Over-the-range microwave buying guide

Over-the-range microwaves often include built-in exhaust fans or recirculating vents to help clear away smoke, steam and odors from your cooktop. Certain microwaves connect to external ductwork to expel air outside, while others rely on filtration systems to purify and recirculate air within the kitchen environment.

For added flexibility, models like select over-the-range microwaves from Whirlpool brand can be configured for external or recirculating venting, offering flexibility to fit your kitchen’s unique setup.

Integrated lighting on over-the-range microwaves can help you more easily see what’s cooking on your stovetop or simply create a cozy glow in your kitchen when you don’t necessarily want bright overhead lights on. Whether you’re sautéing dinner or grabbing a late-night snack, these built-in lights can add both function and ambiance. Some Whirlpool^® Over-the-Range models offer Adjustable Cooktop Lighting, so you can keep an eye on the stovetop below.

Compared with a countertop microwave, an over-the-range model frees up valuable workspace on the counters, giving you more room to prep meals and helping your kitchen look less cluttered.

Streamline the cooking process when you transfer ingredients directly from the microwave to the stove or oven, with no need to cross the kitchen. Everything in one centralized location can help meal prep feel less hectic.

An over-the-range microwave may not be the best fit if you prefer the strong ventilation of a dedicated range hood or the wow factor of a canopy hood. Or, if you’re looking to keep the space above your cooktop open, an alternative type of microwave—like these wall oven and microwave combination models from Whirlpool brand—could be a better way to maximize both function and space in your kitchen.

Microwave wattage—or cooking power—typically ranges from 600 to 1,700 watts, with most recipes geared toward microwaves with around 1,000 watts. Whirlpool^® Over-the-Range Microwaves deliver 1,000+ watts of power, giving you the performance you need to handle your family’s favorite meals with ease.

Over-the-range microwave interiors typically range from 0.8 cubic feet in compact models to around 2.1 cubic feet of capacity in full-sized options. For households of two to four people, a microwave with at least 1.0 cubic feet of space may be enough, while larger families with four or more members may appreciate models with 1.7 cubic feet or more for enough space to cook several dishes at once.

Low profile over-the-range microwaves are a space-saving solution for kitchens with limited room above the cooktop. These compact models typically offer the same ventilation performance as traditional over-the-range microwaves, but are ideal for those with cabinetry that’s too low for a typical over-the-range microwave or for anyone who wants a more open feel above the range.

Whirlpool^® Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwaves help maximize space by moving your microwave off the countertop with a Low Profile Design that fits in the same space as an under-cabinet hood.¹

Some over-the-range microwaves can do more than simply reheat leftovers. Various cooking modes on select models—like air cooking, grilling and roasting—help expand your kitchen’s capabilities, adding versatility without adding another appliance.

For instance, Air Fry Mode on models like this Whirlpool^® Over-the-Range Microwave gives you the flexibility of a microwave and air fryer in one appliance to free up counter space. Or, you can grill meat and vegetables in your microwave with Grill Mode on select Whirlpool^® Over-the-Range Microwaves like this one. The Air Fry Basket allows direct heat to sear the outside of your food, creating a nice crust and flavor.

When life gets busy, modern smart microwaves can help keep dinner on track. With Wi-Fi connectivity and app control, some smart models let you manage your microwave right from your smartphone, whether you're setting cook times, adjusting power levels or finding recipes on the go. For example, Whirlpool^® Smart Microwave Ovens let you use your smartphone to monitor cooking progress, so you’re ready to eat when dinner’s done.²

Defrosting meat, poultry or fish in the microwave can be tricky, especially when you need thorough thawing without accidentally starting to cook food. Some microwaves help eliminate the guesswork with advanced defrost settings designed to help you find the right balance every time.

For instance, the Auto Defrost Sensor on select Whirlpool^® Microwaves lets you spend less time waiting for foods to thaw. Advanced sensing technology automatically adjusts the power levels of your microwave while defrosting, so you can get an ideal thaw for frozen foods.

Microwaves with convection cooking include an extra heating element and fan that lets you bake, roast or add a crispy layer to favorites, just like you would in an oven. These microwaves can handle more complex cooking techniques than simply reheating food, giving you the flexibility to cook where and how you want.

True Convection Cooking on these Whirlpool^® Over-the-Range Microwaves, for example, lets you use your microwave to conveniently cook foods with the same home-cooked results, right in the microwave.

Keeping your microwave clean can help it work at its best, and some over-the-range microwaves include cleaning cycles or special coatings and finishes that can help make cleaning easier than ever. 

The CleanRelease^® Non-Stick Interior on select Whirlpool^® Over-the-Range Microwaves, for instance, lets you easily clean up with the simple wipe of a damp cloth. Or, when messes are unavoidable, Steam Clean on select models like this Whirlpool^® Microwave lets you add a bowl of water to the microwave and press Steam Clean to help lift messes, then wipe it clean.

From classic button controls to sleek electronic touchpoints or full touchscreens, the style and layout of microwave controls makes a big difference for both your kitchen’s aesthetic and how easy your microwave is to use and clean.

Select Whirlpool^® Microwaves like this over-the-range model feature Concealed Touch Controls that stay out of the way and are easy to clean, with a smooth touch panel that’s hidden behind the microwave door for a modern look. Or, on select Whirlpool^® Microwaves, get instant access to the settings you use most with an intuitive Touchscreen that learns, adapts and suggests customized presets based on your family's routines.

Every dish needs just the right combination of time and power to cook properly, but not all microwaves can adjust to those unique needs. Some models offer adaptive features that automatically tailor cooking settings during the cooking cycle, helping you get better results without the guesswork.

Select Whirlpool^® Microwaves, for instance, feature Sensor Cooking that automatically tracks the cooking progress of your food and adjusts the cook time as needed. Or, Easy Melt on models like this Whirlpool^® Over-the-Range Microwave lets you melt without the guesswork thanks to sensors that automatically monitor the temperature of foods for you, so you can easily melt ingredients like chocolate, butter and more while taking on other tasks.