We have an OTR MW as well and I love it. I'm only 5'2" and have no issues with the height. We a Whirlpool model and have had no issues with it for the probably 5 or more years we've had it. Bought at Best Buy at the time. Did not get the extended warranty. The bottom is probably about 2" lower than it really should be according to local building codes here but it doesn't interfere with any of the large pots I use. It has an auto fan that kicks on if what I'm cooking on the stove gets to steamy or smokey. We have little counter space so it was definitely the way to go for us. Wouldn't go back to a counter top model at all.