Top 5 RV Microwaves: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

Imagine this: after a long day of exploring scenic routes and setting up camp, you’re craving a warm, comforting meal. But the thought of firing up a bulky stove or waiting for a campfire is just too much work. What if you could heat up leftovers or make a quick snack in minutes, right inside your RV? That’s where the magic of an RV microwave comes in!

Choosing the perfect microwave for your home on wheels can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many different sizes, wattages, and features to consider. You want something that fits your space, powers up quickly, and is easy to use, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. Plus, you have to think about how much power it uses and if it will work well with your RV’s electrical system.

Don’t worry! By the time you finish reading this, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great RV microwave. We’ll break down the important features, discuss different types, and even offer tips on installation. Get ready to make your RV kitchen more convenient and enjoyable!

Our Top 5 Microwave For Rv Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Microwave For Rv Detailed Reviews

1. RecPro RV Microwave with Trim Kit

RecPro RV Microwave with Trim Kit | 1.0 Cu. Ft. | 900W | Direct replacement for Greystone and High Pointe (Black)

Rating: 9.2/10

Upgrade your RV kitchen with the RecPro RV Microwave with Trim Kit. This 1.0 cu. ft. microwave packs a 900W punch, making it a powerful and convenient addition to your mobile living space. It’s designed as a direct replacement for Greystone and High Pointe models, ensuring a hassle-free installation.

What We Like:

  • Easy Cooking: Features a 30-second instant start and 8 express cook options for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
  • Polished Look: Comes with a picture frame trim kit. This makes your new microwave look like it belongs in your RV kitchen.
  • Stylish Choices: Available in sleek Stainless Steel or classic Black to match any RV décor.
  • Perfect Fit: Directly replaces Greystone and High Pointe microwaves. You won’t have trouble fitting it into the same space.
  • Safety Certified: It is UL Listed, meaning it meets strict safety standards.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The product description does not mention any specific cleaning instructions, which could be helpful for maintenance.
  • While it’s a direct replacement, users might want confirmation on the exact dimensions to ensure a perfect fit for older, non-Greystone/High Pointe installations.

This RecPro microwave offers a great blend of convenience and style for any RVer. It’s a smart choice for a functional and attractive kitchen update.

2. RV Black Microwave Oven with Turntable – 1.0 Cu. Ft. Capacity

RV Black Microwave Oven with Turntable - 1.0 Cu. Ft. Capacity | Includes Trim Kit for Easy Installation & Stylish Finish

Rating: 8.5/10

Upgrade your RV kitchen with this sleek RV Black Microwave Oven. It offers a generous 1.0 cubic foot capacity, perfect for heating up meals or snacks on your adventures. Installation is a breeze thanks to the included trim kit, which also gives your RV a stylish, finished look. This microwave makes cooking in your RV easy and convenient.

What We Like:

  • The Instant Start feature adds 30 seconds with just one touch, making it super fast to heat things up.
  • You get 10 different power levels, so you can cook or defrost food just right.
  • A Child Lock setting keeps little hands from accidentally turning it on.
  • Multi-Section Cooking lets you program different cooking times and power levels for complex meals.
  • Weight and Time Defrost options make it simple to thaw frozen foods perfectly.
  • The included trim kit makes installation easy and gives your RV a polished appearance.
  • The turntable ensures even cooking for all your food.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While the capacity is good, some users might prefer an even larger size for family-sized meals.
  • The exterior finish might show fingerprints easily, requiring frequent wiping to maintain its shine.

This RV microwave oven is a practical and stylish addition to any recreational vehicle. Its user-friendly features and easy installation make it a solid choice for enhancing your mobile cooking experience.

3. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black

Rating: 8.7/10

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse for your kitchen. It’s a 0.7 cubic foot microwave that delivers 700 watts of cooking power. This black microwave offers 10 different power levels, giving you lots of control. It also comes with 6 handy cooking presets for common foods like popcorn and pizza. Plus, you can easily add 30 seconds with a quick button press. It’s designed for everyday use and makes heating up food a breeze.

What We Like:

  • It cooks food extra-quick with six popular presets.
  • You can choose from 10 power levels for precise cooking.
  • Digital controls make it easy to set time and power.
  • The memory function lets you save your favorite settings.
  • A child safety lock keeps the door secure.
  • The mute option lets you turn off beeping sounds.
  • Its modern black design looks great in any kitchen.
  • It’s easy to clean, with a dishwasher-safe turntable.
  • Chefman offers trusted quality and a 1-year assurance.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger meals or families.

This Chefman microwave is a smart and convenient addition to any kitchen. It’s perfect for quick meals and snacks, offering user-friendly features and a compact design.

4. CONTOURE RV Built-In Microwave Oven

CONTOURE RV Built-In Microwave Oven | Perfect RV Replacement | 900W Power, 10 Power Levels | Easy-Clean Interior | LED Display | Quick-Cook Settings | RV-980B

Rating: 9.0/10

Upgrade your RV kitchen with the CONTOURE RV Built-In Microwave Oven (RV-980B). This microwave is designed to be a perfect replacement for your old camper microwave. It offers powerful 900W cooking and a user-friendly design for easy meal prep on the go.

What We Like:

  • It’s an easy OE replacement, so upgrading your old camper microwave is simple.
  • Cleaning up is a breeze thanks to the easy-clean interior coating. This coating helps with food splatters and saves you time.
  • You get quick cooking options with nine pre-set settings. It also has 10 power levels and 1 & 2-stage cooking for lots of meal choices.
  • The controls are easy to use. Electronic pre-set controls and a bright LED display make heating food fast and simple.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The trim kit is sold separately. You’ll need to check the product comparison chart if you want to add it.

This CONTOURE RV microwave makes cooking in your RV convenient. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use appliance.

5. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts

Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock - Perfect for Apartments and Dorms - Easy Clean Grey Interior, Retro Black

Rating: 9.3/10

The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven in Retro Black is a great choice for anyone needing a compact and efficient way to heat up food. This 700-watt microwave offers 0.7 cubic feet of space, making it perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms. Its easy-to-clean grey interior and stylish retro black exterior add a touch of charm to any space.

What We Like:

  • It’s a convenient microwave that heats food quickly.
  • It has ten power levels and six one-touch cooking options, like popcorn and potato.
  • The defrost feature works by weight or time.
  • Its perfect size fits well in small spaces.
  • The LED lighting and clock are easy to see.
  • A child safety lock is included for extra security.
  • Farberware is a trusted brand known for making mealtime memories.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The 700-watt power might be less powerful than some larger microwaves.
  • While it’s great for small spaces, it might not be ideal for cooking large meals for many people.

This Farberware microwave is a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It’s a smart addition for anyone seeking simple and effective microwave cooking.

Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect RV Microwave

Hitting the road in an RV is an adventure! You need your home on wheels to be as comfy and functional as possible. A microwave is a big help for quick meals and snacks. But which one is right for your RV? This guide will help you pick the best RV microwave.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop for an RV microwave, several features make a big difference.

1. Size and Capacity
  • Countertop Space: RVs have limited space. Measure your counter or cabinet where the microwave will go.
  • Internal Space: Think about what you’ll cook. Do you need to fit a large plate or a casserole dish? Microwaves come in different sizes, from small compact ones to larger, more powerful models.
2. Wattage
  • Cooking Power: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most RV microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. 1000 watts is a good middle ground.
3. Power Source (AC vs. DC)**

* **AC Power:** Most RVs have AC power from shore power or a generator. These are the most common.
* **DC Power:** Some RVs can run on DC power from batteries. These are less common and usually have lower power.

4. Special Functions**

* **Convection Cooking:** Some microwaves can bake and roast like a regular oven. This is great for saving space.
* **Grill Function:** A grill feature lets you brown food or make crispy toppings.
* **Preset Cooking Options:** Many microwaves have buttons for popcorn, pizza, or defrosting. This makes cooking easy.

5. RV-Specific Features**

* **Vibration Resistance:** RVs travel on bumpy roads. Look for microwaves built to handle vibrations.
* **Secure Mounting:** A microwave that can be mounted securely prevents it from moving around.

Important Materials

The materials used in an RV microwave affect its durability and how it looks.

* **Stainless Steel:** This is a popular choice. It’s strong, looks good, and is easy to clean.
* **Plastic:** Many interior parts and the outer casing might be made of plastic. Look for sturdy, high-quality plastic.
* **Glass Turntable:** This is standard for even cooking. It should be easy to remove and wash.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Certain things make an RV microwave better or worse.

Quality Enhancers:**

* **Solid Construction:** A well-built microwave feels sturdy. It shouldn’t rattle or feel flimsy.
* **Good Brand Reputation:** Brands known for making reliable appliances often offer better quality.
* **User Reviews:** Read what other RV owners say about the microwave’s performance and how long it lasts.

Quality Reducers:**

* **Cheap Plastic Parts:** These can break easily, especially with movement.
* **Weak Door Latches:** A loose latch means the door might open during travel.
* **Poorly Designed Controls:** Buttons that are hard to press or a display that’s difficult to read can be frustrating.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use your RV microwave matters.

* **Quick Meals:** Heat up leftovers or cook simple meals like pasta or rice.
* **Snack Prep:** Make popcorn or warm up snacks for a movie night.
* **Baking and Roasting (with Convection):** If your microwave has convection, you can bake cookies or roast chicken.
* **Defrosting:** Quickly thaw frozen foods before cooking.
* **Space Saving:** A microwave with convection or grill features can replace other appliances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about RV Microwaves

Q: What size microwave is best for an RV?

A: The best size depends on your RV’s counter space and what you plan to cook. Measure your space first. Compact models are good for small RVs, while larger ones offer more cooking options.

Q: Do I need a special RV microwave?

A: While you can use a regular countertop microwave, RV-specific models are often built to handle vibrations and have secure mounting options. They are designed for the unique needs of RV living.

Q: How much wattage do I need?

A: For most everyday cooking and reheating, 700-1000 watts is usually enough. Higher wattage cooks food faster.

Q: Can I use a microwave without plugging into shore power?

A: Most microwaves need AC power. You can use them when your RV generator is running or if you have an inverter that converts battery power to AC power. Be aware that running a microwave uses a lot of power.

Q: What is convection cooking?

A: Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air. This cooks food more evenly and can make it crispy, like in a regular oven.

Q: Is stainless steel better than plastic for an RV microwave?

A: Stainless steel is generally more durable and easier to clean. However, good quality plastic can also be strong and lighter.

Q: How do I prevent my microwave from moving while driving?

A: Look for microwaves with secure mounting hardware. Many RV-specific models come with brackets or straps to keep them in place.

Q: Can I install a microwave myself?

A: Yes, if you have basic tools and follow the instructions carefully. Ensure it is securely mounted and properly vented.

Q: Are built-in microwaves better than countertop ones for RVs?

A: Built-in microwaves save counter space and look neater. However, countertop models are easier to install and replace if needed.

Q: How do I clean my RV microwave?

A: Wipe the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. The turntable can usually be washed in the sink or dishwasher.

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.

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