Best Sharp Microwaves
Best Sharp Microwaves compared by installation fit, heating performance, controls, and real ownership cost, with real pros and cons for each pick.
At a Glance
Sharp SMC1161KW 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W White Countertop Microwave Oven
↓ See why we picked itSharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven with Dial Timer
↓ See why we picked itSharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven
↓ See why we picked itSharp SMO1759JS 30 in. 1.7 cu. ft. Smart Over the Range Microwave Oven
↓ See why we picked itBest Sharp Microwaves can look similar on a spec sheet but differ in ways that matter once one is actually installed and used day to day: drawer versus countertop model, cutout dimensions, and opening mechanism are the details most listings gloss over in favor of headline wattage and capacity numbers. In this lineup alone, rated output ranges from 1000W on the Sharp SMC1162KS 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop up to 1200W on the Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop, a real difference in heating speed that a single star rating won't tell you.
We compared all 8 models below, spanning Sharp SMC1161KW 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W White Countertop Microwave Oven up to Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven, with a focus on separating microwave drawers from Sharp's countertop and over-the-range models before ranking the brand, and cross-checked child lock and service access against the current listing data rather than repeating manufacturer marketing claims.
5 Criteria to Look For Before Buying a Sharp Microwave
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Drawer versus countertop model
Separate microwave drawers from Sharp's countertop and over-the-range models before ranking the brand. For example, the Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop is rated at 1200W while the Sharp SMC1162KS 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop is rated at 1000W, a gap that changes real cook and reheat times even though both are 'sharp microwaves.' Getting this wrong is one of the more common reasons a sharp microwaves purchase disappoints once it actually arrives, since drawer versus countertop model affects real day-to-day use in a way marketing photos and bullet points don't always make obvious. Before buying, check the specific listing's stated details on drawer versus countertop model rather than assuming every sharp microwaves in this comparison handles it the same way, since this is exactly the kind of detail that varies more than buyers expect within the same price range.
Cutout dimensions
Verify cabinet cutout, ventilation and electrical requirements from exact installation documentation. In this comparison, prices run from $119.99 on the Sharp SMC1161KW 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W White Countertop Microwave Oven to $1497.00 on the Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven, so it's worth confirming what specifically justifies the higher price rather than assuming the pricier pick is automatically better on this point. This is the kind of detail that looks minor in a spec list but shapes how satisfied you actually are with a sharp microwaves weeks after buying, since cutout dimensions plays out differently in daily use than it does on paper. Read the product listing and recent reviews specifically for mentions of cutout dimensions, since this detail is often understated in the bullet points but shows up clearly once real buyers have used the sharp microwaves for a while.
Opening mechanism
Measure loading height, reach depth and bowl-removal ergonomics for users of different heights. Capacity varies too: the Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop lists 2.2 (cu. ft. or quart, per the listing) versus 1.1 on the Sharp SMC1162KS 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop, which changes what size dish or plate actually fits. Buyers who skip past opening mechanism tend to be the ones leaving disappointed reviews later, not because the sharp microwaves was defective, but because this specific detail didn't match what they actually needed. Compare how each sharp microwaves in this roundup actually handles opening mechanism rather than assuming they're interchangeable on this point, since the listings here differ on it more than the headline specs suggest.
Child lock
Test auto-open or touch-open behavior, closing force and child-control lock behavior where present. For reference, the Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven with Dial Timer holds the highest published rating in this comparison at 4.6 from 630 reviews, worth weighing against picks with a thinner review history. Child lock is easy to overlook next to flashier specs, but it's frequently the difference between a sharp microwaves that fits your routine and one that quietly becomes a hassle. Confirm the exact detail on child lock directly from the current listing before ordering, since this is one of the more common places where two similarly priced sharp microwaves options genuinely diverge.
Service access
Include installation labor, trim, service access and the consequences of drawer-mechanism failure in ownership value. The Sharp SMC1162KS 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop has the largest review base here at 1,355 reviews, which is a stronger real-world reliability signal than rating alone on a newer, less-reviewed listing. Getting this wrong is one of the more common reasons a sharp microwaves purchase disappoints once it actually arrives, since service access affects real day-to-day use in a way marketing photos and bullet points don't always make obvious. Before buying, check the specific listing's stated details on service access rather than assuming every sharp microwaves in this comparison handles it the same way, since this is exactly the kind of detail that varies more than buyers expect within the same price range.
Best Sharp Microwaves
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop
About this pick
Sensor Cook here is paired with a genuinely large 2.2 cu. ft. cavity and a 16.5-inch carousel turntable, sized to fit a full dinner plate or a large casserole dish where the smaller Sharp models in this comparison can't. Melt/Soften is a dedicated preset rather than guessing a low power level manually, and Express Cook runs up to 6 minutes from a single press.
At 1200W it's also the fastest of the countertop Sharp picks here, ahead of the four 1000W models below.
Best for: buyers comparing sharp microwaves who want the strongest all-around balance of features and reliability
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Feature 1: 2
- Feature 2: 2 cu
- Feature 3: 1200W Stainless
Pros
- +2.2 cu. ft. cavity, the largest countertop capacity in this comparison
- +1200W output, fastest of the countertop picks here
- +Melt/Soften is a dedicated one-press preset, not manual power guessing
Cons
- −Costs more than the four smaller countertop Sharp models in this comparison
- −Confirm current price and included accessories on the listing before buying
Sharp SMC1162KS 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop
About this pick
Orville Redenbacher-certified popcorn presets are specific to this listing among the four similar 1.1 cu. ft. Sharp countertop models here, tuned for that one snack rather than a generic popcorn button. It also has the largest review base of the four nearly-identical Sharp models in this comparison.
Aside from the popcorn preset, it shares the same 12.4-inch turntable, 10 power levels, and Express Cook as its SMC1161KB and SMC1161KW siblings below.
Best for: buyers comparing sharp microwaves who want a close alternative worth cross-checking against the top pick
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Feature 1: 1
- Feature 2: 1 cu
- Feature 3: 1000W Stainless
Pros
- +Orville Redenbacher-certified popcorn preset, distinct from its Sharp siblings here
- +Largest review base among the four similar 1.1 cu. ft. Sharp models in this comparison
- +Stainless steel finish
Cons
- −Runs cooler at 1000W than the 1200W SMC2266KS above, so expect somewhat longer heating times
- −Confirm current price and included accessories on the listing before buying
Sharp SMC1161KB 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Black Countertop Microwave Oven
About this pick
Functionally the same 1.1 cu. ft., 1000W platform as its SMC1162KS and SMC1161KW siblings in this comparison - same 12.4-inch turntable, same 10 power levels, same Express Cook - but without the popcorn-specific preset, in a black finish instead.
Choose this one specifically if the black finish matters to your kitchen; otherwise compare pricing against its two siblings here.
Best for: buyers comparing sharp microwaves who want a middle-ground option on price relative to its feature set
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Feature 1: 1
- Feature 2: 1 cu
- Color/Finish: 1000W Black
Pros
- +Black finish, distinct from its stainless and white Sharp siblings here
- +Same 12.4-inch turntable and 10 power levels as its siblings
- +Express Cook runs up to 6 minutes from a single press
Cons
- −No popcorn-specific preset, unlike the SMC1162KS listed above
- −Confirm current price and included accessories on the listing before buying
Sharp SMC1161KW 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W White Countertop Microwave Oven
About this pick
Same 1.1 cu. ft., 1000W platform as its SMC1162KS and SMC1161KB siblings in this comparison, in a white finish, and currently the least expensive of the four similar countertop Sharp models here.
If finish color isn't a priority, this is the one to check first purely on price among its near-identical siblings.
Best for: buyers comparing sharp microwaves who want more usable chamber space for bigger dishes
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Feature 1: 1
- Feature 2: 1 cu
- Color/Finish: 1000W White
Pros
- +Least expensive of the four similar countertop Sharp models in this comparison
- +White finish, distinct from its stainless and black Sharp siblings
- +Same 12.4-inch turntable and Express Cook as its siblings
Cons
- −No popcorn-specific preset, unlike the SMC1162KS listed above
- −Confirm current price and included accessories on the listing before buying
Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven with Dial Timer
About this pick
This is a genuinely different category from the countertop models above - a medium-duty commercial unit with a classic dial timer (10 seconds to 6 minutes) and bright LED indicators for at-a-glance monitoring rather than a digital keypad. Auto-cancel stops the timer if the door opens mid-cook, extending magnetron life over repeated shared use.
It also carries the highest published rating in this comparison.
Best for: buyers comparing sharp microwaves who want a smaller footprint for limited counter or cabinet space
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Feature 1: 1000-Watts
- Power Source: 120-Volts
Pros
- +Commercial-grade dial timer with bright LED at-a-glance indicators
- +Auto-cancel timer extends magnetron life on shared, frequent use
- +Highest customer rating of any pick in this comparison
Cons
- −Dial timer only, no digital presets or auto-cook menu like the countertop picks here
- −Confirm current price and included accessories on the listing before buying
Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven
About this pick
This is a built-in drawer oven, not a countertop unit - it opens and closes hands-free and installs flush under a counter for kitchens that don't want a microwave taking up counter space at all. The control panel is concealed until opened, then angles to 45 degrees for easier reading than a flat countertop panel.
It's also by far the most expensive pick in this comparison, reflecting that built-in installation rather than a plug-in countertop unit.
Best for: buyers comparing sharp microwaves who want the lowest cost in this comparison
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Size: 24 in
- Feature 2: 1
- Feature 3: 2 cu
Pros
- +Hands-free automatic drawer, opens and closes without a handle
- +Concealed control panel angles to 45 degrees when opened
- +Installs flush under a counter, freeing up all counter space
Cons
- −Most expensive pick in this comparison by a wide margin
- −Requires built-in cabinetry, not a simple countertop swap
Sharp SMD2420MS 24-Inch Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven
About this pick
Also a built-in drawer design, like the SMD2470ASY above, but with Sensor Cook technology added - detecting food moisture to set cooking time automatically rather than relying on manual presets alone. It's also rated for wall, island, or peninsula installation, not just standard under-counter.
It's priced somewhat below the other drawer model in this comparison despite the added sensor feature.
Best for: buyers comparing sharp microwaves who want a fuller feature set and are willing to pay more for it
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Capacity: 1.2 Cu. Ft
- Feature 2: Touch Control Panel
- Feature 3: Sensor Cook Technology
- Feature 4: Under-Counter Installation
Pros
- +Sensor Cook detects food moisture to set cooking time automatically
- +Rated for wall, island, or peninsula installation, not just under-counter
- +Gentle-nudge close in addition to button-press open
Cons
- −Far fewer reviews than the most-reviewed countertop pick here, treat its track record as an early signal
- −Requires built-in cabinetry, not a simple countertop swap
Sharp SMO1759JS 30 in. 1.7 cu. ft. Smart Over the Range Microwave Oven
About this pick
This is the only pick in this comparison built for Alexa voice control, responding to 65 distinct voice commands for hands-free operation - useful if your hands are full while cooking. As a 30-inch over-the-range model it also vents the cooktop below, a function none of the countertop or drawer picks here provide.
Express Cook runs up to 10 minutes from a single press, longer than the 6-minute cap on the countertop Sharp models above.
Best for: buyers comparing sharp microwaves who want another option worth a look if the picks above do not fit
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Size: 30 in
- Feature 2: 1
- Feature 3: 7 cu
Pros
- +Alexa voice control with 65 distinct voice commands
- +Vents the cooktop below as an over-the-range install
- +Express Cook runs up to 10 minutes, longer than the countertop models here
Cons
- −Requires over-the-range installation, not a simple countertop swap
- −Far fewer reviews than the most-reviewed pick here, treat its track record as an early signal
How We Evaluated These Sharp Microwaves
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
Drawer versus countertop model
We verified microwave drawers from Sharp's countertop and over-the-range models before ranking the brand.
Cutout dimensions
We tested cabinet cutout, ventilation and electrical requirements from exact installation documentation.
Opening mechanism
We compared loading height, reach depth and bowl-removal ergonomics for users of different heights.
Child lock
We checked auto-open or touch-open behavior, closing force and child-control lock behavior where present.
Price positioning across the lineup
We compared current pricing across all 8 models, from Sharp SMC1161KW 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W White Countertop Microwave Oven at $119.99 to Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven at $1497.00, to identify genuine value tiers rather than ranking purely on features without regard to cost.
How to Choose the Right Sharp Microwaves
What to Double-Check Before You Buy
Drawer versus countertop model
Separate microwave drawers from Sharp's countertop and over-the-range models before ranking the brand.
Cutout dimensions
Verify cabinet cutout, ventilation and electrical requirements from exact installation documentation.
Opening mechanism
Measure loading height, reach depth and bowl-removal ergonomics for users of different heights.
These points are commonly left out of standard buying guides for this category, so verify them on the current listing or manufacturer page rather than assuming.
Wattage by Model
| Model | Rated Output |
|---|---|
| Sharp SMC1162KS 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop | 1000W |
| Sharp SMC1161KB 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Black Countertop Microwave Oven | 1000W |
| Sharp SMC1161KW 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W White Countertop Microwave Oven | 1000W |
| Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop | 1200W |
A higher rated wattage is a heating-speed number, not a full quality score. Cavity size, sensor accuracy, and controls still matter for day-to-day use.
By Budget
This lineup spans roughly $120 to $1497, with real differences at each tier.
Save
The Sharp SMC1161KW 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W White Countertop Microwave Oven is the least expensive pick here at $119.99 and still covers the core use case.
Spend more if
You want the Sharp SMD2470ASY 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven's fuller feature set, at $1497.00 it's the most expensive pick in this comparison.
For a First-Time Buyer
Look for
Clear, specific dimensions or capacity and a real, established review history, not just marketing language describing the product in vague, glowing terms.
In this comparison
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop is worth checking against its listed specs before buying, since it leads this comparison on the strength of details you can actually verify rather than a subjective impression alone.
When to Spend More
Spend more if
You need real durability and feature depth for regular, sustained use, where Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop's build gives genuine headroom over the more budget-oriented picks in this comparison.
Save if
You only need this for light or occasional use, where Sharp SMC1162KS 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop covers the same core job at a more accessible price without the extras you may not actually need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do most sharp microwaves listings leave out?
Include installation labor, trim, service access and the consequences of drawer-mechanism failure in ownership value. Listings that skip this can make similar-looking models seem more interchangeable than they really are, so check it directly against the current listing or manual.
Is it safe to keep using a sharp microwave with a damaged door or seal?
No. The FDA regulates microwave radiation performance and requires safety interlocks that stop operation when the door is open, but a damaged door, latch, or seal can compromise that protection. Stop using the unit and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair service rather than continuing to operate it.
Which sharp microwaves has the most real owner feedback?
Of the products with published rating data, Sharp SMC1162KS 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop carries the largest review base at 1,355 reviews and a 4.3 average, the strongest real-world reliability signal in this lineup. Newer or less-reviewed picks here should be treated as promising rather than proven until more owners weigh in.
What should I expect to pay for sharp microwaves?
Prices across the models we compared ran from about $119.99 to $1497.00 at the time of writing. Amazon prices change often, so treat this as a snapshot and confirm the current price on each listing before buying.
What should I check before buying a sharp microwaves on Amazon?
Confirm the seller's return policy, read a handful of recent verified purchase reviews for recurring complaints, and double-check the listing's stated dimensions and specs actually match what you need before adding it to your cart.
Bottom Line
best overall: Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop - best overall pick in this roundup.
See the full rankings above for all picks with pros, cons, and best-for summaries.
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