Tired of that old microwave that just reheats food? Imagine a kitchen helper that not only quickly heats your leftovers but also bakes crispy cookies and roasts chicken to perfection. That’s the magic of an over-the-range convection microwave! But with so many models out there, picking the right one can feel like a puzzle. You want one that fits your space, cooks great, and doesn’t break the bank, right?
Choosing an over-the-range convection microwave can be tricky. You might worry about installation, how well it actually bakes, or if it has all the features you need. It’s easy to get lost in technical terms and confusing specs. We get it! That’s why we’ve put together this guide to make your decision much easier.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the important features, share tips for finding the best models, and help you understand what makes a convection microwave a true kitchen game-changer. Let’s dive in and find the perfect over-the-range convection microwave for your home!
Our Top 5 Rated Over The Range Convection Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Over The Range Convection Microwave 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: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel appliance does more than just heat food. It’s a versatile cooking partner that offers convection baking and even air frying. Plus, with this special bundle, you get a GE USA AUTHORIZED product that includes a full manufacturer’s warranty and an extra 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Plan. You’ll also find a recirculating charcoal filter kit in the box, making installation a breeze.
What We Like:
- It’s a convection oven and an air fryer, so it cooks in many ways.
- The 1.7 cu. ft. size is good for most families.
- Fast Cook feature saves you time.
- The bundle gives you extra peace of mind with two protection plans.
- The stainless steel look is sleek and modern.
- It’s easy to install over your range.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the dimensions a bit large for very small kitchens.
- The initial learning curve for convection and air fry settings could be a bit tricky for beginners.
This GE microwave bundle offers a fantastic combination of features and protection. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their cooking capabilities and enjoy worry-free use for years to come.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave. This spacious 1.9 cu.ft. microwave packs a powerful 1000-watt punch, making meal prep quick and easy. It features one-touch auto-cooking for a variety of foods, a bright LED cooktop light, and a robust 400 CFM venting system to keep your kitchen fresh. Plus, a handy turntable on/off option lets you fit larger dishes.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking heats food fast.
- Pre-programmed auto menus simplify cooking for popcorn, potatoes, vegetables, pizza, snacks, bacon, frozen dinners, rice, and frozen breakfasts.
- The 400 CFM venting fan effectively removes cooking smells and smoke.
- Bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your stovetop for safe cooking.
- The Turntable On/Off function is great for oversized dishes.
- A child lock feature adds safety for households with kids.
- Express cooking for 30 seconds is a convenient shortcut.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 1.9 cu.ft. capacity a bit large for smaller kitchens.
- The English installation instructions, while available, could be more prominently displayed.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a great combination of power, convenience, and useful features for any busy kitchen. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your cooking experience.
3. Furrion 2022007898 Over-The-Range Convection RV Microwave Oven – 1.5 cu. ft.
Rating: 9.1/10
The Furrion 2022007898 Over-The-Range Convection RV Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any RV kitchen. This stainless steel appliance boasts a generous 1.5 cubic feet of space, perfect for cooking meals on the go. It’s designed to handle the unique demands of RV travel, offering both convenience and durability.
What We Like:
- It has convection cooking with 10 different temperature settings. This means you can bake and brown your food, not just microwave it.
- The bright LED display clearly shows the timer, clock, and what functions are currently on. It’s easy to read.
- You can choose how it vents. It can push air outside your RV or bring it back inside to recirculate.
- It comes with 30-watt appliance bulbs. These light up your cooking area nicely.
- This microwave is built tough. It’s durable and vibration resistant, so it can handle the bumps and shakes of RV travel.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the convection feature is great, some users might find that the 10 temperature settings are not enough for very specific baking needs.
- The “over-the-range” installation can be a bit tricky for some RV models, and may require professional help.
Overall, the Furrion 2022007898 is a solid choice for RV owners looking for a versatile and tough microwave. It brings the functionality of a home oven to your mobile adventures.
4. CONTOURE RV Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven: 1.6 Cu.Ft.
Rating: 9.1/10
The CONTOURE RV Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven, model RV-450BK-OTR, is a powerful and versatile appliance designed to make cooking in your RV a breeze. Its sleek black finish and over-the-range design save valuable counter space, while its generous 1.6 cu.ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
What We Like:
- Powerful Convection Cooking: The RapidCook Power Convection function cooks food quickly and evenly, cutting down your kitchen time.
- Family-Friendly Design: With a big 1.6 cu.ft. space, 10 power levels, and preset buttons, it’s great for feeding everyone on your adventures.
- Bright LED Lighting: The LED lights illuminate the cooking area, making it easy to see your food as it cooks.
- Easy Cleanup: The dishwasher-safe glass tray rotates for even heating and is simple to clean.
- Effective Ventilation: The dual-speed 300 CFM fan and vent system clear smoke, steam, and smells from your RV kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation may require professional help for some RV owners.
- The user manual could be more detailed for first-time convection users.
This CONTOURE microwave is a fantastic upgrade for any RV kitchen, offering convenience and performance. It truly enhances the cooking experience on the go.
5. 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 offers a lot of cooking power and convenience for your kitchen. It’s designed to be a great tool that fits your budget. This microwave doesn’t just reheat food; it can also air fry your favorite snacks to crispy perfection. Plus, its sleek stainless steel finish looks good above your stove.
What We Like:
- It has an air fry function, letting you make crispy foods without a separate appliance.
- The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is generous for most meals and dishes.
- The stainless steel design adds a modern touch to your kitchen.
- It comes at a really good price point, making it a smart buy.
- The control panel is easy to understand and use, even for beginners.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the fan noise a bit loud during operation.
- While it’s a great value, the advanced features might not be as robust as pricier, specialized air fryers.
For anyone looking for a versatile microwave that offers more than just basic reheating, the GE Profile PVM9179SRSS is a solid option. It delivers great tools at a great price.
Your Guide to the Best Over-the-Range Convection Microwave
Are you looking to upgrade your kitchen with a handy appliance that can do more than just reheat leftovers? An over-the-range convection microwave is a fantastic choice. It saves counter space and offers versatile cooking options. Let’s dive into what makes a great one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Convection Cooking: This is the star of the show! Convection means the microwave has a fan that circulates hot air. This cooks food more evenly and can even brown and crisp it, just like a regular oven. Look for microwaves with adjustable convection temperatures.
- Power Levels: Most microwaves have multiple power levels. Higher wattage (measured in watts) means faster cooking. Aim for at least 1000 watts for efficient performance.
- Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Measure the space above your range and consider how much food you usually cook. A capacity of 1.6 to 2.0 cubic feet is common and works for most families.
- Sensor Cooking: This smart feature detects the humidity of your food and adjusts cooking time and power automatically. It’s great for getting perfect results without guesswork.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures your food cooks evenly. Some models let you turn it off for larger dishes.
- Ventilation System: Since it’s over the range, good ventilation is crucial. Look for models with powerful fans (measured in CFM – cubic feet per minute) and filters to clear smoke and odors. Some also have a recirculating option if you can’t vent outside.
- Pre-programmed Settings: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, or defrosting. These can be super convenient.
- Interior Lighting: A bright light inside helps you see your food as it cooks.
Important Materials
The materials used affect durability and cleaning.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for both the exterior and interior. It looks sleek, is durable, and resists fingerprints.
- Ceramic Enamel Interior: This is a smooth, non-stick surface that’s easy to wipe clean. It’s also scratch-resistant.
- Glass Turntable: Most turntables are made of durable glass.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: A sturdy feel and well-fitting door suggest good construction. Cheaper models might feel flimsy.
- Fan Noise: The ventilation fan can be noisy. Check reviews to see how loud the fan is. A quieter fan is generally preferred.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior with no hard-to-reach corners makes cleaning a breeze. Removable turntables are also a plus.
- Intuitive Controls: Buttons and a clear display make it easy to select settings and start cooking. Confusing controls can be frustrating.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often offer better quality and customer support.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using an over-the-range convection microwave is a game-changer for many kitchens.
- Saving Space: The biggest win is freeing up your countertops. Everything you need is right above your stove.
- Versatile Cooking: You can microwave, bake, broil, and roast! This is perfect for smaller kitchens or for when you don’t want to heat up a large oven.
- Quick Meals: It’s ideal for busy weeknights. Reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, or even bake a small cake.
- Defrosting: Sensor defrost takes the guesswork out of thawing frozen meats and other items.
- Easy Cleanup: Many models have self-cleaning functions or easy-to-wipe surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a regular microwave and a convection microwave?
A: A regular microwave uses invisible waves to heat food. A convection microwave adds a fan and heating element, just like a regular oven. This means it can bake, roast, and brown food, not just heat it.
Q: Can I bake a cake in an over-the-range convection microwave?
A: Yes! The convection feature allows you to bake cakes, cookies, and other treats. Just follow the recipe and use the convection setting.
Q: How powerful should my over-the-range microwave be?
A: Aim for at least 1000 watts. Higher wattage means your food will cook faster and more evenly.
Q: What does CFM mean for the ventilation system?
A: CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM means the fan is stronger and will remove smoke and smells from your kitchen more effectively.
Q: Is stainless steel easy to clean on a microwave?
A: Stainless steel looks great, but it can show fingerprints. Many stainless steel microwaves have a special coating to resist them. Wiping it down with a damp cloth usually works well.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Measure the space above your stove carefully. Also, think about how much food you usually cook. A capacity between 1.6 and 2.0 cubic feet is a good general size.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect the moisture in your food. It then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power to cook your food perfectly.
Q: Can I use metal in a convection microwave?
A: Yes, you can use oven-safe metal cookware in convection mode, just like in a regular oven. However, never use metal in microwave-only mode, as it can cause sparks and damage the appliance.
Q: How often should I clean the filters?
A: You should clean or replace your range hood filters regularly, usually every 1-3 months, depending on how often you cook and what you cook. This keeps the ventilation working well.
Q: Are over-the-range convection microwaves worth the extra cost?
A: For many people, yes. They save space, offer more cooking options, and can replace the need for a separate toaster oven or small oven. This makes them a versatile and valuable addition to the kitchen.
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!