Sharp SMC2266KS Countertop Microwave Oven Review Family Sized 1200 Watt Power

Description

Strong Points of the Sharp SMC2266KS Microwave Oven

Testing the Sharp SMC2266KS Countertop Microwave Oven has revealed several strong points that make it stand out in the crowded market of kitchen appliances. The 2.2 cubic feet capacity is genuinely family-sized, offering enough room to fit larger serving trays and casserole dishes without a tight squeeze. This makes reheating or cooking for a crowd a breeze, which I appreciated when hosting a dinner party where multiple dishes required quick warming.

The 1200-watt power output delivers fast cooking and reheating times. This combination of power and size isn’t always easy to find, but the Sharp model balances it well. The 16.5-inch carousel turntable ensures food is cooked evenly, eliminating those dreaded cold spots that sometimes plague microwave meals. I could rely on the sensor cook technology to automatically adjust cooking times based on the food’s moisture and temperature, which saved me from constantly checking and guessing.

Adding to this, the white LED display and LED interior lighting provide a modern touch. The lighting inside the oven is bright and clear, making it easier to monitor food without opening the door and losing heat. The inverter cooking technology impressed me by maintaining consistent power levels throughout the cook cycle, which helps prevent overcooked edges and undercooked centers.

• Spacious 2.2 cu. ft. interior for large dishes
• Powerful 1200 watts for quick cooking
• Sensor cook and inverter technology for precise results
• Bright LED interior and display for easy monitoring

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Despite many positives, there are some drawbacks that anyone considering this microwave should be aware of. The unit is quite heavy at 33.7 pounds, which makes relocating it a bit cumbersome, especially if you’re aiming for a countertop that requires regular cleaning or rearranging.

The stainless steel exterior, while sleek and modern, can be a fingerprint magnet. I found myself wiping it down more often than I expected just to keep it looking pristine. Additionally, the control panel’s design, although intuitive, felt a tad small for my fingers. Some buttons, like the “+30 seconds” instant start key, require a bit of precision, and that can be frustrating in a rush.

Another limitation is the lack of a built-in exhaust fan or venting system, which some other models offer to help reduce microwave odors or steam buildup in the kitchen. If you’re cooking foods that tend to produce strong smells, this might be something to consider.

• Heavy and less portable due to weight
• Stainless steel surface shows fingerprints easily
• Small control buttons can be tricky to use quickly
• No built-in exhaust or venting system

User-Friendly Features and Controls

The Sharp SMC2266KS really shines in the variety of user-friendly features it offers. The 10 power levels allow for fine-tuning how you cook or reheat food, and the 2-stage cooking option enables setting two different power levels and times in a single cycle — very handy for complex reheating tasks.

The “+30 seconds” quick start button is a lifesaver when you need just a little extra time without fussing with the dial. There’s also a melt/soften function designed specifically for delicate foods like butter or chocolate, which I tested and found effective without overheating.

The auto cook presets cover popular menu items, which is a nice touch for casual users who want a no-brainer approach to cooking common meals. The weight and time defrost settings worked well for thawing meats and frozen vegetables evenly. I appreciated how the sensor cook technology took a lot of the guesswork out of cooking times and power settings.

Design and Build Quality

The microwave’s stainless steel finish gives it a sleek, contemporary look that complements most kitchen styles. The gray interior is a fresh update from traditional white or black interiors, making the inside feel cleaner and more modern. It’s also easy to clean thanks to the smooth surface.

Measuring 19.6 x 24.4 x 13.6 inches, the oven takes up a fair amount of countertop space, which is a trade-off for that generous interior volume. The carousel turntable is removable, simplifying cleanup when spills occur. The overall build feels solid and durable — no cheap plastic parts that make me worry about longevity.

Value Assessment: Is This Microwave Worth It?

In terms of value for money, this model sits at a competitive spot. The combination of large capacity, 1200 watts of power, and advanced features like inverter cooking and sensor technology justify its price point. It’s not the cheapest microwave on the market, but the performance and convenience features make it a worthwhile investment for families or anyone who cooks regularly.

The ease of use and versatility it offers compare favorably against lower-priced models that might skimp on capacity or power. If you prioritize cooking efficiency and space for larger dishes, this microwave offers smart spending for your kitchen budget.

Product Comparisons with Popular Competitors

Compared to other large countertop microwaves, the Sharp SMC2266KS holds up well against brands like Panasonic and LG. Panasonic’s inverter microwaves are known for consistent power delivery, similar to what I saw here, but often come with smaller interiors. LG models sometimes offer built-in vents, which this Sharp lacks.

Samsung’s countertop options might have more touchscreen controls, but I found Sharp’s physical buttons more reliable and less prone to accidental touches. The carousel turntable’s size is larger than many competitors, giving it an edge for reheating bigger meals.

One area where competitors edge out this model is in smart connectivity; some rivals offer app controls or voice assistant compatibility. If that’s a priority, this Sharp microwave might feel a bit basic. However, for straightforward cooking and reheating needs, it’s a solid choice.

Versatility in Cooking and Reheating

This microwave’s sensor cook and auto cook functions make it adaptable for a range of foods, from popcorn and beverages to casseroles and leftovers. I’ve used it to reheat everything from soups to frozen pizzas, and the results were consistently even and hot throughout. The two-stage cooking is especially useful if you want to start something on high power and then finish it on a lower setting without interrupting the process.

The defrost options impressed me by thawing foods without partially cooking edges — a common frustration with microwaves. The melt/soften feature is a nice bonus for bakers or anyone who needs gentle warming of delicate ingredients.

Safety and Convenience Features

Safety is another area where this microwave scores points. The child lock feature gives peace of mind in households with little ones, preventing accidental operation. The door opens smoothly and securely, and the control panel is easy to clean, which helps maintain hygiene.

The express cook buttons, allowing quick single-press cooking for durations up to six minutes, add convenience for busy days or quick snacks. The LED display clearly shows cooking times and settings, reducing guesswork and making it accessible for all ages.

Overall, the Sharp SMC2266KS offers a blend of power, size, and smart cooking features that make it a reliable kitchen companion, especially for larger households or those who appreciate precision in microwave cooking.

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