CNET editors' buying advice
We have not reviewed this product but here is CNET's buying advice on Microwave Ovens. This content was chosen based on the features included with this model of microwave oven.
Microwaves with Speedcook
Using both microwave and light technology, speedcook microwaves cook food in traditional methods but faster--four to eight times faster, according to some manufactures. Speedcookers not only microwave but bake, broil, brown, roast, and grill quickly with no preheating. For example, a speedcook microwave cooks a whole chicken in 20 minutes versus a conventional oven time of 120 minutes in most cases, or a frozen pizza can take 5.5 minutes versus 23 minutes. Most advanced models are also a convection and warming oven and can be built-in. They are also more energy efficient than conventional ovens.
The average size is 19 to 21 inches high; 25 to 29 inches wide; 15.5 to 21 inches deep. Most allow turntable rotation of a 9x13 casserole dish. Speedcook microwaves are best for time-pressed cooks who still want that home-cooked feeling.
Read more in the Microwave Buying Guide
See more Speedcook microwaves products
Preprogrammed microwave - auto settings
Beyond standard auto settings such as Defrost, Cook, and Fresh Vegetables, many microwaves now include preprogrammed settings to cook food items such as popcorn (the microwave item most likely to burn), pizza, baked potatoes, frozen dinners, chicken breasts, soup, or sauce. Many models include settings for melt/soften or "add 30 seconds" for one-touch extra heating.
Read more in the Microwave Buying Guide
Panasonic NN-SD697S - microwave oven:
