Unlike many microwave-toaster ovens on the market, the Sharp Warm & Toasty Microwave-Toaster Oven R-55 uses the same cavity for all its functions. For this reason, the toast quality is not quite as good as is found in toast-dedicated units. Toast in this unit, like in a toaster oven, will take considerably longer than in a standard toaster due to the required arrangement of the heating elements.

In order to get the best toast quality possible in this oven it is necessary to remove the turntable as indicated by the instructions. In fact, a number or unusual suggestions are made in the instruction manual -- all of which will improve cooking results. Microwave popcorn, for example, is to be prepared atop an overturned microwave-safe plate. This technique encourages microwave energy to enter the package from the bottom as well as the top and serves to cook the popcorn more evenly and prevent burning.

The Warm & Toasty R-55 is also appropriate for small heating tasks such as melting cheese on bread or reheating a crispy slice of pizza. Common bake settings of 300, 325, 350 and 375 can be used to prepare simple foods such as frozen biscuits, cookies and muffins from a mix. Surprisingly, the results with these small bake items are quite good.

When it comes to microwaving, the Warm & Toasty R-55 has a relatively low wattage of 650 watts. This wattage is quite common on compact units, but can be half the wattage of a full-size unit. If you're used to cooking your foods with full-size wattage, be prepared for microwaving tasks in this model to take twice as long.

Although this product may not be the ideal choice for the busy family home, it often makes a good choice for a boat, camper, condo, small apartment or dorm room. Where kitchen space is really limited, Sharp's Warm & Toasty R-55 -- even though it's not a champ at all tasks -- can be a convenient multipurpose helper.


Pros: Space-saving multiple function appliance, offers automatic presets
Cons: Slow toasting of variable quality, limited microwave wattage

Warranty
1 year, full; 5 years, magnetron tube