Imagine a kitchen where one appliance does the work of two, saving you precious counter space and making meal prep a breeze. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that’s exactly what a convection microwave over range promises to deliver.
But let’s be honest, choosing one can feel overwhelming. With so many brands, features, and price points, it’s easy to get lost. Are you unsure if you need the convection feature? Wondering about installation or how much cooking power is enough? You’re not alone! Many homeowners face these same questions, and finding clear answers can be tough.
This guide is here to help. We’ll break down everything you need to know about convection microwaves over range, from understanding what makes them special to identifying the best options for your kitchen. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to enjoy the benefits of this versatile appliance.
Our Top 5 Convection Microwave Over Range Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Convection Microwave Over Range Detailed Reviews
1. GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.3/10
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 perfect for busy families who want to save time and enjoy delicious meals. Plus, with the included 2-year extended protection plan, you get extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Versatile Cooking: Air fry, convection bake, and microwave all in one! This oven handles all your cooking needs.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is big enough for most dishes and family-sized meals.
- Convenient Features: Fast Cook option speeds up meal prep.
- Complete Package: It comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit and a 2-year extended service protection plan, adding great value.
- Extended Warranty: You get a full manufacturer’s warranty plus an additional 2 years of enhanced protection for worry-free use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation: Over-the-range installation can sometimes be tricky and might require professional help.
- Learning Curve: With so many features, it may take a little time to learn how to use all its functions efficiently.
This GE microwave bundle offers fantastic value and advanced cooking options. It’s a smart investment for any modern kitchen looking for both style and functionality.
2. CONTOURE RV Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven: 1.6 Cu.Ft.
Rating: 8.8/10
This CONTOURE RV Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven: 1.6 Cu.Ft. | 1000W | LED | Express Cooking | Ventilation System | Black | RV-450BK-OTR is a fantastic addition to any RV kitchen. It combines powerful cooking with smart design, making meal prep a breeze even when you’re on the go.
What We Like:
- Powerful Convection Cooking: The RapidCook Power Convection function cooks food quickly and evenly. It really cuts down on cooking time.
- Family-Friendly Design: The large 1.6 cu.ft. capacity is great for cooking meals for the whole family. With 10 power levels and preset options, it’s super easy to use.
- LED Illumination: Bright LED lights inside the oven make it easy to see your food while it’s cooking. This helps you keep an eye on everything.
- Even Heating with Convenience: The dishwasher-safe rotating glass tray makes cleanup simple. It also ensures your food heats up evenly every time.
- Efficient Ventilation: The powerful dual-speed 300 CFM fan and vent system effectively remove smoke, steam, and odors. Your RV kitchen will stay fresh and clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific installation requirements for RVs might need careful attention.
- While powerful, the convection feature might take a little practice to master for perfect results.
This CONTOURE convection microwave is a high-performing appliance that truly enhances the RV cooking experience. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who loves to cook while traveling.
3. Sharp R1874T 1.1 cu. ft. 850W Sharp Stainless Steel Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The Sharp R1874T 1.1 cu. ft. 850W Stainless Steel Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It does more than just heat food; it can also brown, bake, broil, crisp, and roast. This makes it a great option for busy kitchens that need to do a lot. Its sleek stainless steel design fits well above most stoves.
What We Like:
- This microwave is a convection oven, meaning it can bake and roast just like a regular oven.
- It has Smart and Easy sensor settings that take the guesswork out of cooking.
- The 1.1-cubic-foot interior and 13-inch turntable are large enough for most meals and ensure even heating.
- The built-in exhaust system with a powerful fan and hood light keeps your kitchen air clean and well-lit.
- It comes with low and high racks, giving you options for different types of cooking.
- The 2-color, 7-digit interactive display is easy to read and use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the outer dimensions a bit large for smaller kitchens.
- While it offers convection cooking, it may not replace a full-sized oven for very large baking projects.
This Sharp over-the-range microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a wide range of cooking functions in one appliance. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to save space and time.
4. Furrion 2022007898 Over-The-Range Convection RV Microwave Oven – 1.5 cu. ft.
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your RV kitchen with the Furrion 2022007898 Over-The-Range Convection RV Microwave Oven. This stainless steel appliance offers a generous 1.5 cubic feet of space, perfect for preparing meals on the go. It’s designed to handle the rigors of RV travel while giving you more cooking options than a standard microwave.
What We Like:
- The convection cooking feature is a big plus. It has 10 temperature settings, so you can bake and brown your food just right.
- The LED display is clear and easy to read. It shows you the timer, clock, and what functions are on.
- You have options for ventilation. It can push air outside your RV or bring it back in.
- It comes with 30-watt appliance bulbs to light up your stovetop.
- This microwave is built tough. It’s durable and vibration resistant, meaning it can handle the bumps and shakes of the road.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers great features, the initial setup and installation might require some specific RV knowledge.
- The 1.5 cu. ft. capacity, though ample for many, might be a little small for larger families or extensive meal prep.
The Furrion 2022007898 is a solid choice for RV owners seeking a versatile and robust over-the-range microwave. It brings convenience and enhanced cooking capabilities to your mobile adventures.
5. KoolMore 30-inch 1.5 cu. ft. Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the KoolMore 30-inch 1.5 cu. ft. Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless-steel appliance offers both microwave and convection cooking, making it a versatile addition to any home. Its 900-watt power ensures quick and efficient cooking.
What We Like:
- It offers both microwave and convection cooking, giving you many ways to prepare food.
- You can choose from 10 power levels for precise cooking.
- The digital control panel is easy to use with one-touch settings.
- The diamond-shaped stainless-steel interior helps cook food evenly.
- It’s built to be safe and energy-efficient, and it comes with a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation requires specific cabinet and floor clearances, so measure carefully.
This KoolMore microwave is a great choice for busy kitchens. It makes cooking easier and adds a modern look to your space.
Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend: The Convection Microwave Over Range Buying Guide
Are you looking to upgrade your kitchen? A convection microwave over range is a fantastic appliance. It saves space and offers great cooking power. Let’s explore what makes a good one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep these important features in mind:
Capacity
This is how much food you can fit inside. Most models range from 1.6 to 2.2 cubic feet. Think about how much you cook. A larger family might need a bigger one. Smaller households can get by with a standard size.
Wattage
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most convection microwaves offer around 1000-1200 watts for microwave cooking. Convection cooking wattage can vary. More power is generally better for efficient cooking.
Convection Settings
This is what makes it special! Look for different convection modes. Common ones include bake, roast, and broil. Some models even have air fry. These settings let you cook like a regular oven.
Sensor Cooking
Sensors detect moisture and humidity. They adjust cooking time and power automatically. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking food. It makes cooking much easier.
Turntable
A turntable spins food around. This ensures even cooking. Make sure it’s large enough for your typical dishes. Some models allow you to turn the turntable off for larger items.
Ventilation System
This is crucial since it sits over your stove. A good ventilation system removes smoke, steam, and odors. Look for models with multiple fan speeds. Check the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating. A higher CFM means stronger ventilation.
Important Materials
The materials used affect durability and cleaning.
Interior Finish
Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to clean. Ceramic enamel is another good option. It resists scratches and stains. Avoid plastic interiors if possible, as they can scratch easily.
Exterior Finish
Stainless steel is popular for its sleek look. It matches other kitchen appliances well. Black stainless steel and fingerprint-resistant finishes are also available. These can help keep your appliance looking clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a convection microwave over range better or worse.
Build Quality
A sturdy build means the appliance will last longer. Check for solid hinges and a well-fitting door. Listen for smooth operation when you open and close it.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for removable turntables and easy-to-wipe interiors. Non-stick coatings can also help. A good ventilation system also reduces cleaning needed on your walls and ceiling.
Noise Level
Some microwaves can be quite loud. Check reviews to see if a particular model is known for being quiet. This is especially important for an appliance that’s always on in the kitchen.
User Interface
A simple and intuitive control panel makes using the appliance a breeze. Clear buttons and a readable display are key. Too many complicated options can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use this appliance?
Space Saving
The biggest advantage is saving counter space. It replaces both a microwave and a range hood. This is perfect for smaller kitchens.
Versatile Cooking
You can microwave, bake, roast, and broil. This appliance can handle many cooking tasks. It’s great for reheating leftovers, baking cookies, or roasting a chicken. It can even cook a whole meal.
Quick Meals
Use the microwave function for fast cooking. Then, use the convection setting for browning or crisping. You can achieve great results quickly.
Family Friendly
It’s easy for anyone in the family to use. The presets and sensor cooking make it simple. It can help kids prepare their own snacks safely.
Entertaining
Use it to keep dishes warm for parties. You can also bake appetizers or desserts. It frees up your main oven for other items.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a regular microwave and a convection microwave over range?
A: A regular microwave only heats food with microwaves. A convection microwave has a fan and heating element. This allows it to circulate hot air, like a regular oven. You can bake, roast, and broil with it.
Q: Do I need a special type of cookware for convection cooking?
A: Yes, you should use oven-safe cookware. This includes glass, ceramic, and metal pans. Avoid plastic or disposable containers. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: How powerful is the ventilation system usually?
A: Ventilation power varies. Look for CFM ratings. A higher CFM means it can move more air. Most over-the-range models have at least 300 CFM. This is usually enough for most stovetops.
Q: Can I use both microwave and convection at the same time?
A: Some models offer combination cooking. This means you can use both functions together. It can speed up cooking and give food a better texture.
Q: How do I clean the inside of a convection microwave over range?
A: First, unplug the appliance. Remove the turntable and wash it separately. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, a paste of baking soda and water can work. Always refer to your owner’s manual.
Q: What is sensor cooking, and why is it useful?
A: Sensor cooking uses humidity sensors. They detect how much moisture is in the food. The microwave then automatically adjusts cooking time and power. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking food, making your meals turn out better.
Q: How much space do I need above my stove for installation?
A: Installation requirements vary by model. Most need at least 66 inches from the floor to the bottom of the appliance. Always check the specific product’s installation manual before buying.
Q: Are convection microwaves over range energy efficient?
A: They can be more energy efficient than a full-sized oven for smaller tasks. Using the microwave function is very efficient. Convection cooking uses less energy than a traditional oven for similar results.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a convection microwave over range?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a convection microwave over range can last between 7 to 15 years. Regular cleaning and avoiding misuse will help it last longer.
Q: Can I install it myself, or do I need a professional?
A: Installation can be complex. It often involves mounting it securely and connecting it to electrical and ventilation systems. Many people hire a professional for safe and proper installation.
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!