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Welcome to “Reviews inside tv.” Thanks for joining us today. We’re about to dive into the Café™ 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, a versatile kitchen appliance that blends modern technology with an upscale design. This microwave isn’t just any microwave; it offers multiple cooking modes, including an air fry function, making it a potential game-changer for your kitchen.
The Café™ microwave comes packed with 1.7 cubic feet of interior space, which is fairly standard for over-the-range models, providing plenty of room for large dishes. This particular model features a convection cooking option, which allows for a more even heat distribution, something that can be useful if you’re cooking or reheating a variety of foods. One of its standout features is the air fry function—an increasingly popular option that aims to give your foods that crispy, fried texture without the oil. With 10 power levels, it offers flexibility for cooking, reheating, and defrosting. The microwave also boasts a sleek stainless steel finish and a high-tech digital control panel that adds to its premium look and feel.
When it comes to real-world testing, I have to say the Café™ 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Microwave Oven performs decently across the board. Setting it up was easy—mounting it above the range was straightforward, and the touch controls were responsive. The microwave heats up food relatively quickly, and I was pleasantly surprised by how evenly it reheated my leftovers. The convection feature worked well for baking small items, like cookies or roasted vegetables, though it didn’t quite match the performance of a dedicated oven. The air fry function, in particular, delivered a satisfying crisp on items like chicken wings and French fries, but you won’t get the same result as you would from a countertop air fryer; it’s definitely a handy feature but has some limitations. One downside I noticed is that the microwave tends to be a bit louder than I expected, especially when it’s operating on high power or during the convection cycle. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if noise is a concern for you.
Looking at the pros, the Café™ microwave’s combination of convection, air fry, and traditional microwave functions makes it a versatile option for a wide range of cooking needs. The large 1.7 Cu. Ft. capacity is perfect for families or anyone who regularly heats large dishes. It also has a modern, sleek look that adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen. On the flip side, the biggest con I found is the noise level. It’s not incredibly disruptive, but it’s more noticeable than some other models. Additionally, while the air fry feature is a great addition, it doesn’t completely replace the functionality of a standalone air fryer, so keep that in mind if air frying is a top priority for you.
As for value for money, this microwave falls on the pricier side of things. Considering its versatility with convection and air frying, you’re getting more than just a microwave, but whether it’s worth the extra cost depends on how much you’ll use these additional functions. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with different cooking methods, the price may be justifiable. But if you only need a basic microwave, there are more affordable models that offer reliable performance without all the extra features.
Comparing this to other over-the-range microwaves, many models focus strictly on microwave functions, so the Café™ stands out with its additional capabilities. Competitors in this space may offer similar capacity, but they don’t often have air fry or convection cooking, which sets this model apart. However, if you’re looking for a dedicated air fryer or convection oven, you might get better performance elsewhere.
The build quality of this microwave is solid. The stainless steel finish is durable, and the overall construction feels sturdy. While I haven’t had the opportunity to test its longevity over several years, Café™ is known for producing high-quality appliances, so it’s reasonable to expect that this microwave should hold up well with proper maintenance.
I didn’t need to contact customer support during my testing, so I can’t speak to that experience firsthand. However, Café™ has a reputation for providing solid customer service in the event that you do need assistance. You can expect timely responses and reliable support should an issue arise.
If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative, there are other microwaves with similar features, but without the air fry function. If you’re willing to give up that additional feature, you could look into models from brands like Samsung or LG that also offer robust over-the-range microwaves for a lower price.
To wrap things up, the Café™ 1.7 Cu. Ft. Convection Over-the-Range Microwave Oven is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile appliance that can do more than just microwave. The air fry and convection options are nice additions but come with some limitations, particularly in terms of performance compared to dedicated appliances. If you value the versatility and space-saving design, it could be a great fit. Just keep in mind the noise level and the premium price tag.
Thanks for watching! If you’re considering this microwave, the link is in the comments box below. Feel free to share your thoughts or ask any questions if you’ve already used this product. Until next time, “Reviews inside tv,” where we dig deep into the details!
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