Depends on where you have the room for it. AnOTR should be the last resort.

Why is " over the range' now out of favor?

I always douted about the microwave over the range and now you all convinced me to have the regular hood and I will probably place my micro in the pantry.

Over the range is out because of several reasons related to function - these reasons do not affect everyone. I am short and don't like reaching up. Some are higher than others. My elderly mother can no longer reach up to hers. When they are lower, they crowd the cooking area. The vents in an OTR do not work as well as a dedicated vent. My microwave was not over the range, but just as high on a shelf. I turned the space into a plate rail. I thought I was just getting old, but my short daughters were happy when I moved it down. I do like the microwave over the wall oven - not so high as over the range but I like a counter in front of the microwave too.

If I ever do a new kitchen, I would do something like this:

Jhmarie.....they look very nice. I have never had an issue with it OTR. The stovetop acts as a shelf/resting place if needed for me. I have never used the vent in 30 years, I do not care for hoods.

grapefruit - you would be one of the people who do not have a functional problem and are happy with an OTR microwave:)