7 Best Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwaves for Tight Spaces (October 2026)
The best low profile over-the-range microwaves include the Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave for connected kitchens, the GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave for white kitchens, and the GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave for stainless kitchens.
On this page (9 sections)
- Which low profile over-the-range microwave suits your kitchen?
- The best low profile over-the-range microwaves
- How should you measure for a low profile over-the-range microwave?
- What can you cook in a low profile microwave?
- How much ventilation should you expect?
- Which controls are useful in a slim microwave?
- What setup and care steps prevent avoidable problems?
- What mistakes should you avoid when buying a slim over-the-range microwave?
- Which low profile over-the-range microwave should you choose?
The Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave is a strong choice if you want a low profile over the range microwave with sensor cooking and app controls. GE Profile offers white and stainless finishes, while Samsung has the highest stated fan capacity in this group.
A low profile model puts a microwave and hood above the range in a shorter body than many standard over-the-range units. That can leave more open space above the cooktop, but the right choice still depends on cabinet fit, mounting, ventilation and the dishes you use.
Start by measuring the current hood space and checking how it vents. Then compare capacity, fan rating, controls and finish.
Our low profile versus regular microwave guide explains the main trade-offs, and the standard over-the-range dimensions guide helps with fit.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for connected kitchensMidea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave
8.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for white kitchensGE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, White
8.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for stainless kitchensGE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless
8.2/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itSamsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for higher airflow - 5
Check itThermoMate 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for power choices - 6
Check itStellar Coll 1.2 Cu Ft Slim Over-the-Range Microwave, Black
Best for black kitchens - 7
Check itTHOR Kitchen 1.2 Cu Ft Slim Over-the-Range Microwave
Best for duct-free kitchens
Which low profile over-the-range microwave suits your kitchen?
The Midea is the best all-around choice here for buyers who want sensor cooking and connected controls in a slim unit. GE Profile is the better match when the finish matters, and Samsung suits kitchens where a higher stated fan rating is the priority.
We compared dimensions, capacity, ventilation and cooking features across these seven models. The picks are ordered by how well their stated features match the needs of a low profile over-the-range microwave buyer.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Dimensions (D x W x H) | Vent fan | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave | connected kitchens | 1.2 cu ft | 18.2 x 29.9 x 10.3 in | 400 CFM | 8.6 |
| GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, White | white kitchens | 1.2 cu ft | 18.63 x 29.88 x 10.31 in | 400 CFM, two speeds | 8.3 |
| GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless | stainless kitchens | 1.2 cu ft | 18.63 x 29.88 x 10.31 in | 400 CFM, two speeds | 8.2 |
| Samsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave | higher airflow | 1.1 cu ft | 19.13 x 29.88 x 10.75 in | 550 CFM | 7.9 |
| ThermoMate 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave | power choices | 1.2 cu ft | 18.7 x 30 x 10.4 in | 400 CFM, two speeds | 7.8 |
| Stellar Coll 1.2 Cu Ft Slim Over-the-Range Microwave, Black | black kitchens | 1.2 cu ft | 18.5 x 30 x 10.3 in | 7.4 | |
| THOR Kitchen 1.2 Cu Ft Slim Over-the-Range Microwave | duct-free kitchens | 1.2 cu ft | 18.63 x 29.88 x 10.31 in | 400 CFM recirculation | 6.8 |
The best low profile over-the-range microwaves
The Midea leads for smart controls, followed by the GE Profile models, Samsung, ThermoMate, Stellar Coll and THOR Kitchen. Each has a distinct strength, so the best pick depends on your opening, vent arrangement and daily cooking.
Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for connected kitchens
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 10.3 in height
- Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat
- 400 CFM vent fan
A slim height and 1.2 cu ft capacity suit kitchens that need a compact microwave with sensor cooking. SmartHome app compatibility adds remote control of cooking and ventilation.
Pros
- 10.3 in stated height
- Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat
- SmartHome app compatible
Cons
- Stainless steel finish
- Check fit and vent setup before replacing a hood
Midea combines a slim 10.3 in height with a 1.2 cu ft cavity. Sensor Cook and Sensor Reheat use steam sensing to adjust cooking time and power, which can reduce guesswork for common reheating tasks.
The 400 CFM fan gives this model a defined ventilation rating. SmartHome app compatibility lets you control cooking and ventilation remotely, and the microwave can send a notice when cooking finishes.
Choose Midea if remote controls and sensor features would be useful in your kitchen. Skip it if you need a white or black finish, or if the available opening does not match its 18.2 in depth and 29.9 in width.
GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, White: Best for white kitchens
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 10.31 in height
- 400 CFM two-speed vent
- LED cooktop lighting
This white GE Profile model combines sensor cooking, a two-speed vent and LED cooktop lighting in a low profile body. Its sound setting can mute the beeper.
Pros
- White finish
- Sensor cooking
- Turntable can be switched on or off
Cons
- Check cabinet and mounting clearances
- White finish
The white GE Profile is the clearest fit for a kitchen with white appliances or cabinetry. Its 1.2 cu ft cavity and low profile body pair with a two-speed 400 CFM fan, sensor cooking and LED lighting over the cooktop.
You can turn the turntable off when a dish needs to stay in a fixed position. The sound adjustment also lets you mute the beeper, which helps in a quiet kitchen or during late-night use.
Choose this version if its finish, sensor controls and cooktop lighting match your needs. Skip it if white will clash with your range or if you need a fan rating above 400 CFM.
GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless: Best for stainless kitchens
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 10.31 in height
- 400 CFM two-speed vent
- LED cooktop lighting
The stainless GE Profile has sensor cooking, two-speed venting, LED cooktop lighting and sound adjustment. Its core features and dimensions are similar to the white version.
Pros
- Stainless steel finish
- Sensor cooking and LED cooktop lighting
- Beeper mute option
Cons
- Check the finish against nearby appliances
- Confirm the vent setup
This stainless GE Profile offers much the same core setup as the white version, with a finish that can match stainless ranges and other appliances. It has sensor cooking, a two-speed 400 CFM vent, LED cooktop lighting and sound adjustment.
The turntable can be switched off, and time and weight defrost give you two ways to handle frozen food. Check the stainless tone against nearby appliances, since different brands can use slightly different shades.
Choose it if you want the GE Profile feature set in stainless steel. Skip it if you need more ventilation capacity or if the depth of 18.63 in would extend too far into your kitchen.
Samsung 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for higher airflow
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 10.75 in height
- 550 CFM hood vent
- Wi-Fi and voice control
Samsung pairs a 550 CFM hood vent with Wi-Fi, voice control and an LED light bar. Its capacity is 1.1 cu ft and it is the tallest model in this group.
Pros
- 550 CFM hood vent
- Wi-Fi and voice control
- LED light bar
Cons
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 10.75 in height
Samsung stands out for its 550 CFM hood vent, the highest stated rating among these picks. Wi-Fi, voice control and an LED light bar add connected convenience and cooktop lighting.
Its 1.1 cu ft capacity is smaller than the 1.2 cu ft cavities on the other models here. At 10.75 in high and 19.13 in deep, it is also the tallest and deepest option in this group.
Choose Samsung if ventilation capacity and smart controls matter more than gaining every available inch of clearance. Skip it if your opening is especially shallow or low, or if you often use larger dishes.
ThermoMate 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for power choices
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 10.4 in height
- 11 power levels
- 400 CFM two-speed fan
ThermoMate combines 11 power levels and sensor cooking with a two-speed fan. Its stated built-in opening dimensions can aid planning, but measure your space before ordering.
Pros
- 11 power levels
- Sensor cooking
- Two-speed 400 CFM fan
Cons
- 30 in width
- Check duct and cabinet fit
ThermoMate gives you 11 power levels, sensor cooking and one-touch options, including a quick cook control that adds 30 seconds. Its two-speed fan is rated at 400 CFM, and a child safety lock is included.
The stated dimensions are 30 in wide, 18.7 in deep and 10.4 in high. ThermoMate also provides built-in opening dimensions, which are useful for planning, but the cabinet and mounting instructions still need to match your kitchen.
Choose it if you want more control over cooking power and a full set of sensor and defrost options. Skip it if the 30 in width or the duct arrangement does not fit your space.
Stellar Coll 1.2 Cu Ft Slim Over-the-Range Microwave, Black: Best for black kitchens
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 10.3 in height
- 11 power levels
- Sensor cooking
This black model has 11 power levels and touch presets that include sensor cooking and sensor reheat. Its 30 in width makes careful opening measurements essential.
Pros
- Black finish
- 11 power levels
- Sensor cooking and defrost options
Cons
- Check ventilation details for your installation
- Compare its 30 in width with the opening
The black Stellar Coll is the only black finish in this group. It has sensor cooking, sensor reheat and 11 power levels, with touch presets for common tasks.
Its body is 30 in wide and 18.5 in deep, with a stated height of 10.3 in. The product information does not give a CFM rating, so confirm its ventilation details and vent mode before choosing it to replace a hood.
Choose this model if a black finish is central to your kitchen plan and you want sensor presets. Skip it if you need a documented fan capacity to compare with your current hood.
THOR Kitchen 1.2 Cu Ft Slim Over-the-Range Microwave: Best for duct-free kitchens
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 10.31 in height
- 400 CFM recirculation vent
- 12.4 in glass turntable
THOR Kitchen combines a 1.2 cu ft cavity with a 400 CFM recirculation vent. Its 12.4 in glass turntable suits buyers who need a non-ducted vent arrangement.
Pros
- 400 CFM recirculation vent
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 12.4 in glass turntable
Cons
- Recirculation setup may not match ducted kitchens
- Check installation details and vent mode
THOR Kitchen is the pick to consider when recirculating ventilation fits your kitchen. It combines a 400 CFM recirculation vent with a 1.2 cu ft cavity and a 12.4 in glass turntable.
Recirculation returns filtered air to the room instead of sending it through an outdoor duct. That setup may not suit a kitchen whose current hood vents outdoors, so confirm the installation method and required filters before replacing it.
Choose THOR Kitchen if recirculation is the right vent path and you want a low profile microwave with a larger stated turntable. Skip it if you need a ducted exhaust or want more documented cooking details before deciding.
How should you measure for a low profile over-the-range microwave?
Measure the opening's height, width and depth, then check the clearance from the cooktop to the underside of the cabinet. A shorter body can help with vertical space, but it does not guarantee that the mounting plate, duct and electrical connection will line up.
Record the current hood's dimensions and note where the duct exits. Compare those points with the new unit's installation guide, including any required clearance above the cooking surface.
For a replacement, do not assume a new microwave will reuse every part of the old setup. Use our over-the-range microwave replacement guide to compare the old unit, and check the 36 inch opening guide if your cabinet opening is wider than the common 30 in models here.
What can you cook in a low profile microwave?
The 1.1 to 1.2 cu ft capacities in this group suit routine reheating, defrosting and many smaller cooking tasks. They may feel limiting if you regularly heat large casserole dishes, wide platters or tall containers.
Before buying, measure one or two dishes you use every week. Compare those measurements with the turntable diameter and interior dimensions when available, since exterior size does not show how a dish will fit inside.
Capacity is only one part of ease of use. A turntable that can switch off may help with some rectangular dishes, while a compact cavity can still limit how tall or wide your cookware can be.
How much ventilation should you expect?
The stated CFM ratings range from 400 to 550, with Samsung at the high end and several other models rated at 400 CFM. THOR Kitchen specifies a 400 CFM recirculation vent, while the Stellar Coll product details do not state a CFM figure.
Fan rating alone does not determine how well a hood works in your kitchen. Duct size, duct length, bends and whether air exits outdoors all affect the setup, so compare the installation instructions with your existing route.
Read our guide to CFM for an over-the-range microwave to understand fan ratings, then see how over-the-range microwaves are vented for ducted and recirculating arrangements.
Which controls are useful in a slim microwave?
Sensor cooking can adjust time and power for some foods, while preset buttons shorten common tasks. Connected controls matter most if you expect to use a phone app or voice commands as part of your kitchen routine.
Midea offers SmartHome compatibility and remote control, and Samsung lists Wi-Fi and voice control. GE Profile adds adjustable sound and turntable control, while ThermoMate offers 11 power levels and one-touch cooking.
Choose controls after confirming fit and ventilation. Extra settings are useful only when they make your regular meals simpler, so focus on the features you are likely to use.
What setup and care steps prevent avoidable problems?
Read the installation guide before removing the old hood, and confirm the required mounting support, electrical connection and vent mode. A microwave installed above a range is heavy and must be attached securely, so use a qualified installer if you cannot meet the instructions safely.
Before first use, remove packaging and check that the turntable and any included parts are positioned as directed. Test the cooktop light and fan after installation, then confirm that air moves in the intended direction.
Wipe splatters from the cavity and door after they cool, and clean the grease filters on the schedule in the manual. For filter care, see our guide to cleaning over-the-range microwave filters.
What mistakes should you avoid when buying a slim over-the-range microwave?
The most common buying mistake is choosing by height alone. A unit can fit vertically and still be too deep, too wide, or incompatible with the cabinet, mounting points or duct path.
Another mistake is treating CFM as the only ventilation measure. Check whether the model vents outdoors or recirculates, and make sure the fan rating and duct arrangement match how you cook.
Do not assume every compact microwave has room for your usual cookware. Measure the dishes you use, and check turntable size and interior space rather than relying only on the capacity number.
Which low profile over-the-range microwave should you choose?
Choose Midea for connected controls and sensor cooking, GE Profile for the finish and cooktop lighting, and Samsung when its 550 CFM rating is your priority. ThermoMate suits buyers who want 11 power levels, Stellar Coll suits black kitchens, and THOR Kitchen fits a recirculating vent plan.
For a low profile over the range microwave, the right decision starts with the opening and vent route, then moves to capacity and controls. Match all three dimensions and the installation requirements before ordering, and use our guide to choosing an over-the-range microwave if you want a broader checklist.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for connected kitchens
Midea 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave
8.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for white kitchens
GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, White
8.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for stainless kitchens
GE Profile 1.2 Cu Ft Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave, Stainless
8.2/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is a low profile over-the-range microwave?
A low profile over-the-range microwave is a shorter microwave made to sit above a cooktop, often in the space used by an under-cabinet hood. These models are about 10.3 to 10.75 in high, but each kitchen still needs a fit check.
Measure the available height, width and depth before choosing one.
How tall is a low profile over-the-range microwave?
The models in this guide range from 10.3 to 10.75 in tall. Midea and Stellar Coll state 10.3 in, while Samsung is 10.75 in.
Check each model's dimensions and installation instructions against the clearance above your cooktop and around the cabinet.
Does a low profile microwave have enough room for cooking?
These models have capacities from 1.1 to 1.2 cu ft, which can suit daily reheating and smaller dishes. Large platters and tall cookware may be a poor fit, depending on the cavity and turntable.
Measure the containers you use most and compare their size with the microwave's interior and turntable.
Can a low profile microwave replace a range hood?
Many low profile over-the-range microwaves combine cooking with ventilation, but fan capacity and vent mode differ. Samsung states 550 CFM, several other picks state 400 CFM, and THOR Kitchen specifies recirculation.
Confirm whether your kitchen needs an outdoor duct or recirculating air before buying.
Are low profile microwaves the same width as standard over-the-range models?
Several picks here are about 30 in wide, but matching width alone does not confirm fit. Depth, mounting points, cabinet clearance and duct position also matter.
Use our standard over-the-range microwave dimensions guide to plan a replacement.
