Best microwaves UK 2022: solo and combi models that work best, from Russell Hobbs, Panasonic, and Hotpoint
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Whether reheating leftovers, swiftly preparing a baked potato, melting chocolate for baking, or heating up a ready meal - few kitchen appliances provide as much assistance, or make life as easy, as a good microwave.
Best microwaves at at glance
- Best budget microwave: Wilko Stainless Steel 20L Microwave
- Best compact, yet functional microwave: Panasonic NN-DF386BPQ 23L Combination Microwave Oven
- Best for everything you need from a solo microwave: Dunelm White and Copper Microwave
- Best for small kitchens: Russell Hobbs 17 Litre Microwave
- Cute, cheap and capable: Russell Hobbs Legacy 20L Cream Digital Microwave
- Best for multi-functionality: Hotpoint Supreme Chef MWH 338 SX Multifunction Microwave Oven
- Best for a combi microwave: Panasonic 31 Litre Combination Microwave Oven - Metallic Silver
What should I look for when buying a microwave?
Microwaves have come a long way in recent years, making dinner prep a cinch with their digital timers and auto cook programs. Solo models are the kind you’re used to and can be bought for less than £100, while combination models double up as grills and convection ovens and tend to be a lot more expensive.
There are pros and cons to both types of microwave, so consider how much space you have (combis are a lot bulkier) and what you want to use it for before you buy. In general, the higher the power output (measured in watts), the faster the cooking time. Size-wise, families should look for a capacity of between 20 and 30 litres.
There is a huge range of microwaves on the market, so take a look at our top picks for all needs and budgets.
Interested in kitting out your kitchen further? We have detailed guides to the best non-stick woks, best rice cookers, or consider a multi-cooker for a great hands-off kitchen tool. And the best kettles are rounded-up here.
Love cooking? Check out our guide to the best charcoal BBQs UK 2022, or brilliant ice cream makers for conjuring perfect gelato.
If hot drinks are your poison, the Hotel Chocolat velvetiser is revoltuionary.
You’ll be hard pushed to find a solo microwave that’s as much of a bargain as Wilko’s 800w bestseller.
Happily, the quality is impressive for the price, but if you’re worried, it comes with a two-year guarantee. It’s compact, yet large enough to fit an average dinner plate, and it’s incredibly easy to use, making it a good choice for elderly relatives.
Five power levels include a defrost function and the auto cook menu features settings for 12 different foods. The digital timer can count down to 60 minutes, the glass turntable is easy to remove for cleaning and its stainless steel exterior is sleek enough to tick the style box.
If you fancy something quirkier, consider this similar trendy copper model.
