Microwaves: Compare features & prices

Side-by-side comparison

Colour
The colour we give here is the colour of the microwaves that we tested. Microwave ovens usually come in more than one colour, so if you're looking for a black microwave but we only have the stainless steel version, check with the manufacturer.

External dimensions (HxWxD)
The dimensions given here include any vents and protrusions at the back, but don't include buttons and the handle at the front.

Max plate size (cm)
The largest diameter plate that will fit through the microwave's door without tilting.

Stated microwave power (W)
This is the stated microwave power output - this is usually found on the front of the microwave.

Microwave heating
We test how quickly and evenly microwaves heat in microwave mode and we record how much water is lost from the food during cooking. This is the overall score for microwaves heating one dish, from cold, in microwave mode.

Speed of heating
How quickly the microwaves can heat up when heating microwave mode.

Evenness of heating
How evenly microwaves heat in microwave mode.

Quality of food
We test how much water is lost from food when heating in microwave mode.

Microwave heating - continuous use
This is the overall score for microwave heating when the microwave has previously been in use and has warmed up. We test how quickly and evenly microwaves heat in microwave mode and we record how much water is lost from the food during cooking.

Manual defrost
How evenly the microwaves defrost minced meat on a manual setting.

Auto defrost
How well the microwave defrosts using its automatic defrost program

Grilling toast
How widely and evenly the grill browns slices of white, crustless bread.

Baking cakes
How well the microwave bakes fairy cakes using convection.

Ease of use
This includes setting the clock, opening and closing the door, loading and unloading the oven, using the power and time controls, reading the display, cleaning, and the instructions and information provided by the manufacturer.

Cleaning
How easy it is to clean inside and the casing.

Noise
We test each microwave in microwave heating and defrosting mode.

Energy use
How much energy is used in microwave mode to heat a ready meal.

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