Type of microwave: Over-the-range Microwaves are a quick and convenient way to prepare meals, heat up leftovers, defrost food and save energy. But when it comes to making a purchase, which is ...

Over-the-range microwaves In general, microwave types are not interchangeable; an over-the-range microwave cannot be used on a countertop and vice versa because of their different ventilation systems.

But most microwave ovens have less usable space than advertised, according to our tests: In fact, both over-the-range (OTR) and countertop microwaves have a usable capacity of about 50 percent of ...