Finding the perfect countertop microwave for my small kitchen was a real challenge. I needed something compact but powerful enough to handle everyday cooking, and I couldn’t seem to find anything that fit the bill. A larger microwave would have dominated my limited counter space, making meal prep a frustrating squeeze. I knew a smaller, less powerful model would be perpetually slow and inadequate, creating more hassle than convenience. This is why the GE JES1145SHSS Microwave Oven became such a game-changer for me.
Countertop microwaves offer convenience and compact design, perfect for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. However, choosing the right one requires careful consideration. The ideal customer is someone seeking a balance between size and power, prioritizing efficient heating and convenient features without sacrificing too much space. Those with very large families or extensive cooking needs might find a larger, over-the-range microwave more suitable. Before buying, you need to think about the following: What is your available counter space? What is your daily usage – reheating leftovers, quick cooking, or more elaborate meal preparation? What wattage is needed to meet your cooking demands? Finally, consider essential features – defrosting capabilities, preset cooking options, and a user-friendly control panel.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 950 watts of power and 1.1 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates...
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- WEIGHT & TIME DEFROST - Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
Introducing the GE JES1145SHSS: A Compact Powerhouse
The GE JES1145SHSS Microwave Oven promises compact design without compromising power. This 1.1 cubic foot, 950-watt microwave boasts convenience controls, instant-on capabilities, and weight and time defrosting options. Compared to other compact microwaves, its wattage is comparatively high, ensuring faster and more effective heating. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, it significantly outperforms some of its smaller, lower-wattage competitors. This microwave is ideal for individuals or small families who prioritize efficiency and space-saving design in their kitchen.
- Pros: Compact size, powerful 950 watts, easy-to-use controls, efficient defrosting, affordable price.
- Cons: Can be a little noisy, the door latch can be stiff, the interior light is dim, some minor build quality issues reported.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass...
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook...
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
Exploring the GE JES1145SHSS Features and Benefits
Compact Design and Spacious Interior
The most striking feature of the GE JES1145SHSS is its compact footprint. Its dimensions allow it to fit neatly onto even the smallest countertops without overwhelming the space. Yet, despite its external compactness, the interior is surprisingly spacious, easily accommodating standard dinner plates and larger mugs. This combination of small exterior and large interior makes it a perfect choice for those with limited counter space but who still need a microwave capable of handling a variety of dishes and containers. The rotating glass turntable ensures even cooking, a vital feature often overlooked in smaller microwaves.
User-Friendly Controls and Convenience Features
The intuitive control panel is a standout feature. The one-touch operation makes reheating leftovers or preparing quick meals exceptionally straightforward. The convenience cooking controls are well-designed and easy to navigate, even for users unfamiliar with microwave ovens. The inclusion of a kitchen timer, child lock (easily disabled), and cooking complete alarms adds to the convenience and safety. The weight and time defrost settings are a lifesaver, eliminating the guesswork often associated with defrosting frozen food.
Power and Performance
With 950 watts of power, the GE JES1145SHSS significantly outperforms many of its compact competitors. This higher wattage translates to faster cooking times, whether you’re reheating leftovers or preparing a quick snack. The microwave heats food evenly, preventing cold spots and ensuring consistent results. This improved efficiency is especially appreciated for busy individuals or those who need to prepare quick meals.
Durability and Build Quality
While most reviewers report satisfaction with the microwave’s performance, several mention some minor build quality inconsistencies. Some units have arrived with slight dents or imperfections in the stainless steel casing. These issues seem to be isolated incidents rather than a widespread problem. The overall build feels sturdy, and the microwave functions reliably, despite occasional cosmetic imperfections. While the longevity of the unit remains to be seen over a longer period, my personal experience suggests it’s quite durable for everyday use.
Minor Drawbacks
It’s important to note a few minor drawbacks. The most frequent complaint centers around the door latch, which can feel somewhat stiff or difficult to open. The interior light is also reported to be a little dim, making it slightly harder to see food inside. Some users also mention a noticeable level of noise during operation, though this is subjective and may not bother everyone. These drawbacks are relatively minor when weighed against the overall convenience and performance.
What Other Users Are Saying About the GE JES1145SHSS
Online reviews generally reflect a positive experience with the GE JES1145SHSS. Users praise its compact size, powerful heating, and ease of use. Many appreciate the convenience features and the surprisingly spacious interior. While some negative comments exist regarding build quality and the door latch, these are often outweighed by the positive feedback on performance and value.
Final Verdict: A Great Choice for Space-Conscious Cooks
The GE JES1145SHSS Microwave Oven addresses the problem of needing a powerful microwave in a small space. It provides efficient heating, convenient features, and a surprisingly roomy interior, all within a compact and aesthetically pleasing design. While minor drawbacks exist, the overall value and performance make this a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and efficient countertop microwave. To learn more and purchase this space-saving powerhouse, click here to visit the product page.
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API