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Cuisinart CMW-200 Convection Microwave Review

Convenient Cooking from Your Countertop

Convenience is something we’re all looking for these days. For many us, and that includes me, cooking from scratch just takes too much time out of the day. That is if we have any time left! Originally, I was just looking for a basic microwave that would do all the “normal” jobs this appliance is built for, but since my research began I’ve discovered just how versatile a microwave oven can be.

Cuisinart 1.2-Cubic-Foot Convection Microwave

Cuisinart CMW-200 Convection Microwave Oven with Grill
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There are many reviews on my website that deal with models of microwave that just reheat soup or cook a bag of popcorn, but I realize that’s not what everyone is looking for. So, in the following few words I’m going to give you an insight into the Cuisinart CMW-200 1.2-Cubic-Foot Convection Microwave Oven which also has a grill.

Of course, you already know the capacity is 1.2 cu ft which gives you plenty of room to cook whole meals. From experience I also know that power is important and this microwave offers a 1000 watt output. However, when you use the convection option you get 1,500 watts and for the convection grill you get 1,100 watts.

So, those are the two points I know are generally the first things people look for. Now, on to what you can expect from this appliance.

Design

This is actually one of the nicest looking microwave ovens I have come across and it wouldn’t look out of place in a commercial kitchen but somehow with its black frame and brushed stainless steel, not to mention a very sleek looking control panel I think it would lift the décor in any kitchen.

The only thing I would like to stress (and unfortunately the manufacturer isn’t very good at telling you this), is that you will need to make sure you have plenty of room for it. Because it’s a convection oven as well as a microwave you need to make sure there is at least 3 inches of space around the unit, and 12 inches above (at the very least).

This model gives off a fair bit of heat so venting is important, and I know people have been disappointed to find they can’t place it where they want to in the kitchen – so get that measuring tape out if you are considering purchasing one of these!

Controls

Cuisinart CMW-200 control panelAt the very top it will be no surprise to find the LED display which can be used as a clock as well as a timer. Incidentally, if you don’t use the clock option the display will just have zeros across it when the oven isn’t in use.

Below that you have some really handy preset options which include the following: Reheat, fresh vegetables, frozen vegetables, pizza, beverages, roast chicken, cake and of course something we all know and love with an appliance like this – popcorn! When you use these presets, you can also choose the weight and size of your food which I think is a pretty good idea because you get more accurate cooking.

Other functions you can expect to find with this convection microwave are: Defrost, memory, convection roast, convection fast bake, a keep warm option, grill combo and of course just microwave or convection.

On the Inside

The inside of this convection microwave has the same finish as the outside which adds to the overall look. You also get a turntable which is 12 inches in size and a reversible grill rack.

Other Features

Multi-stage cooking is available with this microwave so you can easily switch from one stage to the next without any fuss. There is also a feature called “express cook” which is great for smaller items of food or beverages. Simply push one of the numbered pads and the unit will immediately start and continue for 30 seconds. What I really like about this feature is you can add 30 seconds again whilst the microwave is in use.

Overall

There might be issues with where you can place this microwave oven and it has also been noted that if you want to cook at high temperatures it can take it’s time to heat up. However, for the price (and there are some really handy discounts at Amazon at the moment) I think it’s a great appliance to have in the kitchen.

Further Information

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