The Best UK Amazon Microwaves For Your Kitchen In 2023
We reviewed the best microwaves for 2023 which best suit your kitchen and family needs.
Editors Choice
Most Surprising
Low Cost Model
Double Cooker
December 27th, 2022
13 Minute Read
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A good microwave in 2023 is one you can heavily rely on, with costs of living skyrocketing a microwave could be an option to replace your oven. We have already reviewed the best from 2022. Now let’s see who topped our current list moving into the new year.
With microwaves wattage = power. Meaning 1000W has more cooking power than a 700W microwave. 1000W microwaves have extremely efficient cooking power and cook food through. In General the higher the W or Wattage, the quicker the food can be cooked.
What’s changed from our list from 2022? The Russell Hobbs RHM2076B has featured many times on Ovenreview this year, that is why it’s claiming our top-spot. Other ovens like the Sharp YC have also been strong performers. The Toshiba MW2 also caught our eye because of it’s multi-functionality. We did a full review on the Toshiba MW2 here.
What are the main types of microwaves?
The different types of microwaves you can buy: Counter top microwaves, built in or over the range. Each type has it’s own positives and negatives. Studies have shown that 90% of American households still use microwave ovens reinforcing the need for such a critical tool in our kitchens. The UK has a similar score.
Built in and over the range type microwaves are typically more expensive and require professional installation. That’s why in this article we will just inform you with the most popular type of microwave. The on counter top option. Built in options will however save more space in your kitchen. Typical domestic counter top microwave ovens with modern control panels are still more popular now in the kitchen than before.
What is the best size of microwave?
Microwaves come in sizes between 20 to 30 liters. Typically larger microwaves are more powerful, between 900W to 1200W – these are generally more expensive. Buying the best size microwave depends on a few things. Mainly how often you use it, size of your family and what you want to use it for.
Singles or a small family would be sufficient with a 20 liter model. They are the most popular size and often come with 800W power supplies. Larger families with kids would probably use the microwave more often and for a wider range of things. That is why I recommend other ovens like the 23 liter Toshiba MW2 (also on this list) The fantastic 900W power is more than enough to reheat, cook and defrost any foods.
How do you clean a microwave?
Cleaning a microwave is very easy. It can be done within 10 minutes. Firstly, most modern microwaves have a self-clean setting. If your microwave has no self clean, simply fill a pot with soapy water and turn on the oven to boil the water. The water should rise and clean the inside of your oven. For a full guide check out our article here.
Is microwaving food bad for your health?
The short answer is no. If you are microwaving unhealthy food, like chips or pizzas. Then obviously it will be unhealthy. But the act of microwaving itself is one of the safest, cleanest and easiest way to cook food. Some people believe microwaves make your food radioactive, but there has never been real evidence for this.
What is better a microwave or an oven?
Again, it depends on your uses. Can a microwave really replace your oven? For me personally, it could. I don’t cook very often but when I do microwaves are able to cook foods faster and often more thoroughly than conventional kitchen ovens. Would a family be able to give their center kitchen piece? maybe not.
What I like about microwaves is the cost. Firstly microwaves don’t draw a lot of power. They don’t need to be on for much time and they cook food very fast.
For example: A microwave would only need to be on for around 8 minutes to cook 4 burgers. A cost of less than 10 pence.
| Savings | Microwave | Gas Oven | Electric Oven |
|---|---|---|---|
Average energy draw per hour | 1,200 Watts | Ca. 3,000 Watts | Ca. 3,500 Watts |
Cost per hour | £0.408 | £1.02 | £1.19 |
Cost per month | £12.24 | £30.60 | £35.70 |
Cost per year | £146.88 | £367.20 | £428.40 |
Cost from November 2022
If you are a saver like me, a good website to check UK energy costs and to track how much energy your appliances use is the Electricity cost calculator. Remember that only specific microwaves are 1200W most are 700W to 800W.
What doesn't my microwave cook food evenly?
There could be many reasons why your microwave is not cooking your food properly such as: A dirty microwave, low wattage or an older model.
Or your microwave probably does not cook food evenly because you are using a lower wattage model. Typically models 700W/800W and above cook food more consistently. More expensive models come with more features like 5 power settings and 11 preset controls. Like many new Toshibas.
Can I cook a pizza or bake in a microwave?
The short answer is yes! Many modern microwaves even have presets for cooking or defrosting pizzas, and many have multiple power levels. If your microwave does not have a preset it’s not the end of the world either, high heat will cook a pizza.
Most of the time pizzas will cook quicker in a microwave than a conventional oven. Small pizzas will only take around 6 minutes whilst larger pizzas can take up to 12 minutes to cook thoroughly.
What can't I put into the microwave?
There are also some materials and certain foods you should not put in the microwave because they may cause your microwave to fail or cause injury. Here are just 3 of the top things you should not put to your microwave.
- Metal – The inside of a microwave is actually made from metal creating a mirror effect. Instead of casting a reflection of your face, the metal reflects radio waves or microwaves. The radio waves emit electromagnetic energy, warming up the contents. When metal is placed inside a microwave, the waves are reflected off of the metal and into the sides of the microwave potentially causing the microwave to melt.
- Plastic – Plastic contains many chemicals and oils. When placed in a microwave they can melt causing the release of Bisphenol A or BPA. According to a Harvard study plastic and microwaved plastic can increases the chances of cancer.
- Eggs – Because microwaves cook at such high temperatures, trying to cook an egg would create steam within the eggs shell. The steam rises in the egg, causing it to explode.
Best microwave oven comparison
| Featured | Model | Price | Power and Size |
|---|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice | £82.99 | 800W / 20 Litres | |
Most Surprising | £74.99 | 800W / 20 Litres | |
Low-Cost Model | £66.99 | 800W / 20 Litres | |
Double Cooker | £79.19 | 900W / 23 Litres |
Amazon.co.uk price list (as of 27.12.22) For more info read our disclaimer
Russell Hobbs RHM2076B - Editor's Choice
The information in this section is according to Amazon.co.uk (27.12.22)
The Russell Hobbs RHM2076B is a modern digital microwave. This particular model has featured a couple of times on Ovenreview this year. The RHM wins the Editor’s choice because of it’s value for money, 8 cooking presets, 4 power levels and arguably the best looking oven.
This attractive appliance also has impressive functionality with 800 watts of microwave power. For peace of mind about safety, the RHM2076B comes with a industry standard child safety lock option preventing children from being able to open the microwave door while in use.
The Russell Hobbs has a 20 litre capacity, which easily fits a standard dinner plate. The glass turn-table is removable for easy cleaning. With five microwave power levels to choose from, you can tailor your cooking temperature to cook a variety of foods and recipes.
Russell Hobbs RHM2076B
| Russell Hobbs RHM2076B | |
|---|---|
Price* | £82.99 |
Size | 20 Litres |
Depth | 36 x 44 x 26 cm |
Weight | 11 Kg |
Power | 800W |
Microwave Type | Counter Top |
Special Features | 5 Power Levels, Automatic Defrost, 8 Auto Cook Menus, Clock & Timer, Easy Clean |
Amazon.co.uk (27.12.22) Any price and availability information displayed on relevant Amazon site(s), as applicable, at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Other Features
Mirrored Finish Design – The Russell Hobbs RHM2076B features a black body and mirror door finish. The RHM also comes in silver, with a similar glossy finish.
Additional features – Include pre-programmed auto cook menus such as pizza, fish and popcorn. Which cook your food fast and thorough.
Automatic defrost – This microwave has automatic defrost settings, all you have to do is input the weight of the food, and the RHM selects the ideal defrost time.
Russell Hobbs also say: “20L capacity to comfortably fit a standard dinner plate. The glass turntable is removable for easy cleaning, and is also dishwasher safe”
Price
The price of the Russell Hobbs RHM is one of the selling points. There is not another microwave on this list with 8 auto cooking menus and 5 different power levels for £82.99.
Along with the cheap price, Russell Hobbs even offer a package, when combining a microwave with a toaster or power steam. Both appliances become a lot more cheaper.
The RHM is the most highly rated microwave on Amazon. Check out what other people said about the RHM here.
Sharp YC-MS02U-S - Most Surprising
The information in this section is according to Amazon.co.uk (27.12.22)
The Sharp YC-MS02U-S made the list for 2023 best microwaves because of it’s many mix and match options. Sharp actually offer this same microwave in a 25L (900W) 20L (700W) and 23L (900W) option. Also in the colour black.
If you are looking for a new averagely priced model then look no further. The Sharp YG is a powerful 900W microwave oven and grill with a large 25 litre capacity and a turntable inside, complete with 11 levels of cooking power and 8 different automatic programmes.
Features include 1100 W microwave grill with grill only, grill and microwave combination, or a microwave only settings. The microwave also comes with a digital clock and kitchen timer, ECO function and child safety lock perfect for small families.
Sharp YC-MS02U-S
| Sharp YC-MS02U-S | |
|---|---|
Price* | £79.99 |
Size | 20 Litres |
Depth | 13 x 17 x 10 cm |
Weight | 12 Kg |
Power | 800W |
Microwave Type | Counter Top |
Special Features | Handleless design, 20 litre cavity, 800W, 5 power levels, 35 minute timer, defrost fuction |
Amazon.co.uk (27.12.22) Any price and availability information displayed on relevant Amazon site(s), as applicable, at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Other Features
The Sharp YC-MS02U-S is a stylish 800 watt solo microwave oven: With a compact 20 litre capacity & a turntable inside, complete with 5 levels of cooking power. Fortunately if you are interested in a larger more powerful Sharp you can choose between a 800W and 900W model. Between 20 and 25 Litre.
The Sharp YC-MS also has a manual control panel with an adjustable timer up to 35 minutes, allowing you to ensure your food is cooked properly and a defrost setting like other standard microwaves.
The Sharp is designed with spave saving in mind. Despite being a 20 litre the microwave still has a little footprint making it ideal for smaller kitchens, caravans, student homes & flats.
Prices
The Sharp YC-MS starts at £79.99 with Amazons current deal. The digital version is thanks to Amazons deal just £74.99.
Toshiba MM-MM20P(WH) - Low Cost Model
The information in this section is according to Amazon.co.uk (27.12.22)
The Toshiba MM-MM20P(WH) is definitely the cheapest Toshiba we reviewed and that is why it made our list for the best microwaves in 2023.
Toshiba is one of the best microwave brands, the MM-MM20P is no exception, it has 5 power levels, a modern design and a defrost function.
The manual version is only £66.99, if you want to spend an extra 10 pounds you get a digital display. But not needed. Although the digital model has 11 power levels and a timer up to 100 minutes.
Made for simple, cooking and microwaving, this model has 5 power settings and a manual timer going up to 35 minutes. With controls to defrost, cook and bake your food.
Toshiba MM-MM20P(WH)
| Toshiba MM-MM20P(WH) | |
|---|---|
Price* | £66.99 |
Size | 20 Litres |
Depth | 33 x 44 x 26 cm |
Weight | 11 Kg |
Power | 800W |
Microwave Type | Counter Top |
Special Features | Child lock function prevents children from operating the microwave. The unit is protected by Toshiba's 1-year guarantee |
Amazon.co.uk (27.12.22) Any price and availability information displayed on relevant Amazon site(s), as applicable, at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Other Features
Timeless Design – With two simple control knobs and a neutral white casing, this microwave offers a neutral, classic design that will fit in nicely with any kitchen’s existing décor.
Low-Noise Operation – The MM-MM20P was one of the quietest models we tested. This solo microwave is exceptionally quiet during use, great for new parents who want to let their baby sleep.
Comfortable Capacity: This 20L microwave offers good capacity perfect for standard dinner plates, contained within a compact size (Exterior 44×32.5×25.8cm, Interior 30.6×30.4×20.6cm (WxDxH))
Price
The MM-MM20P is the cheapest microwave on Amazon from Toshiba. Coming in at just £66.99.
Toshiba MW2-AG23PF(BK) - Double Cooker
The Toshiba MW2-AG23PF is a special microwave, because it uses what’s known as combination cooking. Combination cooking is great for grilling, as well as standard microwave jobs. Convection microwaves heat food from the inside out, retaining moisture and flavour. We also did a full review on the MW2 here.
The MW2 also uses Toshiba’s weight defrost. Simply input the weight of your meal and Toshiba will automatically select a defrost program.
Innovative position-memory tech resets the turntable to the initial position after cooking – keep mug handles within reach and avoid burnt fingers!
Toshiba MW2-AG23PF(BK)
| Toshiba MW2-AG23PF(BK) | |
|---|---|
Price* | £79.19 |
Size | 23 Litres |
Depth | 40 x 48 x 30 cm |
Weight | 14 Kg |
Power | 900W |
Microwave Type | Counter Top |
Special Features | Defrost by weight, child lock, Eco mode, KED display and cheaper mode. |
Amazon.co.uk (27.12.22) Any price and availability information displayed on relevant Amazon site(s), as applicable, at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Other Features
Get more from your microwaved meals with this innovative and user-friendly Toshiba 900w combination (grill) microwave oven. The grill essentially makes the food more crispy.
Made to add modern conveniences to your busy life, this high-tech microwave is packed full of handy features including a user-friendly control panel, interior light and 8 Cooking Presets: pizza, meat, vegetables, pasta, potato, fish, beverage & popcorn.
At 23L, this microwave offers a practical interior capacity perfect for standard dinner plates, bowls, and other crockery. The 23L is bigger than the other models we tested. Although a 20L is sufficient for use. having that extra space means bigger place can fit in if needed.
Price
The MW2 is one of Toshibas more expensive models. But for the high price, you get more presets, more cooking levels and a grill. Not many ovens for this price have a grill cooking combination and a 900W power supply. Just £79.99.
Mark Hoffman
Mark Hoffman has worked as a freelancer and writer for several years. Reviewing ovens, washing machines and any other household items he can get his hands on. When he’s not sitting in-front of a computer he enjoys cycling, climbing and volunteering at charitable health organisations.
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