Microwave Oven Buyers Guide UK 2022
Due to our modern hectic lifestyles, microwave ovens have become a necessity rather than a luxury and can now provide much more than just simple re-heating and defrosting. Microwaves have definitely become an essential part of every day cooking.
They can offer great flexibility - with grill, steam and fan options in some models - all in a lovely neat, energy efficient, and space saving package.
This buyers guide will explain what to look for when choosing the best microwave for your particular situation.
Things to consider:
1. Type of Microwave
This is the very first thing you should think about. Microwaves are usually categorised by these types.
Solo Microwave
This is the standard free standing microwave, without any fancy extras like grilling or fan assistance.
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Microwave with Grill
You guessed it! A microwave that is also capable of grilling! This is a great feature because the normal process of microwaving food simply isn't capable of 'browning' food, but with a grill included - you can!
Shop Grill Microwaves At Amazon
Combination Convection & Microwave Oven
The best of all worlds. "Combi" microwaves will allow you to cook almost anything, either as a microwave or as a standard oven.
Shop Combi Microwaves At Amazon2. Placement
Do you need a built-in or countertop (a.k.a freestanding) microwave? A built-in model is for those with fitted kitchens that have the right space available to fit in alongside your other integrated appliances. A countertop model is more flexible and can be placed anywhere you have room for it.
3. Size (Capacity & Dimensions)
This is one of the most important factors to consider. Microwave ovens come in a variety of sizes, from small countertop models to large built-in models. Choose the size that best fits your needs and space constraints. Generally you'd look at the internal capacity first and foremost (in litres) but don't forget to double check those all important overall dimensions. You don't want to buy something that doesn't fit!
4. Power
Microwave ovens come in a variety of power levels, from 600 watts to 1800 watts. Choose the power level that best suits your cooking needs. Higher wattage microwaves will cook food faster, while lower wattage microwaves will take longer to cook food. Don’t be too stingy with the power - you’ll kick yourself every time you read the cooking instructions and you see the amount of time you could have saved with a higher wattage model. Around the 900 watt mark should be pretty average.
5. Price
It goes without saying that you shouldn't buy something you can't afford. Always check the price.
6. Colour & Style
Some people aren't too bothered how their new microwave will look once nestled amongst their other appliances and are only concerned about other factors. For many though, it's a must to make sure your new microwave will look the part and match other appliances in your kitchen. There should be a decent amount to choose from whether it's retro or modern and in a variety of colours.
7. Features
Look out for features that not all models have but may be of specific interest to you:
- Easy-clean linings
- Sensor cooking
- Defrost
- Pre-set programmes
- Child lock