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10 Best Microwave Oven

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
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#9
Samsung MS
28% OFF
Available on
£114.99
28% off
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TOSHIBA Air Fry Auto Menu Combo 5-IN-1 26L Countertop Microwave Oven, Broil, Bake, Combi, 10 Power Levels, 10 Auto Cooking Presets, Easy Defrost, Black, 900W, ML2-EC26SF(BS)

10.0  score

Available on
£161.81
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Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,255
Turntable vs. Flatbed
Size and Design
Turntable vs. Flatbed
While the microwave heats well and functions smoothly, the plate rotation can be problematic with certain items like popcorn bags.
Size and Design
Compact design makes it a great fit for small spaces, perfect for a one-bedroom flat.

The TOSHIBA Air Fry Auto Menu Combo 5-IN-1 26L Countertop Microwave Oven offers a variety of cooking options with its 5-in-1 versatility. It serves not only as a standard microwave but also includes air frying, broiling, baking, and combination cooking functions, making it a practical choice for busy kitchens looking to save space. With a 26-liter capacity, this microwave is suitable for larger families, able to accommodate a whole roasted chicken or a 10-inch pizza. Its 900-watt power level is sufficient for basic cooking tasks, though it may not be as powerful as microwaves with higher wattage, potentially affecting cooking speed for some dishes. The oven features a removable turntable, which is necessary for even cooking and prevents hot spots, but it might require occasional cleaning and maintenance.

A major strength is its 10 auto cooking presets, which simplify meal preparation by eliminating guesswork. The unit also includes 9 healthy air fry auto menus, a feature that appeals to health-conscious users looking to reduce oil consumption while maintaining crispy textures. However, for those unfamiliar with air frying, there might be a learning curve to achieve optimal results.

The microwave's design is sleek and modern in black stainless steel, suitable for various kitchen interiors. Its freestanding installation type is convenient, but users should ensure adequate clearance to avoid overheat issues. Despite its large capacity, the microwave maintains a relatively small footprint, but users should measure their counter space before purchasing.

Its versatility and style are impressive, and potential buyers should weigh its features against their specific needs, such as the necessity for air fry functions or cooking presets, and consider if the 900-watt power level meets their expectations for efficiency.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,255
Turntable vs. Flatbed
Size and Design
Turntable vs. Flatbed
While the microwave heats well and functions smoothly, the plate rotation can be problematic with certain items like popcorn bags.
Size and Design
Compact design makes it a great fit for small spaces, perfect for a one-bedroom flat.
#2

NEFF HLAWD23N0B N50, Built-in Microwave Oven with Automatic Programmes,Control Dial & One-Touch Buttons Side-opening hinged door Black & Stainless Steel

9.4  score

Available on
£429
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Rating
9.4
Capacity
Size and Design
Pre-programmed Settings
Capacity
The microwave’s compact cavity is perfectly sized for everyday use, balancing space-saving design with sufficient capacity.
Size and Design
Its sleek, modern appearance stands out as a top feature, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen.
Pre-programmed Settings
Controls are straightforward and user-friendly, combining intuitive dials with one-touch presets and a clear display.

The NEFF HLAWD23N0B is a built-in microwave oven that suits those looking for a compact and stylish appliance with smart features. Its 20-liter capacity is moderate, fitting well in kitchens where space is limited but you still need enough room for everyday reheating and cooking tasks. With 800 watts of power, it offers decent heating strength, although it may take slightly longer to cook compared to higher wattage microwaves. The microwave uses a turntable to ensure even heating of food, which is a reliable and common feature, though it doesn’t have a flatbed design that can sometimes allow more flexible cookware placement. A notable design feature is its side-opening hinged door, which is quite practical for built-in installations in tighter kitchen layouts, making it easier to access without needing extra front clearance.

The control system combines intuitive dials and one-touch buttons alongside a clear LED display, making it straightforward to select from automatic programmes tailored to common cooking tasks—great for users who prefer convenience without fiddling with complex settings. Although it lacks inverter technology, which offers more precise power control and gentle cooking, its automatic defrost feature and bright internal LED lighting add to its user-friendliness. The black and stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that should blend well with most kitchen styles. At 36 x 44 x 26 cm, it’s compact enough for built-in use but may be smaller than some users expect if they regularly cook larger meals.

This model represents a solid choice for residential users who want a reliable, easy-to-use built-in microwave with helpful presets and thoughtful design, while those needing faster cooking power or more advanced features might prefer other options.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Size and Design
Pre-programmed Settings
Capacity
The microwave’s compact cavity is perfectly sized for everyday use, balancing space-saving design with sufficient capacity.
Size and Design
Its sleek, modern appearance stands out as a top feature, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen.
Pre-programmed Settings
Controls are straightforward and user-friendly, combining intuitive dials with one-touch presets and a clear display.
#3

Toshiba 25L 3-in-1 900W Microwave Oven in a Stunning Sleek Morandi Grey Colour, With Origin Inverter, Chef Defrost, Microwave, Grill, Combi, 10 Power Levels, 7 Auto Menus, Easy Clean, MW3-AG25PFI(MG)

8.8  score

Available on
£139.99
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Rating
8.8
Wattage
Pre-programmed Settings
Size and Design
Wattage
The power control is precise, allowing excellent defrosting and versatile cooking with microwave, grill, and convection functions.
Pre-programmed Settings
Combining multiple cooking modes offers great flexibility, though mastering the various programs may require consulting the manual.
Size and Design
Toshiba continues to deliver top-notch quality, reliability, and build, making this microwave a standout choice.

The Toshiba 25L 3-in-1 microwave oven offers a good balance of power and versatility for everyday kitchen use. Its 900-watt inverter technology stands out by providing even heating with precise temperature control, which helps cook food faster and more efficiently while keeping noise levels low—this makes it quieter than many other microwaves. The 25-litre capacity is generous enough to fit most standard dishes, including a 10-inch pizza, while the round 288mm turntable ensures food heats evenly. This model combines microwave, grill, and combi functions, giving you flexibility to defrost, reheat, grill, or cook with pre-set menus that simplify meal preparation. The chef defrost feature is useful for thawing food gently, avoiding the common problem of uneven heating.

Its compact size and stylish Morandi grey finish with chrome accents are designed to fit well on your countertop without looking bulky. However, at 900 watts, it’s not the most powerful microwave on the market, so cooking very large or dense meals might take a bit longer compared to higher wattage models. Also, the turntable design means you have less usable flat space inside compared to flatbed microwaves, which some users prefer for larger containers. The child safety lock is a thoughtful addition for families, but the control interface could be a bit complex if you want quick one-touch simplicity.

This microwave is a quiet, all-in-one appliance with smart features and a sleek look, ideal for typical home cooking tasks without taking up much space.

Rating
8.8
Wattage
Pre-programmed Settings
Size and Design
Wattage
The power control is precise, allowing excellent defrosting and versatile cooking with microwave, grill, and convection functions.
Pre-programmed Settings
Combining multiple cooking modes offers great flexibility, though mastering the various programs may require consulting the manual.
Size and Design
Toshiba continues to deliver top-notch quality, reliability, and build, making this microwave a standout choice.

Buying Guide for the Best Microwave Oven

Choosing the right microwave oven can significantly enhance your cooking experience, making it faster and more convenient. When selecting a microwave, consider how you plan to use it, the space available in your kitchen, and the features that will best suit your cooking habits. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs.
WattageWattage refers to the power of the microwave oven, which affects how quickly and evenly it can cook food. Higher wattage microwaves (around 1000 watts or more) cook food faster and more evenly, making them ideal for those who frequently use their microwave for cooking meals. Mid-range wattage (700-900 watts) is suitable for reheating and basic cooking tasks. Lower wattage microwaves (below 700 watts) are slower and may not cook food as evenly, but they can be sufficient for simple reheating tasks. Consider your cooking habits and choose a wattage that matches your needs.
CapacityCapacity is the size of the microwave's interior, usually measured in cubic feet. It determines how much food you can cook at once. Small microwaves (0.5 to 0.8 cubic feet) are suitable for individuals or small kitchens with limited space. Medium-sized microwaves (0.9 to 1.3 cubic feet) are versatile and can handle most cooking tasks for small families. Large microwaves (1.4 cubic feet and above) are ideal for larger families or those who frequently cook large dishes. Consider the size of your household and the types of dishes you plan to prepare when choosing the capacity.
Turntable vs. FlatbedMicrowaves can have either a turntable or a flatbed design. A turntable rotates the food to ensure even cooking, which is common in most microwaves. Flatbed microwaves use advanced technology to distribute microwaves evenly without the need for rotation, offering more usable space and easier cleaning. If you often cook large or irregularly shaped dishes, a flatbed design might be more suitable. For standard cooking and reheating, a turntable design is typically sufficient.
Pre-programmed SettingsPre-programmed settings are preset cooking modes for specific foods like popcorn, pizza, or vegetables. These settings automatically adjust the cooking time and power level, making it easier to achieve optimal results without guesswork. If you frequently cook specific types of food, look for a microwave with relevant pre-programmed settings. For those who prefer manual control, these settings might be less important.
Inverter TechnologyInverter technology allows the microwave to deliver a consistent power level, which helps in cooking food more evenly and preserving its texture and flavor. Traditional microwaves cycle between full power and no power, which can lead to uneven cooking. If you often cook delicate foods or want to ensure even heating, a microwave with inverter technology might be beneficial. For basic reheating and cooking, a standard microwave without this feature may suffice.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the microwave should fit well with your kitchen's layout and aesthetic. Consider the available counter space or whether you need an over-the-range model. Compact models are great for small kitchens, while larger models may offer more features and capacity. Additionally, the design should complement your kitchen decor. Think about where you will place the microwave and how it will fit with your other appliances.