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.

See also:

Electric grills

Cooktops & wall ovens

Ranges

Cookware