Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I've waited quite awhile to review this product. Why? Well, I wasn't really sure of the quality and wanted to wait and see what would go wrong. After all, this is a very inexpensive microwave. So I waited ... and waited ... but since product models come and go quickly, I thought I had better put my 2 cents in before this model became history.
First, let me comment on the looks of this unit. That's what attracted me in the first place. It's a very modern looking unit with a very nice brushed stainless steel face. Unfortunately, it's a fingerprint, finger smudge magnet (yes, I knew that going in). But a little window cleaner keeps it looking great (just be prepared to do this every time you touch it -- either that, or wear gloves).
For whatever reason, I was surprised how big this unit was, but I shouldn't have been. Both the picture and the dimensions are correct (which is kind of a first). I measured 20-3/8 W x 12-1/4 H x 16-3/8 D (add another inch or so for the power cable mount on the back). The power plug (that goes into your outlet) needs about 3 inches of clearance. In other words, this unit will take a good deal of counter space. And in all honesty, I really didn't need a unit this large. Still, it's one of the more attractive microwave units that I've looked at.
As had been stated, almost all of the controls are behind the door. It really doesn't effect me because one has to open the door to put in the food. It's just different, that's all (and gives it a very clean outside appearance, which I really like). It does have a minute timer on the outside (I'm surprised how often I use that button) and a button for popcorn as well as start and stop/clear buttons. You push the panel below those buttons to open the door. It has a large, heavy glass turntable (about 12-5/8 diameter ... they got this dimension right as well) so one can cook some pretty large meals. The inside dimensions are: 13-7/8 W x 8-3/8 H x 14-7/8 D.
It's a 1200-watt unit that's pretty noisy, but probably not any louder than others in this power range (aren't all microwaves noisy?). It has several different types of settings (see the features listed by Amazon), and I wish I could tell you all about them, but I don't often use any of them (I just go by what the food product suggests). I don't even use the popcorn button (I do it the old fashion way ... by listening).
So how does it cook? Average, I guess. Really, no better or no worse than any other microwave that I've had. I couldn't tell a discernible difference. It cooks pretty well and fairly evenly, although occasionally there is a semi-frozen spot when I defrost. I guess my biggest complaint is how the power set button is incorporated. You want a power setting of 30? Then be prepared to push this button 7 times (90, 80, 70, 60, 50, 40, 30). And to tell you the truth, I haven't really figured out the defrost settings for certain items (like bread). I just "guestimate" with the power settings, but I get most items defrosted without too many problems (just takes a little practice). In my own defense, I lost (or misplaced) the manual a month after I purchased this product.
Not being any sort of a cook whatsoever, I'm not sure how valuable this review will be, so let me apologize if this wasn't helpful to you. In any case, I rate this unit an 8 (or a solid 4-star rating), meaning that I think this is a very good product and an excellent value. It's certainly cheap enough, has worked well for over 11 months (and absolutely nothing has gone wrong ... knock on wood), and it still looks great (after I clean it). And it's easy to clean inside and out, and does what it is suppose to do (and probably a lot more). To tell you the truth, I wasn't really expecting much from this unit, and if it broke I knew I wouldn't be out much money. So imagine my surprise when after almost one full year of continual, everyday use, it looks and operates like new.
Update (Dec. 10, 2009): I thought I'd let people know that after 2 years and 9 months ... plus, this product is still working good as new.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Sharp R-315JS 1-1/5-Cubic-Foot 1200-Watt Microwave Oven, Stainless
With a 1-1/5-cubic-foot capacity and 1200 watts of power, this mid-sized microwave oven provides quick and easy meal preparation. The unit's 12-5/8-inch-diameter turntable ensures even heating, while its 23 automatic settings take the guesswork out of cooking by automatically setting cooking times and power levels. Four defrost options quickly defrost meats and poultry by weight, six automatic cook options cook various menu items for up to six servings, and six reheat options make it especially simple to reheat popular microwaved foods including beverages, pizza, rolls, and muffins. In addition, Short Cuts allows for easy melting, softening, and warming; Minute Plus sets the oven at "high" with a single touch; and a popcorn sensor pops microwave popcorn automatically, regardless of package size or brand. Other useful features include 11 power levels, touch-pad controls, an easy-to-read four-digit lighted display, an interior light, and a handy kitchen timer. With its L-shaped stainless-steel door trim and silver-painted cabinet, the sleek, contemporary-looking appliance fits in well with any kitchen decor. The microwave oven measures 20-1/2 by 17-5/8 by 12-1/4 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.
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