If counter space is gold in your kitchen, an over-the-range (OTR) microwave might just be the crown jewel.
These appliances free up counters, double as range hoods, and still reheat last night’s pizza like a pro.
I tested 7 of the best compact OTR microwaves in 2025 to see which ones really deliver performance without hogging space.
Spoiler: small doesn’t mean weak—these are efficient little workhorses.
GASLAND Over-the-Range Microwave
This one’s a total multitasker — the GASLAND 1.9 Cu.Ft Over-the-Range Microwave isn’t just a microwave, it’s a powerful vent hood too.
Perfect for compact kitchens or anyone craving a seamless, space-saving setup, it brings serious performance and style to your cooking routine.
Why It’s a Must-Have?
🔥 Multi-Stage Precise Cooking: With 1,000 watts and 11 variable power levels, this microwave lets you defrost and cook in two stages for perfect, even results every time.
⚡ One-Touch Smart Start: Popcorn, veggies, pizza — nine pre-programmed settings handle it all. You can even hit “+30 seconds” for a quick reheat without fussing with settings.
💨 400 CFM Vent Fan: Doubles as a range hood! It removes smoke, steam, and odors fast, so your kitchen stays fresh even during heavy-duty cooking sessions.
💡 Bright LED Lighting: Dual LED lights clearly illuminate your stovetop, helping you see what you’re cooking day or night.
🍲 Spacious 1.9 Cu.Ft Capacity: Easily fits large dishes or family-size portions. Plus, the removable rack gives you double-layer cooking space.
🏡 2-in-1 Space Saver: Combines a full-featured microwave with a powerful vent hood — perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or anyone wanting a sleek, all-in-one solution.
🔒 Bonus Safety Feature: Includes a child lock for added peace of mind.
Perfect For
- Families who love multitasking kitchen tech
- Small kitchens needing a microwave + range hood combo
- Home cooks who appreciate one-touch convenience
The Bottom Line
The GASLAND 1.9 Cu.Ft Over-the-Range Microwave brings power, precision, and practicality into one sleek black appliance. With 400 CFM ventilation, smart presets, and bright LED lights, it’s the ultimate upgrade for any modern kitchen.
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu.Ft Over-the-Range Microwave
Meet your new kitchen multitasker — the BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu.Ft Over-the-Range Microwave with vent and auto-cook features.
It’s designed to simplify mealtime, save counter space, and keep your kitchen smelling fresh while looking sleek in stainless steel.
Why It’s a Must-Have?
🔥 Spacious Capacity: With 1.7 cubic feet of interior space and a 12.4-inch turntable, this microwave easily handles family-sized dishes, leftovers, and everything in between.
⚡ 1000 Watts of Power: Delivers quick, even heating across 10 adjustable cooking levels, so you can tackle everything from frozen dinners to baked potatoes with precision.
🍿 One-Touch Smart Cooking: Six pre-set menus for everyday favorites — Popcorn, Beverage, Melt/Soften, Reheat, and Defrost — make cooking effortless.
⏱ Speedy Multi-Stage Cooking: Program two power levels in one cycle — like 10 minutes at 90% followed by 5 minutes at 50% — for perfectly cooked meals without constant supervision.
💨 300 CFM Vent Fan + Light: The built-in 2-speed exhaust fan removes smoke, steam, and odors while keeping your stovetop illuminated with an integrated task light.
🏡 Sleek Stainless Steel Finish: Durable, modern, and easy to clean — this design looks great in any kitchen.
Perfect For
- Families or busy professionals who want quick, reliable meals
- Compact kitchens needing both microwave and ventilation
- Anyone who loves simple, one-touch cooking convenience
The Bottom Line
The BLACK+DECKER Over-the-Range Microwave blends power, versatility, and practicality. With auto-cook functions, fast heating, and a built-in vent fan, it’s the perfect balance of convenience and performance for today’s home kitchens.
GE JVM3160RFSS Over-the-Range Microwave
Capacity: 1.6 cu ft
Power: 1000 watts
Special: Two-speed venting system
Why I like it: A reliable, no-frills pick from GE. It’s roomy enough for family-sized dishes but still compact in design. The built-in vent system works quietly and the controls are straightforward—no confusing buttons.
Best for: Families that want simplicity and value.
Midea MOR17BSA-SS Over-the-Range Microwave
If you want a microwave that actually keeps up with your kitchen, the Midea 1.7 cu. ft. OTR microwave does it all.
With fast 1000W heating, 18 auto-cook menus, and a built-in 300 CFM vent fan, it not only cooks your food quickly—it also helps pull away steam, odors, and smoke from your stovetop.
Perfect for busy kitchens that need both power and clean air in one appliance.
What We Love About It
- 18 one-touch auto menus for quick meals & reheating
- Large 1.7 cu. ft. capacity + 12.5″ turntable—fits big plates & rotisserie chicken
- 1000W power with 10 adjustable levels for precise cooking
- Built-in 300 CFM ventilation reduces kitchen odors & stove steam
- Over-the-range design saves counter space
- Bright cooktop light for better visibility while cooking
- Sleek stainless steel finish fits modern kitchens
Farberware 1.7 CFt. Over-the-Range Microwave
If you want a microwave that heats fast and keeps your kitchen running smoothly, this Farberware 1.7 cu. ft. OTR model checks all the boxes.
With powerful 1000W cooking, smart auto-cook functions, precise defrosting, and an efficient built-in vent fan, it handles dinner, reheating, and kitchen freshness all in one sleek unit.
What We Love About It
- Strong 1000W cooking power for faster, more even meals
- Spacious 1.7 cu. ft. interior fits big dishes and dinner plates
- Auto Cook menus + Melt/Soften + +30-second boost for everyday convenience
- Weight & time defrost for thawing foods perfectly
- Built-in vent fan + stovetop light for better kitchen functionality
- Child safety lock for peace of mind
- Adjustable volume for alerts that aren’t annoying
- Clean, space-saving over-the-range installation
Frigidaire FFMV1846VS OTR Microwave
- Capacity: 1.8 cu ft
- Power: 1000 watts
- Special: Interior LED lighting
Why I like it: Frigidaire’s OTR microwave shines (literally). The LED lighting brightens your cooking area, while the interior is easy to clean. It also has 10 power levels for flexible cooking.
Best for: Home cooks who want visibility and control.
Sharp R1874T Over-the-Range Convection Microwave
- Capacity: 1.1 cu ft
- Power: 850 watts
- Special: Convection cooking
Why I like it: This Sharp model adds convection baking, so it’s basically a microwave and mini-oven. Perfect if you want one appliance to do more in a compact package.
Best for: Small kitchens that need versatility beyond reheating.
What to Look For in Compact OTR Microwaves
Size & Capacity
Look for units between 1.1–1.9 cu ft. Compact, but still big enough for casserole dishes or dinner plates.
Venting Power
A strong fan (2–4 speeds) helps clear smoke and odors from stovetop cooking.
Ease of Cleaning
Ceramic or enamel interiors wipe clean faster and resist staining.
Budget vs Premium
Amana and Whirlpool are budget-friendly; Sharp adds convection; Samsung and LG bring premium designs.
FAQs
Are over-the-range microwaves hard to install?
Most require basic tools and a second person to lift, but DIY installation is possible if you’re handy. Otherwise, professional installation is recommended.
Do compact OTR microwaves still vent well?
Yes, most have 2–4 speed fans that handle everyday stovetop steam and odors. For heavy frying, consider a stronger dedicated hood.
How long do OTR microwaves last?
On average, 8–10 years with proper care. Premium models like Samsung and LG tend to last longer with less wear and tear.
Related Reading
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