Is your kitchen counter space disappearing faster than a slice of pizza at a party? Many of us face the same problem: where do we put that essential microwave without sacrificing precious countertop real estate? Choosing an overhead microwave, also known as an over-the-range microwave, seems like a great solution. However, the sheer number of models, features, and installation worries can quickly turn excitement into confusion.
Finding the perfect overhead microwave involves balancing power, ventilation needs, and fitting it neatly above your stove. You need something that heats food well, vents smoke effectively, and doesn’t look out of place. Getting this wrong means dealing with poor ventilation or a unit that simply doesn’t fit your space or budget.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down exactly what you need to know—from CFM ratings to installation tips—so you can choose an overhead microwave with confidence. Get ready to reclaim your counter space and find the perfect cooking companion for your kitchen.
Top Overhead 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Width: 29.87" x Height: 15.62" x Depth: 15.75"
- CFM: 300 - Capacity: 1.8 cu. ft. - Cooking Watts: 1000 - Number of Power Levels: 10
- Venting Type: Non Ducted - Auto Defrost - Timer - 27 Touch Pad Buttons
- 2 Speeds - 105/300 CFM - Recirculating Kit: Sold Separately
- 120 Volts - Weight: 35.00 lbs
The Essential Guide to Buying Your Perfect Overhead Microwave
An overhead microwave, often called an over-the-range (OTR) microwave, saves counter space by mounting above your stove. It usually includes a built-in vent fan. Choosing the right one involves looking at several important details. This guide helps you find the best fit for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
The best overhead microwaves offer more than just heating food. Consider these must-have features:
Cooking Power and Speed
- Wattage: Look for microwaves between 900 and 1,200 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking times.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature uses a sensor to detect steam. It automatically adjusts the cooking time. This prevents overcooking your meals.
Ventilation Strength
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This measures how much air the fan moves. For heavy cooking (like frying), aim for 300 CFM or higher. For light cooking, 200-300 CFM works well.
- Venting Options: Check if it can be set up to vent outside (ducted) or just recirculate air back into the kitchen (non-ducted). External venting is always better for smoke and odors.
Convenience and Design
- One-Touch Controls: Simple buttons for popcorn, defrosting, and reheating make daily use easy.
- Interior Lighting: Bright LED lights illuminate your stovetop, acting as a handy under-cabinet light.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.
Exterior and Interior
- Stainless Steel Finish: Most modern units use stainless steel. This material looks sleek and resists rust. However, some finishes show fingerprints easily. Look for “fingerprint-resistant” stainless steel if smudges bother you.
- Interior Cavity: Ceramic or enamel interiors are common. These surfaces wipe clean easily. Avoid plastic interiors if you plan on heating messy foods frequently.
Filter Quality
The grease filters trap oil from your cooking. Good quality filters should be metal and easy to remove for cleaning in the sink or dishwasher. Plastic filters wear out faster.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all OTR microwaves are built the same. Quality often shows up in the details.
What Improves Quality?
- Inverter Technology: This technology provides a steady, even stream of power. Food heats more consistently without hot spots.
- Quiet Operation: Higher-end models use better insulation. This keeps the noise down when the microwave or the fan runs.
What Reduces Quality?
- Cheap Plastic Components: If the buttons feel flimsy or the door latch seems weak, the unit might not last long. Durability is often reduced by using too much low-grade plastic.
- Weak Ventilation: If the CFM is too low (under 200), the fan will struggle to handle smoke. This means your kitchen air quality decreases quickly during cooking.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your kitchen daily. This helps you choose the right size and features.
Typical Use Cases
- Small Kitchens: An OTR microwave is a great space saver. Make sure the depth fits your cabinets properly.
- Heavy Cooking Families: You need high wattage (1100W+) and high CFM (350+). You will use the vent fan often.
- Simple Reheating: If you just warm up leftovers, a basic model with good sensor reheat settings is sufficient.
User experience also depends on installation. Professional installation often ensures the unit is secured correctly and vented efficiently. Always check the door swing. Does the door open in a way that blocks traffic in your kitchen?
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Overhead Microwaves
Q: Do I need professional installation for an overhead microwave?
A: Yes, professional installation is often recommended. These units are heavy and must be mounted securely to the wall studs and cabinets above your range. Proper mounting is crucial for safety.
Q: How do I measure if an OTR microwave will fit my space?
A: You must measure three things: the width between your cabinets, the height from the cooktop surface to the bottom of the existing cabinet or hood, and the depth. Standard widths are usually 30 inches.
Q: What is the difference between ducted and non-ducted venting?
A: Ducted venting sends smoke and steam through a pipe to the outside of your home. Non-ducted venting filters the air through charcoal filters and blows the slightly cleaner air back into the kitchen.
Q: Is a higher wattage always better for an OTR microwave?
A: Higher wattage cooks food faster, which is great. However, too high a wattage can sometimes cause uneven heating if the microwave lacks good power control settings (like inverter technology).
Q: How often should I clean the grease filters?
A: If you cook regularly, you should clean the grease filters at least once a month. Heavy cooks might need to clean them every two weeks.
Q: Can I still use my gas range if I install an OTR microwave?
A: Yes, you can. However, you must follow the manufacturer’s minimum required distance between the microwave bottom and the cooktop surface. Gas ranges produce more heat, so this clearance is very important.
Q: What is the lifespan of a typical overhead microwave?
A: With regular use and maintenance, most quality overhead microwaves last between 7 and 12 years. Poor ventilation use can shorten this lifespan.
Q: Do these microwaves come with an automatic shut-off feature?
A: Almost all modern microwaves include an auto shut-off feature. This turns the unit off after a set period of inactivity or after a cooking cycle completes.
Q: What does “recirculating” mean for the vent fan?
A: Recirculating means the fan pulls the air through filters inside the microwave and then pushes that air back out into the kitchen, rather than venting it outside.
Q: Should I prioritize the fan power (CFM) or the microwave power (Wattage)?
A: It depends on your main use. If you cook often and create a lot of smoke or steam, prioritize high CFM. If you mostly just reheat food, prioritize higher wattage for faster heating.