Imagine a kitchen where one appliance can do it all: crisp up fries, reheat leftovers, and even vent your stovetop. That’s the promise of an over-the-range microwave air fryer combo! But with so many models hitting the market, how do you pick the one that actually lives up to the hype? It can feel like a puzzle trying to figure out which features matter, which brands to trust, and what will truly make your cooking easier.
Choosing the right appliance for your kitchen can be overwhelming. You want something that saves space, cooks well, and fits your budget. That’s where Consumer Reports comes in. We’ve done the hard work for you, testing and comparing the latest over-the-range microwave air fryer combos.
By reading on, you’ll discover which models deliver the best performance, offering crispier air-fried foods, efficient microwaving, and reliable ventilation. We’ll break down the pros and cons so you can confidently select the perfect addition to your kitchen, making meal prep a breeze. Let’s dive into the details and find your ideal cooking companion.
Our Top 5 Over The Range Microwave Air Fryer Combo Consumer Reports Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Range Microwave Air Fryer Combo Consumer Reports Detailed Reviews
1. GE Profile 1.7 cu. ft. Over The Range Microwave in Stainless Steel with Air Fry PVM9179SRSS
Rating: 8.6/10
The GE Profile 1.7 cu. ft. Over The Range Microwave in Stainless Steel with Air Fry PVM9179SRSS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s not just a microwave; it’s a versatile cooking tool that helps you prepare a wide range of meals quickly and easily. With its sleek stainless steel finish, it looks great above your stove and saves valuable counter space.
What We Like:
- The air fry feature is amazing! You can make crispy foods like fries and chicken wings right in your microwave.
- It has a good size capacity at 1.7 cubic feet, so it fits most of your dishes.
- The microwave heats food evenly and quickly, saving you time.
- It’s surprisingly simple to operate, even with all its advanced features.
- The price point is very reasonable for what you get. It’s great tools at a great price.
- The stainless steel design is easy to clean and looks very modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- The fan can be a bit noisy when it’s running at high speeds.
- Some users might find the control panel a little busy at first, but you get used to it.
This GE Profile microwave is a smart choice for anyone looking for a multi-functional appliance that offers excellent value. It really makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.
2. GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance does more than just heat food; it cooks, air fries, and even fast cooks! It’s a versatile addition that makes meal prep a breeze. Plus, this bundle comes with a fantastic protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Air Fry capability lets you enjoy crispy favorites without the extra oil.
- Convection cooking provides even baking and roasting, just like your oven.
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is roomy enough for most family meals.
- Fast Cook option speeds up cooking times for busy nights.
- GE USA Authorized means you get genuine product support.
- 2 Year Extended Protection Plan is included in addition to the full manufacturer’s warranty, offering excellent value and security.
- Recirculating Charcoal Filter Kit is included for easy setup.
What Could Be Improved:
- The overall dimensions (16 5/16 H x 29 7/8 W x 17 1/4 D) require careful measurement to ensure a proper fit above your range.
This GE Profile microwave bundle offers a lot of cooking power and convenience. The added protection plan makes it an even smarter investment for your home.
3. Professional 30 in. 1.9 cu. ft. Over-The-Range Microwave in Stainless Steel with Vent and Air Fry
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with this sleek, professional-grade over-the-range microwave. It’s packed with features like a powerful vent and a handy air fryer, making it a versatile addition to any home. Plus, its stylish stainless steel finish looks great above your stovetop.
What We Like:
- This microwave cooks food quickly and evenly.
- The air fryer function makes crispy, delicious food.
- It comes with a strong vent to clear smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- The stainless steel design is easy to clean and looks modern.
- It’s large enough to fit a big dinner plate or a casserole dish.
- The RV/TRAILER COMPATIBLE feature is a unique bonus for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer for some of the advanced features.
- The mounting bracket for RVs might require some DIY skills to install securely.
This microwave offers a great combination of style and function for your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking indoors or planning an adventure, this appliance is ready to perform.
4. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave is a real workhorse, perfect for heating up leftovers or cooking quick meals. It easily fits above your stove, saving you valuable counter space. Plus, this bundle comes with an extra layer of security thanks to the 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Generous Capacity: The 1.6 cu. ft. size lets you heat or cook larger dishes.
- Convenience Cooking: It features easy-to-use controls for simple operation.
- Enhanced Protection: The included 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack adds extra security for your purchase.
- Value Bundle: You get the microwave and a charcoal filter replacement, plus the extended warranty all in one package.
- Stylish Design: The stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Detailed Control Information: The description mentions “convenience cooking controls” but doesn’t specify what these are.
- Filter Location Clarity: While it includes a charcoal filter replacement for “behind the door grille,” the exact location might not be obvious without seeing the product.
This GE microwave bundle offers a great combination of functionality and protection for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.3/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile addition to any kitchen. It boasts 1000 watts of cooking power, making it great for quick meals and reheating. The 1.9 cubic foot capacity means you can fit large dishes inside. This microwave also comes with helpful features like auto cooking menus and a bright LED cooktop light. It’s designed to make your cooking experience easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- It has a generous 1.9 cu.ft. capacity, so you can cook larger meals.
- The 1000-watt power cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Pre-programmed auto menus take the guesswork out of cooking common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan effectively removes smoke and odors from your stovetop.
- The cooktop LED lighting provides excellent visibility for cooking below.
- The turntable can be turned on or off, allowing flexibility for different dish sizes.
- It includes useful features like a clock, kitchen timer, and a 30-second express cook button.
- A child lock feature adds safety for households with young children.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many auto-cook options, some users might prefer more customization for certain foods.
- The internal dimensions, while good, might be a tight fit for exceptionally large pots or pans.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven offers a great blend of power, capacity, and user-friendly features. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen appliances.
Your Guide to Over-the-Range Microwave Air Fryer Combos
Are you looking for a kitchen helper that does more than just reheat leftovers? An over-the-range (OTR) microwave air fryer combo might be your answer. These appliances save counter space. They also give you the power of a microwave and the crisping ability of an air fryer. This guide will help you choose the best one for your kitchen.
1. Key Features to Look For
Microwave Power
Microwave power is measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for efficient heating and cooking.
Air Frying Capacity
Check the air fryer basket size. You want one big enough for your family’s needs. Some have special racks to cook more food at once.
Convection Cooking
Many OTR combos have a convection fan. This helps cook food evenly and gives it a nice brown crust. It’s like a mini oven inside your microwave.
Sensor Cooking/Reheating
This feature senses the moisture in your food. It adjusts cooking time and power automatically. This prevents overcooking and drying out your meals.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for interior surfaces that are easy to wipe down. Removable turntables and dishwasher-safe racks make cleaning much simpler.
Ventilation Options
Since it’s mounted over the range, good ventilation is crucial. Check if it has a recirculating or externally venting option. Ensure the fan power is strong enough for your stove.
Presets and Smart Features
Many models come with pre-programmed settings for common foods. Some even connect to Wi-Fi for app control or recipe downloads.
2. Important Materials
Interior Cavity
Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to clean. Ceramic-coated interiors are also a good choice as they resist scratches and are simple to wipe down.
Exterior Finish
Stainless steel is popular for its sleek look. Black stainless steel and fingerprint-resistant finishes are also available. Choose a finish that matches your other appliances.
Air Fry Basket/Rack
A sturdy metal basket or rack is essential for air frying. Ensure it’s coated with a non-stick material that is also easy to clean.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built unit feels solid. Buttons should be responsive, and doors should open and close smoothly. This indicates better durability.
Performance Consistency
Does the microwave heat evenly? Does the air fryer crisp food without burning it? Read reviews to see how well the appliance performs across its different functions.
Noise Level
Some OTR microwaves can be quite noisy. Look for models that are quieter, especially if your kitchen is open to living areas.
User Interface
Is the control panel intuitive? Can you easily select modes and adjust settings? A confusing interface can be frustrating.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Imagine this: You want crispy chicken wings for a game night. Instead of using your main oven, you pop them into your OTR microwave’s air fryer. They come out perfectly golden and crunchy. Then, you need to quickly heat up some soup. The microwave function does that in a flash.
These combos are great for small kitchens. They are also perfect for busy households. You can cook entire meals with them. Roast vegetables, bake small batches of cookies, or reheat pizza. They offer versatility. They save you time and effort.
Think about your cooking habits. Do you air fry often? Do you need a powerful microwave? Choose a unit that fits your lifestyle. A good OTR microwave air fryer combo can be a game-changer in your kitchen.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of an OTR microwave air fryer combo?
A: The main benefit is saving counter space. You get two appliances in one, mounted conveniently above your stove.
Q: How does the air frying function work in these microwaves?
A: The air fryer function uses a powerful fan. It circulates hot air around the food. This makes it crispy, similar to deep-frying but with less oil.
Q: Can I air fry large items in an OTR microwave?
A: It depends on the model’s capacity. Most are best for smaller portions or side dishes. Check the specific dimensions and basket size.
Q: Is cleaning difficult for these appliances?
A: Cleaning varies by model. Look for stainless steel or ceramic interiors and dishwasher-safe racks for easier maintenance.
Q: Do I need special cookware for the air fryer function?
A: Generally, no. You can use oven-safe pans or the included racks. Avoid plastic or materials not rated for high heat.
Q: How does the ventilation system work?
A: OTR microwaves have fans to remove smoke and steam from cooking. They can either recirculate air through filters or vent it outside your home.
Q: Are these combos as good as separate appliances?
A: They offer great convenience and space-saving. However, a dedicated air fryer might have a larger capacity or more specialized features.
Q: What wattage should I look for in the microwave function?
A: A minimum of 900 watts is recommended for efficient and quick microwave cooking.
Q: Can I use the microwave and air fryer at the same time?
A: No, you typically cannot use both functions simultaneously. You choose one mode at a time.
Q: Are there any safety considerations?
A: Ensure proper installation according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Always use oven-safe accessories and follow cooking guidelines.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!