How big is an over-the-range microwave?#
An over-the-range microwave is built to a 30-inch cabinet width, standing 10 to 17 inches tall and 15 to 22 inches deep depending on the style. The table below covers the standard, low-profile, and compact configurations, all designed to mount above a range.
Over-the-range microwave dimensions by configuration#
| Configuration | Width (in) | Height (in) | Depth (in) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard over-the-range (30-inch) | 29.75–30 | 16–17 | 15–18 | the standard 30-inch range cabinet |
| Low-profile over-the-range | 29.75–30 | 10–11 | 20–22 | a slim look that clears tall pots |
| Compact over-the-range (24-inch) | 24 | 14–15 | 15–16 | a 24-inch range in small kitchens |
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Installation clearances for an over-the-range microwave#
- Mounting height: 66 in in from floor to the top of an over-the-range microwave, matching the surrounding cabinets.
- Cooktop clearance: 13–18 in in between the cooktop and the bottom of an over-the-range microwave for safe clearance.
- Cabinet width: 30 in in of cabinet opening a standard over-the-range microwave hangs from above the range.
- Venting: An over-the-range microwave replaces the range hood, so plan for recirculating or ducted venting behind it.
- Filter and blower: Choose recirculating charcoal filtration or a ducted rear blower path before hanging the upper cabinet bracket.
Will your over-the-range microwave fit? Clearances and door swing#
An over-the-range microwave replaces a cabinet above the cooktop, so it is sized to a 30-inch cabinet width and mounts with its base about 66 inches from the floor. The critical number is the gap between the cooktop and the microwave's underside: allow 13 to 18 inches so heat and steam clear the range safely. Measure the cabinet opening width, the wall height for the 66-inch mount, and the depth — standard units are 15 to 18 inches deep while low-profile ones reach 20 to 22 inches. Confirm the venting, whether recirculating or ducted, is planned before mounting, since it ties into the cabinet above.
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Over-the-range microwave sizes by type: standard over-the-range (30-inch), low-profile over-the-range, compact over-the-range (24-inch)#
The three over-the-range styles balance clearance and capacity. A standard over-the-range microwave, 29.75 to 30 inches wide and 16 to 17 inches tall at 15 to 18 inches deep, is the common choice with the most interior room. A low-profile model, the same width but only 10 to 11 inches tall, sits higher above the cooktop to ease the 13-to-18-inch clearance in a tight kitchen, trading interior height for headroom. A compact over-the-range, 24 inches wide and 14 to 15 inches tall, fits a narrower 24-inch cabinet run. All three mount at about 66 inches and span the 30-inch class.
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AGA-certified gas appliance specialist with 18 years of experience in residential and commercial oven, range, and cooktop repairs.
