Cuisinart CMW-100 Microwave Review Roundup

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Updated 3:56 pm

Expert Rating

86

The Cuisinart CMW-100 is a smaller microwave that promises plenty of usability like the best microwave in the market today – and an alternate model (the 200) with a built-in convection oven for more direct cooking tasks. Let’s see how it fared for users and reviews! Also, take a look at our list of the best countertop microwave ovens to buy in 2019.

Features

This Cuisinart model has 1 cubic foot of space and 1,000 watts of power, so it’s better suited for smaller microwave tasks that don’t need much heat. The turntable is 12 inches – but it’s the rest of the inside that’s interesting, with a stainless steel interior that’s unusual to see in a microwave. Programming comes with 10 power levels, eight presets, and two defrost functions, but not any sensor heating to speak of. It does have a handle.

Pros

  • Stylish and compact design
  • Simple controls
  • Even heating which is found in all our top countertop microwave choices

Cons

  • Convection model doesn’t appear to work well
Cuisinart CMW-100 Open
The stainless steel interior is unique.

Home Depot Users

Home Depot users generally had praise for the microwave, noting that the controls were simple and convenient, and the stainless steel interior is particularly easy to clean – plus it has a pull handle, which is typically more popular among the average consumers. However, it is a little on the small side, which means it may have trouble handling large heating tasks.

“We needed a compact microwave to fit into a small cabinet cubby space. All the others in this size category seemed a little cheap and underpowered. This little microwave is neither, it cooks quickly and evenly, is very easy to operate and has several nice quick cook convenience features. I also liked that the inside is stainless steel which makes it easy to clean and I liked the pull handle to open the door. No button to break. The turn table is a little squeaky and it is a touch loud at times but nothing major (could just need a little plate adjustment). This is a very nice looking well made appliance and I would recommend it to someone looking for a small stainless steal microwave.”

Good Housekeeping

Good Housekeeping also had quite a lot of praise for the microwave: They liked the stainless steel design and the simple control panel that still managed to provide plenty of preprogrammed heating options. The review also liked the even heating and defrosting action of the microwave. However, they noted that reheating a full dinner plate may be difficult , and that cleaning stainless steel may not be easy for everyone.

Pros

  • Even heating pattern

  • Good at defrosting

  • Popcorn button gives good result

  • Stainless steel interior gives a quality appearance

  • Easy to use control panel

  • Many preprogrammed cooking options

  • Quiet when operating

  • Company offers excellent customer service”

Amazon Users

Amazon users reviewed convection version of this model, and noted that the microwave provided quiet operation, plenty of power for basic microwave tasks, and easy controls. However, one common issue was noted: The convection function uses a heating element on the top of the microwave: This both makes the microwave very hot when heating up, and makes it difficult to cook foods with the convection setting, since it tends to burn them on the top.

“So far, I’m pleased with this one. It’s a capable microwave. I can use the grill feature, along with about 30% microwave power, to cook bratwurst pretty quickly. Or I can use the convection cooking (400 F) to do the same. I haven’t tried baking anything, yet. But for the tasks I’ve attempted, it’s met the challenge.

The more sophisticated a device is, the greater the probability that you’ll need to spend some time with the manual. I think I’ve spent about 10 minutes with the manual, so far. Once you get the basics down, it’s not hard to use. But, if you don’t look at the manual at all, it will be confusing.”

Bottom Line

If you are looking for a compact microwave – especially one with a stylish stainless steel design – this model should definitely be on your list…but the convection feature shouldn’t be your top priority.

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