Sharp 24 Inch Microwave Drawer SMD2470ASY Review Defrost Features and Performance

Description

Strengths of the Sharp Microwave Drawer

Testing the Sharp SMD2470ASY 24-Inch 1.2 cu. Ft. 950 W Stainless Steel Microwave Drawer has been quite an experience. Right off the bat, the 1.2 cubic feet capacity stands out, easily accommodating a 9″ x 13″ dish. This spacious interior is a blessing for someone like me who often heats leftovers in larger containers or prepares family-sized meals. The built-in design with a flush mount option (though sold separately) gives kitchens a sleek, modern look—much appreciated in a household where aesthetics matter as much as functionality.

The Easy Touch Automatic Drawer System deserves a shout-out. The smooth opening and hands-free closing mechanism feel almost futuristic. It’s not just a fancy gimmick; it genuinely saves time when I’ve got my hands full of cooking utensils or ingredients. The concealed control panel that opens at a 45-degree angle is another thoughtful feature, making it easy to read and operate without bending awkwardly or reaching over hot dishes. This level of ergonomic design definitely elevates the cooking experience.

• Spacious 1.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes comfortably
• Automatic drawer system offers hands-free convenience
• Concealed, angled control panel is user-friendly and practical

Drawbacks I Encountered

No product is perfect, and this microwave drawer has its quirks. The weight of 74 pounds made installation a bit of a challenge. While it is designed to be built-in, handling such a heavy appliance without professional help is tough. Also, the wattage rating at 950 watts means that cooking or reheating times are slightly longer compared to some higher-powered microwaves I’ve used. It’s not a deal-breaker, but if you’re accustomed to 1200-watt units, this might feel a bit sluggish.

The stainless steel interior and exterior look fantastic but are also a fingerprint magnet. Keeping it spotless requires regular wiping, especially in a busy kitchen where greasy hands are common. I noticed that the auto defrost function does its job, but sometimes it defrosts unevenly, which means I have to rearrange the food mid-cycle. That’s a minor inconvenience but worth noting for anyone relying heavily on defrosting.

• Heavy 74-pound unit complicates DIY installation
• 950W power results in slower cooking times for some meals
• Stainless steel surfaces show fingerprints and smudges easily

Ease of Use and Kitchen Integration

The placement of this microwave drawer makes a huge difference in kitchen workflow. Instead of bending over or reaching above a countertop, I found myself pulling the drawer out at waist height, which is much more comfortable. The smooth sliding drawer doesn’t jam or stick, even after repeated use, and the automatic close feature responds well without slamming shut. This has been a lifesaver during busy meal prep sessions when multitasking is a must.

The control panel, hidden until you slide the drawer open, keeps the unit looking clean and uncluttered, which I appreciate in a kitchen that already has many gadgets vying for attention. The buttons are straightforward, with presets for common tasks like reheating, defrosting, and cooking popcorn. The interior light also makes checking on food progress easy without opening the drawer unnecessarily.

Involving my partner and kids in using this microwave was surprisingly easy—they picked up the controls fast, thanks to the intuitive layout and clear display. This makes it a great choice for families or anyone who wants a hassle-free kitchen appliance.

Features and Functionalities Explored

I tested every feature this microwave drawer has to offer because, frankly, it was fun to explore. The auto defrost setting adjusts cooking time based on the weight of the food, which is convenient for frozen items, although it occasionally needs a manual tweak. The sensor cook technology tries to estimate when your food is done by detecting humidity, which mostly works but can be inconsistent with certain foods like soups or sauces.

The clock and timer functions are basic but reliable, and the power levels offered range from low to high, allowing for versatile cooking options. It’s clearly designed for residential use, which suits my needs perfectly. The stainless steel construction, both inside and out, gives it durability and a premium feel. Cleaning has been straightforward; wiping down the interior after spills is easier than with plastic interiors I’ve dealt with before.

Alternative Offerings in the Market

Comparing this microwave drawer to others like the Bosch 800 Series and KitchenAid built-in models reveals some interesting contrasts. The Bosch offers slightly quicker cooking times with its higher wattage, but it lacks the elegant drawer system found here. KitchenAid models come with more advanced controls and presets but tend to be bulkier and more expensive.

This Sharp model truly shines with its space-saving built-in design and ease of use features like the automatic drawer. However, if you prioritize raw cooking speed or additional smart features, competitors might edge it out. On the other hand, the modern stainless steel design and the quiet drawer operation make this product stand out significantly in terms of user experience and kitchen aesthetics.

Value Assessment of the Microwave Drawer

Considering the features it packs, including a large capacity, smooth automatic drawer, and stainless steel durability, this appliance offers a strong value proposition. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the convenience factor and build quality justify spending a bit more compared to standard countertop microwaves.

The energy consumption at 950 watts is moderate, which could save a few bucks on electricity compared to more powerful units. The fact that it’s designed to fit seamlessly into kitchen cabinetry adds to its long-term appeal, especially if you plan to renovate or upgrade your kitchen setup. For those who want a blend of style, functionality, and durability, this built-in microwave drawer seems to hit the right notes.

Perks I Appreciated

• Hands-free drawer operation enhances multitasking in busy kitchens
• Large interior comfortably fits family-sized dishes
• Sleek stainless steel finish complements modern kitchen designs
• Concealed control panel maintains a clean aesthetic
• Sensor cook and auto defrost options offer convenience for everyday use

Areas for Improvement

• Heavy weight complicates installation without professional help
• Cooking power could be higher for faster meal prep
• Auto defrost sometimes requires manual intervention to ensure even thawing
• Stainless steel surface attracts fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning

My experience with this microwave drawer has been mostly positive, especially for those who value ergonomics and kitchen integration. It encourages a more fluid cooking process, especially for busy households, even if it’s not the fastest or most high-tech microwave on the market. The balance between style, size, and function makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a traditional countertop microwave.

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