Microwaves Compared: Solo, Grill and Combination

A reliable microwave is one of the hardest-working appliances in any kitchen, and choosing the right one depends largely on your household size and cooking habits. The best microwaves balance power, capacity, and build quality—typically ranging from 700W to 1000W for standard models, with cavity sizes between 17 and 30 litres. Solo microwaves handle reheating and defrosting brilliantly, whilst combination models with grill or convection functions offer more versatility for actual cooking.

Capacity matters more than you might think: a 20-litre microwave suits singles or couples, whilst families should consider 25 litres or above to fit larger dinner plates and casserole dishes. Power levels are equally important—look for at least 5 settings to give you proper control, with 800W being the sweet spot for efficient cooking without excessive energy consumption. Digital controls tend to offer more precision, but manual dials are often more intuitive and durable.

Many shoppers make the mistake of choosing a microwave that's too small to fit a standard dinner plate (typically 10.5 inches), or they overlook the turntable diameter entirely. Also consider interior coating—ceramic or stainless steel wipes clean far more easily than painted finishes. Auto-defrost functions using weight sensors are genuinely useful, whilst pre-programmed cooking menus are often gimmicky and rarely used.