Sharp Countertop Microwave Oven Review 2023 1200 Watt Stainless Steel Carousel Insights

Description

Design and Build Quality

The SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 16.5″ Carousel Turntable immediately caught my eye with its sleek brushed stainless steel exterior. It feels sturdy and well-made, giving off a premium vibe. Measuring 19.6 x 24.4 x 13.6 inches, it’s not small, but the size is justified by its 2.2 cubic feet capacity, which is perfect for larger households. I’ve tested it with everything from oversized casserole dishes to bulky serving trays, and it handled them effortlessly. The modern white LED display and gray interior add to its aesthetic appeal. Plus, the LED interior lighting makes it easy to monitor food without opening the door.

Although the design is solid, the unit is a bit heavy at 33.7 pounds, so moving it around isn’t the most convenient. It fits well on most countertops, but if you’re short on space, you might find its size a tad overwhelming.

Performance and Cooking Features

This microwave is a beast when it comes to power and versatility. With 1200 watts of cooking strength and 10 power levels, it’s capable of handling almost any cooking or reheating task you throw at it. The 16.5″ Carousel turntable ensures even heating, which I appreciated when reheating soups and cooking pizza. No more cold spots in the middle of the dish!

One feature that stood out to me was the Sensor Cook Technology, which automatically adjusts the cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture level. I tested this on popcorn, veggies, and even a baked potato, and it nailed the cooking every time. The Auto Defrost is another handy option, saving me time when thawing frozen meat. The +30 seconds button is simple yet incredibly useful for quick time adjustments.

However, I did notice that the button panel feels slightly outdated, and the tactile feedback isn’t as satisfying as I’d like. While it’s functional, a more intuitive touch interface could have elevated the overall experience.

Key Benefits

• Generous 2.2 cubic feet capacity accommodates large dishes.
• 1200-watt power output ensures fast and efficient cooking.
• The 16.5″ Carousel turntable provides even heating and eliminates cold spots.
• Sensor Cook and Auto Cook options simplify meal preparation.
• Stainless steel finish and LED lighting enhance the kitchen aesthetic.

Areas for Improvement

• The button interface feels slightly outdated.
• Its 33.7-pound weight makes repositioning a bit challenging.
• The size may not suit small kitchens or compact countertops.

Competing Products

In comparison to other countertop microwaves, this model holds its ground quite well. For instance, models like the Panasonic NN-SN686S and Toshiba EM131A5C-BS are worthy competitors. Panasonic’s unit also features Inverter Technology, which offers precise temperature control, but its interior capacity is smaller at 1.2 cubic feet. Toshiba’s model, while affordable, lacks the same level of sensor cooking accuracy and even heating provided by the Sharp microwave’s Carousel turntable.

Where the Sharp microwave truly excels is in its family-sized capacity and the ease of use provided by its one-touch cooking features. While some competitors might offer a more compact design, they often sacrifice the ability to handle larger dishes, which this Sharp model does effortlessly.

Price Performance

Evaluating the price-to-quality ratio, this microwave delivers excellent value. It may not be the cheapest option on the market, but its robust build quality, powerful performance, and thoughtful cooking features justify the investment. Considering its generous capacity and advanced features like Sensor Cook Technology and the Auto Defrost function, it’s worth every penny for families or anyone who frequently cooks in larger quantities.

If you’re on a tighter budget, some smaller models might suffice. However, if you need a reliable microwave that can handle everything from reheating drinks to cooking family-sized meals, this one is a smart choice. Budget-conscious buyers should weigh the cost against the long-term benefits of its durability and performance.

Additional information