Imagine a kitchen where every appliance fits perfectly, not just in function, but in style. But when it comes to microwaves, finding one that doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb can be a real challenge. Many standard microwaves are bulky and can dominate your countertop space, making your kitchen feel cramped.
This is where low profile microwaves shine. They offer a sleek, compact solution that blends seamlessly into your kitchen design. But with so many models available, how do you pick the best one for your needs? It’s easy to get lost in features and forget what truly matters: fitting your space and your lifestyle.
In this post, we’ll cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a low profile microwave a great choice and guide you through the important things to consider. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find a microwave that not only cooks your food but also enhances your kitchen’s look and feel.
Our Top 5 Low Profile Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Low Profile Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of a cluttered countertop? The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven is your kitchen’s new best friend. This sleek stainless steel appliance fits perfectly above your stove, giving you back valuable counter space. With 1000 watts of power, it heats and cooks food quickly and evenly. Its smart sensor technology makes cooking a breeze, automatically adjusting settings for perfect results every time. Plus, it’s loaded with helpful features like quick melt/soften and targeted defrosting.
What We Like:
- SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: Its compact 1.2 cu. ft. size is perfect for over-the-range installation, freeing up your kitchen counters.
- HIGH-EFFICIENCY COOKING: The powerful 1000W output ensures fast and even cooking.
- INTELLIGENT SENSOR TECHNOLOGY: Auto-adjusts cooking settings, taking the guesswork out of reheating and cooking.
- DIVERSE COOKING MODES: Easy-to-use presets for popcorn, potatoes, eggs, and snacks make meal prep simple.
- QUICK MELT/SOFTEN FEATURE: Quickly melts butter or softens ingredients for recipes.
- TARGETED DEFROSTING OPTIONS: Defrosts food efficiently by weight or time, with an auto defrost setting.
- INTEGRATED STOVETOP LIGHT: Brightens your cooking surface for safer food preparation.
- POWERFUL VENT FAN: Effectively removes smoke and odors, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
- ADJUSTABLE VOLUME & CHILD LOCK: Customize alert volumes and keep little ones safe with the child lock feature.
- MODERN LED DISPLAY: Adds a touch of style and clearly shows cooking information.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 1.2 cu. ft. size is space-efficient, it might be too small for larger families or those who cook very large dishes.
- Some users might find the vent fan power could be even higher for particularly smoky cooking situations.
This Farberware microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen looking for both style and functionality. It makes everyday cooking and reheating simpler and more efficient.
2. Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Over the Range Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
This Midea MMO12S3ASTZ Over the Range Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s slim, so it doesn’t take up too much space above your stove. Plus, it has smart features that make cooking easier and more fun.
What We Like:
- Slim for more space: The slim design gives you more room in your cabinets. You won’t feel cramped for storage anymore.
- Voice control & Smarthome compatible: You can control your microwave with your voice! It also works with the SmartHome app, making cooking even more convenient.
- Notifying and remotely control: You can start cooking or turn on the fan from another room. It also tells you when your food is ready.
- Sensor Cook & Sensor Reheat: This smart technology figures out the best cooking time and power for your food. No more guessing if your food is cooked perfectly.
- Auto cook menu: Make delicious meals easily. Just press a button for different types of food.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan, while powerful, could have more speed options for finer control over airflow.
- While smart features are great, some users might find the initial app setup a bit tricky.
Overall, the Midea MMO12S3ASTZ is a smart and space-saving microwave. It makes cooking simpler and more enjoyable for busy households.
3. 1.1 Cu. Ft. Low Profile Over the Range Stainless Steel Microwave
Rating: 8.8/10
This 1.1 Cu. Ft. Low Profile Over the Range Stainless Steel Microwave is a sleek and smart addition to any kitchen. Its slim design fits perfectly over your stove, saving valuable counter space. The stainless steel finish looks great and stays that way thanks to its fingerprint-resistant coating. You’ll love how easy it is to keep clean and looking new.
What We Like:
- All Shine Fingerprint Resistant finish keeps it looking beautiful.
- The hood traps more oil and grease particles for cleaner air.
- A large dual wide grease filter improves the hood’s performance.
- The SLIM DESIGN makes it perfect for smaller kitchens.
- It’s easy to use for all your everyday cooking needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1.1 cubic foot capacity might be small for very large meals or multiple dishes.
- While fingerprint-resistant, heavy smudges might still require a quick wipe.
This microwave offers a great blend of style and function for modern kitchens. It’s a practical choice that helps keep your cooking space tidy and fresh.
4. SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven w/ 550 CFM Hood Vent
Rating: 9.1/10
The SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven is a game-changer for any kitchen. This sleek, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel appliance packs a punch with its powerful features and smart technology. It’s designed to make cooking and kitchen cleanup easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- The 550 CFM hood ventilation is incredibly powerful, clearing out steam and smells fast.
- You can control it with your voice or through the SmartThings app from anywhere.
- The wide LED light bar brightly lights up your entire stovetop.
- Sensor Cook automatically figures out the right cooking time.
- It has a good 1.1 cu. ft. capacity for bigger meals and stays clean with its fingerprint-resistant finish.
- Auto Connectivity syncs it with your Samsung cooktop, turning the vent and light on automatically.
- The 1100W power cooks food quickly and evenly.
- A dual wide grease filter traps more oil and grease for better hood performance.
- SmartThings Cooking lets you find recipes, plan meals, and even add groceries to your cart.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, the 1.1 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for very large dishes or multiple items at once.
- The reliance on Wi-Fi and smart assistants means it needs a stable internet connection to access all its advanced features.
This Samsung microwave offers a fantastic blend of power, convenience, and smart features. It’s a great addition to any modern kitchen looking for an upgrade.
5. COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave with Automatic Presets
Rating: 9.3/10
The COSMO COS-3012ORLP1SS 30 in. Slim Over the Range Microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s slim design saves space. This microwave makes cooking easy with its automatic presets and soft-touch controls. It has a 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, which is a good size for most families. The 1000 watts of power means it heats food quickly and evenly. You can cook meals with great control using its 11 power levels. It also comes with a 1-year limited warranty and USA-based customer support.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000 watts for fast cooking.
- Convenient touch presets for easy cooking of common foods.
- Smart defrosting and sensor cooking take the guesswork out of reheating.
- Slim design fits well over most ranges.
- Soft-touch controls are easy to use.
- USA-based customer support offers peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- No specific mention of interior features like turntable size or material.
- The “slim” aspect might limit the size of very large dishes.
This COSMO microwave offers a good balance of features and power for everyday kitchen tasks. It’s a solid option for those looking for a reliable and user-friendly over-the-range microwave.
Your Guide to Choosing a Low Profile Microwave
Are you tired of microwaves taking up too much space on your counter? A low profile microwave is a great solution! These slim appliances fit neatly under cabinets, giving you more room and a cleaner look. Let’s dive into what makes a good low profile microwave.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Dimensions
This is the most important feature. Measure the space under your cabinet carefully. You need to know the exact height, width, and depth you have available. Low profile microwaves are typically shorter than standard ones. Make sure the microwave you pick will fit comfortably without touching the cabinet above.
2. Wattage
Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. More watts mean faster cooking. Most low profile microwaves range from 700 to 1000 watts. For everyday tasks like reheating leftovers or making popcorn, 700-800 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more often, aim for 900-1000 watts.
3. Cooking Presets and Functions
Many microwaves come with helpful presets for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. Some also have sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture. Look for features that match how you plan to use the microwave.
4. Turntable vs. Sensor Cooking
Some low profile microwaves have a turntable to rotate food for even heating. Others use sensor cooking technology without a turntable. A turntable is good for consistent results. Sensor cooking can be more convenient as it takes the guesswork out of cooking times.
5. Venting Options
If your low profile microwave will be installed under a cabinet, check how it vents. Some vent from the front, which is best for under-cabinet installation. Others vent from the top or back. Make sure the venting system works for your specific setup.
Important Materials
Most low profile microwaves have an outer casing made of durable stainless steel or coated metal. Stainless steel is popular because it’s strong and looks sleek. The inside is usually coated with enamel or a non-stick material. These materials are easy to clean and resist scratches.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Sturdy Construction: A well-built microwave feels solid and durable.
- Even Heating: The microwave should heat food evenly without hot or cold spots.
- Quiet Operation: A good microwave won’t be too loud when it’s running.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: Buttons and settings should be clear and simple to understand.
Reducing Quality:
- Flimsy Build: A microwave that feels cheap or wobbly might not last long.
- Uneven Cooking: If food is always cooked unevenly, it’s a sign of lower quality.
- Noisy Fan: A very loud fan can be annoying.
- Confusing Controls: If the buttons are hard to figure out, it makes using the microwave frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Low profile microwaves are perfect for small kitchens, apartments, RVs, or anywhere counter space is limited. They are great for quick meals, reheating drinks, and making snacks. Families can use them for after-school snacks, and individuals can rely on them for easy weeknight dinners. The slim design makes your kitchen feel more open and organized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the main advantage of a low profile microwave?
A: The main advantage is that they save counter space by fitting under cabinets.
Q: How do I measure for a low profile microwave?
A: Measure the height, width, and depth of the space under your cabinets.
Q: Are low profile microwaves less powerful than regular ones?
A: Not necessarily. They come in a range of wattages, similar to standard microwaves.
Q: Can I install a low profile microwave myself?
A: Many are designed for easy installation, but it’s always good to check the instructions.
Q: What kind of cleaning products should I use?
A: Use a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: Do low profile microwaves need special ventilation?
A: Check the manufacturer’s instructions. Some require specific venting kits.
Q: How long do low profile microwaves typically last?
A: With proper care, they can last 5-10 years, just like regular microwaves.
Q: Can I put metal in a low profile microwave?
A: No, never put metal in any microwave, as it can cause sparks and damage.
Q: What is a good wattage for a low profile microwave?
A: 700-1000 watts is common, with higher watts meaning faster cooking.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a low profile microwave?
A: Look at major appliance stores, online retailers, and home improvement stores.
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 Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!