Imagine a kitchen where one appliance does the work of three: it heats up your leftovers fast, bakes delicious cookies, and even gives your roasted chicken a crispy skin. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that’s exactly what an over-the-range convection microwave aims to deliver!
But let’s be honest, picking the perfect one can feel like a mission. You want something that cooks well, fits your space, and doesn’t break the bank. With so many features and brands out there, it’s easy to get lost. You might wonder which one is truly worth your hard-earned money and will actually make cooking easier, not harder.
That’s where we come in! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the key features, explain what all those buttons mean, and help you find an over-the-range convection microwave that will become your new kitchen favorite. Get ready to upgrade your cooking game!
Our Top 5 Over Range Convection Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over Range Convection Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Commercial Chef 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Convection Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Commercial Chef CHMRC17GS, a stainless steel over-the-range microwave that’s ready to tackle your kitchen tasks. This appliance does more than just heat food; it bakes, air fries, and vents your kitchen. It’s a versatile addition to any home cook’s arsenal.
What We Like:
- It offers both microwave and convection cooking, plus an air fryer function for healthier meals.
- You get 1000 watts of microwave power for fast heating and 1400 watts for convection baking.
- Preset cooking options like popcorn, potato, and frozen dinners make meal prep simple.
- The 300 CFM hood fan with three speeds effectively removes smoke and odors from your stovetop.
- User-friendly touch controls and an LED display make it easy to select your cooking settings.
- It includes special “Kids meals” auto-cook options for quick family dinners.
- The pull handle door and a 12.4-inch turntable are convenient features.
What Could Be Improved:
- The listed capacity for the microwave is 1.1 cu. foot, but the product title states 1.7 cu. ft. This could be confusing for shoppers.
- While it has many features, the specific details about the air fryer function’s performance are not fully elaborated.
This Commercial Chef microwave offers a lot of cooking power and convenience. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen’s capabilities.
2. Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel. This microwave is designed to make cooking easier and your kitchen look more modern.
What We Like:
- Sensor Cooking Controls automatically adjust cooking time and power, so your food is cooked perfectly every time. You don’t have to guess the right settings.
- The Stainless Steel Interior is not only stylish but also very easy to clean. Spills wipe away quickly.
- Convection Cooking lets you bake, roast, and brown food right in your microwave. It’s like having a second oven!
- The Three-Speed, 300-CFM Venting System powerfully removes smoke and odors from your stovetop. Your kitchen stays fresh.
- It offers a spacious 1.7 Cu. Ft. Capacity, so you can fit larger dishes and meals.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user interface, while functional, could be more intuitive for some users.
- The fan, while powerful, can be a bit noisy on the highest setting.
This Profile microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both convenience and versatility. It’s a solid choice for those looking for advanced features and a premium feel.
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: 8.9/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE PVM9179SRSS Profile Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance is packed with features to make cooking easier and faster. It’s not just a microwave; it’s a convection oven too, letting you bake and roast like a pro. Plus, with the included air fry function, you can enjoy crispy favorites with less oil. This bundle also comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for added peace of mind, on top of the full manufacturer’s warranty. This is a smart addition for any home chef.
What We Like:
- Versatile cooking: It offers microwave, convection, and air fry options.
- Generous capacity: The 1.7 cu. ft. size handles family meals.
- Fast Cook feature: Saves time on busy nights.
- Complete package: Includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit and a 2-year extended protection plan.
- Stylish design: The stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dimensions might be large for very small kitchens.
- Convection cooking times may need some adjustment from traditional ovens.
This GE microwave bundle brings advanced cooking technology and great value to your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a multifunctional and reliable appliance.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the GE GCST10A1WSS, a 4-in-1 microwave oven that’s a real game-changer for any kitchen, dorm room, or office. It packs a powerful 1,050 watts and a 1.0 cubic foot capacity into a stylish stainless steel design. This isn’t just any microwave; it’s your new kitchen assistant, ready to air fry, broil, and even convection bake!
What We Like:
- The built-in air fryer lets you enjoy crispy, healthier versions of your favorite snacks and meals in less time.
- Convection mode, complete with a special rack, circulates air for perfectly golden-brown results on everything from roasted veggies to baked goods.
- Broil mode gives you that delicious grilled effect, perfect for searing meats or caramelizing toppings.
- Convenient preset controls, like for fries and nuggets, make cooking a breeze and ensure precise results every time.
- The two-step child lock feature adds an extra layer of safety, giving you peace of mind.
- Its compact size makes it a great fit for countertops or small spaces, but it’s still powerful enough for everyday cooking.
- The glass turntable rotates food for even cooking, so no more cold spots or unevenly heated meals.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers multiple functions, some users might find the initial learning curve for all the modes a bit steep.
- The 1.0 cubic foot capacity, while standard, might be a little small for very large dishes or family-sized meals.
The GE GCST10A1WSS is a versatile appliance that simplifies cooking and adds convenience to your life. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen experience.
5. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This 1.7 cu. ft. stainless steel microwave packs a punch with 1000 watts of power, making it ideal for busy households. Its smart design mounts conveniently above your stove, saving valuable counter space while adding a sleek look to your kitchen.
What We Like:
- It cooks food fast and evenly with 1000 watts of power.
- The 1.7 cu. ft. size is big enough for most dishes.
- You get lots of cooking options, like special settings for vegetables and potatoes.
- Defrosting is easy with time and weight settings.
- Need to melt butter quickly? The melt/soften feature is super handy.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- It has a bright LED display, a vent fan, and a light for your stovetop.
- You can adjust the sound alerts so they aren’t too loud.
- The over-the-range design really helps save kitchen space.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the vent fan noise a bit noticeable.
- While generally user-friendly, the multi-stage cooking might take a little getting used to.
This Farberware microwave is a strong contender for anyone needing a powerful and space-saving cooking solution. It offers a great balance of features and performance for everyday use.
Choosing the Best Over-the-Range Convection Microwave
Why an Over-the-Range Convection Microwave?
An over-the-range (OTR) convection microwave is a kitchen superhero. It saves counter space by fitting above your stove. It microwaves food fast. It also bakes and roasts like a regular oven, but quicker! This makes it super handy for busy kitchens.
Key Features to Look For
1. Convection Cooking Power
This is the star! Look for a microwave with a strong convection fan and heating element. This means your food will cook evenly and brown nicely. A good convection feature lets you bake cookies or roast chicken right in your microwave.
2. Wattage
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most OTR microwaves are between 900 and 1200 watts. More watts are better for quickly heating leftovers or boiling water.
3. Capacity (Cubic Feet)
Think about what you cook. Do you heat up small plates? Or do you need to fit a whole chicken? OTR microwaves range from about 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet. Bigger is better if you cook larger items or for families.
4. Venting System
Since it’s above your stove, good ventilation is a must. Look for a microwave with a powerful fan. It should have at least two fan speeds. Also, check if it can vent outwards or recirculate air back into the kitchen. Outward venting is usually best for removing smoke and smells.
5. Sensor Cooking
Sensor cooking uses steam to figure out how long to cook your food. You don’t need to guess. Just select the food type, and the microwave does the rest. This stops your food from getting over or undercooked.
6. Turntable or Recessed Cavity
A turntable helps food cook evenly by rotating it. Some newer models have flat, recessed cavities. These can fit larger dishes and are easier to clean. Both are good options, but consider what you prefer.
Important Materials
Most OTR microwaves have an outer shell made of stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel looks sleek and is durable. The inside is usually a ceramic enamel or stainless steel. Ceramic enamel is easy to wipe clean. Stainless steel interiors can be more robust but might be harder to clean if food sticks.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Things That Make it Better:
- Strong Convection Fan: Even cooking and browning.
- Good Venting: Keeps your kitchen air clean.
- Intuitive Controls: Easy to use buttons and a clear display.
- Durable Interior: Easy to clean and won’t scratch easily.
Things That Make it Worse:
- Weak Convection: Food cooks unevenly or doesn’t brown.
- Poor Venting: Smoke and smells stay in your kitchen.
- Complicated Controls: Frustrating to figure out.
- Flimsy Build: Doesn’t feel sturdy.
User Experience and Use Cases
An OTR convection microwave is perfect for small kitchens. It’s great for quick meals and snacks. You can reheat leftovers in minutes. Bake small batches of cookies. Roast vegetables while your main dish cooks on the stove. It’s also ideal for students or apartment dwellers who want oven-like features without a full oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between a regular microwave and a convection microwave?
A: A regular microwave heats food using microwaves. A convection microwave adds a fan and a heating element. This circulates hot air, allowing it to bake, roast, and brown food like a traditional oven.
Q: Can I really bake a cake in an over-the-range convection microwave?
A: Yes! Many convection microwaves can bake cakes, cookies, and even roast meats. The results might not be exactly the same as a full-sized oven, but they are very good for quick baking needs.
Q: How important is the venting system?
A: The venting system is very important. It removes smoke, steam, and cooking odors from your kitchen. A good vent fan keeps your cooking area fresh and clean.
Q: What size OTR microwave do I need?
A: Consider your cooking habits and the size of your dishes. For families or those who cook larger items, a capacity of 2.0 cubic feet or more is recommended. For smaller households, 1.5 to 1.8 cubic feet might be enough.
Q: Are OTR microwaves hard to install?
A: Installation can be tricky. It often involves mounting the microwave to the wall and connecting the vent. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, it’s best to hire a professional installer.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my convection microwave?
A: Most interiors are wipe-clean. For tough spots, you can use a damp cloth with mild soap or a baking soda paste. The turntable and any racks can usually be washed in the dishwasher or by hand.
Q: What are sensor presets?
A: Sensor presets are cooking modes that automatically adjust cooking time and power based on the food you’re heating. You select the food type, and the microwave senses how much steam is produced to determine when it’s done.
Q: Can I use metal in my convection microwave?
A: You can use metal cookware in convection mode, as long as it’s designed for oven use. However, you cannot use metal or foil when using the microwave-only function, as it can cause sparks.
Q: How much counter space does an OTR microwave save?
A: It saves all your counter space above the stove. This frees up valuable room for food preparation or other appliances.
Q: What is the average lifespan of an OTR convection microwave?
A: With proper care and maintenance, an OTR convection microwave can last between 10 to 15 years.
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 Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!