General Electric's over-the-range microwave PVM1870 is designed to match the manufacturer's line of double-oven ranges, but its features and universally appealing design make it desirable for use over any range with a stainless-steel and/or black finish.

Like most of General Electric's upper-end microwave ovens, this model has a lot to offer. It's well designed with plenty of attention given to details that matter -- such as a quality sensor, a convenient defrost system, a dual-duty light and hood, and a pleasing exterior.

Of these features, we found the 1-pound quick defrost to be especially useful. Reducing defrost times up to 50 percent is a big help for quickly getting dinner on the table. Use this handy feature for thawing a pound of ground beef, chicken or fish -- exactly what many American meals are centered around.

When it comes to convenience, the benefits of the PVM1870 don't end there. In addition to a fast and easy defrost, this model offers an unusually extensive sensor menu. Many microwave manufacturers skimp on this feature, but General Electric's sensor handles chicken, fish and meat, in addition to the usual popcorn, baked potatoes and vegetables. You'll find yourself using this sensor far more often since it's so well diversified.

Venting of the PVM1870 is typical of what we find on over-the-range microwaves, which means that it does a minimal job. Check with your dealer before using this product over a high-output gas range or cooktop. Most likely this model will not be sufficient to ventilate these products.

Last but not least, you will rely on this microwave to provide lighting for your cooking surface. We were pleasantly surprised with the halogen lighting that's provided. With the PVM1870, you really can see what you're doing, on the cooktop as well as in the microwave.

General Electric has plenty of experience in this industry and does an especially good job with its higher end, better quality microwave ovens. We'd say the PVM1870 is just another example of where General Electric shines. It comes in black, bisque, white or stainless steel.


Pros: Top quality sensor, fast and easy 1-lb. defrost system, excellent halogen lighting
Cons: Draw of hood is minimal--typical of a micro-hood product

Warranty
1 year, entire appliance and labor; 5 years, magnetron tube