A Comparison of Brands of Microwaves

GE

• General Electric (GE) makes three different types of microwaves: over-the-range microwaves, countertop microwaves and built-in microwaves. The over-the-range microwaves are installed over an oven to optimize space in a kitchen and often include a lighting and ventilation system to assist in cooking. As of 2010, GE Makes 59 over-the-range microwave models that range in price from $220 to $1,300.

  The countertop microwaves from GE are simple to install and just need space on a countertop and a nearby plug-in. GE makes 31 countertop microwave models that range in price from $75 to $560. GE's built-in microwaves can be installed in 27- or 30-inch wall or cabinet spaces. Nine different models are available, and the cost of the microwaves ranges from $1,550 to $2,500.

Panasonic

• Six different models of microwaves are made by Panasonic, including stainless steel, countertop, wide countertop, over-the-range, built-in and commercial. ConsumerSearch.com rated the Panasonic NN-SD6885 microwave as the top mid-size countertop microwave as of 2010. The microwave features 1.2-cubic feet of heating space, along with cooking sensors, 1,300 watts of power and pre-cooking settings. The cost of the microwave is about $140, and it comes with a two-year warranty.

Sharp

• Sharp makes 49 different modes of microwaves that range in heating capacity from 0.8-cubic feet to 2.0-cubic feet. The model types include countertop and over-the-range microwaves. ConsumerSearch.com rates the Sharp R-230KW and Sharp R-520KS as two of the top microwaves on the market as of 2010. The R-230KW model costs about $74, and the R-520KS model has a price of $150.