Do you ever stare at your kitchen counter, wishing you had more space? Or maybe you’re tired of your old microwave that only heats things up and doesn’t do much else? If you’re nodding your head, then you’re probably thinking about a Rated Over The Range Convection Microwave. These handy appliances are a game-changer for kitchens, but choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle.
There are so many brands and features to sort through. You want one that looks good, cooks evenly, and fits your budget. It can be overwhelming to figure out which one will actually make your life easier and your cooking better. That’s why we’re diving deep into what makes a great over-the-range convection microwave.
By the time you finish reading this, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the important features, discuss what makes a microwave “rated,” and help you find a convection microwave that will become your kitchen’s new best friend. Get ready to upgrade your cooking and reclaim your counter space!
Our Top 5 Rated Over The Range Convection Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Over The Range Convection Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Commercial Chef 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Convection Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the Commercial Chef 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Convection Microwave Oven, model CHMRC17GS. This stainless steel appliance is a kitchen workhorse, combining a powerful microwave with a convection oven and air fryer. It’s designed to make cooking easier and faster for busy families.
What We Like:
- It has a large 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, so you can cook bigger meals.
- The 1000-watt microwave cooks food quickly.
- The 1400-watt convection oven with air fryer lets you bake, roast, and air fry your favorite foods.
- Preset cooking options like popcorn, potato, and frozen dinners take the guesswork out of cooking.
- It includes special “Kids meals” auto-cook options, perfect for quick family meals.
- The 300 CFM hood fan with 3 speeds efficiently removes smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- The touch controls and LED display are easy to use.
- It has a convenient pull handle door.
- The 12.4” turntable ensures even cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions a 1.1 cu. ft. capacity in one spot and 1.7 cu. ft. in the title, which could be confusing.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer a more detailed explanation of the air fryer’s performance compared to a dedicated air fryer.
This Commercial Chef microwave offers a lot of cooking power and versatility in one appliance. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen and simplifying your cooking routine.
2. Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel. This microwave is more than just a way to heat up leftovers; it’s a versatile cooking tool that can bake, broil, and brown your favorite meals. Its spacious interior easily fits larger dishes, making it ideal for busy families or anyone who loves to cook.
What We Like:
- Sensor Cooking Controls automatically adjust cooking time and power, taking the guesswork out of meal preparation. This means perfectly cooked food every time, whether you’re making popcorn or reheating a casserole.
- The Stainless Steel Interior is not only stylish but also durable and easy to clean. Spills and splatters wipe away effortlessly, keeping your microwave looking its best.
- The powerful Three-Speed, 300-CFM Venting System effectively removes smoke, steam, and odors from your stovetop, keeping your kitchen fresh and clean. You can enjoy cooking without worrying about lingering smells.
- Convection cooking gives you the flexibility to bake and roast, expanding your culinary options beyond traditional microwave use. This feature makes it a true workhorse in the kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the controls are generally intuitive, some users might find the variety of cooking modes a little overwhelming at first. A quick read of the manual is recommended for full mastery.
- The 300-CFM venting, while effective for most cooking, might be slightly underpowered for very heavy-duty frying or intense searing.
This Profile microwave oven offers a fantastic combination of convenience and advanced features. It’s a smart addition for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience and their kitchen’s style.
3. Sharp R1874T 850W Over-the-Range Convection Microwave
Rating: 8.8/10
The Sharp R1874T 850W Over-the-Range Convection Microwave in sleek stainless steel is a kitchen workhorse. It does more than just reheat leftovers; it actually cooks! This microwave lets you brown, bake, broil, crisp, and roast, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. Its interactive display makes choosing settings simple, and the sensor cooking takes the guesswork out of meal prep.
What We Like:
- It’s a convection microwave, meaning it can bake and roast like a regular oven.
- The 850 watts of power heat food quickly and evenly.
- The 1.1 cubic foot interior fits most standard dishes, and the 13-inch turntable ensures even cooking.
- The built-in exhaust system and hood light are super handy for cooking over the stovetop.
- Smart and Easy sensor settings make cooking different foods much simpler.
- The stainless steel interior is easy to clean and looks great.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has convection features, it might not fully replace a dedicated oven for larger baking projects.
- The dimensions are important to check to make sure it fits your over-the-range space perfectly.
This Sharp microwave offers a lot of cooking power and versatility in one appliance. It’s a great option for upgrading your kitchen and expanding your cooking abilities.
4. GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance is more than just a microwave; it’s a versatile cooking helper. It offers convection cooking, air frying, and fast cook options to make meal prep a breeze. Plus, you get peace of mind with a 2-year extended protection plan included, on top of the manufacturer’s warranty. This bundle also comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit, so it’s ready to go right out of the box.
What We Like:
- The air fry feature lets you make crispy favorites without all the oil.
- Convection cooking means you can roast and bake right in your microwave.
- It has a good-sized 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, fitting most dishes.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to clean.
- The included 2-year extended protection plan adds great value and security.
- It’s an authorized GE USA product, ensuring quality and support.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are fairly standard, so measure your space carefully.
- Some users might prefer a larger capacity microwave for very big meals.
This GE Profile microwave oven bundle offers excellent functionality and an added layer of protection. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience.
5. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.9/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any busy kitchen. With its spacious 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and powerful 1000W cooking, it handles everything from quick snacks to full meals with ease. This microwave offers smart features like auto reheat and multi-stage cooking, making meal prep simpler and more efficient. Plus, its over-the-range design saves valuable counter space, adding both style and function to your cooking area.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly and evenly with 1000 watts of power.
- The large 1.7 cu. ft. interior fits many dishes.
- It has special cooking modes for vegetables, snacks, and potatoes.
- Defrosting is easy with time and weight settings.
- The +30 seconds button and melt/soften features are very handy.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- It includes a bright LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light.
- You can adjust the sound volume.
- The over-the-range design saves counter space and looks good.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users found the user manual a bit confusing.
- The vent fan could be a little stronger for heavy cooking smells.
This Farberware microwave is a powerful and space-saving appliance that simplifies cooking. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for convenience and performance in their kitchen.
Finding Your Perfect Over-the-Range Convection Microwave
An over-the-range (OTR) convection microwave is a kitchen workhorse. It saves counter space and offers a lot of cooking power. This guide will help you choose the best one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
1. Convection Cooking Power
This is the main difference from a regular microwave. Convection ovens use a fan to circulate hot air. This cooks food evenly and gives it a nice crispy texture. Look for microwaves with good convection wattage. Higher wattage means faster and better cooking.
2. Microwave Wattage
This is how powerful the microwave is. Most OTR microwaves range from 900 to 1100 watts. Higher wattage cooks food faster. If you cook a lot, aim for 1000 watts or more.
3. Capacity
Think about how much food you usually cook. Microwaves come in different sizes, usually measured in cubic feet. A 1.7 to 2.0 cubic feet capacity is good for most families. Larger families might need something bigger.
4. Venting Options
OTR microwaves have a built-in vent. This removes smoke and steam from your stovetop. Check if it vents up, out the back, or recirculates air. Make sure it matches your kitchen setup.
5. Sensor Cooking
Sensor cooking takes the guesswork out of cooking. The microwave detects steam and adjusts cooking time and power. This helps prevent over or undercooking.
6. Turntable vs. Turntable-Off Option
A turntable spins food for even heating. Some models let you turn it off. This is useful for cooking large or irregular-shaped dishes.
7. Pre-programmed Settings
Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn or baked potatoes. These save you time and effort.
Important Materials
Most OTR microwaves have an interior made of stainless steel or enamel. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Enamel is also good but can chip if not cared for properly. The exterior is usually stainless steel or a coated metal. Stainless steel looks sleek and lasts long.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make reliable products.
- Build Quality: A sturdy door and smooth controls suggest good construction.
- User Reviews: Positive reviews highlight good performance and durability.
Quality Reducers
- Flimsy Construction: A wobbly unit or thin metal can be a sign of lower quality.
- Poor Ventilation: Ineffective vents can leave your kitchen smoky.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons make the microwave hard to use.
User Experience and Use Cases
An OTR convection microwave is great for busy households. You can reheat leftovers quickly. You can also bake cookies or roast chicken. It’s perfect for small kitchens where counter space is limited. Families use it for fast weeknight meals. Singles use it for convenient cooking. It also adds a modern touch to your kitchen.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is convection cooking?
A: Convection cooking uses a fan to move hot air around the food. This cooks food faster and makes it crispier.
Q: How much space do I need for an OTR microwave?
A: You need space above your stove and for the exhaust to vent. Check the dimensions carefully.
Q: Are OTR microwaves hard to install?
A: Installation can be tricky. It’s often best to have a professional install it, especially the venting.
Q: Can I use metal in a convection microwave?
A: Yes, you can usually use metal in convection mode. Always check your owner’s manual.
Q: How do I clean my OTR microwave?
A: Clean the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. The exterior can be cleaned with a stainless steel cleaner.
Q: What’s the difference between a convection microwave and a regular microwave?
A: A convection microwave has a fan and heating element for baking and roasting, not just reheating and defrosting.
Q: How long do OTR microwaves usually last?
A: With good care, they can last 7-10 years or even longer.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a sensor cook feature?
A: Sensor cook is helpful for cooking common foods perfectly without guessing the time.
Q: What is the best capacity for a family of four?
A: A capacity of 1.7 to 2.0 cubic feet is generally good for a family of four.
Q: Do OTR microwaves come with a warranty?
A: Most new microwaves come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Check the product details.
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!