 This is a decent microwave. I had another model of ... Strengths: Sleek, stainless steel appearance. Heats quickly and reasonably evenly. Inexpensive. GE brand name.
Weaknesses: Not-so-intuitive controls/buttons; not nearly as convenient input as other microwaves (for custom heating). Loud.
Summary: This is a decent microwave. I had another model of GE microwave before, and I had appreciated that model's intuitive controls and buttons. To me, one of the most important features of a microwave is how easy and quick it is to select heat levels and enter the time setting. Because the layout of the controls appeared quite similar, I assumed that this model (since it was also a GE) would be similar. However, it was not nearly as intuitive as my previous GE model. For example, in order to use a power lower than 10 (which equates to 100% microwave heat applied), the user has to hit (or hold) a button while the microwave counts down from 90 to 10. I often heat things very gradually and prefer 20 or 30 heat setting. This requires me to stand there while waiting for the microwave to count down from 90 to 20 or 30. Better models would allow you to manually enter 20 or 30, or better yet save those custom settings.
The one-touch buttons on this microwave are very unintuitive. They do the standard: reheat, defrost, heat liquids, etc. However, they assume a given weight of the contents being heated -- you are able to hit the button multiple times to increase the duration. It is difficult to remember what the microwave model assumes as your starting weight for each of these one-touch buttons unless you open the door again and refer to the quick reference sticker inside the door (most probably ignore this sticker after some time). It would have been nice if the LCD display gave you those reference points.
A nice feature is that the start button doubles as a very fast/easy 30 second microwave button (although you wouldn't know this unless you read the manual - it's not marked on the button). This start button can be pushed multiple times in succession to add additional 30 second increments. However, unlike other microwaves (at least my previous GE), you cannot push this button with any affect after the microwaving has started if you wish to add additional 30 second increments to the remaining time.
Another thing that I wish microwaves in this "value" price range would provide -- the ability to customize the sound level of the microwave's beeps. This microwave is very loud. Also, the door cannot be closed shut without making a rather loud clicking sound. It's probably not more than most microwaves, but it would be nice (particularly for midnight snackers who are trying to avoid waking up others).
Other than the above, it is a decent microwave and heats much more quickly and thoroughly than my earlier GE microwave. This may be due to advancements in microwaving technology in recent years.
I would probably not buy this model again if given the opportunity, but I am satisfied overall with it because: (1) it was inexpensive yet had the stainless steel appearance, (2) it fit the exterior dimensions I needed for a specific spot in my kitchen, and (3) it was a GE, which I had good experience with in the past.
I believe the quality and reliability of this product will be good over time. It does appear to be well made.
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