Dreaming of a kitchen that feels bigger and works better? Many of us love the idea of a spacious kitchen, but a bulky microwave hanging above the stove can make it feel cramped. You want the convenience of a microwave and the fresh air from an exhaust fan, but finding the perfect fit can be a real puzzle.
Choosing a low profile over-the-range microwave with an exhaust fan isn’t as easy as it sounds. You have to think about size, power, and how well it will vent smoke and smells. Plus, you want it to look good in your kitchen! It can be confusing to know which features are most important for your needs.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great low profile microwave and exhaust fan. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to make your kitchen feel more open and smell fresher. Let’s dive into finding the best one for your home!
Our Top 5 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave With Exhaust Fan Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave With Exhaust Fan Detailed Reviews
1. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance offers a generous 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and a powerful 1000W heating element, making it a true workhorse for all your cooking needs.
What We Like:
- Space-Saving Design: Its 1.2 cu. ft. size is perfect for mounting over your stove, freeing up valuable counter space.
- High-Efficiency Cooking: The 1000W power cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Smart Sensor Technology: It automatically adjusts cooking times for perfect results every time.
- Easy Cooking Modes: Enjoy simple one-touch options for popcorn, potatoes, and more.
- Quick Melt/Soften: Easily melt butter or soften chocolate with a special setting.
- Targeted Defrosting: Defrost food by weight or time, or use the convenient auto defrost.
- Built-in Stovetop Light: Illuminate your cooking surface for better visibility and safety.
- Effective Vent Fan: It powerfully removes smoke and odors, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- Adjustable Volume & Child Lock: Customize alert sounds and keep little ones safe with the child lock feature.
- Modern LED Display: The bright display adds a stylish touch and shows cooking information clearly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1.2 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for very large dishes or families who cook in bulk.
- While powerful, some users might prefer even more precise temperature control for delicate cooking tasks.
This Farberware microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both style and functionality. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to maximize their cooking space and efficiency.
2. SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven w/ 550 CFM Hood Vent
Rating: 9.2/10
The SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven is a game-changer for any kitchen. It combines powerful ventilation with smart technology to make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Its slim design fits perfectly over your range without sacrificing performance, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking great.
What We Like:
- Powerful 550 CFM Hood Ventilation: This is the strongest vent system for an over-the-range microwave. It quickly gets rid of cooking smells and steam.
- Wi-Fi and Voice Control: You can control the microwave and vent with your voice using smart assistants like Bixby, Alexa, or Google Assistant through the SmartThings App. You can even do this from another room.
- Wide LED Lighting Bar: The bright LED light shines evenly across your entire cooktop, making it easy to see what you’re cooking.
- Sensor Cook: This feature automatically figures out the best cooking time for your food, so you don’t have to guess.
- 1.1 Cu Ft Capacity and Fingerprint Resistant Finish: It has enough space for larger dishes, and the stainless steel stays clean and looks good.
- Seamless Auto Connectivity: When you cook on your Samsung stovetop, the microwave’s vent and light turn on automatically.
- 1100W Output Power: This high power cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Dual Wide Grease Filter: This filter traps more grease and oil, which helps the vent work better.
- SmartThings Cooking: You can find recipes, plan meals, and even add ingredients to your grocery list.
What Could Be Improved:
- The SmartThings App might require some setup for full functionality.
- While it’s slim, the 1.1 cu. ft. capacity might be limiting for extremely large pots or multiple dishes at once.
This Samsung microwave is a fantastic addition to a modern kitchen, offering both convenience and powerful features. It truly elevates the cooking experience.
3. Galanz GLOMJK12S2SWN10 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave Hood Combination Steam & Sensor Cooking
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Galanz GLOMJK12S2SWN10 Low Profile Over The Range Microwave Hood Combination. This sleek stainless steel appliance does more than just heat food; it’s a powerful cooking partner that saves space and time.
What We Like:
- The 4-speed, 400 CFM exhaust vent is strong. It gets rid of smoke and smells. You can choose how it vents.
- It has 17 preset cooking and reheat options. This makes cooking easy. You can cook pizza, popcorn, and vegetables.
- The steam cooking feature is great. It comes with a steam kit. You can steam veggies or bake potatoes quickly.
- Sensor cooking makes food cook evenly. Heated air moves all around the food. This means no more cold spots.
- It’s a low profile design. It fits under your cabinets. This saves counter space.
- The 1.2 cu ft capacity is good for most meals. The glass turntable is large.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users found the control panel a bit confusing at first.
- The steam kit requires separate cleaning.
The Galanz GLOMJK12S2SWN10 is a smart addition to any kitchen. It cooks food well and looks good doing it.
4. COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave with Automatic Presets
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet the COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS, a 30-inch slim over-the-range microwave that makes cooking a breeze. It’s designed to fit neatly above your stove, saving valuable counter space. This microwave boasts 1000 watts of power, giving you plenty of heat to cook your favorite meals quickly and efficiently. With its sleek design and user-friendly features, it’s a great addition to any modern kitchen.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking with 11 power levels for precise results.
- Convenient touch presets with 7 auto cooking options, including popcorn and sensor cook.
- Smart Defrosting offers both weight and timed options for perfect thawing.
- Smart Sensor technology automatically adjusts cooking time based on food temperature.
- Slim design fits perfectly over most ranges, saving space.
- Soft touch controls are easy to use and clean.
- Comes with a 1-year limited warranty and US-based customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1.2 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger families or bigger dishes.
- While it has many presets, some users might prefer more advanced customization options.
The COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS is a solid choice for those seeking a stylish and functional microwave. It simplifies everyday cooking tasks with its smart features and powerful performance.
5. Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel. This microwave is more than just a way to reheat leftovers; it’s a versatile cooking companion that will make meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- Sensor cooking controls automatically adjust cooking time and power for perfect results every time.
- The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to clean.
- The three-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively removes smoke and odors from your cooktop.
- Convection cooking lets you roast, bake, and broil, expanding your cooking options beyond just microwaving.
- The large 1.7 cubic foot capacity fits family-sized meals and larger dishes.
- The over-the-range design saves valuable counter space.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users found the initial setup to be a bit complex.
- The price point is higher than basic microwave models.
This Profile microwave oven offers advanced features and impressive performance. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience and add a touch of modern style to their kitchen.
Choosing the Best Low Profile Over The Range Microwave with Exhaust Fan
Why a Low Profile Microwave?
A low profile over-the-range (OTR) microwave is a great choice for kitchens with limited overhead space. It sits higher up, giving you more room to cook on your stovetop. These microwaves also have a built-in exhaust fan to clear smoke and smells from your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
- Size: Low profile microwaves are typically around 2.2 cubic feet or less. Measure the space above your stove carefully before buying.
- Wattage: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most models range from 900 to 1100 watts.
- Ventilation Power: Look for CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings. A higher CFM means the fan is stronger. Aim for at least 300 CFM for good ventilation.
- Cooking Presets: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, or pizza.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature adjusts cooking time and power automatically based on the food’s moisture.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable helps food cook evenly. Some models offer a turntable-off option.
- Interior Light: An interior light helps you see your food while it’s cooking.
- Control Panel: Some have simple buttons, while others have touchscreens. Choose what you find easiest to use.
Important Materials
Exterior:
Most low profile OTR microwaves have stainless steel exteriors. This material is durable and easy to clean. Some models may also come in black or white finishes.
Interior:
The inside is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel is more resistant to scratches and stains, but painted interiors are often more affordable.
What Makes a Quality Microwave?
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Stronger Ventilation (Higher CFM): A powerful fan clears smoke and odors better.
- Even Cooking: Look for features like a good turntable and even heat distribution.
- Durable Build: Sturdy construction means the microwave will last longer.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: A simple and intuitive control panel makes cooking easier.
- Good Lighting: A bright interior light is helpful.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Weak Ventilation: A low CFM fan won’t clear your kitchen effectively.
- Uneven Cooking: Food that isn’t cooked evenly can be frustrating.
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels cheap might not last.
- Confusing Controls: A complicated control panel can be hard to figure out.
- Poor Lighting: A dim interior light makes it hard to see.
User Experience and Use Cases
A low profile OTR microwave is perfect for busy families who want to cook quickly and efficiently. It’s also great for people who enjoy cooking and need good ventilation to keep their kitchen fresh. You can reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, or even steam vegetables. The exhaust fan is a lifesaver when you’re frying bacon or stir-frying. It helps keep your kitchen smelling and looking clean.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much space do I need for a low profile microwave?
A: Measure the height between your stovetop and the cabinets above. Low profile microwaves are usually about 10 inches tall, but always check the specific model’s dimensions.
Q: How powerful should the exhaust fan be?
A: Look for a CFM rating of at least 300. Higher CFM means it will clear smoke and smells faster.
Q: Can I install it myself?
A: Some people can, but it often requires electrical work and mounting. It’s usually best to have a professional install it for safety.
Q: How do I clean the filter?
A: Most filters are reusable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. Some might be dishwasher safe, so check your manual.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect the moisture released by food. It then adjusts cooking time and power for perfect results without you having to guess.
Q: Are low profile microwaves less powerful than regular ones?
A: Not necessarily. While they are shorter, they can still have high wattage for quick cooking. Wattage is more important for cooking speed than the microwave’s height.
Q: What kind of ventilation options do they have?
A: Most have recirculating vents (which filter air and send it back into the kitchen) or external venting (which blows air outside). External venting is usually more effective.
Q: How do I know if it will fit over my stove?
A: Check the width of your stove and the width of the microwave. Most OTR microwaves are 30 inches wide, but it’s always good to measure.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a low profile microwave?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a good quality microwave can last 7-10 years.
Q: Are there any special features I should consider for a small kitchen?
A: Look for compact designs, easy-to-clean interiors, and intuitive controls. A good exhaust fan is also crucial in a smaller space.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!