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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

See also:

Electric grills

Cooktops & wall ovens

Ranges

Cookware