With so many microwave brands on the market, it can be hard to know which ones you can trust for reliable, everyday cooking. Sunbeam is a widely available and budget-friendly microwave brand sold at major retailers like Walmart, but how does it stack up against the competition? Sunbeam aims to provide basic microwaves with essential features at affordable price points. However, do these appliances stand the test of time and deliver satisfactory performance?
In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth assessment of Sunbeam microwaves. We’ll examine the pros and cons of popular Sunbeam models by looking at specs, capabilities, durability, and owner reviews. We’ll compare Sunbeam to other best-selling microwave brands like Panasonic, Toshiba, and GE to see how they differ across metrics like power, capacity, interface, and extra features. Finally, we’ll make recommendations on which types of customers can benefit most from choosing Sunbeam.
Sunbeam microwaves are good for basic cooking tasks, such as reheating, defrosting, and warming food. They are also energy-efficient and durable. However, they may not have the advanced features, power, or capacity of some other microwaves.
What are the benefits of Sunbeam microwaves?
Sunbeam microwaves have several advantages that make them appealing to many customers. Some of these benefits are:
- Affordability: Sunbeam microwaves are among the cheapest on the market, with prices ranging from $50 to $100. This makes them a great option for people who are on a budget or who don’t need a fancy microwave.
- Simplicity: Sunbeam microwaves are easy to operate, with touchpad or dial controls and clear displays. They also have preset programs for common foods, such as popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and beverages. You don’t need to worry about complicated settings or functions with Sunbeam microwaves.
- Efficiency: Sunbeam microwaves are energy-efficient, with wattages ranging from 600 to 1100. This means they use less electricity and save you money on your bills. They also heat food quickly and evenly, with sensors that adjust the time and power level automatically.
- Durability: Sunbeam microwaves are built to last, with sturdy materials and components. They have a stainless steel or black exterior that resists stains and scratches. They also have a ceramic enamel interior that is easy to clean and prevents odors and bacteria.
What are the drawbacks of Sunbeam microwaves?
Sunbeam microwaves also have some disadvantages that may make them less suitable for some customers. Some of these drawbacks are:
- Lack of features: Sunbeam microwaves do not have the advanced features that some other microwaves have, such as convection cooking, air frying, grilling, or speed-cooking. They also do not have smart technology that allows you to connect your microwave to your smartphone or smart speaker. If you are looking for a microwave that can do more than just heat food, you may want to consider other brands or models.
- Low power: Sunbeam microwaves have lower wattages than some other microwaves, which means they may not be able to cook food as fast or as thoroughly as higher-wattage microwaves. They may also struggle with larger or denser foods, such as meats or casseroles. If you need a microwave that can handle heavy-duty cooking tasks, you may want to look for a microwave with higher wattage.
- Small capacity: Sunbeam microwaves have smaller capacities than some other microwaves, with cubic feet ranging from 0.7 to 1.1. This means they may not be able to fit large dishes or containers, such as platters or bowls. If you need a microwave that can accommodate bigger portions or multiple items at once, you may want to opt for a microwave with larger capacity.
FAQs
Q: How do I clean my Sunbeam microwave?
A: To clean your Sunbeam microwave, follow these steps:
- Unplug the microwave or turn off the circuit breaker.
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
- Remove the turntable and support ring and wash them in warm soapy water. Rinse and dry them well before putting them back.
- Clean the interior with a damp cloth and mild detergent. You can also use a vinegar solution (1/4 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of water) to remove stains and odors. Microwave the solution for 3 minutes, then wipe the interior with a paper towel or sponge.
Q: How do I use the sensor cooking on my Sunbeam microwave?
A: To use the sensor cooking on your Sunbeam microwave, follow these steps:
- Press the SENSOR COOK pad on the control panel.
- Select the desired food type using the number pads or the dial knob.
- Press START/PAUSE to begin cooking.
- The microwave will automatically adjust the time and power level based on the moisture and temperature of the food.
- When the cooking time is over, the microwave will beep and display “END”.
- Press CANCEL/OFF to end the cooking cycle and remove the food.
Q: How do I set the clock on my Sunbeam microwave?
A: To set the clock on your Sunbeam microwave, follow these steps:
- Press the CLOCK pad on the control panel.
- Enter the current time using the number pads or the dial knob.
- Press START/PAUSE to confirm the time.
- The clock will display the time in 12-hour or 24-hour format, depending on the model.
Conclusion
Sunbeam microwaves are good for people who want a simple, affordable, and reliable microwave oven for their kitchen. They can help you heat food quickly and easily, with minimal fuss and hassle. However, they may not have the features, power, or capacity of some other microwaves. Therefore, you should consider your needs and preferences before buying a Sunbeam microwave. If you have any questions or feedback about Sunbeam microwaves, feel free to leave a comment below. We’d love to hear from you!
