One of our favorite selections in the full-size microwave category, the JE2160 is a high-quality product from General Electric. This well-built charmer retains all that is best in a classic microwave, and then adds the most outstanding of today's newest features -- speedier cooking, expanded capacity and updated styling.

Most microwaves do an acceptable job of reheating food, but this model is capable of far more. It's better built, has top-shelf convenience features and offers an attractive design. For this reason, we don't hesitate to recommend it as an integral part of a convenient and fully functional kitchen.

The biggest convenience on the JE2160 is the sensor. This tiny addition to the microwave adds some to the cost of model, but the resulting convenience is well worth it. Not only does the sensor set the time and power levels for foods, it handles these settings regardless of the quantity of the food you place in the oven. Non-sensor ovens can't do this and are prone to over- or undercooking.

The sensor is a particularly nice feature, but we also applaud the capacity of the JE2160. With a 2.1-cubic-foot interior, there is no larger microwave oven on the market today that we are currently aware of. Obviously the larger the capacity, the more versatile the microwave will be. And the larger the capacity of the oven, the higher the wattage should be. This model, with 1200 watts of power, offers sufficient microwave energy to handle the quantities of food that you're likely to place in it.

Two types of defrost programs are included on this model and work well to cover all your bases. Defrost by food type and weight with a programmed defrost, or enter your own times for foods not included in the program.

Feature-wise, the JE2160 is excellent, but in today's kitchen, design and versatility are equally important. Luckily this model is a winner there as well. It works on the counter, built in with an optional kit or in a combo over a wall oven. Attractively attired, GE's JE2160 looks great in any kitchen and comes in all the hot appliance colors -- white, black, bisque or stainless steel.


Pros: Looks great, works great, offers convenience of accurate sensor
Cons: The benefits add a bit to the cost

Warranty
1 year