A microwave is an extremely useful appliance to have in the house, but they can often be big and bulky and take up far too much room in your kitchen. Fortunately, there are over the range microwaves available, also known as OTR microwaves, that sit above your stove and, therefore, help to save on counter space and are kept out of the way.
One of the biggest downsides to a microwave is how noisy then can be. Luckily, nowadays, there are many microwaves out there that are designed to be much quieter than a traditional microwave, giving you more freedom as to when you can use them without worrying about disturbing others.
Below we have compiled a buying guide all about quiet over the range microwaves, including what to look for and some of our top picks on the market today. So, if you want to heat your meals in peace, keep reading on.
Best Quiet Over The Range Microwave Oven – Comparison Table
| Product Image | Product name | Features | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Sharp R1874T 850W Over-the-Range Convection Microwave | - 850 watts - Quiet operation - 7 digit interactive display - Built-in exhaust system with three venting | 4.3 out of 5 |
 | GE JVM3160RFSS 30" Over-the-Range Microwave Oven | - 1000 watts - 300 CFM air flow venting system for very quiet operation - Easy to use buttons for switching between modes - Steam sensor automatically operates | 4.3 out of 5 |
 | LG LMHM2237ST 2.2 Cubic Feet Over-The-Range Microwave Oven | - 1000 watts - 400 CFM venting capacity for quick clearance - Very quiet - Different ventilation position choices | 3.6 out of 5 |
 | 4) Samsung ME19R7041FS 1.9 Cu.Ft. Stainless Steel Over-The-Range Microwave | - 1000 watts - 1.9 cubic feet capacity - 10 different power levels and multiple functions - 400 CFM ventilation system | 4.1 out of 5 |
 | Frigidaire FFMV1846VS 30" Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave | - 100o watts - Large capacity for larger dishes - Easy-to-use buttons - 10 power levels | 4.3 out of 5 |
 | Black+Decker EM044KIN-P Over-the-Range Microwave | - 1000 watts - 10 different power levels - 30 second and 1-6 minute quick start - Quiet fan for quiet operation | 4.6 out of 5 |
 | Impecca Over-the-Range 30” Microwave Oven | - 1000 watts - Preset menus and multiple functions - 300 CFM ventilation fan for quiet operation - Large capacity and turntable | 4.3 out of 5 |
Features To Look For In A Quiet Over The Range Microwave
There are a few things to look for in a quiet over the range microwave to ensure you are getting the right one for your kitchen and lifestyle.
Noise Level
First and foremost, if you want a quiet microwave, you’re going to want to look at the microwaves noise level. Of course, a microwave is never going to be silent, but there are certain things that can affect how noisy a microwave is. One of the biggest culprits for noise in a microwave is the exhaust fan, so this is something to look out for.
Material and Design
You’ll want to ensure you go for a high-quality microwave made with durable material. This not only helps to ensure safety, but will mean that your microwave lasts you a long time. Often, stainless steel microwaves are recommended, purely for this reason.
Microwaves can come in many different styles and designs, so you will be able to find one that fits in with your kitchen. Watch out for the size and ensure you don’t go for one that is too big or small in size for the space above your stove.
Power Usage
The more power that your microwave uses, the quicker it can heat. If your microwave has a capacity of 1,000 watts, you should be able to heat a meal in between 1 to 6 minutes which will help you save on energy consumption as it does it very quickly. However, there are also microwaves with higher or lower energy capacities. It will be up to you to decide which power usage will be best for you based on what you are likely to be heating and how often.
Ventilation
Microwave ovens that are designed to be over the range are usually built with their own ventilation system to help with fumes, heat and moisture that may accumulate in your kitchen. The microwave should have a capacity of at least 300 CFM, although some have a higher CFM. The higher the CFM, the better the airflow around your microwave.
Functions
Microwaves usually come with certain functions that help you to easily operate your microwave. These functions can include buttons that heat your food for a certain length of time based on what the food is, which makes life a lot easier for you as the cook time is already preset. There is also often a defrosting and warming feature, so you microwave can be used in many situations.
Safety
Ensuring that your microwave is safe is very important. Kitchens can be a dangerous place, especially with hot appliances around. Check your microwave is secure before using it and you may want to think about a microwave with a lock feature if you have children in the house.
If you’re ready to find the best over the range microwave, take a look at the quietest microwaves we recommend below. These are all available to you on Amazon.
The Quietest Over The Range Microwave Oven Reviews
Sharp R1874T 850W Over-the-Range Convection Microwave
This Sharp OTR microwave is an 850 watt microwave that browns, bakes, broils, crisps and roasts. The classic stainless steel design and color fits in well with any kitchen and the 7 digit interactive display make it very easy to use. It has a 1.1 cubic foot interior with a 13 inch turntable for even heating.
With a built-in exhaust system that offers three convenient venting options – horizontal, vertical or ductless recirculation – this microwave provides convenience for range-top cooking, as well as a hood light and powerful fan, that also helps to eliminate any fumes from the kitchen, too. What’s more, it’s designed to operate quietly so you and your family won’t be disturbed when you use it.
Key Features:
– 850 watts
– Quiet operation
– 7 digit interactive display
– Built-in exhaust system with three venting options
– 13 inch turntable for even heating
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
GE JVM3160RFSS 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
This 1000 watt microwave from GE is made of stainless steel, making it look good and easy to use. It has an easy read LCD screen and a large, easy to use control panel that gives you the option to switch between modes such as defrost and reheat. The venting system has a 300 CFM air flow which makes it very quiet and there are only two speeds which, again, makes it very easy to use.
There is also a hooked venting fan with a steam sensor that automatically comes on whenever you are using the microwave, perfection for eliminating smoke, steam and odors. A turntable ensures your food is cooked evenly, although it can also be easily turned off, too.
Key Features:
– 1000 watts
– 300 CFM air flow venting system for very quiet operation
– Easy to use buttons for switching between modes
– Steam sensor automatically operates
– Turntable that can easily be switched off when needed
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
LG LMHM2237ST 2.2 Cubic Feet Over-The-Range Microwave Oven
This LG over the range microwave operates at 1000 watts and has multiple preset buttons that make using this microwave very easy. The 400 CFM capacity of this microwave not only ensures that steam, smoke and smells are cleared quickly from your kitchen, but also means that it is very quiet as it does so. What’s more, the venting system allows you to choose either the back, the front or the top, giving you a customized operation that works for your kitchen. This microwave has a sleek design that fits in well with any kitchen and LG is a trusted manufacturer, so you can be sure of it’s durability.
Key Features:
– 1000 watts
– 400 CFM venting capacity for quick clearance
– Very quiet
– Different ventilation position choices
– Sleek design
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Samsung ME19R7041FS 1.9 Cu.Ft. Stainless Steel Over-The-Range Microwave
This Samsung over the range microwave has an 1000 watt cooking power with a 1.9 cubic feet capacity, great for kitchens of many different sizes. It has a LED display that is not only easy to read, but also ensures a sleek and modern look, paired with the easy-use buttons. There are 10 different power levels to this microwave, with different functions such as “auto-defrost” and “reheat”. What’s more, the spacious glass turntable inside, and sensor cook functionality – which adjusts the cooking time for optimal results – ensures that all the food is cooked evenly, so you don’t have to worry about it.
There is a light so you can see the food inside, too. Most importantly, this microwave has a 5 setting, 400 CFM ventilation system that ensures both a quiet operation, and that fumes, steam and smells are removed quickly from your kitchen.
Key Features:
– 1000 watts
– 1.9 cubic feet capacity
– 10 different power levels and multiple functions
– 400 CFM ventilation system
– Quiet operation
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Frigidaire FFMV1846VS 30″ Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave
The Frigidaire OTR microwave is a 1000 watt microwave with a large capacity of 1.8 cu. ft. of cooking space, perfect if you live in a house with a big family or need your microwave to fit larger dishes. The microwave features easy-to-use one-touch buttons so you can cook baked potatoes, popcorn or even add 30 seconds with the touch of a button, and there are 10 different power levels for you to choose from.
The rotating turntable 12.5 inches and is made of glass, perfect for evenly cooking or warming dishes. With a 300 CFM venting capacity and two fan speeds, this microwave operates quietly while still removing any moisture, steam and odors from your kitchen easily.
Key Features:
– 100o watts
– Large capacity for larger dishes
– Easy-to-use buttons
– 10 power levels
– 300 CFM with two fan speeds make for a quiet operation
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Black+Decker EM044KIN-P Over-the-Range Microwave
This over the range microwave from Black+Decker is an efficient microwave with 1000 watts of cooking power and 10 different power levels for boiling, reheating and defrosting. With a 30 second and 1-6 minute quick start, this microwave is very easy to use and has multiple one-touch cooking programs. An above-the-range light illuminates cooking space for optimal preparation and the vent system not only ensures the microwave is quiet but also helps to keep the kitchen clear of fumes. There is a safety lock to prevent the accidental use of the microwave by children and a sleek, stainless steel finish and LED display fits in well with any kitchen.
Key Features:
– 1000 watts
– 10 different power levels
– 30 second and 1-6 minute quick start
– Quiet fan for quiet operation
– Safety lock
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Impecca Over-the-Range 30” Microwave Oven
This OTR microwave oven from Impecca operates at 1000 watts and has cooking controls with various preset menus and different functions, including auto defrost and cook by weight. The powerful 300 CFM ventilation fan has two different speeds and a quiet operation, meaning you can use it without disturbing your family, too. There is a child lock on the microwave for safety and a surface light helps to enlighten your space under the oven. The oven itself has a large 1.6 cu. ft capacity with a 12.4 turntable for even cooking. Even better, this microwave comes with a 1 year limited warranty.
Key Features:
– 1000 watts
– Preset menus and multiple functions
– 300 CFM ventilation fan for quiet operation
– Large capacity and turntable
– Child lock
– 1 year warranty
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Over The Range Microwave Oven FAQ’s
Does an over the range microwave oven need to be vented?
The short answer is yes! There is lot of steam, smoke, odors and moisture that accumulate in your kitchen while you cook, so having a microwave with a vent is particularly important. The vent will help to eliminate any moisture and smells that are generated when you cook so that your kitchen stays looking and smelling clean.
How high should my microwave be over the stove?
The distance between your microwave and stove differs depending on the manufacturer. Over the range microwaves are built to withstand heat and fumes released from your stove and therefore there doesn’t need to be a huge gap between the two. It is recommended that you position your microwave anywhere between 13 to 18 inches above your cooktop, but make sure you take into consideration the height of your pans and pots when cooking.
Summary
An over the range microwave is not only a very useful kitchen appliance, but it also keeps out of the way and allows you more space in your kitchen. While microwaves can be noisy, there are quiet over the range microwaves out there that do the job without disturbing the whole house. Remember to consider the size and design of your microwave, as well as the functions before buying. The ventilation is also particularly important to help with fumes and odors that your stovetop may produce. Which over the range microwave oven is right for you?
