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For an explanation of how we rank reviews, see our ratings criteria page.
by Editors of Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports tests about 60 microwave ovens, from large countertop models to over-the-range microwaves. Results are compiled in a large ratings chart. The main body of the report was written in February… 2007, but ratings were updated in January 2008. Consumer Reports notes improvements in speed cooking using convection cooking and/or halogen bulbs, and in manufacturers' attempts at boosting capacity without enlarging the appliance itself. Scores are based mainly upon ease of use, defrosting ability and evenness of heating. Repair history is included; Consumer Reports surveys subscribers to reach these figures. About a dozen microwave ovens are recommended overall.
by Editors of Good Housekeeping
Good Housekeeping Institute experts test 17 different models and award Top Picks to ovens in six categories. We wish the editors explained their testing methodology, and we'd also like to know which… microwaves didn't make the cut. Among the magazine's top picks are the Sharp R-426HS, chosen as the most stylish. The best compact model is the Sharp R-230KW, and the LG LCRM1240 is noted for its included six-cup coffee maker. The GE JE1289SK offers a rotisserie spit and crisping mode. Their picks for best large microwave and best microwave/convection combo have been discontinued.
by Contributors to Amazon.com
by Contributors to Sears.com
Sears has become an especially valuable spot for user reviews, especially for Kenmore products, which aren't sold elsewhere. Some models have more than 10 owner-written reviews, enough to get an idea of… overall owner satisfaction. There are reviews here for other brands as well, and Sears.com has more reviews for over-the-range microwaves than other owner review sites. Sears.com is a good site to cross-reference the picks at Consumer Reports and other websites.
by Contributors to Buzzillions.com
Buzzillions offers a substantial number of owner reviews on microwaves. Many ovens have more than 50 reviews, and a few have more than 100. This site separates reviews written by casual users and cooking… enthusiasts, and offers a "review snapshot" that gives an overview of the most commonly chosen pros and cons for each model, the average rating, and the microwave's ranking compared with others. Rankings for each product are based on the average rating, the number of reviews the product has, whether the reviewers are "verified buyers", and how recently the reviews were written.
by Editors of Choice
Choice is the magazine of the Australian Consumers' Association, and as such, it functions a lot like Consumer Reports. If you are looking for a model for use in Australia, you should start your research… here. Editors say that size matters when it comes to combination microwaves; smaller models are unable to hold large dishes, which limits their usefulness in convection and grilling modes. Their top-rated microwave is the Sharp R990KW. While the R990KW is not available in the U.S., the Sharp R930AW is comparable in most features, dimensions and power.
by Editors of Which?
Similar to Choice above, this magazine is the British counterpart to Consumer Reports and also regularly tests microwaves. The most recent testing of 85 microwaves is lengthy and thorough, but most of the… models aren't available in the U.S. There's a short description here of Panasonic's inverter technology, which makes cooking on low and medium settings more even. Because Panasonic uses this technology in many of its U.S. microwaves, this article has some usefulness for North American consumers.
by Editors of Consumer
by Contributors to Epinions.com
by Editors of Consumer Guide
Reviews at Consumer Guide are a mixed bag. There are more than 400 microwaves listed here, with retail links. Some models include a link to an "expert review." A few of the review write-ups make mention of… at least some kind of casual testing, but there is no information of who's doing the testing, no indication of how many other microwaves were tested, and no comparisons with other models. There's no explanation at all for why some of these models are said to be a Best Buy.
by Linda Larsen
Linda Larsen is the guide for busy cooks at About.com. She does not explain the specific criteria she uses to select these five microwaves. However, she does preface her choices with a brief statement about… choosing a microwave best suited for family life. Most of the microwave ovens on this page have been discontinued, so the article is outdated. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
by "Maria"
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This is our assessment of the review’s relevance, clarity of testing and thoroughness.
Read more about our Ratings Criteria by clicking the link at the top of the page.
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GE Profile : JES2251SJ 2.2 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave with Child Lockout and Extra Large Capacity
 from Amazon.com New: $266.06 In Stock.
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Sharp R-426LS Family Size Countertop Microwave
from Amazon.com New: $189.99 $169.99 In Stock.
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Sharp R-820JS 0.9-Cubic Foot Grill 2 Convection Microwave, Silver
from Amazon.com New: $259.99 $259.94 In Stock.
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Sharp R-305KS 1-Cubic-Foot 1100-Watt Microwave Oven, Stainless
from Amazon.com New: $139.99 $101.99 In Stock.
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