Microwaves can do much more than reheating yesterday’s leftovers. Research from Kantar found that almost one main meal a week is now cooked primarily using a microwave in the UK. Modern microwaves can also grill, air fry, roast and bake, making them one of the most versatile appliances you can have in your kitchen.
So, which microwave is right for you? We've picked the best microwaves for every kitchen, cooking style and budget to help you decide.
Key considerations when choosing a microwave
Before you buy, here’s the main things to look for:
Microwave type – Most microwaves fall into one of three categories.
Solo microwaves are great for reheating and defrosting.
Combination microwaves can also grill, bake and roast.
Flatbed models have extra room for larger plates and dishes.
Capacity – Microwave capacities typically range from 15L to 34L+. Larger models can hold bigger plates and family-sized meals. Compact models are usually a better fit for smaller kitchens with limited worktop space.
Wattage – Higher wattage generally means faster cooking and reheating. Most microwaves range from 700W to 1000W+. For most people, 800W to 900W will do the job nicely.
Cooking functions – Some microwaves have extra features like grilling, convection cooking and air frying. These can be really useful if you don't have room for lots of kitchen appliances.
Ease of cleaning – Look out for features like flatbed designs and easy-clean interiors, which can make wiping away spills and splatters much simpler.
Size and installation – Decide whether you'd prefer a freestanding or built-in model. Whichever you choose, it's a good idea to measure your space before you buy to make sure everything fits comfortably.
Preset programmes – Preset programmes automatically adjust the cooking time and power for common foods. That way you don’t have to work out the settings yourself.
Not sure what you need? Find out what to look for in a microwave.
Top-rated microwaves at a glance
We’ve rounded up the best microwaves for each kitchen and cooking style.
Best combination microwave
Model: Panasonic NN-CF87LBBPQ 3-in-1 combination microwave
Top feature: 3-in-1 cooking functions.
Pros
Microwave, grill and convection oven in one appliance.
Flatbed design gives you more space for larger plates.
Large 31L capacity for bigger meals.
Cons
- Takes up more worktop space than a standard microwave.
The Panasonic NN-CF87LBBPQ is a combination microwave that can handle everything from quick lunches to family dinners. It combines microwave, grill and convection oven functions without needing a separate appliance. So you can do everything from crisping pizzas to roasting veggies.
Its flatbed design takes out the traditional turntable, so you have more space for big containers and family-sized portions. With a large 31L capacity and lots of cooking options, it's a great all-rounder.
Best solo microwave for basic heating
Model: Sharp Premium Series YC-PS201AU-S solo microwave
Top feature: 800W microwave power.
Pros
Easy-to-use dial controls.
6 power levels for reheating and defrosting.
Compact design that fits into most kitchens.
Cons
- 20L capacity might not be ideal for families.
If your microwave is mainly used for preparing quick meals, a solo microwave can be all you need. The Sharp Premium Series YC-PS201AU-S is designed to keep things simple with two easy-to-use dials to control the timer and power level.
It has 800W of power which can heat meals and defrost ingredients quickly and evenly. With 20L capacity it fits the everyday essentials, and its compact design means it won't take over your worktop.
Best flatbed microwave for large dishes
Model: Caso Ceramic Chef MCG 25 combination microwave
Top feature: Turntable-free design.
Pros
Can grill, bake and roast as well as microwave.
Ceramic base is easy to wipe clean.
Has 9 automatic cooking presets.
Cons
- Can be a bit noisy during some cooking functions.
The Caso Ceramic Chef MCG 25 is a great pick for bigger cooking jobs. The flatbed microwave design means it has no turntable, so you have more room inside for bigger dishes. Plus, the ceramic base is easy to wipe clean after spills and splatters.
With 9 preset programmes for everyday foods, cooking is quick and straightforward. It can also grill, bake, roast and microwave, making it really handy when batch-cooking for the week ahead.
Best small microwave for compact counters
Model: Russell Hobbs RHMM701B compact solo microwave
Top feature: 17L capacity.
Pros
Simple dial controls.
700W power for everyday use.
5 power levels for more flexible cooking options.
Cons
- No automatic cooking programmes.
For studio flats, office kitchens and smaller homes, the Russell Hobbs RHMM701B is a good pick. Its compact design takes up less room on the worktop, but inside it holds up to 17L capacity for plates and bowls.
Its 700W power is ideal for everyday reheating and defrosting. Plus simple dial controls make it quick and easy to use. And with 5 power levels to choose from, you can adjust the settings to different foods and recipes.
Wondering if you can put a microwave on top of a fridge? It's best to check the manual first. Most manufacturers recommend placing microwaves on a stable surface with enough room for airflow.
Best budget microwave under £100
Model: Logik LMB24 compact solo microwave
Top feature: 6 power levels.
Pros
Defrost function for frozen food.
Compact, space-saving design.
Easy-to-use dial controls.
Cons
Smaller 15L capacity.
No grill or combination cooking functions.
You don't need to spend a fortune on a reliable microwave. The Logik LMB24 is a freestanding microwave that covers all the everyday essentials, like reheating leftovers or zapping quick meals. So it’s a solid choice for students or anyone kitting out the kitchen on a budget.
Its 6 power levels give you a bit more control over how your food is heated. There's also a handy defrost function for thawing food straight from the freezer. And thanks to its compact design, it's easy to fit into smaller kitchens. The 15L capacity won't suit larger households, but it does the job for one or two-person homes.
Best built-in microwave
Model: Hisense Hi6 BlackLine BIM325GI63DBGUK built-in microwave with grill
Top feature: Inverter technology.
Pros
15 auto cooking programmes.
Grill function that browns and crisps food.
25L capacity for bigger dishes.
Cons
- Glossy touch controls can pick up fingerprints and grease marks.
The Hisense Hi6 BlackLine BIM325GI63DBGUK is a stylish and powerful integrated microwave. It fits neatly into your cabinets for a cleaner look, so keeps your worktops free for food prep.
Inverter technology helps food heat more evenly to avoid cold spots. The grill function is ideal for adding colour and crispness to everything from cheese-topped dishes to baked potatoes. It also comes with 15 auto programmes to make every day cooking easier. With a generous 25L capacity, it's a strong choice for busy modern kitchens.
Best microwave with grill
Model: Smeg Collezione MOC01WHMUK microwave with grill
Top feature: Quartz grill that gives food colour and texture.
Pros
18 automatic programmes.
Stylish retro-inspired design.
29L capacity.
Cons
- Doesn’t have convection-oven baking or air-fryer functions.
If you prefer crispier results, a microwave with grill is a good idea. The Smeg Collezione MOC01WHMUK has a quartz grill, which uses a powerful heating element to apply direct heat from above. That makes it perfect for everything from melting cheese to crisping up jacket potatoes.
It has a huge 29L capacity so you’ve got lots of room for larger dishes. There are also 18 auto programmes so you can cook fish, veggies or pasta with the touch of a button. Plus Smeg’s retro-inspired design brings a bit of character to your worktop.
Best air fryer microwave combo
Model: Panasonic 4-in-1 air fryer NN-CT56RBBPQ combination microwave
Top feature: Hot air fry technology.
Pros
An air fryer, microwave, grill and convection oven in one.
Inverter technology that heats food evenly.
16 auto programmes.
Cons
- At 310 x 520 x 391 mm, it takes up more worktop space than a standard microwave.
Not sure whether an air fryer or microwave is right for you? The Panasonic 4-in-1 Air Fryer NN-CT56RBBPQ combines them both into one appliance. Alongside everyday microwave cooking, it can air fry, grill and bake, helping you do more in the kitchen with less clutter.
The air fry function is ideal for crisping chips and chicken with little to no oil. There's also a grill for browning and a convection oven for baking and roasting. Panasonic's inverter technology provides a more consistent level of power while cooking. That way you're less likely to end up with one bite that's piping hot and another that's still cold.
Need more help?
Still weighing up your options? Our microwave buying guide has lots of expert advice to help you decide. Or you can browse our recommended microwaves for inspiration. Whether you need a compact model for a small kitchen or a feature-packed microwave for family meals, there's something to suit every home.
FAQs
How long do microwaves last?
Most microwaves last around seven to ten years with regular use. How long they last depends on build quality, how often they're used and how well they're maintained. Keeping the interior clean and checking the door seals regularly can help extend their lifespan.
Are microwaves safe?
Yes, microwaves are safe when used correctly. They’re designed to keep microwave energy contained within the appliance, and built-in safety features prevent them from operating if the door isn't closed properly. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use.
What is the best wattage for a microwave?
For most households, 800W to 1000W offers a great balance of speed and performance. Higher-wattage microwaves cook and reheat food faster, while lower-powered models may take a little longer to get the same results.
What are good microwave oven brands?
Some of the best microwave brands include Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp, Russell Hobbs, Hisense and Smeg. Panasonic and Samsung are known for advanced features, while Sharp and Russell Hobbs specialise in reliable everyday models. Smeg is famous for its retro-inspired styling.
How much is a microwave?
Microwaves can cost anywhere from around £50 to £500+. Basic solo models tend to be the most affordable, while combination, built-in and air fryer microwaves usually cost more because they offer additional cooking functions and larger capacities.
