Does the thought of choosing a new microwave oven feel like a confusing maze? You walk into the store, and suddenly, you face rows of models—all promising fast cooking and easy meals. Finding the perfect General Electric (GE) microwave, one that fits your kitchen size and your family’s needs, can feel overwhelming. We all rely on these handy appliances to quickly heat leftovers or defrost dinner, but a poor choice leads to wasted counter space or frustratingly uneven cooking.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down what makes a GE microwave great. You will learn about the best features, understand different sizes, and discover which models offer the most value for your money. Stop guessing and start knowing exactly which GE appliance will make your kitchen tasks smoother and faster. Let’s dive into the details and find your ideal match!
Top Ge Microwave Oven Recommendations
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1150 watts of power and 1.6 CU. FT. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- SENSOR COOKING CONTROLS: Automatically adjusts time and power for delicious cooking results
- WEIGHT AND TIME DEFROST: Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 900 watts of power and 0.9 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39� power cord
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- EASY AUTO OR MANUAL DEFROST: Defrosting times and power levels can be programmed or set manually for optimal results
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: This 1,050-watt & 1.0 CU FT. compact microwave offers the perfect balance of size and convenience, designed to fit perfectly in dorm rooms, offices and kitchens alike
- AIR FRY MODE: Enjoy healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods with the built-in air fryer that delivers fast, perfectly browned results
- CONVECTION MODE: Enjoy perfectly even browning using convection technology and an elevated rack that lets hot air flow around your food for consistent results
- BROIL MODE: Built-in broiler radiates high heat to sear, caramelize, and finish foods just like a traditional grill rack
- PRESET CONTROLS: Use microwave preset controls like Fries and Nuggets to make operation quick and easy, while ensuring precisely cooked results
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 950 watts of power and 1.1 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates throughout cycles for optimum cooking
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- WEIGHT & TIME DEFROST - Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39� power cord
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 900 watts of power and 0.9 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39� power cord
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- EASY AUTO OR MANUAL DEFROST: Defrosting times and power levels can be programmed or set manually for optimal results
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 950 watts of power and 1.1 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates throughout cycles for optimum cooking
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- WEIGHT & TIME DEFROST - Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39inch power cord
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1100 watts of power and 1.4 CU. FT. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- SENSOR COOKING CONTROLS: Automatically adjusts time and power for delicious cooking results
- WEIGHT AND TIME DEFROST: Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 700 watts of power and 0.7 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39� power cord
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- EASY AUTO OR MANUAL DEFROST: Defrosting times and power levels can be programmed or set manually for optimal results
Choosing Your Perfect GE Microwave Oven: A Buyer’s Guide
A GE microwave oven can make cooking fast and easy. But with so many models, how do you pick the right one for your kitchen? This guide helps you sort through the choices.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a GE microwave, certain features make a big difference in how you use it.
Power and Size
- Wattage: Higher wattage (like 1000W or more) heats food faster. Look for at least 900W for good performance.
- Capacity: Microwaves are measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). Small kitchens need 0.7 to 1.2 cu. ft. families often need 1.6 cu. ft. or larger.
Cooking Technology
- Inverter Technology: This is a big plus. Inverter technology cooks food more evenly by providing a steady stream of power. Old microwaves cycle power on and off, which can leave cold spots.
- Sensor Cooking: Sensors detect steam coming off your food. The microwave then adjusts the cooking time automatically. This stops overcooking popcorn or soup.
Convenience Features
- Convection Option: Some high-end GE models offer convection cooking. This lets you bake and roast, not just reheat.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Look for smooth, non-porous interiors. These wipe down easily.
- Control Lock: If you have small children, a control lock keeps buttons from being pushed accidentally.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used determine how long your microwave lasts and how safe it is.
Interior Materials
- Stainless Steel: This is strong and resists stains better than plastic. It usually lasts longer.
- Ceramic Enamel: GE often uses this for its easy-to-clean surfaces. It handles high heat well.
Exterior Build
Check the door hinge mechanism. A sturdy hinge means the door will not sag over time. Good quality plastic housing feels solid, not flimsy, when you press the buttons.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all microwaves perform the same, even if they look similar.
Quality Boosters
- Even Heating Performance: Check reviews specifically mentioning how well the microwave heats a cup of water in the center versus the edges. Superior turntables or multiple vents help quality.
- Quiet Operation: A good microwave runs quietly. Loud humming or buzzing reduces the user experience.
Quality Reducers
- Weak Turntable Motor: If the glass tray stops spinning halfway through, your food heats unevenly.
- Flimsy Buttons: Buttons that stick or require hard pressing wear out quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the microwave every day.
Common Use Cases
- Quick Defrosting: If you often freeze meat, look for a dedicated, powerful defrost setting.
- Beverage Heating: For simple tasks like heating coffee, you need simple, quick start buttons (often just pressing ‘1’ starts it for one minute).
- Family Meal Prep: Larger models handle big casserole dishes well. Sensor reheat settings are very helpful here.
A good user experience means the controls are intuitive. You should not need to read the manual just to reheat leftovers.
GE Microwave Oven Buying Guide FAQs
Q: What capacity (size) should I buy?
A: For one or two people, 0.9 to 1.1 cu. ft. works fine. For a family of four or more, choose 1.6 cu. ft. or larger so you can fit large plates.
Q: What is the benefit of Inverter Technology in a GE microwave?
A: Inverter technology cooks food steadily. This prevents edges from becoming rubbery while the center stays cold. It helps thaw meat more gently.
Q: Are over-the-range GE microwaves harder to install than countertop models?
A: Yes. Over-the-range models require mounting securely to cabinets and venting correctly. Countertop models just need a flat, sturdy surface and an outlet.
Q: How do I know if a GE microwave has good power?
A: Look at the wattage. Aim for 1000 watts or higher for fast cooking. Lower wattage might take much longer to heat the same amount of food.
Q: What does ‘Sensor Reheat’ actually do?
A: The sensor detects the humidity (steam) rising from your food. It automatically calculates the best time to stop cooking. This stops your food from drying out.
Q: Is a stainless steel interior better than a plastic one?
A: Stainless steel is generally more durable and resists staining better. It looks sleeker, too. Plastic interiors are usually lighter and might be cheaper.
Q: Should I worry about the noise level?
A: Yes, if you have an open-plan living space. Check reviews for comments on how loud the magnetron hums during operation.
Q: What is the advantage of a convection feature?
A: Convection allows the microwave to act like a small oven. You can bake cookies or roast small chicken pieces using circulating hot air, which a standard microwave cannot do.
Q: Are GE microwaves generally easy to clean?
A: Most modern GE models feature smooth, non-porous interiors designed for easy wiping. Models with ceramic enamel clean up especially well.
Q: How long should a good GE microwave last?
A: With normal use, a quality GE microwave should last between 7 and 12 years. Proper care, like cleaning up spills immediately, helps extend its life.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!