enamel-coated. Metal interiors handle high heat well. Enamel is easier to wipe down. Always check reviews to see if the material holds up to repeated heating.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about price. It’s about design and performance.
Quality Boosters
- Quiet Operation: A high-quality fan system runs quieter. This improves the kitchen experience, especially when you are entertaining.
- Good Lighting: Bright, clear LED lights underneath the unit illuminate your stovetop well.
Quality Reducers (Watch Outs)
- Weak Fan Performance: If the CFM is low, steam and grease will build up on your cabinets. This reduces the overall quality of your kitchen environment.
- Flimsy Buttons: Cheap touchpads break easily or become unresponsive over time. Test the buttons if you can in a store.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you actually use your kitchen.
Everyday Use
If you only reheat coffee or defrost small items, a basic 900-watt model works fine. You will value simple controls.
Heavy Cooking Scenarios
If you fry fish or sear meats often, you need high CFM ventilation. You will use the sensor cooking features frequently to manage complex dishes. Installation matters here; ensure the mounting brackets are strong.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About OTR Microwaves
Q: How tall is an Over-The-Range microwave?
A: Most standard OTR microwaves fit into a 30-inch wide cabinet space. Their height usually ranges from 16 to 17 inches.
Q: Do I need professional installation for an OTR microwave?
A: While some handy people install them, professional installation is often recommended. This is because the unit must be securely mounted to the wall studs and connected properly to the ductwork for ventilation.
Q: What is the difference between ducted and recirculating venting?
A: Ducted venting pulls air and pushes it outside your home. Recirculating venting filters the air through charcoal filters and blows it back into the kitchen. Ducted is much more effective.
Q: Can I use my OTR microwave if I don’t have outside venting?
A: Yes, you can use the recirculating mode. Remember that this mode only filters smoke and odors; it does not remove humidity or heat as effectively as ducted venting.
Q: What is the standard placement height over the range?
A: The bottom of the microwave should usually sit 54 inches above the cooking surface of your range or cooktop. Always check the specific model’s manual.
Q: Are OTR microwaves more expensive than countertop models?
A: Generally, yes. OTR microwaves cost more because they include the heavy-duty ventilation system and mounting hardware.
Q: How often should I clean the grease filters?
A: You should clean the grease filters (if your model has them) about once a month if you cook daily. Most filters can be washed in warm, soapy water or sometimes in the dishwasher.
Q: What does “Inverter Technology” mean in a microwave?
A: Inverter technology delivers a steady stream of power, even at lower settings. This means your food thaws more evenly without hot spots.
Q: Can I install an OTR microwave if I have a gas range?
A: Yes, you can install an OTR microwave over a gas range. However, you must strictly follow the manufacturer’s minimum height requirements to ensure safety.
Q: What is the lifespan of an OTR microwave?
A: With regular use and cleaning, most quality OTR microwaves last between 8 to 12 years.