An ideal microwave oven for a small space, Sanyo's EM-U1000 takes up very little space on the countertop while offering more interior capacity than you might expect. With a 0.7-cubic-foot interior and a 10-5/8-inch glass turntable, this model can handle most plates with the possible exception of very large dinner plates. If your plates are very large, you might consider measuring them or better yet taking one to the store and testing it on this model to ensure a proper fit.

Although quite low in price, the EM-U1000 doesn't skip a beat when it comes to features. Included are many typical conveniences you would expect to find on even larger microwave ovens.Ten power levels and 800 watts of power provide plenty of options and fast reheating. Six instant-on keys are programmed to heat exact portion sizes of commonly microwaved foods with just one touch.

This model can be used to defrost as well as cook and reheat small portions of food. Although a dedicated/automatic defrost program is not provided, manually programming a medium-low power level will allow you to achieve acceptable results for thawing most frozen foods.

Available in black or white, this compact microwave oven has an attractive and unusual curved window design. We found Sanyo's bargain-priced EM-U1000 offered for sale in Best Buy stores as well as at other big box retailers, so make sure to shop around for this neat little microwave.


Pros: Offers a turntable, 10 versatile power levels, six pre-programmed settings and digital controls
Cons: Lacks a specific defrost program and sensor for automatically reheating any portion size

Warranty
1 year