Microwaves: Reviews

The extra-large GE Profile JES2251SJSS microwave uses inverter technology, which delivers continuous mid-level cooking power rather than cycling power levels as most microwaves do. Reviewers say that the inverter helps… cook food more evenly throughout, and that it gives better results when defrosting and heating large dishes. This stainless steel GE Profile microwave is very large, with 2.2 cubic feet of interior space and a 16-inch turntable. It includes a cooking sensor, warming oven, and a soften feature for use on cheese, butter and ice cream. Be aware that while the handful of reviews at Amazon.com for this model aren't good, the larger volume of more than 150 reviews at Buzzillions.com are cumulatively much more positive.

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If you have a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, the Sharp is much more elegant looking than a lot of microwaves. It also scores well in reviews, especially for its sensor cooking. The Sharp microwave's black… and stainless-steel door actually conceals the control panel, giving the front a smooth, uninterrupted appearance. The 1.4-cubic-foot Sharp microwave has sensor controls, one-push buttons for common items like popcorn and auto defrost, as well as a 30-minute keep-warm feature.

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Convection technology uses a small fan to circulate hot air through the oven. This helps brown food for crispy french fries and crunchier pizza crust. The convection fan itself takes up some extra space inside the oven,… so although the Sharp's interior capacity is a compact 0.9 cubic feet, it still takes up a good amount of countertop space. Reviewers say the Sharp R-820JS is a great microwave, and owners say it's a good alternative to a full-sized oven for small items.

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Although there are some smaller microwave ovens available, owner ratings for really small models aren't very positive. Rather, we found much better reviews for a slightly larger microwave oven, the Sharp R-305KS, with a… 1-cubic-foot capacity. With a width of about 20 inches and a 17-inch depth, it's still fairly compact. It includes four defrost, six cook and six reheat options, along with shortcuts for melting, softening, warming and a popcorn button.

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We found better reviews for the Kenmore Elite 80829, a 1.7-cubic-foot microwave/convection combo, than we did for other over-the-range microwave ovens. Even though it's pricey, we found fewer complaints about durability… for this model. The convection function can be used alone or in combination with the microwave, and the convection makes for better browning (some say they successfully cook pizza and chicken in the Kenmore 80829). Because this model is designed to install over your range, it has an additional fan to vent your stove. It's also 30 inches wide and may need professional installation.(check price at Sears)

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