We ran 55 microwaves through our cooking tests and found that some of the best cost the least and include more work-saving features. But several new models left our testers cold. Our microwave versus range cook-off also revealed that some microwave features might not be all they're cracked up to be.

More ways to microwave. The $220 GE Profile JES2251SJ, a CR Best Buy among large countertop models, has 18 auto settings that include such favorites as oatmeal, omelets, pasta, and stew. KitchenAid's new $900 over-the-range KHHC2090S even has settings for grits, potpies, and soufflés, though KitchenAid has been a repair-prone over-the-range brand in our microwave surveys. A growing number of microwave ovens now have removable racks, letting you cook several foods at once. But even a coffee mug is too high for some models unless you remove a rack.

A lofty idea that fell flat. Instead of opening to the side, the EasyUp door on LG's $825 LMVM2277[ST] over-the-range microwave swings upward. LG says the door adds style by allowing a horizontal handle like the one on the range oven below it. The new microwave heated evenly and provided lots of cooking space. But taller testers had to stoop to avoid hitting their heads on the open door, and shorter ones had to stretch to close it. A tall black control screen also made it difficult to check on cooking inside.