It can be difficult to choose the best microwave oven due to the abundance of options, so striking the ideal balance between practicality, style, and convenience is crucial. Microwave ovens are now much more than just reheating appliances; they are useful kitchen assistants. At present, they have a wide range of cutting-edge features and designs to meet different culinary needs.
Certain models prioritise ease of use, offering simple one-touch controls, while others feature intelligent technology that enables you to operate your microwave from a distance. Contemporary microwaves are available in a variety of finishes, such as sleek stainless steel or retro styles, so you can match your kitchen's decor with your appliance.
We'll walk you through the best microwave oven options and assist you in selecting the one that will improve the look and feel of your kitchen.
Some essential factors to consider when buying a microwave oven
Type of Microwave: Consider whether you want a countertop, built-in, or over-the-range microwave, depending on your kitchen's layout and design.
Size and Capacity: Ensure the microwave's size and internal capacity can accommodate the dishes and cookware you plan to use.
Power and Wattage: Higher wattage microwaves cook food faster and more evenly, so choose one that suits your cooking needs.
Cooking Features: Look for features like convection cooking, sensor cooking, and defrost options that align with your cooking habits.
Control Panel: Choose a microwave with a control panel that is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
Interior Material: Opt for a microwave with a ceramic or stainless steel interior, as they are easier to clean and more durable.
Turntable and Turntable On/Off Option: A turntable helps with even cooking, but the option to turn it off is useful for larger dishes.
Ventilation: For over-the-range microwaves, check the ventilation system's effectiveness in removing smoke and odours.
How we chose them for you
Comparison of Features: We compared the features of various microwaves, such as cooking presets, power levels, and special functions.
Price and Value Assessment: We analysed the price points of different microwaves in relation to the value they offer to consumers.
Reliability and Brand Reputation: We considered the reliability of the brands producing these microwave ovens and their reputation for quality and customer support.
Efficiency: We assessed the energy efficiency of the microwaves to help you save on long-term energy costs.
Aesthetic Appeal: The design, colour, and finish of each microwave were evaluated to ensure they complement various kitchen styles.
Warranty and Customer Support: We examined the warranties and after-sales service provided by manufacturers to help you make a confident choice.
User Feedback: Lastly, we scoured user reviews and feedback to understand real-world experiences with different microwave models.
Read below to find some of our best recommendations that are currently dominating the market.
The sleek silver IFB 24 L Solo Microwave Oven is a multipurpose kitchen ally. Its 24-litre capacity, multi-stage cooking, fast reheat, and 69 auto-cook menus make it the perfect appliance for families. For convenience and peace of mind, this microwave has a child safety lock and a touch-sensitive keypad. IFB offers a comprehensive warranty that lasts for one year for the microwave oven and three years for the cavity and magnetron. This device epitomises the brand's dedication to safety and innovation with features like disinfection, deodorization, and power saving. Upgrade your culinary adventures with IFB, a brand known for dependability and quality.
Specifications:
Price: 6,490
Capacity: 24 litres
Control: Touch Key Pad
Warranty: 1 year (Oven), 3 years (Magnetron & Cavity)
Special Features: 69 Auto-cook menus, Child Safety Lock
Dimensions: 37.5D x 48.2W x 27.6H cm
Pros | Cons |
Versatile for reheating melting cooking | Solo microwave limited cooking options |
69 auto-cook menus for convenience | Touch-sensitive controls may be too sensitive for some |
Child safety lock ensures safety | 24-litre capacity may not be suitable for larger families |
Multi-stage cooking options available | Basic model without convection features |
Generous 3-year magnetron & cavity warranty | |
Sleek silver design complements any kitchen |
User’s Review: This 2023 model by IFB is very good. Easy to use and very user friendly. At 6090 it's very reasonably priced. Size is 24 litre as compared to 20 litre LG, Panasonic at same price. Quick start 30s button for easy operation. But this model has gone beyond that and added extra shortcut buttons for 1 to 6 minute direct operation. Very happy about this feature. Overall, best buy in Solo Microwaves.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its versatile cooking options and generous warranty. With a 4.3-star rating on Amazon, it's a trusted choice for many.
Undoubtedly, the Samsung 28L Convection Microwave Oven is a culinary wonder. Made with a sleek body of stainless steel, it's ideal for big families. This multipurpose gadget effortlessly bakes, grills, reheats, defrosts, and cooks. It serves as a culinary companion in addition to being a microwave. Its functions, such as SLIM FRY, Roti/Naan, and Curd/Dough Proof, are intended to make cooking easier.
Furthermore, there is an amazing 10-year warranty on the ceramic enamel cavity. The child safety lock prioritises safety. With a variety of auto programmes and cooking modes, you can up your kitchen game. Choose Samsung: a place where quality and innovation coexist.
Specifications:
Price: 11,990
Capacity: 28L
Material: Stainless steel body
Warranty: 1 year (product), 10 years (cavity)
Programs: Multiple cooking modes
Safety: Child lock
Power Source: Corded electric
Pros | Cons |
Versatile cooking functions | Relatively large size |
Long-lasting cavity warranty | May cause higher power consumption |
Child safety features | |
Multiple cooking programs | |
Elegant stainless steel body | |
Easy-to-use touchpad controls |
User’s Review: This is the best Microwave within 15,000. Saw multiple reviews online before making this purchase and I must say this is the best decision.
Bought this for 12390 on 5th Sep-2023. Does not have gimmicky features but does its primary job very well.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying due to widespread acclaim with over 8,000 Amazon ratings and a stellar 4.4-star average, reflecting its outstanding performance and customer satisfaction.
Stylish and black, the LG 20L Solo Microwave Oven is a multipurpose kitchen partner. Small families and singles will find it ideal, as it holds 20 litres. Reheat, defrost, and cook with ease in this single microwave. A child lock provides security, and a touch-sensitive keypad guarantees convenience.
With forty-four auto-cook menu options—28 of which are Indian—LG brings a dash of creativity. Your cooking companion, not just a microwave. LG also offers a remarkable 4-year warranty on the magnetron in addition to a generous 1-year warranty on the product. LG brings quality and dependability together to create an enhanced kitchen experience with this premium quality microwave.
Specifications:
Price: 6,190
Capacity: 20 litres
Microwave Frequency: 2450 MHz
Output Power: 700 Watts
Voltage: 230 Volts
Warranty: 1 Year (Product), 4 Years (Magnetron)
Control: Touch Key Pad (Membrane)
Special Features: 44 Auto Cook Menus
Pros | Cons |
Energy-saving and efficient | Maybe Limited capacity for larger meals |
44 auto cook menu options | Solo function no grilling or baking |
Anti-bacterial cavity for hygiene | |
Easy-to-clean touch-sensitive pad | |
Child lock for safety | |
Includes cook books and accessories |
User’s Review: Great product loved it. The product was of good price and the quality of the product was great. Exactly what is shown in images and description.
Excellent service and prompt delivery....
Why it's worth buying: It's worth buying because of its versatile cooking options and user-friendly features. With 1,000 recent buyers, its popularity speaks for itself.
The classic white Bajaj 17L Solo Microwave Oven (1702 MT) is a useful addition to any kitchen. This little solo microwave offers reasonably priced reheating, defrosting, and cooking options, making it ideal for singles, couples, and small families. It's efficient and multipurpose, with a 17-litre capacity and multiple power settings.
Bajaj offers a one-year manufacturer's warranty to guarantee dependability. Because of its straightforward design, this microwave is a great option for regular kitchen tasks. The microwave oven, glass tray, turntable roller, warranty card, and instruction manual are all included in the package. Bajaj: where practicality and affordability collide. Trust Bajaj for quality and convenience.
Specifications:
Price: 4,490
Type: Solo Microwave Oven
Capacity: 17 litres
Wattage: 1200 Watts
Number of Programs: Multiple power settings
Energy Consumption: 1200 Watts
Pros | Cons |
Compact and space-saving | Smaller capacity. |
Affordable for small households | Basic design and features. |
Multiple power settings | Less auto-cook options |
Efficient for reheating and defrosting | No advanced functions |
Simple and user-friendly | Not suitable for larger families. |
Energy-efficient |
User’s Review: I ordered it for my office space, and it gets the work done of warming up cold food in tiffins, and also works for warming up teas and other beverages.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its budget-friendly, efficient performance with favourable Amazon reviews. Basic features cater to essential microwave needs without breaking the bank.
Perfect for bachelors and small families, this Panasonic 20L Solo Microwave Oven is stylish and black. Its high power of 800 watts guarantees quick and even cooking, and each time it produces delicious results. Experience the ease of auto-programmed defrost and reheat settings while preserving the food's flavour and texture.
Five power settings and a vapour clean function keep the oven odour- and stain-free, giving this microwave flexibility. Cooking is made simple by the efficient one-minute timer, small size, and heat-resistant glass door. Together with a glass tray, user manual, and warranty card, Panasonic brings breakthroughs and trustworthiness to your kitchen.
Specifications
Price: 5,390
Type: Solo Microwave
Capacity: 17 litres
Wattage: 1200 Watts
Warranty: 1 year
Pros | Cons |
Compact and affordable | Limited cooking features |
Multiple power settings | Small capacity |
Suitable for small families | Few auto-cook options |
Energy-efficient | Basic design |
User-friendly design | Not for larger households |
Basic cooking needs covered |
User’s Review: The 25L Panasonic Microwave that I purchased from Amazon about 4 months ago was delivered on time and has functioned without any problem from the first day. We use it for reheating frozen food and heating up some food that has become cold. The oven is reliable and user-friendly.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying with a solid 4.4-star rating on Amazon, ensuring customer satisfaction and reliability for your daily cooking needs.
A culinary game-changer is the Samsung 23L Grill Microwave Oven. It is intended for families of three to four people and has a 23-litre capacity. It has both grill and convection features. Offering a 1-year product warranty and an impressive 10-year warranty on the Ceramic Enamel Cavity, Samsung is a company that values quality. Energy efficiency is guaranteed by the ECO Mode, and your food will taste even better thanks to the Browning Plus feature.
The Keep Warm function keeps food at the perfect temperature for serving, while Quick Defrost expedites meal preparation. Moreover, your microwave stays fresh thanks to the Deodorization setting. Samsung brings innovation and quality together to elevate your cooking with this superior model.
Specifications:
Price: 8,250
Capacity: 23L
Warranty: 1-year product, 10-year cavity
Heating Method: Convection
Energy Efficiency: ECO Mode
Pros | Cons |
Efficient ECO Mode | Convection-only heating method |
Browning Plus for great texture | |
Keep Warm function | |
Quick Defrost feature | |
Long 10-year cavity warranty | |
Deodorization for fresh cooking | |
Ceramic inside keeps it scratch-free |
User’s Review: Super look. Compact, very easy to operate, they have maintained its quality. The company offered very good service also. Really value for money.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its premium sleek design, enhancing modern homes with style and functionality.
The pinnacle of kitchen innovation is here: the Whirlpool 29L Convection Microwave Oven. Perfect for families with four to six members, it can be used for baking, grilling, reheating, and cooking. It offers culinary diversity with a subtle touch and boasts more than 300 auto-cook menu items. A generous 5-year magnetron warranty is included with this stunning black device, in addition to a 1-year product warranty.
And guess what? You can up your cooking game with the low convection rack, high grill rack, and Air Fryer accessory that comes with it. This flexible appliance embodies Whirlpool's tradition of excellence. It is your key to delicious, hassle-free cooking thanks to its roomy interior and variety of features.
Specifications:
Price: 11,590
Capacity: 29L
Warranty: 1-year product, 5-year magnetron
Heating Method: Convection
Energy Consumption: 100 kwh annually
Auto Cook Menus: 300+
Special Features: Airfryer accessory, turntable
Pros | Cons |
Extensive auto-cook menu options. | Bulky size may not fit small kitchens. |
Versatile convection capabilities. | Convection method may be complex. |
Spacious for larger families. | |
Airfryer accessory included. | |
High grill rack for even cooking. | |
Low convection rack for baking. |
User’s Review: Awesome product. Everything is in one place. One can do unlimited things with this oven. You will not be disappointed
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its extensive auto-cook options and versatile convection capabilities. The added Airfryer accessory and generous warranty make it a compelling choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a microwave and a convection oven?
A microwave heats food quickly by emitting microwaves, while a convection oven uses heating elements and a fan to circulate hot air, providing a more even and controlled cooking process.
Can I use metal containers or utensils in a microwave?
No, metal can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Stick to microwave-safe cookware.
What is the purpose of the rotating turntable in a microwave?
The turntable helps distribute heat evenly and ensures food cooks uniformly.
Is it safe to microwave plastic containers?
Only use microwave-safe plastics labelled as such to prevent harmful chemicals from leaching into your food.
Can I microwave food in foil or aluminium containers?
It's not safe to microwave metal, including aluminium foil, as it can cause sparks and potentially damage the microwave.
How do I clean and deodorise my microwave?
- Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a splash of vinegar, then heat it for a few minutes. The steam will help loosen food debris, making it easier to wipe clean.
What is the ideal microwave wattage for home use?
- For most households, a microwave with 800 to 1200 watts is sufficient for regular cooking and heating.
How can I prevent food from exploding in the microwave?
- Use microwave-safe lids or covers, and puncture foods with skins, like potatoes, to release steam and prevent explosions.
Final Thoughts
These above listed options cover a variety of needs, including the effectiveness and convenience of reheating, the adaptability of cooking, and the cutting-edge features like grilling and baking. These microwaves come in a variety of capacities and features to make your time in the kitchen easier.
Our recommendations prioritise quality, dependability, and brand reputation to make sure your investment is worthwhile. Choosing from our selection ensures that you're bringing home a reliable kitchen partner that will add convenience and adaptability to your culinary adventure.