Overview
The best microwaves are versatile kitchen gadgets that can quickly reheat leftovers or cook a whole meal from scratch. In addition, the finest microwaves will have features that simplify life while still being easy to use and clean.
Nowadays, there is certain to be a model available that works with your current setup. There is a model for every kitchen, from a space-saving mini-microwave to a high-tech model with smart capabilities.
We have chosen the best microwave ovens available to meet every home’s needs and budget.
Toshiba 42L Convection Microwave Oven
Overview
Overall, most home appliances have a sweet spot where the ratio of price to performance and features is optimal.
The Toshiba 42L Convection Microwave fits this description well; it warms food rapidly and uniformly and has various presets for common foods.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | ML-EC42S(BS) |
Energy Rating | None |
Microwave Type | Convection |
Size | L:55cm x W:44cm x H:33cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | Yes |
Capacity | 42L |
Power | 1000W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Even cooking performance | There are no sensors for auto reheating |
Numerous positive reviews | Small and compact |
6 Auto-cook options |
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Turntable position memory |
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Whirlpool 33L Supreme Chef Microwave
Overview
With the Whirlpool 33L, you can quickly choose from 59 preset settings and enjoy unrivalled crispness on the exterior and softness on the inside, thanks to DualCrisp, a Whirlpool-exclusive technology.
Furthermore, you can steam two dishes simultaneously, defrost food in less time, and cook confidently using Whirlpool’s 6th sense technology, where the microwave automatically sets the time, temperature, and energy levels while it cooks a meal.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | MWP 339 SB |
Energy Rating | – |
Microwave Type | Combination |
Size | L:49cm x W:54cm x Ha;37.3cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | Yes |
Capacity | 33L |
Power | Microwave – 900w Forced Air Power – 1700W Grill Power – 1200W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Incredible sensors | Microwave power is 900W, less than ideal for optimal heating, defrosting, and reheating |
Fast and efficient operation |
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Energy consumption is low |
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Handy menu guide for a range of meals |
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Samsung 45L Convection Microwave
Overview
The Samsung 45L offers six distinct modes to help you create amazing meals quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, you can use your microwave to make bread, pizza, and even yogurt. In addition, the ceramic enamel interior of the microwave makes cleaning easy and hygienic.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | MC456TBRCSR |
Energy Rating | Not rated |
Microwave Type | Solo |
Size | L:66cm x W:66cm x H:43cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | Yes |
Capacity | 45L |
Power | 900W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Sensor cooking with power convection | The warranty is only offered for 6 months |
Six unique modes | Controls can be difficult to read |
The ability to combine different cooking modes |
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Energy-efficient |
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Panasonic 45L Solo Microwave
Overview
The large family-sized 45 Litre microwave is elegantly styled to complement any kitchen.
Enjoy quicker heating/cooking times with 1100 watts of high power, 6 auto menus, and a memory feature for quick and simple operation. In addition, this microwave’s child safety lock makes it handy and provides peace of mind when children are present.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | NN-ST955SVTQ |
Energy Rating | Not rated |
Microwave Type | Solo |
Size | L:61cm x W:52cm x H:52cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | Yes |
Capacity | 45L |
Power | 1100W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Multiple cooking functions offered | A large appliance that takes up some space on a counter |
Affordable and energy-efficient | Does not have rubberized feet, causing the machine to slide back with the door opening/closing |
User-friendly appliance |
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LG 56L NeoChef Microwave
Overview
The LG NeoChef is an innovative and versatile microwave that uses LG Smart Inverter technology, allowing you to enjoy delicious and healthy food with even heating and reduced cooking time. Using this microwave, you can heat, ferment, defrost, and steam dishes easily and quickly.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | MS5696HIT |
Energy Rating | A |
Microwave Type | Solo |
Size | H:34.4cm x W:39cm x D:50.3cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | No |
Capacity | 56L |
Power | 1200W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
An A Energy rating | Limited 1-Year Warranty |
Large 56L capacity | Does not have childproof safety features |
Trusted brand with many positive reviews | A large appliance that might not fit all kitchens |
An affordable option for average-sized families |
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Hisense 20L Electronic Microwave Oven
Overview
The Hisense 20L digital microwave oven is a fantastic gadget for heating, defrosting, and cooking, with a sleek appearance that complements any kitchen decor. Furthermore, it is powerful and swiftly and effectively warms and cooks food.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | H20MOBS11 |
Energy Rating | Not rated |
Microwave Type | Electronic |
Size | W:44.6cm x D:33.2cm x H:24.5cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | Yes |
Capacity | 20L |
Power | 700W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Extremely budget-friendly | Low 700W power output |
6 Auto cooking menus offered | Does not always heat food thoroughly |
Multi-stage cooking allowed |
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Child safety lock built-in |
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Univa 20L Manual Microwave
Overview
The 20L Manual Microwave Oven is one of the cheapest and most dependable microwaves in Southern Africa. The manually controlled Univa microwave offers an auto-defrost function, a cooking period of 35 minutes, and 5 power settings.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | U20MW |
Energy Rating | C |
Microwave Type | Manual |
Size | L:36cm x W:44cm x H:26cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | No |
Childproof | Yes |
Capacity | 20L |
Power | 700W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Affordable option perfect for individuals or smaller families | Higher energy consumption with a C energy rating |
Operates 5 power levels | Low output means that food does not always reheat evenly |
Basic design and user-friendly |
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LG 42L NeoChef (Black Smog)
Overview
The LG42L NeoChef has LG’s Smart Inverter technology, delivering accurate cooking power to rapidly reheat and thaw various dishes. Thanks to perfect temperature control, microwaves can now create a range of meals that were before impossible.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | MS4295DIS |
Energy Rating | Not rated |
Microwave Type | Solo |
Size | W:54.4cm x H:30.7cm x D:43.2cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | Yes |
Capacity | 42L |
Power | 1200W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Decent power output | Feet are uneven |
Easy to clean and user-friendly | Does not have a grill function |
Several cooking and power functions offered |
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Large capacity but small and compact appliance with a sleek finish |
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AIM 45L Electronic Microwave Oven
Overview
AIM is an affordable brand and offers a large and convenient microwave oven that lets you cook a range of meals with 1100W output power, with 11 power levels.
Furthermore, there are 6 auto menus to choose from, and the appliance has a sleek black exterior that can fit with most kitchen décor.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | AMW45B |
Energy Rating | Not rated |
Microwave Type | Electronic |
Size | 60cm x 50cm x 35cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | No |
Capacity | 45L |
Power | 1100W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Affordable and decent power output | The button for the door is flimsy |
Large capacity with decent energy consumption |
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Midea 36L Digital Microwave
Overview
The 36L Digital Microwave from Midea is the classically attractive equipment your kitchen requires. There are six Auto quick cook options and a unique Defrost timer that can be adjusted by weight and time. In addition, there is an elegant mirror glass door.
Specifications
Feature | Information |
Model | EM036AFK |
Energy Rating | A |
Microwave Type | Electronic |
Size | 31.5cm x 51.9cm x 46cm |
LED Display / Touch Control | Yes |
Childproof | No |
Capacity | 36L |
Power | 1000W |
Pros and Cons
PROS | Cons |
Low energy consumption and an A energy rating | There are no childproof safety features |
Affordable option perfect for small families and everyday use | Only has basic features |
Available across South Africa from several retailers |
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Compact design and size |
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Closing Thoughts on the Best Microwaves for 2023
There has even been a recent rebirth of microwave advocates in the food business. However, microwaves vary in how precise they are (and, accordingly, how expensive). So, if you want a device with several exact settings, it may be prudent to spend a little extra.
If you are searching for a basic machine that can warm up your coffee and last night’s stir-fry with no effort, you can certainly pay less.
Overall, the greater the wattage, the more quickly and uniformly your food will cook. Moreover, most microwaves range between 600 and 1,200 watts.
Typically, larger, more costly microwaves have a greater wattage. Therefore, this price and size factor may significantly impact microwave cooking effectiveness.
Traditional microwaves are less efficient than inverter microwaves. Instead of a transformer, inverter microwaves provide more control over the magnetron.
This allows for better power management and hence provides more efficient heating.
The presence of loud sounds or an exceptionally loud humming noise could indicate that the microwave’s components are having difficulty performing their function.
Wattage matters a lot. It would help if you had a microwave with a wattage between 900 and 1000 to heat and defrost everything in your freezer effectively and fully.
Cheaper models with 700 watts or less will need significantly more time and have difficulty evenly heating food.
