Modern microwaves have evolved far beyond simple reheating appliances. Sharp, a pioneer in microwave technology, integrates advanced sensor cooking into many of its models. This feature takes the guesswork out of cooking by automatically detecting moisture levels and adjusting the time and power for perfectly prepared meals. Whether you’re defrosting, reheating leftovers, or cooking a full meal, sensor technology ensures consistent results every time.
Choosing the right Sharp microwave depends on your kitchen space, capacity needs, and desired features. From compact models ideal for small households or offices to larger convection ovens that can bake and roast, there is a Sharp microwave designed for every purpose. This roundup highlights the best models featuring sensor cooking to help you find the ideal appliance for your home.
The Best Sharp Microwaves with Sensor Cooking
- Sharp 1.4 cu. ft. 1100W Black Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
- Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave
- SHARP Stainless Steel Carousel 1.8 Cu. Ft. 1100W Countertop Microwave
- SHARP Black Carousel 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000W Countertop Microwave
- SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable Carousel Turntable
- Sharp 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000W Compact Microwave with Sensor Cooking
- Sharp 1.6 Cu. Ft. 1100W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
- Sharp 2.2 Cu. Ft. 1250W Convection Microwave Oven
Sharp 1.4 cu. ft. 1100W Black Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven with Carousel Turntable
This Sharp microwave offers a great balance of capacity and power for family cooking. Its 1.4 cubic foot interior is spacious enough for substantial meals, while the 1100 watts of cooking power provide quick and even results. The black stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that resists fingerprints and fits well in most kitchens.
You can prepare favorite dishes or reheat food with ease. The built-in carousel turntable ensures that everything is heated uniformly, preventing cold spots. This model is designed to deliver reliable performance without taking up excessive counter space.
Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave
Built for durability in a busy environment, this commercial microwave is simple to operate with its classic dial timer. You can set it anywhere from 10 seconds to 6 minutes, and bright LED indicators allow for easy monitoring. Its 1.0 cubic foot capacity is designed to handle a 13-1/2 inch platter or a half-size pan.
The auto-cancel timer is a practical feature that increases the magnetron’s life by saving energy. When the door is opened during operation, the remaining cooking time is cancelled. This model is a solid choice for an office breakroom or a commercial setting where straightforward operation is key.
SHARP Stainless Steel Carousel 1.8 Cu. Ft. 1100W Countertop Microwave Oven
With a large 1.8 cubic foot capacity, this Sharp microwave is well-suited for families or anyone who needs extra space. It features a premium blue LED display for clear visibility and a convenient “+30 second” key for instant start, making quick reheating tasks simple.
The sensor cook menu is a highlight, providing precise cooking and reheating by automatically adjusting the time and power. This technology helps prevent overcooking and ensures your food is prepared just right. The combination of high power and smart features makes this a very capable countertop appliance.
SHARP Black Carousel 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000W Countertop Microwave Oven
This compact Sharp microwave is an excellent choice for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or as a secondary oven. Despite its smaller size, it doesn’t compromise on useful features. The 11.2-inch carousel turntable ensures even cooking, and the auto defrost function provides quick and accurate thawing.
Like many Sharp models, it includes the handy “+30 second” key for instant start, which is perfect for those times when you need to heat something up quickly. Its 1000-watt output is powerful enough for most tasks while maintaining a compact footprint.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6″ Carousel Turntable
This model features a modern design with several new improvements, including a gray interior, white LED display, and LED interior lighting. The full-sized 0.9 cubic foot capacity and 900 watts of power make it a practical choice for everyday use. The removable 10.6-inch carousel turntable makes cleaning much simpler.
You have control over your cooking with 10 power levels and the option for 2-stage cooking, which allows you to program two different cooking modes in sequence. These features provide flexibility for a wide variety of foods, from delicate reheating to more robust cooking tasks.
Sharp 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000W Compact Microwave with Sensor Cooking
Ideal for those with limited space, this compact microwave packs the intelligent cooking technology of larger models. The 1000-watt power is efficient for a unit of this size, handling everything from reheating beverages to cooking small meals. Its sensor cooking feature automatically adjusts the cooking time and power based on the steam emitted from your food.
This takes the guesswork out of preparing frozen meals or reheating leftovers, giving you consistent results. The 1.1 cubic foot capacity is designed to be space-efficient without being too small, making it a smart choice for apartments, offices, or as an additional microwave.
Sharp 1.6 Cu. Ft. 1100W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave with Sensor Cooking
This mid-size model offers a generous 1.6 cubic foot capacity, providing ample space for dinner plates and larger dishes. The 1100 watts of power ensure fast and efficient cooking, while the stainless steel exterior offers a durable and professional look for your kitchen.
The inclusion of sensor cooking means you can rely on the microwave to intelligently manage the cooking process for various foods. This combination of substantial capacity, high power, and automated technology makes it a versatile centerpiece for a family kitchen.
Sharp 2.2 Cu. Ft. 1250W Convection Microwave Oven with Sensor Cooking
As the most advanced model in this roundup, this Sharp appliance is a true multi-function oven. It combines the speed of a microwave with the browning and crisping abilities of a convection oven. With 1250 watts of microwave power and convection heating, you can bake, roast, and brown food in addition to standard microwave functions.
The large 2.2 cubic foot capacity can accommodate sizable dishes, making it a potential replacement for a traditional oven in some situations. Sensor cooking optimizes both microwave and convection settings, providing automated precision for a wide range of recipes.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Sharp Microwave with Sensor Cooking
Choosing the right Sharp microwave with sensor cooking can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. I have used a few different models over the years, and I have learned that it is not just about the size or the wattage. The real magic is in the features that make your life easier. Here is what I think you should focus on when you are looking for the best Sharp microwaves with sensor cooking.
First, consider the capacity. This is probably the most straightforward decision. If you are mainly reheating meals for one or two people, a compact 0.8 to 1.0 cubic foot model is probably perfect. For a family or if you like to cook larger dishes, you will want something in the 1.2 to 2.0 cubic foot range. I made the mistake of getting one that was too small once, and it was a constant game of rotating plates. Get the size that matches your usual cooking habits.
Next, look at the power. Most Sharp microwaves range from 900 to 1250 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking times. A 1000-watt microwave is a great middle ground that handles everything from melting butter to cooking a full meal quickly. The sensor cooking technology works in tandem with this power, adjusting the time and intensity automatically, so you do not have to guess.
Speaking of sensors, pay close attention to the specific sensor programs. All sensor microwaves detect steam, but the number and type of automatic settings vary. Some models might just have a “reheat” button, while others have dedicated buttons for popcorn, potatoes, beverages, and even frozen vegetables. Think about what you use your microwave for most often. If you are a popcorn fanatic, that dedicated button is a lifesaver. If you often reheat leftovers, a good auto-reheat function is key.
Finally, do not overlook the physical design. Countertop models are the most common, but if you are short on space, an over-the-range (OTR) Sharp microwave with a sensor can be a fantastic space-saver, as it also functions as your kitchen vent hood. Also, check the interior finish. A stainless steel interior is generally easier to clean and more durable than a traditional non-stick coating. The door swing and control panel layout are also worth a quick look to make sure they fit your kitchen’s workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is sensor cooking and how does it work?
Sensor cooking is a feature that takes the guesswork out of using your microwave. Instead of you setting a time and power level, the microwave does it for you. It works by having a humidity sensor inside the oven that detects the amount of steam being released from your food. As the food heats up and cooks, it releases steam. The sensor monitors this and, once it detects that the steam has reached a certain level (indicating the food is done), it automatically shuts off. This is why your popcorn never burns and your reheated pasta does not end up rubbery. It is a genuinely smart way to cook.
Are Sharp microwaves with sensor cooking more expensive?
They can be, but it is not a massive price jump, and I think the convenience is worth it. You are paying for advanced technology that prevents overcooking and saves you time. Basic microwaves are cheaper, but you are solely responsible for figuring out the correct time and power. With a sensor model, you are investing in consistency and ease of use. You can find Sharp sensor microwaves at various price points, so there is likely an option that fits your budget.
Can I use metal or aluminum foil in a Sharp sensor microwave?
This is a very important safety question. No, you should not use metal containers, twist ties, or aluminum foil in any microwave, including Sharp models with sensor cooking. Metal reflects microwaves and can cause arcing—those bright blue sparks you sometimes see. This can damage the interior of the microwave and is a fire hazard. Always use microwave-safe containers made of glass, ceramic, or plastic that is labeled as microwave-safe.
Do I need to do anything special to use the sensor cook features?
Not really, which is the best part. The main thing is to make sure you are using a microwave-safe container that has a lid or cover. This helps to trap the steam inside, allowing the sensor to accurately read the humidity levels. If you leave food uncovered, the steam escapes too quickly, and the sensor might not work correctly, leading to undercooked food. Just put your food in a covered dish, press the sensor button you want (like “Reheat” or “Potato”), and the microwave handles the rest.
My sensor cook function does not seem to be working correctly. What should I check?
If your sensor cooking is not performing as expected, there are a few simple things to check. First, make sure the interior of the microwave, especially around the sensor area (usually a small vent on the wall), is clean and free of grease or food splatter. A dirty sensor can give faulty readings. Second, confirm you are using a cover on your food. Finally, if the room is very humid, that can sometimes interfere with the sensor’s accuracy. Giving the microwave a good clean is usually the first and most effective step.