Microwave Ovens Technology
Best Rated Microwave Ovens – Many modern appliances have their genesis in technology pioneered during World War II – the microwave oven is no exception. Coming from the creation of a piece of radar technology called the cavity magnetron, the modern microwave was able to be developed. First sold in 1946, this machine has now become a staple in modern kitchens worldwide. Using electromagnetic radiation, microwaves are able to create thermal energy that cooks the food from the inside. This type of cooking is faster and more even than other cooking techniques such as frying, grilling, or baking.
Best Microwave Oven Reviews
Ever since its inception, the microwave market has only grown in the number of models, manufacturers, and units sold. Using a variety of different features and technology, the microwaves of today have little resemblance of the one of just a couple generations ago. With a plethora of different customizable buttons, cooking levels, and presets, microwaves are useful on several fronts. Because of all this, it may seem a little confusing on what the best microwave for you is. First it’s best to understand what to look out for when purchasing, what the best rated microwaves are based off of real Amazon buyer’s reviews, and how to properly maintain your new machine. By the end of this guide you’ll be able to confidently purchase one of the best rated microwave ovens that works for you.
Microwave Features to Consider
The first thing you’re going to want to look at is what size microwave you might want – bigger may seem better, but not always. Larger microwaves of 1.5 cubic feet or more are really convenient, but take up a considerable amount of space. From here you need to know the cooking power – the higher wattage the microwave puts out, the faster your food is cooked. 1000 watts is the most common level of power, but there are 800 and 1200+ watt machines as well. Other pieces of technology can influence the cooking speed as well – trying looking at machines with inverter technology or bottom heating elements for even quicker turnaround.
Simple vs Complicated Microwaves
Many microwaves now come with plenty of presets menu options that helps you easily cook the food you want. Its best to look at what these options are to see if your most microwaved food is on there. If you don’t want anything complicated, try getting a machine with less buttons – they are rare, but there are a few that still have turn and twist knobs. On the other end are the more complicated keypads that give the microwave oven several different cooking levels and customizable menu options.
Style and Color
Finally, you’re going to want to look at how the microwave looks. Most modern models come in black and silver, but there are other options. White is the most popular secondary color, but there are a few that come in brighter colors such as red, blue, or green. It may seem superficial, but there is no reason you need to sacrifice beauty for features – some of the prettiest microwaves have some of the most useful characteristics.
Best Rated Microwave Ovens
Careful consideration should be put into buying a microwave – here is a list of some of the best on the market today. These machines have some of the best features, technology, and even aesthetics – you can’t go wrong with any of these elite picks.
Panasonic NN-SN966SR 2.2 Cu.Ft. 1250W Genius Sensor
This powerful Panasonic microwave has 1250 watts of power, which helps cut back on cooking times. For further speed this machine also comes with inverter technology – this advanced mechanism cuts down on defrosting time. This inverter technology is drastically superior to the typical pulse variant of traditional microwaves – by giving a consistent heating it makes sure your food is evenly cooked.
To help in this process is Panasonic’s internal sensor that automatically adjusts the temperature and time to make sure your food is cooked in the proper way, Panasonic has also included another sensor that automatically adjusts the time and power.
The outside of the machine is an ultra modern steel and black, which means it’ll fit with just about any kitchen decor. The control panel is pretty self explanatory, with 12 preset menu items to further simplify your food preparation process – including frozen vegetable, soup, and oatmeal. Users have left favorable reviews commenting on the tremendous internal dimensions and sleek front controls. It has also been noted that this machine’s inverter technology, which is unique to Panasonic, works just as well as say.
N
ostalgia 0.9 Cu. Ft. 800 W Retro Microwave Oven
This unique looking Nostalgia brand microwave has 800 watts of cooking power in a 0.9 cubic foot space. Outside is the typical oval shape window with retro looking red and silver trim. The handle is made from chrome and looks ultra sly with its curved design.
Despite its 1950s look, this machine does have all the convenience of a modern day microwave – such as a an easy to read LED display and a dozen presets for a plethora of cooking options. The control panel comes with a nifty turn and push programming dial and a four buttons. Inside is a rotating plate to help cook the food throughout.
Customers have commented that this machine is as functional as it is cute. One of the primary selling points is how little counter space it takes up – allowing you to put out more kitchen equipment for you to use. The knob has also been mentioned to be much easier to use than more modern looking variants.
Emerson 1.5 CU. FT. 1000W Convection Microwave Oven
With black exterior with silver trim, this sleek microwave gets the job done. Inside is a 1.5 cubic foot capacity with 1000 watts of cooking power. The heating is done with convection, which means all the air is circulated allowing for your food to be heated uniformly.
If the 9 preset cooking functions and 11 different power levels aren’t good enough, there is also a grill feature and removable rack that gives plenty of flavor while also being a healthy alternative to frying. The glass turntable is lightweight and easy to clean as it is removable. For extra safety there is a built in child safety lock that allows protection from little hands.
The basic operations of this machine have been said to be smooth and easy, with praise coming specifically to the easy to use defrost feature. All you have to do is put in the food type your are cooking along with its weight.
Panasonic 0.8 Cu. Ft. 1000 W. Commercial Microwave
This state of the art Panasonic microwave comes with 20 programmable menus, allowing plenty of ways to customize your cooking to the way you want it. This machine has 0.8 cubic feet of internal space with 1000 watts of cooking power.
The front has a stainless steel face with grab and go handles for quick use. There are 10 memory pads with a half a dozen different power levels, letting you cook your favorite food in the way that you want. Most fascinating is that this microwave uses a bottom energy feed system, this is in contrast to most top energy models. This feature is extra efficient because there is less space between your food and the cooking element.
For enhanced accessibility all the buttons have braille lettering. It’s not a wonder that this machine was given the Good Housekeeping seal of approval along with being NSF-approved.
Reviewers rave how this machine takes up little counter space, along with saying that it actually looks better than the pictures imply. Also notable is that despite its smaller size, it can contain your typical dinner-sized plate, along with heating up the food much faster than expected.
Panasonic 1.6 Cu. Ft. 1250W Countertop Microwave – And 2.2 Cu. Ft. Version
Coming in both 1.6 and an extra large 2.2 cubic feet, this Panasonic microwave has all the space that you need.. Using the inverter technology that Panasonic is known for, this machine give a consistent stream of cooking that heats up every part of your food. This same technology can also defrost food at an ultra-fast rate. On the front is 14 preset cook item menu keys – such as frozen vegetables, pizza, and pasta. In addition but you’ll find both the quick minute and timer buttons. For extra customization this microwave has 10 power levels and 5 programmable menu buttons – allowing this machine to cook just about everything in your refrigerator. This microwave oven can be bought in both black and white, giving you little excuse not to fit this Panasonic machine in your kitchen today.
Users like to talk about how fast this microwave cooks when compared to other models, along with the absolutely massive interior space. As previously mentioned, Panasonic has a patent on the inverter technology – that means that while there might be many knock offs, there is only one true Panasonic microwave.
Operation and Maintenance Tips
First and foremost, make sure you never remove the outer panel unless you know what you are doing, as it is really easy to shock yourself. Also make sure you only put microwave safe dishes and food into your microwave oven – avoid metal, newspaper, or clothes. When you are setting up your oven, make sure it is on a stable surface, and that there is at least a couple inches of space in front of the air vent so it can function properly.
When you decide to clean your machine, make sure you unplug it from the outlet. Use only a damp cloth to clean the outside, with particular care around the vents. Inside you can use a mild cleaner, as harsher chemicals will only strip the inside material. Many microwaves come with a small rotating glass tray that can be removed and cleaned in the sink.
Microwaves Can Interfere With Wi-Fi
Each machine has a slightly different operation, so its best to check the owner’s manual before you attempt to use it. Microwaves can interfere with TV, Wi-Fi, or baby monitors – the best way to avoid this is to keep this equipment out of the vicinity of the microwave, especially when it is on. If your machine isn’t cooking, make sure to check the plug to see if it is in and the door is closed – it may seem silly, but these are by far the number one reasons why a microwave might not be turning on.
Final Thoughts
A good microwave will last you a long time and serve as a cornerstone to your kitchen. These appliances are able to cook faster and sometimes better than conventional ovens with their use of electromagnetic radiation. When purchasing a microwave make sure you have an idea of what you need ahead of time – looking at such features as internal capacity, total power, and all the buttons. If you are looking for a more retro styled microwave oven that is easy to use, look no further than the Nostalgia microwave.
Which Microwave Is Best For You…
The Emerson microwave oven on the other hand is an affordable piece of machinery that comes with plenty of different cooking options. If it’s the best you want, then the Panasonic brand will probably be what you are looking for. Using technology that is specific to the brand, Panasonic has created a microwave that cooks faster and more efficiently than many others on the market today.
Safety & Warranty
Regardless of what machine you buy, make sure you follow the safety protocol and proper operation as outlined in the user’s manual – they may be able to cook just about any food, but only a few types of inorganic items are recommended. In the rare event your microwave isn’t working, make sure you have all the necessary warranty information and customer service number handy so you can solve your problem fast. There is a reason microwaves are one of the most popular appliances in the world – their convenience, affordability, and features are second to none. We hope you enjoyed our best rated microwave ovens review!