Sharp R-305KS Countertop Microwave

One of the BEST values in mid-sized MW ovens!, October 9, 2006

I conducted a good amount of research before deciding on this Sharp microwave oven. I wanted my new oven to meet the following important criteria and have the following features:

* a carousel and be able to fit a dinner plate
* at least 1000 watts of heating power (this has 1100) to heat food fast
* classy looking,...read full review I conducted a good amount of research before deciding on this Sharp microwave oven. I wanted my new oven to meet the following important criteria and have the following features:

* a carousel and be able to fit a dinner plate
* at least 1000 watts of heating power (this has 1100) to heat food fast
* classy looking, compact stainless steel design
* name brand reputation for reliability
* around 100 dollars or so, give or take a little

I've had good luck with the Sharp brand. My previous microwave oven was also a Sharp unit, I had purchased way back in 1995. It was a full-size unit though, and I wanted to get something smaller, in stainless steel, since we recently re-did our kitchen in stainless steel. 'Luck would have it' that our old 1995 Sharp unit broke down shortly after we re-did our kitchen in late 2005, so I jumped at the opportunity to get another Sharp. The new R-305KS works flawlessly, and cooks even faster and more even than my older, larger unit! I must have reaped the benefits of improved microwave technology over the last 10 years or so that i've owned the older Sharp oven. All in all, a SUPERB VALUE and a SOLID PERFORMER!
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Marilyn in San Jose, May 14, 2007

We love this microwave. It is great looking. It is powerful - all cooking times are less, which we have to get used to. It is roomy inside but compact - doesn't take up all of our limted counter space.

great - if this is what one needs. It is for me, May 20, 2007

I had another brand which did magnificently for 12 years. I couldn't find one similar in the same brand, so went to the Sharp. It is the size that a couple almost 80 years old can use best. We do little cooking in the microwave - more reheating coffee, or warming up food that has already been cooked on the stove. Oh, it does cook our oatmeal daily ...read full review I had another brand which did magnificently for 12 years. I couldn't find one similar in the same brand, so went to the Sharp. It is the size that a couple almost 80 years old can use best. We do little cooking in the microwave - more reheating coffee, or warming up food that has already been cooked on the stove. Oh, it does cook our oatmeal daily - generally 3 min at 50% power. Price was right, and shipping was included. Why not 5 stars? -- we prefer the door with a handle like our previous microwave had. For those who prefer "push" over "pull" - it is a 5 star.Sharp R-305KS 1-Cubic-Foot 1100-Watt Microwave Oven, Stainless minimize

Sharp microwaves are the best, February 14, 2007

This is a replacement microwave. Every Sharp microwave I have purchased, whether for my family or as a gift, has been exceptional. The features, looks, quality, etc., are the best.

Only purchase a Sharp appliance if you are close to a Sharp-authorized service center, December 14, 2007

I purchased a Sharp microwave oven, which worked fine for 7 weeks.
I used it to heat soup, and for oatmeal in the morning.

One morning it just broke.
The door closed, the light and fan came on, but there was no heat.
It emitted a burning plastic smell.

Sharp service told me that I needed to have a...read full review I purchased a Sharp microwave oven, which worked fine for 7 weeks.
I used it to heat soup, and for oatmeal in the morning.

One morning it just broke.
The door closed, the light and fan came on, but there was no heat.
It emitted a burning plastic smell.

Sharp service told me that I needed to have a Sharp-authorized technician examine it before it could be replaced.

Unfortunately, the nearest Sharp-authorized service location is a two-hour round trip drive for me. They don't accept shipments, nor are they are not open on weekends.

This means that in order for me to obtain warranty service on this relatively new product I would have to *take a day off work*, as it is too far to drive on my lunch hour.

Also, one cannot return a product to Sharp for examination; as per the warranty you must "hand carry" or ship the item to a service location (if your service location accepts shipments; mine doesn't).

So I believe my current options are:
1) find a local microwave service place, and pay for the service myself
or
2) throw the oven away

I recommend not purchasing any Sharp appliance unless you know that a Sharp-authorized service location is close by.

Best Regards and Good Luck!

Mark minimize