Speed is being joined by smarts as the big brands heat up their microwave oven lines. Many now have sensors that automate cooking for more than just popcorn. Sales-hungry manufacturers are also adding convection cooking and other features aimed at homeowners who want a second oven without having to remodel.
GETTING STARTED
The major brands are adding more automation of various cooking chores to their microwaves. They're also increasing capacity without increasing overall size by using recessed turntables and smaller electronic components and by moving controls to the door. As you'll learn in this microwave oven guide, some manufacturers are exaggerating capacity by counting wasted space in the corners. Usable space may be 50 to 60 percent less than claimed, so bring a large platter to the store to see whether it fits inside an oven you're considering.
Pick a type and size Countertop models cost the least and are best for kitchens with lots of counter space. Compact models can cost very little. Midsized and large models add capacity and features, but they typically eat up 2.8 to 3.2 square feet of space. You can hang some countertop models below a cabinet, though that often leaves little working space below the oven. Over-the-range models are often bought as replacements or when remodeling a kitchen. But venting isn't very good, and installation might require an electrician.
GETTING STARTED
The major brands are adding more automation of various cooking chores to their microwaves. They're also increasing capacity without increasing overall size by using recessed turntables and smaller electronic components and by moving controls to the door. As you'll learn in this microwave oven guide, some manufacturers are exaggerating capacity by counting wasted space in the corners. Usable space may be 50 to 60 percent less than claimed, so bring a large platter to the store to see whether it fits inside an oven you're considering.
Pick a type and size Countertop models cost the least and are best for kitchens with lots of counter space. Compact models can cost very little. Midsized and large models add capacity and features, but they typically eat up 2.8 to 3.2 square feet of space. You can hang some countertop models below a cabinet, though that often leaves little working space below the oven. Over-the-range models are often bought as replacements or when remodeling a kitchen. But venting isn't very good, and installation might require an electrician.
Be realistic about extras
Decide whether you'll really use grilling and browning features, convection cooking, and other added functions before paying extra for them. None consistently provided the results you'd get in a regular oven. A sensor is a convenient feature, but think twice about shortcut and defrost settings for foods you don't eat. Use this microwave oven guide to help with your purchase.
TYPES
There are two types of microwave ovens. Most microwaves still sit on the countertop, but more and more are being mounted over the range, especially in kitchens where counter space is at a premium.
Countertop microwaves
They're best for kitchens with lots of counter space. You can hang some below a cabinet, though that often leaves little working space below.
Pros: Countertop microwaves tend to cost less than over-the-range models.
Cons: The midsized and large models we tested take 2.8 to 3.2 square feet of counter space.
Over-the-range microwaves
These are often bought as replacements or when a kitchen is remodeled. They can be vented to the outside -- but don't expect an over-the-range microwave to vent as well as a range hood that extends over the front burner.
Pros: Over-the-range microwaves leave the counter workspace clear.
Cons: Installation might require an electrician.
FEATURES
Manufacturers are adding more and more bells and whistles to their microwaves. When considering microwave oven features, think twice about investing in shortcuts and conveniences you might not use.
Power rating
The magnetron, which generates the microwaves, is the heart of the oven. Midsized and large ovens are rated at 850 to 1,650 watts; compact ovens, at 600 to 800 watts. More watts mean more heat. But differences of 100 watts or so don't matter much.
Sensor
It measures emitted steam to determine when food is done; that helps prevent over- or undercooking.
Shortcut keys
Earlier microwaves had just an automatic popcorn setting and perhaps a few others. Some now have 18 or more auto settings for foods such as oatmeal, pasta, stew, grits, and souffles, as well as for reheating or defrosting. That eliminates the need to worry about time and power settings; just press the appropriate button.
Numeric keypad
Use it to set cooking times and power levels. It's easier to use than a dial.
A 1-minute or 30-second key
It extends the preset cooking time, maintaining whatever power level was selected. It also allows quick adjustments to your previous settings--pushing the button more than once multiplies the time extension.
Turntable vs. tray
A microwave oven must keep food moving for uniform heating. Most microwaves have a turntable that rotates the food. Some replace the turntable with a rectangular tray that slides from side to side. An elongated platter that's too large to rotate might fit on a sliding tray.
Convection cooking, grilling, and browning
These features are aimed at homeowners who want a second oven without having to remodel. But none of the tested models consistently provided the results you'd get in a regular oven.
Removable racks
These let you cook several foods at once. Even a coffee mug is too high for some models unless you remove a rack.
BRANDS
GE leads the countertop microwave-oven market with approximately 30 percent of units sold, followed by Sharp. GE also sells the most over-the-range models. But there are a number of other players in the market. Use this information to compare microwave ovens by brand.
Frigidaire
Frigidaire currently offers few over-the-range microwaves but is rolling out its new high-end Electrolux line. A wave-touch model with bottom controls will be available. Current Frigidaire models are sold for $250 to $450 at retailers nationwide.
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GE
General Electric is the dominant brand in the entire category of microwave ovens. The brand's ovens can be found in all big-box retailers and independent, national, and regional dealers. The brand strives for innovation. Countertop models range in sizes from 0.8 cubic feet to 2.0 cubic feet. Some models offer convection cooking, and a number provide speed-cook options. GE countertop models range in price from $70 to $350. GE over-the-range (OTR) models measure about 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet with wattage ratings of 900 to 1,200; GE's OTRs cost $200 to $1,400. GE's latest innovation is the Advantium speed-cook technology, which uses a halogen bulb. The company also sells models with convection cooking.
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Kenmore
This brand, sold at Sears, offers a wide number of countertop microwave ovens, with prices ranging from $70 to $350. Capacities are from 1 to 2 cubic feet, and some models provide convection cooking. Kenmore over-the-range models measure about 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet and have wattage ratings of 900 to 1,200; they cost $200 to $800. Sears offers a wide range of OTR ovens and sells a model with GE's Advantium speed-cook technology.
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LG
LG recently introduced a model with a door that swings upward and is introducing a model with a keep-warm feature--new to the market--and bottom controls. It was LG that introduced the glide tray, which moves from side to side instead of in a circle--good for rectangular dishes--and also hidden vents. LG also introduced the blue interior cavity in its products. The microwaves are available for $300 to $800 at Home Depot, Sears, and large regional and independent dealers.
Back to top
Panasonic
This maker offers a wide range of products in the midlevel to high-end categories and is known for its Inverter technology. A number of Panasonic countertop models are also built-ins and convert with a kit you can purchase. The company sells a number of models with the Turbo Convection feature. Models range in price from $110 to $700.
Back to top
Sharp
Sharp sells a wide range of countertop models through retailers such as Target, Best Buy, Lowe's, Sears, and Wal-Mart. Sharp is planning to introduce a steam-assisted microwave oven. The company also offers the only microwave drawer on the market (in a single- or double-drawer unit). Sharp microwaves cost $70 to $800. Sharp over-the-range (OTR) models measure about 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet with wattage ratings of 900 to 1,200 and cost $200 to $1,000.
Back to top
Whirlpool
Whirlpool's over-the-range microwaves feature what the company calls the Velos design, a venting system that removes smoke better than any other over-the-range model we've tested. The company also sells convection and nonconvection microwaves, some with speed-cooking capability. The ovens are sold at most major retailers and cost $300 to $800.
TYPES
There are two types of microwave ovens. Most microwaves still sit on the countertop, but more and more are being mounted over the range, especially in kitchens where counter space is at a premium.
Countertop microwaves
They're best for kitchens with lots of counter space. You can hang some below a cabinet, though that often leaves little working space below.
Pros: Countertop microwaves tend to cost less than over-the-range models.
Cons: The midsized and large models we tested take 2.8 to 3.2 square feet of counter space.
Over-the-range microwaves
These are often bought as replacements or when a kitchen is remodeled. They can be vented to the outside -- but don't expect an over-the-range microwave to vent as well as a range hood that extends over the front burner.
Pros: Over-the-range microwaves leave the counter workspace clear.
Cons: Installation might require an electrician.
FEATURES
Manufacturers are adding more and more bells and whistles to their microwaves. When considering microwave oven features, think twice about investing in shortcuts and conveniences you might not use.
Power rating
The magnetron, which generates the microwaves, is the heart of the oven. Midsized and large ovens are rated at 850 to 1,650 watts; compact ovens, at 600 to 800 watts. More watts mean more heat. But differences of 100 watts or so don't matter much.
Sensor
It measures emitted steam to determine when food is done; that helps prevent over- or undercooking.
Shortcut keys
Earlier microwaves had just an automatic popcorn setting and perhaps a few others. Some now have 18 or more auto settings for foods such as oatmeal, pasta, stew, grits, and souffles, as well as for reheating or defrosting. That eliminates the need to worry about time and power settings; just press the appropriate button.
Numeric keypad
Use it to set cooking times and power levels. It's easier to use than a dial.
A 1-minute or 30-second key
It extends the preset cooking time, maintaining whatever power level was selected. It also allows quick adjustments to your previous settings--pushing the button more than once multiplies the time extension.
Turntable vs. tray
A microwave oven must keep food moving for uniform heating. Most microwaves have a turntable that rotates the food. Some replace the turntable with a rectangular tray that slides from side to side. An elongated platter that's too large to rotate might fit on a sliding tray.
Convection cooking, grilling, and browning
These features are aimed at homeowners who want a second oven without having to remodel. But none of the tested models consistently provided the results you'd get in a regular oven.
Removable racks
These let you cook several foods at once. Even a coffee mug is too high for some models unless you remove a rack.
BRANDS
GE leads the countertop microwave-oven market with approximately 30 percent of units sold, followed by Sharp. GE also sells the most over-the-range models. But there are a number of other players in the market. Use this information to compare microwave ovens by brand.
Frigidaire
Frigidaire currently offers few over-the-range microwaves but is rolling out its new high-end Electrolux line. A wave-touch model with bottom controls will be available. Current Frigidaire models are sold for $250 to $450 at retailers nationwide.
Back to top
GE
General Electric is the dominant brand in the entire category of microwave ovens. The brand's ovens can be found in all big-box retailers and independent, national, and regional dealers. The brand strives for innovation. Countertop models range in sizes from 0.8 cubic feet to 2.0 cubic feet. Some models offer convection cooking, and a number provide speed-cook options. GE countertop models range in price from $70 to $350. GE over-the-range (OTR) models measure about 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet with wattage ratings of 900 to 1,200; GE's OTRs cost $200 to $1,400. GE's latest innovation is the Advantium speed-cook technology, which uses a halogen bulb. The company also sells models with convection cooking.
Back to top
Kenmore
This brand, sold at Sears, offers a wide number of countertop microwave ovens, with prices ranging from $70 to $350. Capacities are from 1 to 2 cubic feet, and some models provide convection cooking. Kenmore over-the-range models measure about 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet and have wattage ratings of 900 to 1,200; they cost $200 to $800. Sears offers a wide range of OTR ovens and sells a model with GE's Advantium speed-cook technology.
Back to top
LG
LG recently introduced a model with a door that swings upward and is introducing a model with a keep-warm feature--new to the market--and bottom controls. It was LG that introduced the glide tray, which moves from side to side instead of in a circle--good for rectangular dishes--and also hidden vents. LG also introduced the blue interior cavity in its products. The microwaves are available for $300 to $800 at Home Depot, Sears, and large regional and independent dealers.
Back to top
Panasonic
This maker offers a wide range of products in the midlevel to high-end categories and is known for its Inverter technology. A number of Panasonic countertop models are also built-ins and convert with a kit you can purchase. The company sells a number of models with the Turbo Convection feature. Models range in price from $110 to $700.
Back to top
Sharp
Sharp sells a wide range of countertop models through retailers such as Target, Best Buy, Lowe's, Sears, and Wal-Mart. Sharp is planning to introduce a steam-assisted microwave oven. The company also offers the only microwave drawer on the market (in a single- or double-drawer unit). Sharp microwaves cost $70 to $800. Sharp over-the-range (OTR) models measure about 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet with wattage ratings of 900 to 1,200 and cost $200 to $1,000.
Back to top
Whirlpool
Whirlpool's over-the-range microwaves feature what the company calls the Velos design, a venting system that removes smoke better than any other over-the-range model we've tested. The company also sells convection and nonconvection microwaves, some with speed-cooking capability. The ovens are sold at most major retailers and cost $300 to $800.
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