While both varieties claim to clear the air of odor and heat one system is far superior to the other.
Do over the stove microwaves have exhaust fans.
Since a range hood protrudes further it also does a better job of capturing smoke steam and cooking odors and venting them outdoors.
If you can redesign one of your cupboards as a microwave barn somewhere other than above the stove i d do it.
Virtually all building codes require a ventilation system installed over the kitchen stove.
I have a great jenn air exhaust fan and light that retracts under the cupboard over my stove top.
However they also have built in exhaust fans which serve as a stove top ventilation system to.
It gives needed light and has a 3 speed exhaust fan.
However exhaust fans are recommended for removing odors heat smoke and fumes that collect above the stovetop.
An over the range microwave only needs an exhaust fan vent if it is required by code.
Unlike countertop models otr microwaves are not portable and they boast a higher price tag.
This ventilation system has a light that illuminates the stovetop surface and a fan that removes smoke and steam from the air.
Over the range microwaves can vent to the outside or can recirculate the air.
Over the range microwaves have a light and fan built into the bottom of the appliance.
Over the range otr mounted microwave ovens can save space in your kitchen but the exhaust fan in a microwave often just recirculates the air rather than venting it to the outside.