So, you’re in the market for a microwave in the UK and want something that delivers on both performance and value, but where to begin? With dozens of options promising everything from quick reheating to grilling and energy efficiency, it can be tricky to separate the standouts from the so-so.

No worries—we’ve done the hard work for you! In this guide, we’ve tested and compared top-rated microwaves across categories like family-sized capacity, compact convenience, and even grill combo functionality.

After extensive hands-on testing, the Beko Solo Microwave MOF25310B takes our Editor’s Pick for its spacious 25L interior, reliable 900W performance, and intuitive controls, making it a solid all-rounder for most homes.

Need extra versatility? The SHARP YC-MG81U-S impressed us as a powerful microwave-grill combo with premium features and modern design. On a tighter budget? The Chefman 20L Microwave delivers simplicity, quiet operation, and useful presets—all without breaking the bank.

And if you’re wondering what to skip? The HOMCOM 23L Microwave might seem tempting, but poor build quality and noisy operation make it one to avoid. Read on to discover the best microwave for your kitchen and reclaim your mealtime routine with confidence.

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What to Look For Before You Buy a Microwave

When investing in a microwave, there are certain core features and capabilities that should be considered standard across most models. These are the essentials that ensure convenience, consistency, and value for money.

Standard Features to Expect

• Power Output: A minimum of 700W, with 800W–900W considered optimal for even heating and cooking speed.
• Multiple Power Levels: Adjustable settings to suit different types of food and cooking styles.
• Timer Functionality: Clear digital or manual timers for precise cooking and reheating.
• Auto Defrost: Weight or time-based defrost options for safely thawing frozen food.
• Turntable or Rotating Plate: Ensures even heat distribution throughout the dish.
• Child Safety Lock: A must-have for households with young children, preventing accidental use.
• Standard Capacity Range: 20L to 30L capacity to fit typical dinner plates or small casserole dishes.

These features should be non-negotiable for any microwave you consider, regardless of price range.

Design and Build Quality

A microwave’s usability and longevity heavily depend on its design and construction. Beyond looks, pay attention to how solid and intuitive the build feels.

• Sturdy Door Mechanism: The door should open and close with a firm but smooth motion, with no wobbling or looseness.
• Clear and Responsive Controls: Whether dials or touch panels, controls should be logically laid out and easy to use.
• Finish and Materials: Look for smudge-resistant coatings, ceramic enamel interiors (for easy cleaning), and robust plastic or stainless-steel exteriors.
• Foot Grip or Stability Pads: The microwave should remain stable on the countertop during operation.
• Viewing Window: A clear door window with internal lighting allows you to monitor food without opening the unit.

A well-designed microwave will not only perform reliably but also feel solid and intuitive from the first use.

Smart Add-Ons for Easier Mealtimes

While not essential, extra features can greatly enhance convenience, cooking versatility, and energy efficiency. These features can help justify a higher price tag.

• Grill or Combination Cooking: Adds browning/crisping options to reheating or cooking.
• Pre-Set Cooking Menus: Auto-programmed settings for popcorn, pizza, vegetables, beverages, etc.
• Memory Function: Saves frequently used settings for quicker access.
• Mute Button: Disables beeping for quiet operation, ideal for shared or late-night environments.
• ECO Mode: Reduces standby energy consumption.
• Multi-Stage Cooking: Allows programming of sequential functions (e.g., defrost then cook).
• Quick Start/+30 Second Function: Instantly adds time without resetting settings.

While not all buyers will need every bonus feature, knowing what’s available can help match the microwave to your lifestyle needs.

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Editors Pick

Beko Solo Microwave MOF25310B | Black | Large 25L Capacity

The Beko Solo Microwave MOF25310B is a simple yet powerful kitchen addition. With a spacious interior, intuitive controls, and 900W of cooking strength, it’s well-suited for busy households that need consistent, no-fuss performance for everything from reheating meals to defrosting frozen food.

Key Features

• Spacious Interior: 25L capacity fits larger plates, ideal for families and batch cooking.
• Powerful Cooking: 900W power with 11 levels ensures fast and even heating.
• Auto Cook Programmes: Pre-set options make it easy to prepare common dishes.
• Simple Controls: Dial and button design allow easy, precise adjustments.
• Extra Functions: Includes weight/speed defrost, delay timer, and multistage cooking.

We recently put the Beko MOF25310B through its paces and found it delivered reliable results across a range of tasks. Its large interior easily accommodated family-sized dishes, and the auto-cook settings simplified everything from warming rice to prepping vegetables.

The defrost features, both weight- and time-based, worked particularly well, ensuring meats thawed evenly without drying out. The control layout is clean and intuitive. It took no time to get comfortable using it, and we liked the ability to tweak power levels when needed.

A standout for us was its multistage cooking, which let us chain tasks like defrosting and reheating in one go. The modern black design also fits nicely into a range of kitchen styles.

The only downside is the auto child-lock, which activates after a short pause and can't be fully disabled. Otherwise, it’s a strong, family-friendly option worth considering.

Runner Up

SHARP YC-MG81U-S 28 Litre 900W Digital Microwave with 1100W Grill

The SHARP YC-MG81U-S stands out as a spacious and versatile microwave-grill combo with an elegant, handle-less design. It’s well suited to households looking for performance, ease of cleaning, and modern aesthetics in one reliable appliance.

Key Features

• Powerful Performance: 900W microwave and 1100W grill deliver fast, even cooking with 11 power levels.
• Versatile Cooking: Choose from grill-only, microwave-only, or combi modes, plus 8 auto programmes.
• Large Capacity: 28L size fits full dinner plates and larger dishes with ease.
• Smart Design: Touch control panel, LED display, and flat surfaces for effortless cleaning.
• Premium Interior: Scratch-resistant ceramic enamel cavity with antibacterial properties.
• Convenience Built-In: ECO function, child lock, time/weight defrost, and a kitchen timer all included.
• Modern Look: Silver finish with black control panel fits into any contemporary kitchen.

We recently tested the SHARP YC-MG81U-S and were impressed by how easily it handled everything from reheating leftovers to grilling and defrosting. The 28-litre capacity gave us plenty of room for larger plates, and the glass turntable ensured even heating across the board.

Using the touch control panel felt smooth and intuitive, with clearly laid-out options.

Its ceramic enamel interior made cleanup fast and fuss-free, which we appreciated after cooking messy dishes. The microwave-grill combination was particularly handy for crisping up the tops of reheated meals, like lasagne or leftover pizza.

While the instruction manual could be clearer for first-time users, we found the unit easy to navigate after a few uses. It’s well-built, practical, and offers more flexibility than basic models. If you want a microwave that looks great and performs even better, this one deserves serious consideration.

Budget Pick

Chefman 20L 800W Microwave Oven with Mirror Finish, 6 Presets

The Chefman 20L Microwave is a compact, affordable option designed for those who want a reliable appliance without spending too much. Its clean mirror finish, handy presets, and energy-saving features make it well-suited to small homes, dorms, or flats where space and simplicity matter.

Key Features

• Compact Build: 20L capacity with a modern mirror finish, ideal for small kitchens or limited space.
• Easy Presets: Six auto programmes cover popcorn, pizza, veg, beverages, potatoes, and leftovers.
• Dual-Stage Cooking: Combine two cycles (e.g., defrost then heat) for more accurate results.
• Memory Function: Save your favourite setting for quick access next time.
• Mute Option: Disable beeps for quiet operation in shared spaces or at night.
• Eco Mode: LED display powers down when idle, reducing energy use.
• Child Safety Lock: Prevents accidental starts, activated by holding STOP/CANCEL.
• Quick Start: A +30second button adds time in easy increments.

We tested the Chefman Microwave and were impressed with its balance of functionality and simplicity. The preset options worked well and made daily heating tasks quicker. Multistage cooking was especially useful for frozen meals, and the memory function saved time when reheating common items.

We appreciated how quiet it is—ideal for late-night use—and the Eco Mode subtly helps with energy savings. Its compact size didn’t limit performance, and we were able to fit a standard 11-inch plate.

The door handle felt sturdy, though the unit’s lightweight design meant it needed a grip mat to keep it stable. The child lock was a thoughtful touch for added safety. For budget-conscious users who want straightforward performance with modern extras, this microwave ticks the right boxes.

Best Compact Microwave Pick

Russell Hobbs RHM2076B 20 Litre 800 W Black Digital Solo Microwave

The Russell Hobbs RHM2076B is our top choice for compact kitchens. Its stylish mirrored finish, 20L capacity, and straightforward controls make it an ideal fit for smaller households looking for simplicity, reliability, and modern design in one compact appliance.

Key Features

• Compact 20L Capacity: Easily fits a standard dinner plate, ideal for everyday meals.
• 800W Power with 5 Levels: Delivers fast, consistent heating with adjustable power settings.
• Auto Cook & Defrost Menus: Includes 8 pre-set programmes for one-touch cooking and smart defrosting.
• Mirror Door Finish: Sleek, contemporary look that elevates any kitchen aesthetic.
• Easy Clean Interior: Wipeable surfaces and dishwasher-safe turntable simplify maintenance.

We tested the RHM2076B in a compact kitchen setting and found it to be practical and hassle-free. The mirrored finish adds a clean, modern feel, though it does require regular wiping to stay spotless.

The digital controls are intuitive, and the one-touch auto-cook options were especially handy for quick meals. Despite its smaller footprint, the 20L interior handled dinner plates with no issues. Heating performance was solid, even and efficient.

The auto-defrost feature was particularly useful, requiring just the weight of the food to get started. The internal light made it easy to check progress, and the microwave ran quietly throughout use.

Overall, it’s a smart, space-saving solution for those who want a dependable microwave without unnecessary complexity. Easy to clean, simple to use, and well-built — we think it’s the best compact option in the UK right now.

Quietest Microwave Pick

Toshiba 800w 23L Microwave Oven with Digital Display

If you’re after a microwave that delivers on performance while staying impressively quiet, this Toshiba 23L model is worth a close look. It combines whisper-quiet operation with practical features that suit everyday cooking in busy households. Ideal for light sleepers, families, or shared spaces.

Key Features

• Low-Noise Operation: A 5-blade fan design keeps the microwave quiet during use—ideal for early mornings or late-night snacks.
• Express Cook Function: Instantly start cooking from 1 second to 6 minutes with a single touch. Great for quick reheats.
• User-Friendly Controls: Clear buttons and a 30-second start shortcut simplify operation, even for first-time users.
• 23L Interior Capacity: Fits large dinner plates easily without occupying too much counter space.
• Extra Functions: Includes defrost by time/weight, memory presets, and child lock for added safety and convenience.

We recently tested the Toshiba 800W 23L Microwave and found it to be one of the quietest models we’ve used. The soft operating hum barely registered in a quiet room—perfect if you’ve got a baby napping nearby or don’t want to disturb others.

Despite the quietness, performance was not compromised. It handled everything from frozen meals to quick tea reheats efficiently. The express cook function is a real time-saver, while the internal space fits larger plates comfortably.

Its stainless steel finish looks clean and modern, and the simple interface means no faffing about with complicated settings. It’s also equipped with smart extras like memory presets and a child safety lock. The only consideration is the slightly slippery base, so placing it on a non-slip mat is helpful.

Overall, if noise is your concern and you want a solid, reliable microwave, this one truly delivers.

One To Avoid

HOMCOM 23L 800W Microwave Oven, Digital Solo Microwave

We recently tested the HOMCOM 23L 800W Digital Solo Microwave, and while it offers some convenience, it’s not a product we’d recommend. It does include useful features like auto-cook presets for common meals, an easy-to-read LED display, and an energy-saving Eco mode.

It also fits well in smaller spaces and can hold a full-sized dinner plate. The defrost function worked as expected, and the child lock adds a layer of safety in busy households. However, the downsides quickly outweigh the positives.

The build quality is one of the weakest we’ve seen, particularly around the door, which felt flimsy and poorly finished (a real concern for everyday use). We also found it unusually noisy unless kept in Eco mode, which disables the clock entirely—something that defeats part of its digital appeal.

Visually, it’s less sleek than advertised, with a dull grey frame that doesn’t match modern black kitchen appliances. Even with its low price, the reliability just isn’t there. (We wouldn’t trust it to last long under regular use.) While it technically does the job, there are far better options for similar money.

Overall, this microwave is one to avoid—functional, yes, but frustrating and ultimately forgettable.

How We Evaluated and Chose the Best Microwaves on the Market

When selecting the best microwave, we went far beyond pressing “start” and waiting for a beep. Our process focused on key factors like performance, usability, construction, and features that genuinely enhance the cooking experience. Here’s exactly how we tested and compared each model.

Heating Performance

To assess heating capability, we began by checking how evenly each microwave could warm food. Using a food thermometer, we tested temperature variation in a bowl of water and in solid dishes like mashed potatoes, looking for cold spots that would indicate uneven heating.

We also conducted a timed speed test to measure how long it took each model to boil 250 ml of water from room temperature. Finally, we evaluated whether the actual performance matched the stated wattage, particularly for common tasks like reheating meals and defrosting leftovers.

Defrosting Effectiveness

Defrosting performance was measured using two main items: frozen chicken breast and a slice of bread. We tested both time-based and weight-based defrost modes to see if the microwave could thaw meat evenly without partially cooking the edges.

With bread, we looked for gentle results that preserved texture and avoided dryness—something low-performing models often struggle with.

Cooking Usability

We used each microwave’s preset cooking programs to prepare common foods such as popcorn, vegetables, and pizza. We noted whether the presets delivered reliable, well-cooked results or needed manual adjustment.

Where available, we tested multistage cooking by combining defrost and cook settings in sequence—ideal for frozen ready meals. For models with a grill function, we evaluated how well they could crisp or brown foods like lasagne or reheated pizza.

User Interface and Controls

Usability was another major factor. We examined how intuitive the buttons, dials, or touch panels were, noting whether controls were clearly labelled and easy to navigate. The visibility of displays was also important—were settings and timers readable at a glance?

We paid close attention to how simple it was to set cooking times, adjust power levels, or activate functions like memory recall and child locks.

Design and Build Quality

Each microwave’s build was thoroughly inspected for durability and finish. We tested the door mechanism for strength and ease of use, ensuring that it opened and closed smoothly without wobbles.

Construction materials—such as stainless steel exteriors and ceramic enamel interiors—were reviewed for both quality and ease of cleaning. We cooked messy meals like pasta sauce to see how easily the interior wiped clean.

Noise and Energy Efficiency

Noise levels were observed during standard operation, noting whether the microwave was quiet enough for open-plan kitchens or shared spaces.

For models with ECO mode, we tested how effectively they reduced standby energy usage and how that affected usability, for example, whether turning off the display made it harder to read the clock or settings.

Size and Compatibility

Each microwave was tested for compatibility with everyday kitchenware. We checked if standard plates, bowls, or casserole dishes (like an 11-inch plate) could fit comfortably inside.

We also measured the overall size of each unit to ensure it would suit typical kitchen countertops, particularly in compact or shared spaces.

Extra Features and Innovation

Finally, we explored additional features such as quick-start buttons, mute functions, memory presets, and smart integrations like voice control or sensor cooking.

While not essential for everyone, we looked at how well these additions worked in practice and whether they added real convenience or just complexity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Microwaves Last?

Most microwaves last between 7 and 10 years with regular use and proper care. Longevity can vary based on build quality, frequency of use, and how well the appliance is maintained. Cleaning regularly and avoiding slamming the door can help extend the lifespan of your microwave.

Are 800W Microwaves Good For A Family?

An 800W microwave is generally suitable for small to medium-sized families. It provides adequate power for everyday tasks like reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple meals. However, for faster cooking or handling larger quantities of food, higher wattage models may offer more efficiency and convenience.

Are Combination Microwaves Any Good?

Combination microwaves offer versatility by combining traditional microwave functions with grilling or convection cooking. They’re ideal for those with limited kitchen space or who want multi-functionality in one appliance.

While they can be more expensive, they often deliver better cooking results for a wider range of dishes.

What Colour Microwave Is Best?

The best microwave colour depends on your kitchen style and preferences. Black and stainless steel are popular for modern, sleek looks, while white blends well with classic or minimalist spaces. Ultimately, the best colour is one that complements your kitchen and is easy to keep clean.

Are Inverter Microwaves Better?

Inverter microwaves provide more consistent power delivery, allowing for even cooking and better temperature control.

Unlike traditional models that pulse on and off, they maintain steady power, which is especially helpful for delicate tasks like defrosting or cooking soft foods without overcooking the edges.

Are Cheap Microwaves Good?

Cheap microwaves can be good for basic tasks like reheating and simple cooking, especially for single users or students. However, they may lack durability, advanced features, and consistent performance. It’s important to balance your budget with quality and check reviews to avoid disappointing purchases.

Does A Combi Microwave Use A Lot Of Electricity?

Combination microwaves can use more electricity than standard models, especially when using grill or convection modes. However, they’re often more energy-efficient than running a separate convection oven for small tasks.

Their power usage depends on cooking duration, settings used, and how efficiently the appliance operates.

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Final Word

We hope our guide to the best microwaves in the UK has helped you narrow down the right choice for your kitchen. With so many models offering impressive features, it’s not an easy decision, but we do have a favourite.

The Beko MOF25310B stood out as our Editor’s Pick thanks to its generous 25L capacity, intuitive controls, and consistent 900W performance, making it ideal for busy homes. If you’re after versatility, the SHARP YC-MG81U-S is a close runner-up with its added grill function and sleek, modern design.

And for budget-conscious shoppers, the Chefman 20L Microwave delivers great functionality without the high price tag. One model we recommend steering clear of is the HOMCOM 23L Microwave.

While it may look appealing, our testing revealed poor build quality, excessive noise, and underwhelming performance. Tried one of our top picks? We’d love to hear how it’s working out for you—share your thoughts below!