Microwave ovens.(Kitchen, Bath & Laundry: More Style, Less Money)(Buyers guide)

You'll see larger capacity, sensors that detect doneness, and stylish designs to complement your kitchen.

Microwave ovens, which built their reputation on speed, are also showing some smarts. Many automatically shut off when a sensor determines that the food is cooked or sufficiently heated. The sensor is also used to automate an array of cooking chores, with buttons labeled for frozen entrees, baked potatoes, popcorn, beverages, and other common items. Design touches include softer edges for less boxy styling, hidden controls for a sleeker look, stainless steel, and for a few, a translucent finish.

WHAT'S AVAILABLE

GE leads the countertop microwave-oven market with approximately 30 percent of units sold, followed by Sharp. Other brands include Emerson, Kenmore, Panasonic, and many others. GE also sells the most over-the-range models.

Microwaves come in a variety of sizes, from compact to large. Most sit on the countertop, but a growing number sold--about 15 percent--are mounted over the range. Several brands offer speed-cooking via halogen bulbs or convection. Speed-cook models promise grilling and browning, though results can vary significantly depending on the food. Manufacturers are working to boost capacity without taking up more space by moving controls to the door and using recessed turntables and smaller electronic components.

Microwave ovens vary in the power of the magnetron, which generates the microwaves. Midsized and large ovens are rated at 850 to 1,650 watts, compact ovens at 600 to 800 watts. A higher wattage may heat food more quickly, but differences of 100 watts are probably inconsequential. Some microwave ovens have a convection feature--a fan and often a heating element--that lets you roast and bake, something you don't generally do in a regular microwave.

Price: $40 to $250 (countertop models); $100 to $700 (over-the-range); $250 to $1,000 (convection or halogen-bulb countertop or over-the-range).