Preparing meals while camping is much easier with an RV microwave, especially when you want to avoid firing up the grill or making a campfire to cook.
So, if you’re wondering what the best options are, we have you covered whether you’re looking for microwaves for RV use or a small microwave for camping from a tent or car.
Why make campground cooking more complicated than it needs to be? Please read our reviews and find the best RV microwave for all your camping adventures.
Types of RV Microwaves
Here are the three types of RV microwaves to choose from:
Countertop Microwave
A countertop microwave is freestanding on little feet, so it sits evenly and securely on your counter but can be moved easily.
You can plug a small RV microwave into any 110-volt outlet inside your camper, outside on your patio area, at your house, or even into a generator. This flexibility allows you to use the microwave where you need it.
Built-In RV Microwave
Most mid-to-high-end campers come with a microwave in RV that is built in. The unit may be placed inside a cabinet or mounted over the range.
In-cabinet RV microwaves secure the unit from movement and look nice because wood trim hides the sides and cord from view. This type of unit vents air out the top front so it can operate efficiently.
Over-the-range RV microwaves have extra brackets and bolts to hold them in place during travel, so they won’t vibrate loose and fall off the wall. Most units of this type will vent out the top or back through a hole in the RV wall or roof.
Convection RV Microwave
Many recreational vehicle manufacturers install a convection microwave RV model that upgrades the cooking experience and can eliminate the need to add an oven to smaller floor plans.
While a standard microwave cooks food by heating the moisture inside, a convection RV microwave uses a fan and heating element to move hot air around the food to cook it.
A convection microwave for camping is super handy because you can bake, broil, and roast foods instead of just settling for “warming up” your meals. So a convection RV microwave should be a priority if you want the ability to enjoy a crispy pizza, bake some cookies, or roast some chicken.
You can find convection microwaves in both freestanding and built-in styles.
Is There a Difference Between an RV and Standard Microwave?
Both types of microwaves need 110-volt power to operate, which means you’ll need access to shore power, a generator, or an RV inverter to use the unit while camping.
One difference between a regular microwave and one made for RVs is that the construction and materials are supposedly more rugged to prevent the unit from damage while driving.
However, this claim is hard to gauge since it seems RV microwaves don’t seem to perform any differently or last any longer than a residential model.
Another difference is that manufacturers will install an RV microwave compatible with the camper’s electrical system so it doesn’t blow the breaker in your 30-amp or 50-amp RV.
The last difference is that any microwave for RV installation will have a way to secure it from shifting while driving.
Many RVers find it simple to secure non-RV-specific microwaves by placing sticky putty under the feet of countertop models or adding braces or extra fasteners to a cabinet and over-the-range model.
Things to Consider When Shopping for a Microwave for Camping
Energy Consumption
The power a microwave draws during use must not overload the RV circuit you are plugging it into.
For instance, if you plan to plug your microwave into a 15-amp electrical circuit, the microwave cannot draw more than 1,500 watts. You must also include the power draw of any other appliances or devices you use simultaneously on that circuit.
A 20-amp circuit can handle an electrical draw of up to 2,200 watts, giving you more leeway to install a more powerful microwave or use more appliances at the same time without worrying you will trip the circuit breaker.
Placement and Travel Protection
Where do you plan to install the microwave in your RV? Is there a designated spot for a built-in unit, or will you set it on a counter?
If you’re going with a built-in, is there an outlet and venting available? Running new electrical lines or cutting holes for vents may be more hassle than it’s worth.
Travel in an RV creates extreme vibrations and bumps, which can jiggle and move any item inside the camper that’s not secure. For example, will you keep an RV countertop microwave in a storage bay until use or always have it out? If keeping it out, how will you prevent it from sliding around?
Knowing where and how you’ll use the microwave before shopping helps you determine which type and size will be best and what other materials you may need to purchase so you know how to secure the microwave in your RV safely.
Size
The microwave size will determine how many watts it requires to operate and the space it will take up in your RV.
Here are average-wattage-draws for different size camping microwaves:
- Small: 0.7 – 1.0 cubic foot 700–1250 watts
- Medium: 1.0 – 1.5 cubic foot, 1000–1500 watts
- Large: 1.6 – 2.2 cubic foot, 1500–2000 watts
Please note that each microwave brand will have different measurements for the exterior length, width, and height even though they offer the same size cubic foot interior, so read product descriptions carefully.
The 9 Best RV Microwaves
1. Sharp R1874T Microwave
Type: Over-the-range
Convection Feature: Yes
Capacity: 1.1 CF
Dimensions: 29.94″ x 15.28″ x 16.34″
Energy Use: 850 cooking watts
- 850-watt, over-the-range convection microwave browns, bakes, broils, crisps, and roasts
- 2-color, 7-digit, interactive display; Smart and Easy sensor settings
- 1.1-cubic-foot, stainless-steel interior with light; 13-inch turntable provides even heating
- Built-in exhaust system; hood light, powerful fan, low and high racks included
- Outer Dimensions: 29-15/16 by 16-11/32 by 15-9/32 inches
- Inner Dimensions: 13-13/16 by 8-1/16 by 17-1/8
The Sharp R1874T is one of the 9 best RV microwave convection models available. It offers convertible venting options and CompuBake, CompuBroil, and CompuRoast cooking programs, so food comes out perfectly every time.
The sleek stainless steel styling fits any RV decor, and the touchpad controls are easy to read and switch between convection and microwave modes. In addition, the 13-inch ceramic turntable can be switched off for baking certain foods or to fit larger pan sizes.
BEST FEATURES:
- Microwave or bake, roast, and grill on two rack levels
- 7-Digit, 2-Color Interactive Display with helpful programming/cooking steps
- 12 CompuCook convection programs plus CompuDefrost
- 8 Cook, Reheat, and Popcorn microwave programs
- 2-speed ventilation fan
- Adjustable work light
- Exhaust System: horizontal, vertical, or ductless discharge
2. Samsung MG11H2020CT Countertop Microwave with Grilling Element
Type: Freestanding
Convection Feature: Features a Grilling Element (not full convection)
Capacity: 1.1 CF
Dimensions: 20 3/8″ x 15 13/16″ x 11 11/16″
Energy Use: 1,600 watts
- GRILLING ELEMENT – Enjoy hot meals in no time with a grilling element that evenly distributes heat to your food
- AUTO COOK – 37 cooking presets, such as popcorn and auto defrost, allow you to heat your food without hassle
- CERAMIC ENAMEL INTERIOR – Built to stand up to daily use, the ceramic enamel interior is scratch resistant and easy to…
- INTUITIVE CONTROLS – Thanks to the LED display, making the right button selection is a breeze
- POWERFUL COOKING – Defrost, re-heat, and boil your favorite foods With 1000 watts and 10 different power levels
- PLENTY OF ROOM – At 11 cu ft capacity, the microwave features a built-in ceramic turntable with room to cook your…
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK – Helps prevent child access or accidental use
- WARRANTY – Microwave is protected with 1 year parts and labor warranty and 10 years parts warranty for Magnetron
Possibly one of the most unique choices for an RV microwave, this model delivers all the essential microwave features plus includes a grilling element, rack, and ceramic tray so you can achieve the crispiness you crave in your favorite foods.
Another bonus is the easy-clean ceramic enamel interior coating that resists scratches or chipping for long-lasting wear. Samsung also improves cooking evenness and quickness by designing the unit with their Triple Distribution System that emits microwaves from three locations.
BEST FEATURES:
- 10 power levels
- 12.4-inch wide glass turntable
- Auto-cook settings for reheat, defrost, and cook
- Eco Mode button turns off display to conserve power
- Triple microwave distribution system
3. Advent MW912BWDK RV Microwave Convection Oven
Type: Built-in
Convection Feature: Yes
Capacity: 0.9 CF
Dimensions: 20.58″ x 15.12″ x 15″ with trim kit/19″ x 15.12″ x 11.34″ without
Energy Use: 900 watts
Price: $235
The Advent is a compact convection RV microwave oven of the 9 explicitly made for recreational vehicles also. It features a low-wattage draw yet offers highly efficient cooking options in microwave and convection modes.
The door handle makes it easier to open the oven to load or remove food, and the touchpad controls are user-friendly. In addition, the unit comes with a wide trim kit and excellent installation instructions.
BEST FEATURES:
- One touch electronic controls and digital display
- 10 adjustable power levels
- 6 pre-programmed digital cook settings
- 8 pre-programmed one-touch microwave settings
- UL/CUL Listed
4. Kenmore 70929 Microwave
Type: Freestanding
Convection Feature: No
Capacity: 0.9 CF
Dimensions: 18.3″ x 14.5″ x 11″ without
Energy Use: 900 watts
Price: $195
The Kenmore 70929 Microwave is very compact, making it an excellent option for smaller RVs. However, the unit doesn’t skimp on power or features, so you can cook up all your favorite meals while camping.
The unique diamond indents on the interior walls help concentrate the microwave energy, so food cooks more efficiently. In addition, the unit meets ADA compliance standards if you need an RV microwave accessible for anyone with disabilities, with plenty of one-button push options to cook specific foods.
BEST FEATURES:
- 10 power levels
- 6 cooking options and 2 defrost options
- ADA-compliant for easy access
- LED digital display
- 11.22″ diameter turntable
5. Cuisinart CMW-200 Convection Microwave Oven
Type: Freestanding
Convection Feature: Yes
Capacity: 1.2 CF
Dimensions: 21.20″ x 19.00″ x 12.20″
Energy Use: 1,000 watts
Price: $300
The Cuisinart CMW-200 is a great option for larger RVs or if you need to cook up family-size meals while camping. There is not only a convection mode so you can bake, roast, or broil, but you can also grill foods on the included rack.
The best feature of this Cuisinart is the innovative multi-stage cooking that automatically moves between modes so you can defrost, microwave, and then bake food to perfection in one step, saving you hassle and time.
BEST FEATURES:
- 11 power levels and 7 cooking modes
- 9 cooking presets
- Stainless steel interior
- Multi-stage cooking feature
- Easy-read touchpad
- LED display
6. Panasonic NN-SN686S Microwave Oven
Type: Built-in or Freestanding
Convection Feature: No
Capacity: 1.2 CF
Dimensions: 20.69″ x 15.81″ x 12.25″
Energy Use: 1,480 watts
Price: $205
The Panasonic NN-SN686S is another large-capacity microwave of the 9 for RV life that offers more power, so food cooks faster. The patented Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor that consistently delivers evenly cooked food is a unique feature that makes this model a top choice.
The compact size of the microwave fits well into any motorhome or camping trailer, yet the interior space allows you to cook bigger portions. The finesse of the cooking features also lets you poach, steam, and braise foods, which is hard to perfect using other microwave models.
BEST FEATURES:
- 13.4″ turntable
- 14 cooking presets
- Genius Sensor and Inverter Technology
- Delay start option
- Child lock
- Keep Warm feature
- Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost
7. RecPro EM925AQR-S RV Microwave
Type: Built-in
Convection Feature: No
Capacity: 1.0 CF
Dimensions: 20” x 14.125” x 13.375” with trim kit / 19.1” x 14.7” x 11.3” without
Energy Use: 1,350 watts
Price: $290
The RecPro microwave is another RV favorite because it comes with a trim kit for a professional-looking installation. The stainless steel and black-tint glass have a high-end appeal yet are easy to keep clean.
Convenient features like Insta-Start let you push one button for 30 seconds of cooking or choose from eight other modes for express cooking with a single touch. In addition, the clever design keeps the exterior dimensions more compact while keeping the microwave interior spacious.
BEST FEATURES:
- 8 Express Cook options
- 4-digit LED display
- Weight and time defrost
- Multi-section cooking
- Child lock setting
- Flush push-release door paddle
- Direct replacement for High Point or Greystone models
8. Nostalgia Retrowave Countertop Microwave
Type: Freestanding
Convection Feature: No
Capacity: 0.7 CF
Dimensions: 18″ x 14″ x 10.25″
Energy Use: 700 watts
Price: $130
Vintage camper owners (or those with new RVs with mid-century decor) will love this mauve microwave. The exterior offers a fantastic retro look with an oval window, chrome door handle and detailing, and a round LED display.
Of the 9, This countertop RV microwave is small, best for cooking for one or two, and easily portable if you want to cook on your RV patio or carry it along on tent or car camping trips. Simple knobs and push buttons let you select from various cooking options while keeping the appeal of the mid-century design.
BEST FEATURES:
- 12 pre-programmed cooking settings
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Rotating glass carousel for even cooking
- 8 color choices
9. Greystone P90D23AP-X3-FR03 Microwave
Type: Built-in or Freestanding
Convection Feature: No
Capacity: 0.9 CF
Dimensions: 23.375″ x 14.25″ x 15″ with trim kit / 19″ x 14.25″ x 13.5″ without
Energy Use: 1,350 watts
The Greystone P90D23AP-X3-FR03 microwave is perfect for smaller RVs and allows you to either place it on your counter or install it as a built-in with the included trim kit. The unit cooks food quickly and evenly on the slowly-rotating glass turntable.
This model is durable, with a vibration-reduction design and corrosion-resistant materials to remain in excellent condition for years. Using the appliance is straightforward, with an LED display to easily select function modes and as a clock when not actively in use.
BEST FEATURES:
- 6 auto-cook settings
- 10 power levels
- Stainless steel finish works with any decor
- Rubber feet prevent movement
- Easy-read touch control panel with lock
- Multiple mounting options
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The best RV microwave can heat or cook all your food efficiently, so you don’t have to rely on other appliances or cookware to get the job done.
Whether you’re looking for a standard, convention, built-in, or countertop microwave for your RV, our 9 top picks above offer the most useful features and designs that will make campground cooking faster and more convenient!
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