Best microwaves for every kitchen
Everything you need to find the best microwave for your daily needs.
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What's the best microwave type for you?
A microwave oven is one of the most convenient appliances to have in your kitchen. Not only do they cook food faster, they are also more energy-efficient than a full-size conventional oven. There are many types and brands of microwaves available, each with different features and settings. What type you choose depends on your needs.
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Standard microwaves
Reheat leftovers, defrost frozen food, and cook simple dishes like popcorn, vegetables, and baked potatoes easily. Taking up less space on your counter-top, standard microwaves are compact, making them a popular choice for your home.
Combination microwave
A standard microwave which can also work like a convection oven but with quicker cooking times. It can heat, roast, brown, and crisp food as you would in your standard oven. They also offer a range of multi-cook options, allowing you to defrost, microwave, and grill. Some even combine an air fryer for that extra healthy and crispy dish.
Built-in and integrated microwaves
Designed to be installed into a cabinet or wall space in a kitchen, a built-in microwave can save valuable counter space. It comes with various features such as convection cooking, sensor cooking, and programmable settings. It gives you a streamlined and cohesive look in the kitchen, as it blends in with the surrounding cabinetry.
What microwave size is best for your needs?
Microwaves are available in a wide range of sizes, from small, compact models through to larger, bulkier combi and flatbed designs. The most common microwaves have capacities between 15 and 32 litres, with a typical family sized model ranging somewhere between 20 and 25 litres.
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Microwave features to look for...
From cooking programmes to control and more, explore all microwave features to help you decide which suits your kitchen needs the best.
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Microwave wattage
The power of a microwave is measured in watts. A typical domestic microwave has a wattage somewhere between 700 and 1,200 watts. In general, the more watts a microwave has, the faster and more evenly it will cook food.
Integrated vs countertop microwaves
Most microwaves are designed to be placed on a kitchen counter or shelf. Built-in models have no side panels, allowing them to fit inside cupboards or cabinets. This frees up worktop space and gives a kitchen a more unified look.
Digital vs manual microwave
Microwaves are available with either digital or manual controls. Digital microwaves tend to have more advanced settings, whereas manual models are less fancy, with simple rotary dial controls for ease of use.
Flatbed vs turntable microwave
A flatbed microwave is essentially a standard microwave but without a turntable. It allows a larger cooking area and more comfortable space for rectangular and square dishes. While there's no turntable the food still heats evenly thanks to the rotating antenna built inside.
Auto cooking programmes
Some microwaves offer auto cook functions that help you prepare different kinds of food. Simply select from the menu the type of food you want to cook, then let the microwave set the optimal cooking time and heat.
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Child lock
The child lock function on microwave prevents children from using the oven unsupervised. When this feature is activated, they will not be able to start a programme, play with the buttons or interfere with the cooking process.
Colour options
Love the classic stainless steel microwave? Or do you want to opt for a white, black or cream microwave? Whichever you choose, you could coordinate it with other appliances in your kitchen to create a cohesive look.
Matching kettle, microwave and toaster sets
Let your style show. Go for a co-ordinated look with matching microwaves, kettles, and toaster sets that'll liven up your kitchen. Whether you like the classic steel finish or a pop of bright colour - there's something for everyone.
Microwave cookware
You should only use microwave-safe cookware. Ceramic, glassware and some plastics will be okay, but do not use anything with a metal rim or leave any twist ties on packaging as these also contain metal.
Microwave lining
The majority of microwaves are lined with metal which is easy to wipe clean after use. Some models also have an antibacterial coating, which prevents the build up of bacteria, keeping it a hygienic environment for cooking.
Heating category
On the front of most modern microwaves is a symbol that indicates the heating category of the oven when cooking or reheating ready meals. These heating categories are rated from A to E, with E being the most powerful and A the least.
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Top microwave reviews
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Best Microwave I have purchased
Superb Microwave. It looks sleek and has a good capacity. I particularly like the quick start feature. You just press the start button once for 30 sec...
Steve C
Newtown, 27/09/2025
Easy to use, simple to cook with
I bought this for my elderly mother who didn’t want anything complicated and this has been perfect and met her needs, also easy to clean and looks sma...
Fran
Dereham, norfolk, 29/04/2025
Really good and easy to operate
Really happy with the product, simple to operate and the grill function is a great extra feature. Can not fault it.
Wend
Brierley Hill, West MidlandsDate, 02/05/2025
How to maintain and clean a microwave
Tips to take care of your microwave:
- Make sure you place your microwave in a well-ventilated area, leaving at least 10cm space around the sides and back, with at least 20cm space above.
- Avoid turning on the microwave when it's empty as the microwaves can bounce off the interior, which could cause damage.
- Clean your microwave regularly to keep it functioning correctly and maintain its condition. But don't use any scouring pads to do that.
- Only use microwave-safe containers or tableware.
- Got a pacemaker? While newer pacemakers are microwave-safe, older ones might not be. Check with your doctor for safety instructions before using a microwave.
- Don't sterilise baby bottles or food containers in the microwave.
Microwave meals
Easy DIY microwave recipes
Craving comfort without much effort? Here is the shortcut to deliciousness. Cook yummy dishes from mac and cheese to sponge cakes without any fuss and mess.
See microwave recipes on Sainsbury'sopens in new tabFrequently asked questions about microwaves
Which brand of microwave is best in the UK?
Some of the most popular brands of microwaves are Panasonic, Russell Hobbs, De'Longhi, Hotpoint, Samsung, Cookworks, Hisense, Neff, Bosch, Morphy Richards and Sage. Each brand excels in a different category like budget, multifunctionality or family use. So the microwave that suits your lifestyle is the best for you.
What is the average lifespan of a microwave?
While microwaves are built to last for about 7 to 8 years, it all depends on the usage, brand and maintenance. If you use a microwave to cook 5-6 meals a day, chances are that it will have a shorter lifespan than the one being used once a day. To keep your microwave in the best condition, clean spills immediately, avoid overheating food and keep the vents clear, among other things.
Are tiny microwaves worth buying?
Yes, tiny microwaves are best suited for compact places. They're also a great choice if you live alone and want to reheat single serving and cook a small quantity of food.
Can you reheat microwave rice?
Yes, you can reheat microwave rice and it's a great way to use leftover food.
Can you boil an egg in the microwave?
Yes, you can boil an egg in the microwave. But be careful as doing it incorrectly can cause the egg to burst. To boil the egg, use a microwave-safe container and fill it with enough water to submerge the egg. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Now, cover the bowl to trap the heat and microwave on medium power for about four minutes for soft-boiled eggs and seven minutes for hard-boiled eggs. Let the egg sit in the hot water for another minute or two after microwaving and then transfer to cold water. This will stop the egg from cooking further and also make peeling easier.
How to clean microwave with lemon?
To clean the microwave with lemon, cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice in a microwave safe bowl and drop the lemon halves in it too. Add some water into it and heat on high for three to five minutes until the water boils. Leave the bowl inside for another few mins and let the steam loosen the dirt. Now, use oven gloves and take the bowl out and wipe the inside of the microwave with a sponge.
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