All GE appliances are known for their exceptional quality and for using up-to-date technology, and their microwave ovens are no exception. Today’s GE microwaves are as advanced as they are practical and are available in a wide variety of sizes, power levels, colors and finishes.
This guide helps you choose the GE microwave with the exact combination of features that are right for you by showing you what to look for and what things to keep in mind while shopping. It also includes three recommendations at the end, including our top choice, the GE 2-Cubic-Foot Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave JES2051SNSS.
What to know before you buy a GE microwave oven
Microwave ovens are so convenient, versatile and inexpensive for what they do that nine out of 10 US households own one. GE not only makes countertop microwave ovens, but also makes specialty microwaves for hanging above your range or installing in your cabinets.
Because countertop microwaves are the choice of two out of three households, they are still by far the most popular, so this guide focuses on them.
Size
Microwave ovens have two size-related measurements.
The exterior dimensions tell you the amount of space you need on your countertop, also called the microwave’s footprint.
The interior dimension tells you how much food and of what size can fit inside your microwave. Most microwave ovens have an interior capacity of between 0.7 and 2 cubic feet. For a quick way to reference GE’s sizes, they call microwaves with 1.5 cubic feet of capacity small, those with 1.5 to 1.8 cubic feet medium and those with 1.9 cubic feet and larger capacities large.
Power
Microwave ovens range in power from 600-2,400 watts. Most GE microwave ovens come with choices of power levels that range from 800-1,800 watts. The greater the power of your GE microwave, the shorter the cook times you will need.
GE microwave features
GE continues their commitment to bringing advanced technology to today’s smart kitchens.
Microwave ovens with voice control allow you to cook and prepare food with hands-free convenience from any room in the house.
Sensor controls adjust cook time and temperature so your food reaches the perfect level of doneness without you having to watch it.
Scan-to-Cook technology is another feature that makes microwaving cooking even easier than you imagined. All you have to do with your favorite frozen foods is scan the product’s barcode and microwave ovens with Scan-to-Cook technology automatically adjust power levels, cook times and more.
Turntables
Turntables rotate your foods so that they heat evenly. The size of the turntable is determined by the interior capacity of the microwave. Look for removable turntables that are easy to clean.
Presets
Once a feature that came with only the most expensive microwaves, preset power levels and cooking times are now close to becoming standard equipment.
Every now and then a seemingly-simple feature comes along that turns out to be great. An “Add 30 seconds” button with just one tap is super easy to use.
Finish
Once only black, white or silver, GE microwaves now come in colors, too. Look for finishes that are easy to clean and resist fingerprints.
Cooking methods
When choosing a GE microwave, it’s important to note that the more-expensive options have the ability to broil, brown, roast and grill.
GE microwave cost
GE microwaves with smaller capacities and lower power ratings cost around $150 or less. Mid-range GE countertop microwaves with greater capacities and more power cost between $150 to $300. GE microwaves over $300 are usually loaded with the advanced technologies that are an integral part of today’s smart kitchens.
GE microwave FAQ
Does a countertop microwave have to go on the counter?
A. No. If your countertop space is limited, consider a wheeled microwave cart with extra shelves that saves space in small kitchens, especially apartments.
What power levels are enough to handle simple heating and defrosting jobs?
A. Microwave power in the 800W to 1000W range is enough for most people’s everyday needs.
Are microwaves safe to use?
A. Microwaves heat foods by agitating the water molecules inside. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates microwaves to be sure the radiation does not escape. Microwave radiation is not powerful enough to cause harm like X-rays do.
Which GE microwave should I get?
Best of the best GE microwave
GE 2-Cubic-Foot Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave JES2051SNSS: available at Amazon
Our take: This big oven has lots of features and is a great choice for large households.
What we like: This model has built-in one-touch settings and a sensor that adjusts the power and cook time for you. Its extra large 16-inch glass turntable is easy to remove and replace for cleaning. Its 1200 watts handle the toughest jobs with ease.
What we dislike: This unit’s fan is loud enough that some users are bothered by it.
Best bang for your buck GE microwave
GE 1.4-Cubic-Foot Countertop Microwave JES1460DSBB: available at Amazon
Our take: Lots of power in this mid-sized unit that is good for families of four.
What we like: This GE microwave’s 1100 watts is more power than most units of similar size and capacity. Its sensor cooking control automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level for you and its instant start buttons make it really easy to use. A control lockout provides peace of mind by preventing accidental activation. The 36-inch cord makes it easy to use on a wheeled kitchen cart.
What we dislike: The door open button needs to be a bit stronger.
Honorable mention GE microwave
GE 0.9-Cubic-Foot Smart Countertop Microwave: available at Amazon
Our take: Wi-Fi Connect and Convenience Cooking controls make this voice-controlled microwave an excellent addition to any smart kitchen.
What we like: The stainless steel cabinet is easy to take care of, long lasting and fits right in with the modern smart kitchen. By simply scanning a barcode, Scan-to-Cook Technology takes the guesswork out of microwave cooking. Small but powerful, this 900-watt model has a 10.5-inch turntable and auto and time-defrost capabilities.
What we dislike: Some people find connecting to Wi-Fi and setting up voice control to be quite a challenge.
David Allan Van is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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