Microwave oven buying guide

Countertop models cost the least and are best for kitchens with lots of counter space. Compact models can cost very little but typically offer the least cooking space. Midsized and large models add capacity and features, with midsized models taking the biggest slice of the market. But because manufacturers often include unusable space in their capacity claims, be sure to bring a large platter to see whether it fits inside models on your shopping list. Two other key caveats: While some countertop microwaves can hang below a cabinet, you wind up with little working space below the oven. And while over-the-range models save counter space and add convenience, they don't vent nearly as well as a dedicated range hood and may require an electrician to install.

Decide whether you'll really use grilling and browning features, convection cooking, slow-cook, and other added functions before paying extra for them. Our tests have shown that you'll still get better grilling in a capable oven--and more-convenient slow cooking with a dedicated slow cooker. A sensor is a convenient feature, but think twice about shortcut and defrost settings for foods you don't eat.

These models are best for kitchens with lots of counter space and for avid cooks who use their range often--and require the optimal venting of a range hood instead of an over-the-range microwave. You can hang some countertop models below a cabinet, though that often leaves little working space below, and some fit within microwave cabinets, if your kitchen is so equipped.

Often labeled as OTRs, these models are typically bought as replacements or when a kitchen is remodeled. While they can be vented to the outside, don't expect an over-the-range microwave to vent as well as a capable range hood that extends over the front burners.

Often bought as replacements or when a kitchen is remodeled, built-in microwaves are installed within custom cabinets or over counters but flush with the bottoms of flanking cabinets. Typically, built-in models will not have finished sides, nor do they have vents, though some (over-the-counter types) do have finished sides and work lights.

The magnetron, which generates the microwaves, is the heart of the oven. Midsized and large ovens are typically rated at 850 to 1,650 watts; compact ovens, at about 600 to 800 watts. More watts typically mean more heat. But differences of 100 watts or so don't matter much.

It measures emitted steam to determine when food is done; that helps prevent over- or undercooking and is a key feature on any microwave oven.

Earlier microwaves had just an automatic popcorn setting and perhaps a few others. Many now have 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. But avoid paying extra for shortcut keys you probably won't use.

Use it to set cooking times and power levels. It's easier to use than a dial.

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.

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.

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.

These let you cook several foods at once. But even a coffee mug is too high for some models unless you remove a rack.

Some over-the-range microwaves can slow-cook foods using convection. But don't throw away your dedicated slow-cooker just yet: Models we tested in this mode overcooked the meat in our beef-stew recipe and left the top layer dry. What's more, the four-hour maximum cook time some offer is far less convenient than the eight hours or more slow cookers typically allow.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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'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.