Buy the best microwave oven

When we tested 23 microwaves for our March 1981 report, we wanted to find out how good microwave cooking could be, as noted on the whimsical cover of the issue (click on the cover, right, for a better view). So our Tech department staff spent hundreds of hours preparing comfort foods like roast beef, meat loaf, stew, and pudding.

The testers noted the ease or difficulty of preparation for each oven and evaluated how the food looked and tasted. They found that microwaves weren't ideal for all dishes: Meat loaves turned out juicy and flavorful, but, the story concluded, "In our opinion, microwave cooking is no way to treat a $15 roast—cook it in a conventional oven instead."

Twenty-eight years later, our February 2009 report on microwave ovens covers more than 60 models. While all of the latest microwaves can handle basic tasks like making popcorn, some ovens promise to make cooking main meals as simple as preparing snacks. A few models can produce nicely browned, crispy chicken.

For specific details on the ovens, check out our Ratings (available to subscribers).—Kimberly Janeway

Essential information: For more advice on choosing a new oven, visit our updated microwaves product page and watch the video buying guide (right).

Comments

[Craig Stapert]

Could you provide ratings of sound levels emitted by microwaves. It's expected that they cook, but can they do it quietly?

[neil brady]

Sharp over range microwave model #R-1405 control panel design placed the touch pad for "timer/clock" adjacent to the "start" pad.This proxmity is a contributing cause for fires in the oven.

[Tim1234]

HOw about leaks? MW leaks are dangerous. Why not grade them and also how long before the units start leaking?

[JoAnn Furay]

I have a question. I was also interested in microwave leaks and how long before it leaks. We have a microwave that causes static on our phone, if both are in use. Is that indicative of a problem? How safe are microwaves? Our son said we should not use one.
Thank you.
JoAnn

[Michel Turcotte]

Hi,We have purchased back in 2003 a Panasonic Genius over the range microwave oven with vent and have been satisfied with it until it stop heating properly. I have open it up to realize that the entire unit was filled with grease and no way to clean it up. I'm wondering if newer models have a separate ventilation so that the grease coming out of the vent doesn't affect the microwave portion of the unit.
Thank you for your help
Michel

[Lal kitab]

good informative, has helped me in selecting my microwave oven. thanks for the information. I bought daewoo oven with grill and is working fine.

[Carol Clark]

I was about to order an over-the-range microwave based upon CR's high rating of it, but I've been turned off by the un-user-friendlyness of the manufacturer's web site. Good pre- and post-sales support of a product is important, don't you think?

The model was Samsung's SMH7187ST. While I was able to download the installation guide, it was only after much searching. And when I found that Sears was no longer selling that model, but a newer one, I found I was unable to find documention of that model on Samsung's website. Oh, the model was there, as were the doc links, but the links just didn't work.

What I did find was a three month old, as-yet-un-answered question by a buyer asking where she could find the installation guide online.

Shame on Samsung!

[Richard Van]

I purchased a new $449 GE over the range JVM2070BHBB #HL90011B on 1/15/07 for 2 adult person home use. It stopped heating 7/7/08. GE sent a new magnetron on 5 yr warranty but not a required diode.The mag and diode were installed and lasted to 9/30/09. GE has promised another mag (warranty) but no diode; GE repairman will install these for about $160. The Unit weighs 67 pounds and must come off the wall (and return)for mag replacement. That is 16 months average use between major downtime hassles. What are some, non convection, best replacement options with black face? My Nov 09 CR issue was no help.

[Jerry M]

I have a GE Eterna Series Spacemaker xl800 over the stove micro.
The unit works great as a micro wave. The exhaust fan is so noisy you cannot use it. I am lookin for a remidy or a different over the stove unit with a quite fan. I could not find any ratings on noice levels.

Thanks