Tired of your kitchen feeling cramped? Imagine a single appliance that can roast a chicken, bake cookies, and zap leftovers, all while freeing up valuable counter space. Sounds like a dream, right? That’s the promise of an over-the-stove convection microwave, a kitchen powerhouse that can truly transform your cooking experience.
But let’s be honest, navigating the world of these multi-tasking marvels can be a bit overwhelming. With so many brands, features, and price points, it’s easy to feel lost. You want to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck and an appliance that actually fits your cooking style and your kitchen’s needs. You might be wondering about cooking times, fan power, or even if it’s tricky to install.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re here to cut through the confusion and give you the clear, straightforward information you need. By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a great over-the-stove convection microwave, what features really matter, and how to pick the perfect one for your home. Get ready to say goodbye to kitchen clutter and hello to faster, more versatile cooking!
Our Top 5 Over Stove Convection Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over Stove Convection Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer
Rating: 9.4/10
Level up your kitchen game with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance packs a punch, offering a ton of cooking options all in one. It’s more than just a microwave; it’s your new go-to for everything from reheating leftovers to making crispy, fried favorites.
What We Like:
- Spacious Capacity: The 1.5 cubic feet interior and large 13.6-inch turntable easily fit big meals and platters.
- Versatile Cooking: It’s a 6-in-1 powerhouse! You can microwave, air fry, bake, roast, use convection, and even grill.
- Healthier Air Frying: Enjoy your favorite fried foods with less oil, thanks to the dedicated air fry mode. It makes cooking healthier options super simple.
- Perfect Leftovers: The Sensor Reheat mode keeps your leftover food tasting fresh and delicious.
- Strong Ventilation: The 300 CFM vent fan with two speeds powerfully removes cooking smells and smoke. The built-in light helps you see clearly while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific model might have limited availability in some areas.
- While it offers many functions, mastering all of them might take a little practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic all-in-one solution for busy kitchens. It makes cooking and meal prep easier and more enjoyable.
2. 30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the 30″ ThermoMate Over the Range Microwave Oven. This spacious 1.9 Cu. Ft. microwave packs a punch with 1000 cooking watts and 11 power levels. It easily fits over your stove, offering convenience and style with its sleek stainless steel finish. This microwave is designed to make your cooking experience simpler and more efficient.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking and 11 adjustable power levels let you control heat precisely.
- The large 1.9 Cu. Ft. capacity handles big meals, and the included rack lets you cook multiple items at once.
- One-touch cooking options and 9 auto-cook programs like popcorn, potato, and pizza make meal prep a breeze.
- Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for perfect results every time.
- The 400 CFM, 2-speed ventilation fan effectively removes smoke, steam, and odors.
- Bright LED lighting illuminates your cooktop, improving visibility.
- The removable glass turntable ensures even heating by rotating food 360°.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the internal dimensions are listed, a more detailed breakdown of shelf space might be helpful for some users.
- The product name is quite long, which can be a minor inconvenience for quick searches or discussions.
This ThermoMate microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering powerful performance and smart features. It makes cooking and ventilation effortless.
3. Sharp R1874T 1.1 cu. ft. 850W Sharp Stainless Steel Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
The Sharp R1874T is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This over-the-range convection microwave does more than just heat food; it truly cooks! With 850 watts of power, it can brown, bake, broil, crisp, and roast, making it a versatile appliance. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great above your stove, and the 1.1 cubic foot interior offers plenty of space for most meals. The 13-inch turntable ensures your food heats evenly every time.
What We Like:
- It’s a convection microwave, so it can bake and roast, not just microwave.
- The Smart and Easy sensor settings take the guesswork out of cooking.
- The built-in exhaust system with a powerful fan and hood light helps keep your kitchen air clean and bright.
- It comes with low and high racks, giving you more cooking options.
- The 2-color, 7-digit interactive display is easy to read and use.
- The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to wipe clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many functions, some users might find the sheer number of options a bit overwhelming at first.
- The outer dimensions are quite standard, but it’s always good to measure your space carefully before purchasing.
This Sharp microwave is a powerful and multi-talented kitchen helper. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking capabilities.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This 1.9 cu.ft. microwave packs a powerful 1000 watts for quick cooking. It’s designed to be placed above your range, saving valuable counter space. This microwave makes meal prep a breeze with its smart features and generous capacity.
What We Like:
- One-Touch Convenience: Enjoy pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potatoes, veggies, pizza, snacks, bacon, frozen dinners, rice, and frozen breakfast. Just select and go!
- Powerful Performance: With 1000 watts and ten power settings, this microwave heats food quickly and evenly.
- Bright Cooktop Lighting: The LED cooktop light provides clear illumination for your stovetop, making cooking safer and easier.
- Efficient Venting: The two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system effectively removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Flexible Cooking: The Turntable On/Off function lets you cook large dishes without them hitting the sides.
- User-Friendly Features: Includes a clock, kitchen timer, 30-second express cooking, and a child lock for added safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size for Some Kitchens: At 29.9 inches wide, it might be a bit large for very compact kitchens.
- Installation Clarity: While English instructions are available online, some users might prefer them included in the box.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 is a feature-rich over-the-range microwave that offers both convenience and power. It’s a solid choice for busy households looking to simplify their cooking routine.
5. GE Profile 1.7 cu. ft. Over The Range Microwave in Stainless Steel with Air Fry PVM9179SRSS
Rating: 9.0/10
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 offers a generous capacity for cooking and reheating meals. Plus, the sleek stainless steel finish looks great above your stove. This microwave is designed to make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- The air fry feature is a game-changer. You can make crispy fries and chicken wings right in your microwave!
- It has a powerful 1000-watt cooking system, so your food heats up quickly and evenly.
- The sensor cooking automatically adjusts cooking time and power, taking the guesswork out of meal prep.
- The control panel is easy to read and use, even for beginners.
- The bright LED interior light lets you see your food clearly as it cooks.
- It’s a GE Profile appliance, which means you’re getting quality and reliability.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a good capacity, very large dishes might be a tight squeeze.
- The air fry basket, while effective, needs to be cleaned separately.
- Some users might find the initial setup slightly more involved than a basic microwave.
If you’re looking for a versatile and high-performing microwave that won’t break the bank, the GE Profile PVM9179SRSS is a smart choice. It truly offers great tools at a great price.
Your Guide to Over-the-Stove Convection Microwaves
Thinking about upgrading your kitchen? An over-the-stove convection microwave is a smart choice. It saves space and gives you more cooking options. Let’s break down what makes a good one.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you shop, keep these important features in mind.
- Size and Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually cook. A bigger microwave can fit larger dishes. Most over-the-stove models are around 30 inches wide.
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 1000 watts for good performance.
- Convection Cooking: This is a big plus! Convection ovens use a fan to circulate hot air. This cooks food more evenly and makes it crispy, like a regular oven. You can bake, roast, and broil with it.
- Ventilation System: Since it’s over your stove, it needs to vent smoke and steam. Check how strong the fan is (measured in CFM – cubic feet per minute). A higher CFM is better for clearing the air. Also, see if it can vent outside or if it recirculates air.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature takes the guesswork out. Sensors detect the moisture in your food and adjust cooking time and power automatically. It helps prevent overcooking or undercooking.
- Turntable: Most microwaves have a turntable that rotates food. This ensures even heating. Some models let you turn it off if you have a large rectangular dish.
- Interior Lighting: A good light helps you see your food as it cooks.
- Control Panel: Look for a panel that is easy to understand and use. Some have touch controls, while others have buttons.
Important Materials
The materials used can affect how long your microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.
- Interior: Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to wipe clean. They also resist stains and odors better than plastic interiors.
- Exterior: Stainless steel exteriors are popular because they look sleek. Other options include black stainless steel or white. Make sure the exterior is fingerprint-resistant if you don’t want to wipe it down constantly.
- Door: The door usually has a glass window so you can see inside. Make sure it feels sturdy.
Quality Matters: What Makes it Good or Not So Good
Several things make an over-the-stove convection microwave great or just okay.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels solid. The door should open and close smoothly. The buttons or touch panel should respond well. Cheaper models might feel flimsy.
- Even Cooking: A good convection microwave cooks food evenly, both in microwave and convection modes. Food shouldn’t have hot or cold spots.
- Ventilation Power: A strong vent fan is crucial. If the fan is weak, smoke and smells will linger in your kitchen.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud. Check reviews to see if a particular model is known for being quiet.
- Ease of Cleaning: Smooth interior surfaces and removable turntables make cleaning much easier.
User Experience and Use Cases
An over-the-stove convection microwave is super versatile.
- Saving Space: This is the biggest win! It replaces both a microwave and an oven vent, freeing up counter space.
- Quick Meals: Use the microwave function for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking frozen meals fast.
- Baking and Roasting: The convection feature lets you bake cookies, roast chicken, or toast bread. It’s like having a second oven! This is great for busy families or when you need to cook multiple dishes.
- Broiling: Some models offer a broil function, which is perfect for browning the tops of casseroles or cooking fish.
- Under Cabinet Lighting: Most models have built-in lights to illuminate your stovetop. This is very handy when you’re cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
Q: What is convection cooking in a microwave?
A: Convection cooking uses a fan to blow hot air around inside the microwave. This cooks food more evenly and makes it crispy, just like a regular oven.
Q: How powerful should the vent fan be?
A: Look for a fan with at least 300 CFM (cubic feet per minute). Higher CFM means it clears smoke and smells better.
Q: Do I need to vent it outside?
A: It’s best to vent it outside if you can. If not, it will recirculate air and filter out some grease and odors.
Q: Can I bake a cake in it?
A: Yes, most convection microwaves can bake cakes, cookies, and other desserts. It works very much like a small oven.
Q: How do I clean the inside?
A: Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. Remove the turntable and wash it separately.
Q: Are they hard to install?
A: Installation can be tricky. It’s often best to have an electrician or a professional installer do it, especially if you need to connect it to an outside vent.
Q: What’s the difference between a microwave and a convection microwave?
A: A regular microwave heats food with waves. A convection microwave can do that, plus it can bake, roast, and broil using hot air.
Q: Will it fit over my standard stove?
A: Most over-the-stove microwaves are designed to fit standard 30-inch wide stove openings. Always check the dimensions before buying.
Q: How long do they typically last?
A: With good care, an over-the-stove convection microwave can last between 7 to 15 years.
Q: Are they noisy?
A: Some models are quieter than others. Reading user reviews can help you find a model that isn’t too loud.
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!