Here, listed in alphabetical order, are eight over-the-range microwave picks that deliver outstanding performance in our tests. There are more than 60 over-the-range microwave ovens (and even more countertop models) in our ratings. We also incorporate ratings for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction using survey results from Consumer Reports members who purchased more than 60,800 over-the-range microwaves between 20.ĭebating whether you should repair or replace your broken OTR microwave? CR’s interactive tool leverages product costs, depreciation rates, and survey data to help you make the right choice. To test how evenly a microwave heats, we put a bowl of cold mashed potatoes inside, heat it for 10 minutes, then take temperature readings of the food in 20 spots. A microwave’s speed score is based on how fast it heats a 1-liter bowl of room-temperature water. In our lab, we assess how fast and how evenly microwaves heat.

“Make sure to consider the size and placement of the microwave in your kitchen before you buy one.” Over The Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan. MEDELNIV Over-the-range microwave, Stainless steel This spacious microwave has 3 cooking programs and doubles as an range hood, allowing you to save. “Some newer over-the-range microwaves are very squat and might be difficult to reach when you open the door or press buttons,” says Ginny Lui, who oversees Consumer Reports’ microwave testing. And if you’re short, you might find it challenging to remove a piping-hot bowl of soup from a microwave mounted at least 18 inches above your stovetop.

Although over-the-range microwaves have a built-in exhaust fan, they don’t vent cooking gases as well as a dedicated range hood. There are some drawbacks worth noting, however. Some retailers, such as Home Depot, offer free installation if the purchase price of your new microwave exceeds a certain amount.

An over-the-range microwave oven is a good choice if you have limited counter space and/or prefer a built-in appliance that matches the rest of your kitchen suite.Īnd you can get a new OTR microwave for as little as $200, not including the installation cost, which varies.

Microwave extractor fan