Imagine a kitchen helper that can do it all: reheat leftovers in a flash, bake a batch of cookies, and even roast a chicken. Sounds like a dream, right? That’s the magic of a microwave convection oven, especially when it’s mounted right above your stove! But with so many models out there, figuring out which one is best for your kitchen can feel like a puzzle.
Choosing the perfect microwave convection over-the-range isn’t just about picking a pretty appliance. It’s about finding a tool that fits your cooking style, your cabinet space, and your budget. Many people get overwhelmed by all the features, the different sizes, and the brand names. They worry about getting the wrong one and then feeling stuck with it for years.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know. We’ll help you understand what makes a good microwave convection oven, what to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing the appliance that will make your cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Our Top 5 Microwave Convection Over The Range Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Convection Over The Range Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer
Rating: 8.6/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection, and Bake Modes is a versatile kitchen helper. This stainless steel appliance is more than just a microwave; it can also air fry, bake, and roast. Its large capacity means you can cook bigger meals. This microwave makes cooking easier and more fun.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.5 cubic feet of space and 13.6-inch turntable fit plenty of food.
- 6-in-1 Cooking: It has six cooking modes: microwave, air fryer, convection, combi, bake, and roast. This means you can cook almost anything with it.
- Air Fry Mode: You can make your favorite foods crispy and delicious with less oil. It’s a healthier way to enjoy fried foods.
- Sensor Reheat: This smart feature keeps your leftovers tasting fresh and flavorful.
- Powerful Vent Fan: The 300 CFM vent fan has two speeds to clear smoke and smells from your kitchen. The built-in light helps you see what you’re doing.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some budgets.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, so you might need to search for it.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers many cooking options in one convenient appliance.
2. Commercial Chef 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Convection Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The Commercial Chef 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Convection Microwave Oven is a kitchen powerhouse. This stainless steel appliance is more than just a microwave; it’s a convection oven and an air fryer all in one! It’s designed to make cooking faster and easier, whether you’re heating up leftovers or trying a new recipe.
What We Like:
- It has many preset cooking options for things like popcorn, potatoes, and frozen dinners. This makes cooking simple.
- The microwave power is a strong 1000 watts. It also has a large 12.4-inch turntable for even cooking.
- The touch controls and LED display are easy to use. There are 10 one-touch menu options, including special ones for kids’ meals.
- The built-in 300 CFM hood fan with three speeds effectively removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- It offers 1400 watts of convection cooking power, giving you more cooking flexibility.
- The air fryer function lets you make crispy foods without as much oil.
What Could Be Improved:
- The stated capacity is 1.7 cu. ft., but the description also mentions a 1.1 cu. ft. capacity. This could be confusing.
- While it has many features, the initial setup might take a little time to get used to all the functions.
This Commercial Chef oven is a versatile addition to any kitchen. It simplifies meal preparation with its many features and powerful performance.
3. GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE PVM9179SRSS Profile microwave! This sleek stainless steel over-the-range model is more than just a microwave. It’s a convection oven and an air fryer, giving you lots of cooking options. It also comes with a special protection plan for extra peace of mind. This bundle is a fantastic deal for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable kitchen appliance.
What We Like:
- It’s a 3-in-1 appliance: microwave, convection oven, and air fryer. This means you can cook a variety of foods in one place.
- The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is roomy enough for most meals and dishes.
- Fast Cook feature speeds up cooking times, saving you precious minutes.
- It includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit, which helps keep your kitchen air fresh.
- You get a great deal: a GE USA authorized product that includes a full manufacturer’s warranty PLUS a 2-year extended CPS protection plan. That’s double the protection!
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, some users might find the initial setup or learning curve for all the functions a bit challenging.
- The dimensions are standard for an over-the-range microwave, but it’s always good to double-check measurements before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit above your range.
This GE Profile microwave bundle offers incredible value and functionality. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen, providing convenience and advanced cooking capabilities.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 8.7/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a large capacity and smart features that make cooking easier. This stainless steel microwave looks sleek and modern.
What We Like:
- It has 18 auto-cook menus. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, or even cook a potato.
- The 1.7 cu.ft. size is big enough for a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- The turntable is 12.5 inches wide.
- You can adjust the power to 10 different levels. This is great for different types of food.
- The 1000W power cooks food quickly.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is strong. It removes smoke and smells from your kitchen.
- You can choose from different fan speeds for the ventilation.
- A bright light helps you see your food while you cook.
- The smart touch panel is easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the auto-cook menus less useful if they prefer to manually set cooking times.
- While the ventilation is strong, it might be loud for some people.
This Midea microwave oven is a versatile and powerful appliance. It will help you prepare meals efficiently and keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
5. Furrion 2022007898 Over-The-Range Convection RV Microwave Oven – 1.5 cu. ft.
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your RV kitchen with the Furrion 2022007898 Over-The-Range Convection RV Microwave Oven. This stainless steel appliance is more than just a microwave; it’s a versatile cooking powerhouse designed for life on the road. Its spacious 1.5 cubic feet capacity lets you prepare meals for the whole family.
What We Like:
- The convection cooking feature is a game-changer. It offers 10 temperature settings, allowing you to bake and brown your food just like in a regular oven.
- The bright LED display clearly shows the timer, clock, and other settings, making it easy to keep track of your cooking.
- You have the flexibility to choose how the oven vents. It can exhaust air outside your RV or recirculate it inside, giving you control over your kitchen environment.
- It comes with 30-watt appliance bulbs to light up your cooking surface below.
- This microwave is built tough. It’s durable and vibration resistant, meaning it can handle the bumps and shakes of RV travel without a problem.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the convection feature is excellent, some users might find the 10 temperature settings a bit limited for very specific recipes.
- The installation process can be a bit tricky for some, and clear, step-by-step instructions are always appreciated.
Overall, the Furrion 2022007898 is a fantastic addition to any RV. It offers great cooking versatility and is built to last through all your adventures.
Your Guide to the Perfect Over-the-Range Microwave Convection Oven
What is an Over-the-Range Microwave Convection Oven?
An over-the-range microwave convection oven is a kitchen appliance that sits above your stove. It does more than just reheat food. It also bakes and broils like a regular oven. This saves you counter space and gives you an extra cooking option. It’s a great choice for smaller kitchens.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for one of these handy appliances, keep these features in mind:
- Convection Cooking: This is the biggest selling point. It means the oven has a fan that circulates hot air. This cooks food evenly and gives it a nice brown crust. Look for models with adjustable fan speeds for different types of cooking.
- Wattage: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most good models have at least 1000 watts.
- Capacity: Think about how much food you usually cook. Microwaves come in different sizes, measured in cubic feet. A larger family might need a bigger one.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature senses the humidity of your food. It then automatically adjusts cooking time and power. This prevents overcooking or undercooking.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable makes sure food heats evenly. Some larger models have a removable turntable for easier cleaning.
- Ventilation: These microwaves have built-in vents to remove smoke and smells from your stovetop. Look for models with multiple fan speeds and good CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings.
- Preset Cooking Options: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, or pizza. This makes cooking them super simple.
Important Materials
The materials used in construction affect durability and how easy it is to clean.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for the exterior. It looks sleek and is resistant to fingerprints. It’s also quite durable.
- Ceramic Enamel Interior: This is a smooth, durable coating inside the microwave. It’s easy to wipe clean and resists scratches.
- Glass Turntable: The glass tray inside that rotates your food is usually made of tempered glass. This makes it strong and safe for use with hot food.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a microwave convection oven great? What can make it less than ideal?
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should feel responsive. Cheaply made ones can feel flimsy.
- Even Cooking: The most important thing is how well it cooks. Does the convection feature brown food evenly? Does the microwave heat food without hot spots?
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud when running. Quieter models offer a better user experience, especially if your kitchen is open to living areas.
- Ease of Cleaning: A microwave that’s hard to clean becomes a chore. Look for smooth interiors and easy-to-remove parts.
- Reliability: You want a microwave that lasts. Reading reviews from other users can tell you a lot about a model’s reliability.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use these appliances in real life?
These microwaves are perfect for busy households. You can quickly reheat leftovers with the microwave function. Then, you can bake cookies or roast a small chicken using the convection feature. It’s ideal for small apartments or kitchens where space is limited. Home cooks love the versatility. You can cook a full meal without needing a separate oven. Imagine making a casserole and then using the microwave to quickly warm up some bread. It simplifies meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the difference between a microwave and a convection microwave?
A: A regular microwave heats food using electromagnetic waves. A convection microwave adds a heating element and a fan. This circulates hot air, allowing it to bake, roast, and broil food like a traditional oven.
Q: Can I use metal in a convection microwave?
A: Yes, you can use metal cookware in convection mode. However, you cannot use metal in microwave-only mode. Always check your appliance’s manual for specific guidelines.
Q: How do I clean the vent hood on an over-the-range microwave?
A: Most vent hoods have removable filters. You can usually wash these filters with warm, soapy water. The exterior can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.
Q: Do I need to install this myself?
A: Installation can be complex as it involves mounting the unit above the stove and connecting it to electrical and ventilation systems. Many people choose to have it professionally installed.
Q: How much space do I need above my stove for this microwave?
A: Most over-the-range microwaves require at least 18 inches of clearance above the stovetop. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for precise measurements.
Q: Are convection microwaves more energy-efficient than regular ovens?
A: For smaller tasks, convection microwaves can be more energy-efficient because they heat up faster and cook food quicker. For larger meals, a full-size oven might be more efficient.
Q: What is the average lifespan of an over-the-range microwave convection oven?
A: With proper care and regular use, these appliances typically last between 7 to 15 years.
Q: Can I air fry in my convection microwave?
A: Some models offer an “air fry” setting. This uses the convection fan at a higher speed to create a crispy texture similar to air frying.
Q: What are CFM ratings, and why are they important for the vent?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the vent fan can move. A higher CFM rating means the vent is more effective at removing smoke and odors from your kitchen.
Q: Is it worth buying a convection microwave if I already have a regular oven?
A: Yes, it can be! It offers convenience for quick meals, saves counter space, and provides an extra cooking option. It’s especially useful for smaller kitchens or for those who enjoy versatility.
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.