Imagine perfectly crispy fries without a separate appliance, all while your dinner heats up above. Sounds like a kitchen dream, right? Over the range microwaves with air fryer capabilities are making that dream a reality for many homes.
But let’s be honest, picking the right one can feel like navigating a maze. You want that extra cooking power, but you also need a microwave that fits your space and budget. Plus, figuring out which features actually make a difference can be confusing. Many people feel overwhelmed by all the choices and aren’t sure if it’s worth the upgrade.
This post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes these appliances so special. You’ll learn what to look for, understand the different functions, and discover how an over the range microwave with an air fryer can actually save you time and space in your kitchen. Get ready to make your cooking easier and tastier!
Our Top 5 Over The Range Microwave With Air Fryer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Range Microwave With Air Fryer Detailed Reviews
1. GE Profile 1.7 cu. ft. Over The Range Microwave in Stainless Steel with Air Fry PVM9179SRSS
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE Profile 1.7 cu. ft. Over The Range Microwave in Stainless Steel with Air Fry PVM9179SRSS. This microwave is a powerhouse, blending cooking, reheating, and even air frying into one sleek appliance. Its stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. You get a lot of cool features without breaking the bank.
What We Like:
- The air fryer function is awesome! It makes your food crispy and delicious.
- It has a good amount of space inside for most meals.
- The controls are easy to understand and use.
- It heats food evenly and quickly.
- The price is very reasonable for all the features it offers.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation can be a bit tricky for some people.
- The fan noise is a little louder than expected.
- More color options would be nice to match different kitchen styles.
This GE Profile microwave is a fantastic deal. It’s a great tool for busy kitchens, offering both convenience and versatility at a price that’s hard to beat.
2. 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
The GE PVM9179SRSS Profile 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This bundle comes with an awesome 2-year extended protection plan on top of the regular manufacturer’s warranty, giving you extra peace of mind. It’s not just a microwave; it’s a multi-tasking marvel!
What We Like:
- This oven has an air fryer feature, so you can make crispy fries and chicken wings right in your microwave.
- It offers convection cooking, meaning it bakes and roasts like a regular oven, making it super versatile.
- The 1.7 cubic feet capacity is spacious enough for most dishes and family meals.
- “Fast Cook” is a neat feature that speeds up cooking times for common foods.
- You get a recirculating charcoal filter kit included, which is important for keeping your kitchen air fresh.
- The bundle includes a 2-year extended service protection plan, which is a huge plus for long-term use.
- It’s an authorized GE USA product, ensuring you get genuine quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a bit large for very small kitchens, so measure your space carefully.
- While versatile, learning all the convection and air frying settings might take a little practice.
This GE microwave bundle offers great value and advanced features. You’re getting a powerful appliance with excellent protection for your investment.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.3/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven is a powerful and convenient addition to any kitchen. With 1000 watts of cooking power, it heats food quickly and efficiently. Its spacious 1.9 cubic feet interior can handle large dishes, and the turntable can even be turned off for custom-sized containers. This microwave makes cooking easier with its one-touch auto cooking features and pre-programmed menus for all your favorite foods.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking power heats food fast.
- Generous 1.9 cu.ft. capacity fits large dishes.
- Auto cooking menus make meal prep simple.
- The 400 CFM venting fan keeps your kitchen air fresh.
- Bright LED cooktop lighting illuminates your cooking space.
- Turntable On/Off function offers flexible cooking options.
- Child lock feature adds safety for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- The control panel might take a little getting used to.
- Some users might prefer more advanced customization options.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a solid choice for anyone seeking a blend of power and user-friendly features. It simplifies everyday cooking and improves the kitchen environment.
4. Tough Grade RV Convection Microwave with Air Fryer
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to level up your RV cooking with the Tough Grade RV Convection Microwave with Air Fryer. This 6-in-1 built-in combo oven is a true kitchen powerhouse, fitting right into your mobile lifestyle. It’s designed to replace your old High Pointe or Greystone models, making the upgrade simple. With a 1.0 cu ft capacity and a trim kit included, it’s built for easy installation and offers serious cooking versatility.
What We Like:
- It’s an all-in-one cooking wonder, combining microwave, convection, broil, grill, air fry, and combo modes. You get six cooking options in one handy appliance.
- The preset auto menu and one-touch programs make cooking a breeze. Think cake, pizza, popcorn, and more – all with just a touch.
- You have great control over your cooking with multi-stage cooking, speedy cooking, and defrost options. Plus, the ECO mode saves energy, and the mute option keeps things quiet.
- Safety is key with a child lock feature. The clear 12.4″ glass turntable ensures even cooking, and the built-in clock and timer help you stay on track.
- It’s designed specifically for RVs, with a trim kit included for a clean built-in look. It fits perfectly without needing under-cabinet mounting, ensuring proper airflow.
- This oven is optimized for small spaces. It has a good 1.0 cu ft interior but manageable exterior dimensions, so it fits well in RV kitchens.
- It’s built tough for travel, weighing only 45.4 lbs. This makes it durable and lightweight, a great space-saving choice for cooking on the go.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for installation might be a bit tricky for some users.
- While it replaces specific models, it’s not designed for under-cabinet mounting, limiting placement options in some RVs.
This Tough Grade RV Convection Microwave is a fantastic upgrade for any RVer looking for more cooking options. It truly brings home-style cooking convenience to your adventures.
5. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the GE GCST10A1WSS, a 4-in-1 microwave that does more than just heat food. This stainless steel appliance is a true kitchen helper, combining a microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven into one sleek unit. It’s compact enough for dorm rooms or small kitchens but powerful with 1,050 watts and a 1.0 cu. ft. capacity. Plus, it features child-lock technology for safety.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance: microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven.
- The air fryer mode lets you cook healthier, crispy foods.
- Convection mode with a special rack ensures even cooking and browning.
- The broiler mode sears and caramelizes food perfectly.
- Preset controls make cooking common items like fries quick and easy.
- It’s compact and powerful, fitting well in various spaces.
- The glass turntable rotates food for even cooking.
- The two-step child lock adds an important safety feature.
What Could Be Improved:
- The child lock, while a safety feature, might be an extra step for some users.
- As with many multi-function appliances, learning all the modes might take a little time.
This GE microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially if you want versatility in a small package. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to save space and cook a wider variety of meals.
Your Smart Kitchen Upgrade: Over-The-Range Microwaves with Air Fryer
Why Choose an Over-The-Range Microwave with Air Fryer?
Tired of cluttered countertops? An over-the-range (OTR) microwave with an air fryer built-in is a fantastic way to save space and add a versatile cooking tool to your kitchen. These appliances combine the convenience of a microwave with the crispy, healthy results of air frying. This guide will help you find the perfect one for your home.
Key Features to Look For
1. Air Frying Capabilities
- Wattage: Higher wattage usually means faster cooking for both microwave and air fry functions. Look for at least 1000 watts for the microwave.
- Air Fry Presets: Many models offer pre-programmed settings for common foods like fries, chicken wings, and vegetables.
- Convection Fan: A good convection fan is essential for even air circulation, leading to crispier food.
2. Microwave Features
- Capacity: OTR microwaves come in different sizes. Consider how much food you typically heat or cook at once. 1.7 to 2.0 cubic feet is a common and versatile range.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures food cooks evenly.
- Power Levels: Multiple power levels give you control for different cooking tasks.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture.
3. Ventilation System
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This measures how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM is better for removing smoke and odors from your stovetop. Look for at least 300 CFM.
- Filter Type: Most OTR microwaves have charcoal filters for recirculating air and metal mesh filters for capturing grease. Check if they are easy to clean or replace.
4. Design and Usability
- Control Panel: Is it easy to understand and use? Touch controls can offer a sleeker look.
- Lighting: Bright under-cabinet lighting is helpful for cooking on your stovetop.
- Door Style: Most have a pull-down door. Some offer a more modern drawer-style opening.
Important Materials
Most OTR microwaves with air fryers are made with stainless steel for the exterior. This material is durable, easy to clean, and looks good in most kitchens. The interior is usually a ceramic enamel or stainless steel, which are also easy to wipe down.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality
- Robust Fan System: A powerful and well-designed fan is key for effective air frying.
- Even Heating: Good heat distribution in both microwave and air fry modes indicates better build quality.
- Durable Door Hinges: These should feel sturdy and operate smoothly.
- Intuitive Controls: A user-friendly interface makes the appliance a joy to use.
Reducing Quality
- Flimsy Construction: If parts feel cheap or wobbly, the appliance might not last long.
- Uneven Cooking: Hot spots or undercooked areas suggest poor design or manufacturing.
- Noisy Operation: Excessive noise from the fan or turntable can be a sign of lower quality.
- Difficult to Clean: If the interior or filters are hard to access and clean, it can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
These appliances are perfect for busy households. You can quickly reheat leftovers with the microwave, then use the air fryer to make crispy fries or chicken wings for dinner. They are also great for roasting vegetables, toasting bread, or even baking small items. Imagine making a quick weeknight meal where you microwave your chicken and then air fry it to perfection!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can an OTR microwave with an air fryer really replace a separate air fryer?
A1: Yes, for many people, it can. It offers similar results for most common air-fried foods, saving counter space.
Q2: How well does the air fryer function work in these combined units?
A2: It varies by model, but good ones circulate hot air effectively for crispy results. Look for models with strong CFM ratings and good user reviews on air frying performance.
Q3: Is installation difficult?
A3: Installation can be tricky as it involves mounting it securely above your stove and connecting it to ventilation. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, professional installation is recommended.
Q4: What is the typical capacity of these units?
A4: Most range from 1.7 to 2.0 cubic feet, which is standard for OTR microwaves.
Q5: Do I need special cookware for air frying in the microwave?
A5: You generally use heat-safe pans or the included air fryer basket. Avoid plastic or materials not rated for high heat.
Q6: How do I clean the air fryer components?
A6: Most air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe. The interior of the microwave should be wiped down regularly.
Q7: Are these units energy efficient?
A7: Like any kitchen appliance, energy use depends on how often and how long you use them. Modern units are designed to be reasonably efficient.
Q8: Can I microwave and air fry at the same time?
A8: No, you cannot use both functions simultaneously. You’ll use one or the other for a particular cooking task.
Q9: What kind of ventilation do I need?
A9: You can choose between recirculating (venting back into the kitchen with a filter) or exhausting (venting outside your home). External venting is generally more effective.
Q10: What is the average price range for these appliances?
A10: Prices can vary widely, but expect to spend anywhere from $300 to $800 or more, depending on the brand, features, and capacity.
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.
My name is Carlos Gadd, and I am the creator of AirPurityGuide.com.. With a passion for footwear, I share my experiences, insights, and expertise about shoes. Through my blog, I aim to guide readers in making informed decisions, finding the perfect pair, and enhancing their footwear knowledge. Join me on this journey to explore everything about shoes!