GE’s over-the-range microwaves are known for saving space, but the PVM9179SRSS adds genuine cooking versatility. It combines a 1.7 cubic foot microwave with a full convection oven and a dedicated air fryer. This is a legitimate alternative for baking, roasting, and crisping food when you don’t want to heat up your main oven.

The convection system uses a rear heating element and a fan to circulate hot air. It bakes cookies evenly and can roast a small chicken. The air fry mode is its standout feature, using that same convection system at a higher fan speed to crisp frozen fries or chicken wings effectively. At 300 CFM, the exhaust fan is powerful enough for most stovetop cooking, and the halogen oven light clearly illuminates your pots and pans below.

You trade some capacity for that over-the-range convenience. The 1.7 cubic foot interior fits a 12-inch pizza or a 9×13 dish, but larger roasting pans won’t fit. The control scheme mixes a tactile dial for quick adjustments with a touchpad for selecting modes, which is intuitive after the initial learning curve. It’s a capable, space-saving hub for a kitchen where countertop real estate is precious.