LG MSER1590S Countertop Microwave Review Smart Features and Sleek Design Analysis

Description

Design and Build Quality

The LG MSER1590S 1.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Countertop Microwave immediately stands out with its sleek stainless steel finish. The modern look fits seamlessly into my kitchen, complementing both traditional and contemporary decor. I was particularly impressed by its compact yet spacious design. Despite its smaller footprint, it offers a 1.5 cubic feet capacity, which easily accommodates larger dishes – perfect for reheating soups, defrosting meats, or even preparing full meals.

The SmoothTouch controls add a premium feel, eliminating clunky buttons and replacing them with a touch-sensitive interface that’s incredibly intuitive. Cleaning the exterior is a breeze as well, with the stainless steel surface resisting smudges and fingerprints better than expected. However, I did notice that while the EasyClean interior lives up to its name for light spills, tougher stains required a bit more effort to scrub out.

Performance and Cooking Features

Using this microwave felt like a game-changer. The NeoChef Smart Inverter technology ensures even cooking, which is a marked improvement over traditional microwaves that often leave cold spots. Whether reheating leftovers or cooking frozen meals, I found the results consistently uniform, saving me the frustration of unevenly heated food.

The auto-defrost function deserves a special mention. It’s intuitive and adjusts the power levels automatically, preventing those annoying “half-cooked, half-frozen” scenarios. I tested it on chicken breasts, and they came out perfectly thawed without starting to cook on the edges. The power output is strong and efficient, requiring less time to heat compared to my old unit.

One feature that surprised me was the child lock system. As someone with curious kids, this is a lifesaver, preventing accidental starts or tampering with settings. While the microwave is highly functional, I did notice that some preset cooking options could be more customizable. For instance, the popcorn setting sometimes left a few unpopped kernels, which might bother snack enthusiasts.

Good Points

This microwave has several pluses that make it stand out:

• NeoChef Smart Inverter technology ensures even cooking and reheating.
• Child lock feature provides added safety for households with children.
• The SmoothTouch controls add elegance and are easy to clean.
• 1.5 cubic feet capacity is versatile enough for larger dishes without taking up excessive counter space.

Areas of Concern

Despite its many strengths, the unit isn’t without shortcomings:

• The preset cooking options, while useful, lack the customization some users might prefer.
• The EasyClean interior, though effective for light messes, struggles with tougher spills.
• At 32.2 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than expected, which might make placement tricky for some.

Competing Products

The market offers various competing brands that challenge this model, such as Panasonic and Toshiba. Panasonic’s inverter microwaves, for instance, rival the NeoChef technology but often come at a higher price point. Toshiba models, on the other hand, are known for their robust presets and additional features like built-in air frying.

Comparatively, the LG MSER1590S excels in design and ease of use, while Panasonic edges ahead in cooking speed. Toshiba provides more versatility but lacks the premium feel of this stainless steel build. Where this microwave shines is its balance of aesthetic appeal, safety features, and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize style and functionality.

True Value

When factoring in the price-to-quality ratio, this microwave offers excellent value for money. The SmoothTouch controls and child lock system elevate its usability, while the NeoChef technology ensures consistent results. While it might not be the cheapest option out there, the combination of style, performance, and safety makes it worth the splurge. If you’re looking for an appliance that adds both functionality and elegance to your kitchen, this is a solid contender.

Additional information