Our readers keep the lights on and my morning glass full of iced black tea. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.9 Best 1.1 Cu Ft Over the Range Microwave | Sensor Cook & Save

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The ThermoMate delivers the largest interior capacity on this list at 1.9 cubic feet, which is especially useful when you need to fit a large casserole dish or a dinner plate without rotating awkwardly. Beyond sheer space, its 400 CFM two-speed exhaust fan pulls smoke and steam fast enough to keep a kitchen manageable during high-heat stir-frying or searing. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts power and timing based on steam release, so reheated leftovers come out consistent rather than boiling on one side.

The stainless steel build feels solid and resists smudges better than budget alternatives. The included removable rack lets you cook multiple items at once, saving time when preparing sides alongside a main dish. At 1000 watts with 11 power levels, the ThermoMate gives precise control over defrosting delicate ingredients like berries or softening butter without melting it.

Owners consistently note the quiet fan operation and the even heat distribution from the 360-degree rotating turntable. The child lock and 30-second quick-cook buttons add everyday convenience without complicating the interface. For families that cook daily and need reliable ventilation, this model offers the best balance of capacity, venting power, and smart features.

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The Midea slim model is purpose-built for kitchens where overhead cabinet clearance is tight. At only 10.31 inches tall, it frees up vertical space that thicker units would block, making it a strong candidate for shallow upper cabinets. The 400 CFM vent fan matches the ThermoMate’s exhaust strength, meaning you don’t sacrifice smoke removal for the slimmer profile.

What sets this unit apart is its smart functionality. The SmartHome app allows remote control and finish notifications, so you can start the microwave from another room and get alerted when your food is ready. Voice control adds another layer of convenience, especially when your hands are covered in flour or grease. The sensor cook and reheat features use steam detection to find optimal cooking time without manual input.

The 1.2 cubic foot capacity leans smaller than some competitors, but the interior still fits standard dinner plates comfortably. The stainless steel finish and modern touch controls keep the aesthetic clean. Customer feedback highlights the quiet operation and the slim design as the primary reasons for choosing this microwave over bulkier alternatives.

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The Sharp R1874T is a true convection microwave, meaning it can bake, broil, brown, crisp, and roast in addition to standard microwave cooking. This is a rare feature in the 1.1 cubic foot over-the-range category, making it useful if you want to bake small cakes or roast a whole chicken without heating up the main oven. The 850-watt microwave output is lower than some competitors, but the convection element compensates by circulating hot air for even browning.

The interactive display and 12 convection programs plus 8 sensor programs give extensive control over cooking methods. The 13-inch turntable ensures even heating across dishes, and the stainless steel interior resists staining and cleans easily. The built-in exhaust system includes a hood light and a powerful fan, though the CFM is not as high as dedicated 400 CFM units.

Long-time owners frequently mention durability, with some units lasting over a decade in RVs and motorhomes. The precise fit for 30-inch openings makes installation straightforward, and the included low and high racks add versatility. If you need an over-the-range microwave that doubles as a convection oven, this Sharp model is the only serious option at this size class.

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The COSMO slim microwave is a strong candidate for installations with limited vertical clearance, measuring only 10.3 inches tall. Despite its compact height, it still offers 1.2 cubic feet of interior space, enough for standard dinner plates and medium-sized casseroles. The 1000-watt output with 11 power levels provides precise control for delicate tasks like softening cream cheese or defrosting meat quickly.

The touch controls and seven auto-cooking presets simplify daily use, though the panel lacks backlighting, which some users find frustrating in dim kitchens. The smart sensor detects steam to automatically adjust cooking time for items like soup or frozen dinners, reducing the risk of overheating. The dual LED lights beneath the unit illuminate the stovetop well, making it easier to monitor pots and pans.

Many buyers install this unit in RVs or tight urban kitchens where space is at a premium. The 20-pound lighter weight compared to older units simplifies the mounting process, and the stainless steel finish matches most standard appliances. The lack of convection or WiFi may disappoint some, but for a dedicated microwave that prioritizes fit and quietness, the COSMO delivers.

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The Midea MOR17BSA-SS offers solid performance at a reasonable price point, making it an attractive option for those replacing a broken over-the-range unit without overspending. The 1.7 cubic foot capacity is spacious enough to hold a 12-inch pizza or a large rotisserie chicken, and the 12.4-inch turntable promotes even heating. The 300 CFM two-speed exhaust handles moderate steam and odors from everyday cooking, though it won’t clear heavy smoke from searing as quickly as a 400 CFM unit.

The 18 auto-cook menus simplify preparation of popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and more, and the 10-level power settings provide flexibility for different food types. The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints reasonably well, though the interior is also stainless steel for easy cleanup. The cooktop light is functional but somewhat dim compared to LED-equipped competitors.

Customer reviews frequently mention the straightforward installation process and quiet operation during microwave use, though a transformer hum is noticeable during operation. The dim range light and lack of premium sensor features are common critiques, but for a basic, reliable OTR microwave that does the essentials well, the Midea consistently satisfies long-term owners.

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The Farberware OTR microwave stands out for its low-profile design, measuring only 10.375 inches in height while still offering a generous 1.7 cubic feet of interior space. This makes it a solid choice for kitchens where a bulky unit would block the view of the stove or intrude on cabinet headroom. The 1000-watt output handles everyday reheating and cooking tasks efficiently, and the LED display is clear and easy to read.

Auto-cook settings include options for vegetables, snacks, potato, and a melt/soften function that works well for butter and chocolate. The two-speed vent fan is functional but less powerful than a dedicated range hood, though it suffices for light to moderate steam. The stainless steel finish matches standard kitchen appliances, and the interior is easy to wipe down after spills.

Owners consistently highlight the accurate preset cooking and the even heat distribution. The low noise level is a recurring compliment, particularly for those who dislike the loud hum of budget microwaves. The unlit control buttons and the absence of a convection mode are the main trade-offs, but for a clean, low-profile microwave that performs reliably, the Farberware delivers strong value.

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The BLACK+DECKER EM044K6CE-SS provides a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to over-the-range microwave cooking. With a 1.7 cubic foot interior and 1000 watts of power, it handles standard reheating, defrosting, and cooking tasks without unnecessary complexity. The 300 CFM two-speed vent fan clears moderate steam effectively, and the integrated cooktop light offers focused illumination while preparing meals below.

The touch controls and six quick-cook menus simplify popcorn, beverage, melt/soften, reheat, and defrost operations. Multi-stage cooking allows you to set different power levels for different segments of a cycle, which is useful for recipes that require a gradual change in intensity. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and cleans up well with a damp cloth.

Owners generally appreciate the easy installation and the compact footprint that fits standard 30-inch openings. The child lock adds safety for households with small children, and the push-button door release is intuitive. The main downsides reported are a loud fan noise during vent operation and an interior light that is dimmer than expected when the door opens.

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This Sharp microwave brings voice control to the kitchen through Alexa compatibility, allowing you to start cooking, set timers, and adjust power levels with spoken commands. The 1.1 cubic foot capacity is compact enough for smaller kitchens while still fitting standard dinner plates, and the 1000-watt output provides ample power for most reheating needs. The Orville Redenbacher’s certified popcorn presets produce consistent results every time.

The gray interior and white LED display give it a more modern look compared to older Sharp models, and the LED interior lighting makes it easy to monitor food without opening the door. The 12.4-inch carousel turntable promotes even cooking, and the 10 power levels with two-stage cooking give you control over complex heating sequences. The weight and time defrost functions thaw meat and poultry without partially cooking the edges.

The express cook feature lets you press a single digit for up to six minutes of cooking at full power, which simplifies quick reheats. Customer feedback emphasizes the quiet operation and the clean aesthetic as primary benefits. The child lock is present but some users find it unnecessary, though it adds peace of mind for families. For those who already use Alexa in the kitchen, this Sharp model integrates seamlessly.

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The Emerson MWG1191SB offers an unusual feature at its price range: a built-in grill function that crisps pizza, browns casseroles, and finishes meats with a grilled texture. The 1100-watt output makes it one of the more powerful options on this list, and the 1.1 cubic foot capacity is suitable for smaller households or single users. The 11 power levels give you granular control over cooking intensity, from gentle warming to full-power reheating.

The stainless steel exterior and retro-style chromed handle give it a distinctive look that stands out from the typical black-and-silver OTR design. The 9 preset cooking programs cover popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and other everyday foods, while the time and weight defrost functions thaw ingredients without overcooking the edges. The child lock is a useful safety addition for households with curious grandchildren.

Customer feedback is generally positive for the price, but there are recurring reports of condensation buildup inside the unit during use, which can drip water onto the turntable. Some users note that the microwave cooks hotter than older models, so adjustments to cooking times may be required. A small number of units have stopped working within months, though most owners find the performance acceptable for the low entry cost.