5 Best Microwave Ovens in the UK (2026 Guide)
The humble microwave is no longer just for popping corn or reheating last night’s takeaway. Modern models can air fry, steam, grill, and bake just like a conventional oven, while traditional “solo” models have become smarter and more energy-efficient.
Whether you need a high-tech kitchen multi-tasker or a budget-friendly countertop saver, we’ve rounded up the 5 best microwave ovens available in the UK, spanning different budgets, sizes, and features.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
| Model | Best For | Type | Capacity | Wattage | Key Feature |
| Samsung Solo MS23T5018A | Best Overall | Solo | 23L | 800W | Ceramic interior & Eco Mode |
| Panasonic NN-DS59NBBPQ | Best Multi-Tasker | 4-in-1 Combi | 27L | 1000W | Powerful steam & Air fry |
| Sharp YC-QC254AU-B | Best Flatbed | Combination | 25L | 900W | No turntable (more usable space) |
| Russell Hobbs RHM1731 | Best Budget | Solo | 17L | 700W | Ultra-compact & affordable |
| Sage the Combi Wave 3-in-1 | Best Premium | Combination | 32L | 1100W | Inverter tech & ultra-quiet door |
1. Samsung Solo Microwave (MS23T5018A)
Best Overall Solo Microwave
If you want a reliable, stylish, and highly durable appliance without paying for complex oven functions you won’t use, this Samsung model is the gold standard for everyday kitchens.
- Capacity: 23 Litres
- Power: 800W
- Pros: Easy-to-clean ceramic enamel interior, excellent melting/softening presets, sleek glass touch control panel.
- Cons: The door glass is highly tinted, making it tough to peer inside while cooking.
Why we love it: The standout feature is its durable CERAMIC INSIDE™ coating, which is highly scratch-resistant and wipes clean without hard scrubbing. It also features an Eco Mode to minimize standby energy consumption, and highly precise auto-cook programs that take the guesswork out of reheating and defrosting.
2. Panasonic 4-in-1 Combination Oven (NN-DS59NBBPQ)
Best Multi-Tasker for Families
Panasonic is widely regarded as the leader in inverter microwave technology. This premium 4-in-1 model completely replaces the need for a standalone air fryer, steamer, or small convection oven.
- Capacity: 27 Litres
- Power: 1000W Microwave / 1300W Grill
- Pros: Authentic steam cooking, flatbed design, excellent build quality.
- Cons: Expensive; occupies a relatively large countertop footprint.
Why we love it: Unlike traditional microwaves that pulse power on and off, Panasonic’s Inverter Technologyprovides continuous heat, ensuring your food defrosts and cooks evenly without leaving frozen centers or rubbery edges. The integrated water tank allows for genuine steam cooking, making it fantastic for healthy veggies, fish, and perfectly risen baked goods.
3. Sharp Digital Combination Microwave (YC-QC254AU-B)
Best Flatbed Microwave
Tired of square plates getting stuck against the walls of a rotating microwave? The flatbed design of this Sharp model eliminates the spinning turntable entirely.
- Capacity: 25 Litres
- Power: 900W
- Pros: Maximizes internal space, incredibly easy to clean, includes convection and grill.
- Cons: The digital interface has a brief learning curve.
Why we love it: By utilizing a hidden antenna under the floor to distribute heat, flatbed microwaves let you utilize every square inch of the interior. You can easily fit large casserole dishes or multiple bowls at once. Combined with its 900W power and crisping grill, it’s a brilliant mid-range workhorse.
4. Russell Hobbs Solo Microwave (RHM1731)
Best Budget & Small Kitchen Choice
For students, small apartments, or anyone who simply needs to heat up a bowl of soup or a mug of milk, this Russell Hobbs model offers incredible value for under £80.
- Capacity: 17 Litres
- Power: 700W
- Pros: Extremely budget-friendly, compact footprint, simple tactile dial controls.
- Cons: 17L is too small for massive dinner plates; lower wattage means slightly longer cook times.
Why we love it: It strips away the unnecessary digital fluff for a straightforward, mechanical design that just works. It features 5 clear power levels and a highly accurate weight-defrost setting. If counter space is at a premium, its compact frame will tuck away perfectly.
5. Sage the Combi Wave 3-in-1
Best Premium Design & Low Noise
Sage is famous for premium engineering, and the Combi Wave brings that luxury feel to the microwave realm. It functions as a microwave, convection oven, and air fryer all in one beautifully brushed-stainless-steel package.
- Capacity: 32 Litres
- Power: 1100W
- Pros: Soft-close door, “A Bit More” button, whisper-quiet operation.
- Cons: A major investment price-wise.
Why we love it: Aside from its brilliant cooking performance, Sage solved one of the most annoying appliance traits: loud noises. It features an engineered soft-close door that shuts with a gentle thud rather than a loud slam, and you can mute the completion beeps entirely. The “Smart Reheat” sensor detects the steam emitting from food to calculate exactly when it’s perfectly hot.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
Before making your final choice, consider these three quick factors:
- Solo vs. Combi: A Solo model only microwaves (best for reheating/defrosting). A Combination (Combi)model includes heating elements and fans to roast, crisp, and bake like a traditional oven.
- Turntable vs. Flatbed: Turntables are cheaper and standard. Flatbeds are easier to clean and accommodate larger or oddly shaped dishes because nothing needs to spin.
- Wattage Matters: Look for 800W to 1000W for fast, even cooking. Anything lower than 700W will take noticeably longer to heat meals through.