We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Microwave Ovens

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
By clicking on a link to a third party's website, log data is shared with that third party.
#9
Samsung MS
Available on
£90
View Product
View more options

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
View Product
View more options
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,186
Size and Design
Turntable vs. Flatbed
Size and Design
A lovely, compact microwave that offers great value for money, perfect for a small apartment.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
Struggles with plate rotation when popping microwave popcorn bags, requiring close monitoring.

The Toshiba Air Fry Auto Menu Combo 5-IN-1 microwave oven offers great versatility with its combination of microwave, air fryer, broiler, bake, and combi functions. Its 900W power is decent for regular microwave tasks, though it's not the most powerful compared to some high-end models. The 26-liter capacity is ample, making it suitable for family gatherings where larger dishes like a 4lb chicken or a 10-inch pizza are needed.

The turntable design ensures even cooking, and the inclusion of a removable turntable adds convenience for cleaning and versatility in cooking larger items. The 10 auto cooking presets and additional 9 healthy air fry menus simplify cooking and make it easier to prepare a variety of meals without guesswork. Combi-modes are particularly useful for speeding up cooking time while ensuring dishes are cooked evenly and have a desirable texture.

However, it misses out on the advanced inverter technology that some modern microwaves offer for more precise cooking. The size is relatively compact for its capacity, and the sleek black design will fit well in most kitchen decors. While it is a bit on the heavier side at nearly 19 kg, this weight speaks to its robust build quality. Ideal for those who want a multi-functional appliance to save space and time in their cooking routine, this microwave might not be the best choice for those seeking the most powerful microwaves or those requiring inverter technology for delicate cooking tasks.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,186
Size and Design
Turntable vs. Flatbed
Size and Design
A lovely, compact microwave that offers great value for money, perfect for a small apartment.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
Struggles with plate rotation when popping microwave popcorn bags, requiring close monitoring.
#2

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)

8.5  score

Available on
£139.99
View Product
View more options
Rating
8.5
Wattage
Turntable vs. Flatbed
Pre-programmed Settings
Wattage
Heats food efficiently and operates quietly, making it a solid everyday microwave.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
The turntable ensures even heating without needing to interrupt cooking.
Pre-programmed Settings
The combination of microwave, grill, convection oven, and air fryer functions offers impressive cooking flexibility.
Size and Design
The compact size saves counter space without sacrificing cooking capacity.

The Toshiba 25L 900W microwave is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and stylish kitchen appliance. Its 25-litre capacity is spacious enough to fit most dishes, including a 10-inch pizza, without taking up too much counter space. The 900-watt power is decent for everyday cooking, offering a good balance between performance and energy use. One standout feature is the Origin Inverter technology, which helps cook food evenly by controlling power precisely and quietly, making it less noisy than many other microwaves.

The Chef Defrost program is another useful function that carefully thaws food to avoid overcooking on the edges or undercooking inside. This microwave also combines three cooking modes in one unit: microwave, grill, and combination, which adds flexibility for different cooking needs. With 7 auto menus and 10 power levels, it’s user-friendly even if you’re not familiar with microwave settings. The turntable design is traditional but reliable, ensuring even heating. Its elegant Morandi grey color and compact size give it a modern look that fits well in most kitchens.

The 900-watt power might be a bit low for those wanting very rapid cooking or reheating, and the control buttons might feel a bit basic compared to touch screens on other models. However, the child safety lock and easy-clean features add to its convenience and safety. This microwave oven is well suited for everyday family use, particularly for those who value quiet operation, precise defrosting, and a sleek appearance.

Rating
8.5
Wattage
Turntable vs. Flatbed
Pre-programmed Settings
Wattage
Heats food efficiently and operates quietly, making it a solid everyday microwave.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
The turntable ensures even heating without needing to interrupt cooking.
Pre-programmed Settings
The combination of microwave, grill, convection oven, and air fryer functions offers impressive cooking flexibility.
Size and Design
The compact size saves counter space without sacrificing cooking capacity.
#3

Samsung Solo Microwave, 800W, Capacity: 23 Litre, Type G, Push Buttons, Stainless Steel, MS23DG4504ATE3

8.5  score

Available on
£97.07
View Product
View more options
Rating
8.5
Wattage
Pre-programmed Settings
Size and Design
Wattage
Despite being 800 watts, the microwave feels underpowered, often taking considerably longer to heat food compared to higher wattage models.
Pre-programmed Settings
The multifunctional options, including steam cooking and Grill Fry, provide versatile and healthier meal preparation choices.
Size and Design
The microwave boasts a premium, stylish design with a sleek stainless steel finish and recessed handles that enhance any kitchen countertop.

The Samsung Solo Microwave MS23DG4504ATE3 offers a solid choice for everyday kitchen use with its 800-watt power and a 23-litre capacity, making it suitable for small to medium meal preparation. It features a stainless steel finish and a modern, seamless design with recessed handles that add a stylish touch to your countertop. The microwave uses a triple distribution system inside a ceramic enamel cavity, which helps cook food evenly and is easier to clean compared to traditional interiors. Instead of a flatbed, it comes with a turntable that rotates food for more consistent heating.

This model includes helpful pre-programmed functions such as Quick Defrost for common food types and a Grill Fry option that lets you enjoy crispy results without needing a conventional oven. Additionally, the Steam Cook feature promotes healthier meals by allowing steam cooking with a pure steamer accessory. An eco mode helps reduce power consumption, which is a nice bonus for energy-conscious users.

While 800 watts is on the lower side compared to more powerful microwaves, it might take a bit longer to heat larger or dense foods. The control panel uses push buttons rather than a digital touchscreen, which some users might find less intuitive or flexible. Its size (about 49 x 38 x 28 cm) and weight (12.2 kg) require a decent countertop space and may not be the best fit for very small kitchens. This Samsung microwave balances style, practical features, and ease of use, making it a great fit for anyone needing a reliable solo microwave for typical daily cooking tasks, especially if you value sleek design and convenient preset options.

Rating
8.5
Wattage
Pre-programmed Settings
Size and Design
Wattage
Despite being 800 watts, the microwave feels underpowered, often taking considerably longer to heat food compared to higher wattage models.
Pre-programmed Settings
The multifunctional options, including steam cooking and Grill Fry, provide versatile and healthier meal preparation choices.
Size and Design
The microwave boasts a premium, stylish design with a sleek stainless steel finish and recessed handles that enhance any kitchen countertop.

Buying Guide for the Best Microwave Ovens

Choosing the right microwave oven can significantly enhance your cooking experience, making it faster and more convenient. When selecting a microwave, consider your cooking habits, kitchen space, and the types of food you typically prepare. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
WattageWattage refers to the power of the microwave, 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 needs and how often you use the microwave to determine the appropriate wattage for you.
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 kitchen and the typical volume of food you 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 simplify the cooking process by automatically adjusting the time and power level. If you frequently cook specific types of food, having these settings can save time and ensure consistent results. However, if you prefer manual control over your cooking, you might not need a microwave with extensive pre-programmed options.
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. This is particularly beneficial for delicate foods that require gentle cooking. If you often cook a variety of foods and want to maintain their quality, a microwave with inverter technology might be a good choice. For basic reheating and cooking, a standard microwave without this feature may suffice.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the microwave affect how it fits into your kitchen space and its overall aesthetic. Countertop microwaves are portable and easy to install, while over-the-range models save counter space and often include a built-in exhaust fan. Built-in microwaves offer a seamless look but require professional installation. Consider your kitchen layout and how much space you have available when choosing the size and design of your microwave.