appliances & furniture

Best Microwave

Kim
19th November, 2021 | 19 minute read

Are you looking for the best microwave ovens on the market?

You’ve come to the right place! This article will tell you everything you need to know about microwaves, including the different types of microwaves, how a microwave works and what you need to consider before buying a microwave.

Microwave

We have also created an extensive list of the best microwaves on the market today. No matter what type of microwave you’re looking for, whether it’s a white microwave or a black microwave, a convection microwave or a grill microwave, we’ve found the best one for you!

What Is a Microwave?

Most people have used or, at least, seen a microwave in their lifetime. However, if you’re new to microwaves, you might want to know what one is before you jump right ahead and buy one.

rose gold microwave

A microwave is basically a type of small, electric oven that heats food up very quickly.

It is extremely convenient, and you can heat a huge range of different foods, drinks, and other things in a microwave.

How Does a Microwave Work?

If you’re considering buying a microwave, you may be wondering how it works.

A microwave works by exposing foods to electromagnetic radiation within the microwave frequency range. This process causes the polar molecules in the food to rotate, and this creates thermal energy. This process is known as dielectric heating.

black microwave

This type of process allows the microwave to heat food extremely quickly. The fast heating rate of microwaves is what has made them an increasingly popular kitchen appliance over the years.

To heat your food, most microwaves require you to press some buttons or turn some dials to indicate the timer. Most microwaves are very simple to use, and many of them include several functions, such as defrost modes.

Types of Microwave

There are several different types of microwave. If you plan to purchase a new microwave for your kitchen, you may be interested in learning about the different types available to choose the right microwave for your needs.

To help you with your decision, we have created the list below of the different types of microwaves available on the market today:

Solo Microwave

solo microwave

A solo microwave is a small, simple microwave that is simply used to heat food and beverages. These microwaves use electromagnetic radiation to heat food and drinks.

They use watts to convert energy to heat, and this heat then cooks the food. Solo microwaves are usually the cheapest version of microwave and are quite common.

Grill Microwave

You can easily grill, toast and roast foods with a grill microwave. A grill microwave allows you to achieve the same great taste of grilled food without firing up a grill.

grill microwave

Grill microwaves can do everything that solo microwaves can do, but they can also grill things such as chicken, fish, and pizzas. They grill foods with a special grill heater and often include some additional accessories.

They tend to be a bit more expensive than solo microwaves but are less expensive than a convection microwave.

Convection Microwave

Convection microwaves include all of the same features as a solo or grill microwave, but they also have the additional ability to bake your foods. This type of microwave uses a different kind of heater and fan combination to cook the foods.

convection microwave

They push heat through the microwave using a fan, and this creates a much better cooking environment. This type of microwave tends to be more expensive than other microwave types.

Over the Range Microwave

An over the range microwave acts as a hood above the cooker. These are great as they fill the empty space above the cooker, which frees up space on your countertop.

Over the range microwave

If you get an over the range microwave that matches your other kitchen appliances, it can really blend in well and acts as a great addition to your kitchen.

The only downside to these microwaves is that they tend to cost more than other microwave types. You may also need help installing it, which could end up costing a bit more.

Built-in Microwave

Built-in microwaves are becoming more and more popular in UK kitchens. These microwaves are great as you can have them at any height you want, and they won’t take up any counter space.

Built in microwave

If you can get one that matches your other kitchen appliances, you can create a great, modern look that blends in with the rest of your kitchen.

Built-in microwaves can be quite expensive, plus, you may need help with installation, so this could also add to the costs.

Combination Microwave

A combination microwave is a microwave that also offers other additional functions. Some of these functions include oven abilities or grill functions.

Combination microwave

We have previously discussed grill microwaves and convection microwaves. Combination microwaves are similar in that they offer more than just the typical microwave abilities.

Combination microwaves tend to be more expensive than simple microwaves, but the extra cost is reflected in the additional abilities.

Best  Microwave

Hopefully, the list above has given you some more insight into the type of microwave you need. As you can see, there are many microwave options available.

Luckily, there are many different types of microwaves in each category; however, this can make it more difficult to determine which microwave is best.

To help you make the right choice, we have created this list of the best microwaves on the market today:

Best Solo Microwave

Panasonic Compact Solo Microwave Oven

Panasonic compact microwave

The Panasonic compact solo microwave is a great, small microwave that not only looks great, but it performs great too. The sleek, black, modern design is very appealing and would look great in most modern kitchens. It has a 20-litre capacity and performs on a high 800W power.

It also features a modern touch control panel and has the benefit of coming with a child safety lock to keep your little ones safe. Although it’s slightly more expensive than some other solo microwave models, this particular model is very modern and sleek.

Things we liked
  • Modern and sleek
  • High performance
  • Child safety lock
  • Touch control panel
Things we didn't like
  • More expensive than other models

Sharp Solo Microwave Oven

Sharp solo microwave

The Sharp solo microwave oven is an 800W microwave with a 20-litre capacity. It has the benefit of coming with five different levels of cooking power so you can customise your cooking settings according to what it is that you’re cooking.

It features a manual control panel so that you can easily set your cooking times. It has a sleek, silver finish that is complemented by a black door window and control panel.

Things we liked
  • Modern and sleek
  • High performance
  • Easy to use
  • Five levels of cooking power
Things we didn't like
  • More expensive than some other models

Russell Hobbs Black Digital Solo Microwave

Russell Hobbs black microwave

This particular microwave has a very modern and sleek look with a mirrored door finish. This gorgeous model would look great in any contemporary kitchen.

The wipeable painted interior is easy to clean, and the glass turntable can be removed and placed in the dishwasher for even easier cleaning.

It comes with several special features, including auto cook settings for cooking specific things such as pizza, popcorn, and fish. This allows you to easily and quickly cook your food at the click of a button.

Things we liked
  • Easy to use
  • Easy to clean
  • Additional special features
Things we didn't like
  • More expensive than some other models

Best Grill Microwave

Russell Hobbs Stainless Steel Digital Grill Microwave

Russell Hobbs stainless steel microwave

The Russell Hobbs stainless steel microwave has a professional and sleek design that looks very appealing and would go well in most modern kitchens.

As well as its appealing appearance, it also provides impressive functionality with 800W of microwave power and 1000W of grilling power.

With 20L of space, you can comfortably fit a standard-sized dinner plate in this microwave so you can easily reheat your food.

The removable turntable is easy to clean, and the inside of the microwave itself is also easy to clean. Some additional features of this model include a digital clock, a count down timer, and child safety lock options.

Things we liked
  • Attractive design
  • Easy to use
  • Easy to clean
  • Child safety lock option
Things we didn't like
  • Quite small for a grill microwave

Toshiba Microwave Oven with Crispy Grill

Toshiba Microwave Oven with Crispy Grill

The Toshiba grill microwave is perfect for general microwaving but also has a great grill setting. The microwave itself is a convection microwave that provides more even cooking and heats the food from the inside out to retain moisture and flavour. It has the benefit of an energy-saving eco function.

The stunning black design is very sleek-looking, and the intuitive interface adds a modern touch to your kitchen. The 23-litre capacity inside allows you to easily heat a good-sized amount of food in one go as needed.

Things we liked
  • Powerful cooking
  • Convection heating
  • Energy-saving function
  • Sleek design
Things we didn't like
  • More expensive than some other models

Amazon Basics Digital Countertop Microwave with Grill

Amazon Basics Digital Countertop Microwave with Grill

The Amazon Basics Microwave with grill is a great, powerful microwave that easily heats up your food with no fuss. It has a large 25-litre capacity, so you can heat up a large amount of food in one go as needed.

It also features five different power levels, a 95-minute timer, and eight different preset modes.

This model also comes with the benefit of a child safety lock to keep your little ones safe. The stainless steel design is very basic and would go well in most kitchens.

Things we liked
  • Large capacity
  • Many different modes and settings
  • Child safety lock
Things we didn't like
  • Basic appearance

Best Convection Microwave

Toshiba Microwave Oven with Upgraded Easy Clean Enamel Cavity

Toshiba Microwave Oven with Upgraded Easy Clean Enamel Cavity

This versatile combination microwave allows you to heat, defrost, grill, reheat, and roast all in one place. It is easy to clean as it features a ceramic enamel cavity which is also scratch-resistant.

The cavity is 25 litres which provides more than enough room for you to heat all of the food that you need with ease. The high power allows you to easily cook your foods very quickly, and the sleek design works well in the majority of modern kitchens.

Things we liked
  • Many cooking options
  • Large cavity
  • High power
  • Sleek design
Things we didn't like
  • More expensive than other models

Tower Dual Heater Combination Oven with Microwave/Grill/Convection Oven

Tower Dual Heater Combination Oven with Microwave Grill and Convection Oven

The Tower dual heater microwave is an all-in-one combination appliance that allows you to save time and energy on your cooking. It has a very large 28 litre capacity with a tall height for grilling. This provides you with plenty of room to cook meals for the entire family.

The wide turntable gives you more room to put larger plates, bowls, and dishes.

The honeycomb-shaped interior is specifically designed to provide even heat distribution. It also comes with the benefit of a self-cleaning function which is extremely convenient. On top of all that, this model also comes with the benefit of a 3-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • 3-year warranty
  • Very large capacity
  • Extra-wide turntable
  • Self-cleaning function
  • Honeycomb-shaped interior
Things we didn't like
  • Expensive
  • Bulky

Igenix Digital Combination Microwave with Grill and Convection

Igenix Digital Combination Microwave with Grill and Convection

This particular microwave has a gorgeous glass mirrored door that provides a unique, modern aesthetic. The large 25-litre capacity provides ample amount of room for all of your cooking needs.

The digital buttons and dial controls are easy to use, and you can set this microwave to grill, roast, and bake – providing you with all of the heating options you need.

There are also ten pre-programmed auto-cook settings, including pizza, meats, pasta, potato, and popcorn. The added automatic defrost setting is also very convenient. This model also benefits from a child safety lock option.

Things we liked
  • Sleek design
  • Large capacity
  • Easy to use
  • Ten pre-programmed cooking settings
  • Child safety lock
Things we didn't like
  • Expensive

Best Over the Range Microwave

Clatronic Over the Range Grill Microwave

Clatronic Over the Range Grill Microwave

This microwave is an over the range microwave that has grilling options as well as microwaving options. The grill function is easy to use and provides crispy, golden-brown grilling.

It features five different microwave power levels and three combined power levels, so you can easily achieve everything you need in terms of cooking from this microwave.

The cavity is 20 litres large, which is big enough to fit a regular-sized plate of food.

Things we liked
  • Grill function
  • Various power levels
  • Easy to use
  • Saves countertop space
Things we didn't like
  • Quite a basic model
  • Expensive

Best Built-in Microwave

Russell Hobbs Built-In Digital Microwave

Russell Hobbs Built-In Digital Microwave

This Russell Hobbs built-in microwave has a 20-litre capacity which is enough to fit a regular-sized plate of food. It also features a range of auto-cook menus so that you can quickly, easily, and conveniently cook your food with no fuss whatsoever.

It features an easy-to-see clock and digital timer, and the controls are simple and easy to use. The sleek grey design would look great in a huge range of modern kitchens.

Things we liked
  • Range of cooking settings
  • Easy to use
  • Sleek design
  • Save countertop space
Things we didn't like
  • Expensive
  • Difficult to install

SIA Black Built-In Digital Timer Microwave

SIA Black Built-In Digital Timer Microwave

The SIA built-in microwave is a simple built-in microwave that is easy to use and provides a range of cooking settings.

It has five different power control levels and eight preset cooking settings, so you can easily find the right settings for your cooking needs.

With the added benefit of a child lock, you can ensure your children remain safe around this microwave. If you’re looking for a simple built-in microwave, this is the best option for you.

Things we liked
  • Range of cooking settings
  • Child lock
  • Save countertop space
  • Cheaper than most other built-in microwaves
Things we didn't like
  • Difficult to install

Cookology Integrated Microwave in Stainless Steel

Cookology Integrated Microwave in Stainless Steel

The Cookology built-in microwave is a simple microwave with a stainless steel finish that would look great in most modern kitchens. It features a child lock functionality so you can ensure your children stay safe around this microwave.

It also has some additional features, such as a quick-start function and an auto-defrost function.

The 20-litre capacity allows you to heat up a regular-sized full plate of food. This model is quite low-priced for a built-in microwave which is great if you’re on a tight budget.

Things we liked
  • Sleek design
  • Child-lock function
  • Additional auto cooking features
  • Low price
Things we didn't like
  • Difficult to install

Best Combination Microwave

Tower Dual Heater Combination Oven with Microwave/Grill/Convection Oven

Tower Dual Heater Combination Oven with Microwave

The Tower dual heater microwave is an all-in-one combination appliance that allows you to save time and energy on your cooking. It has a very large 28 litre capacity with a tall height for grilling. This provides you with plenty of room to cook meals for the entire family.

The wide turntable gives you more room to put larger plates, bowls, and dishes.

The unique interior is specifically designed to provide even heat distribution. It also comes with the benefit of a self-cleaning function which is extremely convenient. On top of all that, this model also comes with the benefit of a 3-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • 3-year warranty
  • Very large capacity
  • Extra-wide turntable
  • Self-cleaning function
Things we didn't like
  • Expensive
  • Bulky

Panasonic Slimline Combination Microwave Oven

Panasonic Slimline Combination Microwave Oven

The Panasonic slimline combination microwave has precise power controls that allow you to evenly cook food at a very fast rate.

The intelligent internal design allows you to save around 20% of space compared to other conventional combination ovens, so you’re left with more room on your kitchen counters.

It features a range of pre-programmed cooking options so you can easily and conveniently cook your food with no fuss at all.

Things we liked
  • Save countertop space
  • Easy to use
  • Powerful cooking
  • Range of pre-programmed cooking options
Things we didn't like
  • Expensive

Toshiba Microwave Oven with Upgraded Easy Clean Enamel Cavity

Toshiba Microwave Oven with Upgraded Easy Clean Enamel Cavity

This versatile combination microwave allows you to heat, defrost, grill, reheat, and roast all in one place. It is easy to clean as it features a ceramic enamel cavity which is also scratch-resistant.

The cavity is 25 litres which provides more than enough room for you to heat all of the food that you need with ease.

The high power allows you to easily cook your foods very quickly, and the sleek design works well in the majority of modern kitchens.

Things we liked
  • Many cooking options
  • Large cavity
  • High power
  • Sleek design
Things we didn't like
  • Bulky

Best Budget Microwave

Beko Solo Microwave

Beko Solo Microwave

This simple Beko solo microwave features five different power levels so you can customise your cooking settings according to your needs. It also features a defrost function so you can easily and safely defrost your foods.

The 20-litre capacity allows you to cook a regular-sized full plate of food. This simple microwave is easy to use and provides everything you need from a simple, budget microwave.

Things we liked
  • Easy to use
  • Defrost function
  • Various power settings
  • Low price
Things we didn't like
  • Not as many features as other models

Tower Microwave with 5 Power Levels and 35 Minute Timer

Tower Microwave with 5 Power Levels and 35 Minute Timer

This Tower microwave has five different power levels so you can customise your cooking experience according to what you need.

You can easily heat a wide range of dishes with this microwave, including pizza, soups, and ready meals. The defrosting setting allows you to cook meals straight from the freezer and ensures that your food is defrosted quickly and safely.

The 20-litre capacity allows you to cook a full regular-sized plate of food easily. It is very simple to use and provides everything you need from a basic microwave.

Things we liked
  • Various power levels
  • Defrosting setting
  • Easy to use
  • Low price
Things we didn't like
  • Less power than other models
  • Not as many features as other models

VYTRONIX Microwave Oven with 5 Cooking Power Levels

VYTRONIX Microwave Oven

This particular microwave has a gorgeous, sleek mirrored finish that looks great in the majority of kitchens. It has a 20-litre capacity which is enough to heat a regular-sized full plate of food.

The child safety lock on this model ensures that your children remain safe around this microwave.

It features an auto-defrost setting and five different power levels so you can customise your cooking settings according to your needs.

Things we liked
  • Sleek design
  • Child safety lock
  • Various heating modes
  • Low price
Things we didn't like
  • Not as many features as other models

Best Small Microwave

Russell Hobbs Rose Gold Solo Microwave

Russell Hobbs Rose Gold Solo Microwave

The Russell Hobbs rose gold microwave provides powerful cooking with five different power levels to choose from, so you can customise your cooking settings easily according to your needs.

It features a gorgeous mirror finish with rose gold features. This provides a gorgeous, modern look that will go well in most kitchens.

The 17-litre capacity allows you to cook a regular-sized plate of food with ease. This model is easy to use and comes with the benefit of a 2-year guarantee.

Things we liked
  • Appealing appearance
  • Various cooking settings
  • 2-year guarantee
  • Easy to use
Things we didn't like

Russell Hobbs Solo Manual Microwave

Russell Hobbs Solo Manual Microwave

This Russell Hobbs solo microwave provides a unique look that is quite traditional. It has the benefit of coming in three different colours so you can find a colour that matches your kitchen perfectly.

There are five different power levels, and a defrost function so you can easily cook all of your foods to your exact needs.

It is very easy to clean with a simple wipe of a cloth, and the 17-litre capacity is enough to heat up a full plate of food.

Things we liked
  • Various colours
  • Various cooking modes
  • Easy to use
  • Easy to clean
Things we didn't like
  • Smaller capacity means less cooking space

Tower Manual Solo Microwave with 4 Power Levels

Tower Manual Solo Microwave with 4 Power Levels

This Tower solo microwave is great for cooking, reheating, and defrosting. It has an 18-litre capacity, so you can easily cook a full plate of food in this microwave.

The removable glass turntable is easy to clean, and the inside of the microwave can be easily wiped clean.

It features variable heat settings, so you can customise the settings according to your needs. This model also benefits from a one year guarantee for added peace of mind when purchasing this product.

Things we liked
  • Easy to use
  • Easy to clean
  • Various cooking settings
  • One-year guarantee
Things we didn't like
  • Smaller capacity means less cooking space

What to Consider Before Buying a Microwave

There are several things that you should consider when choosing the right microwave for your kitchen. Below is a list of things that you should think about when choosing which microwave is best for you:

Type of Microwave

If you are looking for certain features on your microwave, such as grilling features, this will play a part in which type of microwave you buy. You should have a think about what you are looking for in a microwave before you make your purchase so that you can choose the right type to suit your needs.

We have listed the different types of microwave above, and this list should help you decide which microwave is right for you.

Size of Microwave

Depending on the size of your kitchen and the space available, you may need to consider the size of the microwave before you order it. If your kitchen is small or doesn’t have much counter space available, you may need to think about buying a smaller microwave.

Buying a microwave

Functions

If you are looking for certain functions in your microwave, you may need to consider this when choosing the right microwave for you. If you want extra functions such as grilling or baking, this may determine the type of microwave you need.

It’s a good idea to consider which functions you would like before you make a final decision.

Appearance

You may want to think about the appearance of your new microwave and whether it will fit in well with your kitchen.

For example, if your other kitchen appliances are all black, then you may want to choose a black microwave so that it matches up with the rest of your kitchen. Take a good look at your kitchen and decide what style of microwave would look best.

FAQs

How do you clean a microwave?

Below is an outline of how to clean the inside of your microwave:

  • Combine a cup of water with lemon, orange, or lime slices. Squeeze some of the juice into the water. Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or white vinegar if you have some. Mix all of these together in a microwavable bowl.
  • Place the bowl inside the microwave and turn it on high power for a few minutes so that the mixture boils and the window steams up.
  • Let it cool for around five minutes and then open the door, remove the bowl and wipe the inside of the microwave with a clean sponge.

How do you dispose of an old microwave?

The best way to dispose of a microwave is to take it to a recycling centre. All you will need to do is take your microwave to the recycling centre, and the staff will take care of the disposal process.

Does eating microwaved food have an effect on humans in the future?

Cooking food in a microwave doesn’t alter the food at all other than heating it. There are no known effects on humans from eating microwave foods compared to other food heating methods.

Can I use a microwave to defrost my food?

Yes, you can. Microwaves come with a defrost button that allows you to defrost your food safely.

Can I use a microwave if I have a pacemaker?

Yes, you can. Modern microwaves don’t produce frequencies that interfere with pacemakers or any other electronic devices.

Sources

  1. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/tips/a17694/spring-cleaning-microwave-grime
  2. https://www.appliancecity.co.uk/cooking/microwaves/what-to-do-with-your-old-microwave
  3. https://hps.org/publicinformation/ate/faqs/microwaveovenqa.html https://celcook.ca/faqs