Best Microwaves August 2026
A microwave is a kitchen essential for everything from reheating leftovers to cooking entire meals. This guide helps you compare the best models on the market, breaking down their features, power, and capacity. Our independent ranking makes it easy to find the right microwave to fit your kitchen and your cooking style.
Last updated: 14 August 2026
Bosch FFL023MW0 (White) climbed 1 position
Bosch BFL523MB0 (Black) dropped 1 position
Panasonic 4 NN-CD88QSBPQ climbed 1 position
Russell Hobbs RHM2076B (Black) climbed 1 position
Microwaves: Top 5
1
Bosch FFL023MW0 (White)
from £129.00
1
from £129.00
2
Bosch BFL523MB0 (Black)
from £364.0019 stores
1
from £364.00
19 stores
3
Panasonic 4 NN-CD88QSBPQ
from £379.0014 stores
1
from £379.00
14 stores
4
Russell Hobbs RHM2076B (Black)
from £79.0011 stores
1
from £79.00
11 stores
5
Samsung MG23K3575AK (Black)
from £95.8812 stores
from £95.88
12 stores
This freestanding Bosch microwave offers a compact 20-litre capacity and 800W of power, making it a great fit for smaller kitchens. It includes a useful grill function for browning and crisping food, adding versatility beyond basic reheating. The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to clean.
Pros
Includes a grill function for browning
Compact 20-litre capacity
Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior
Five distinct power levels
Cons
No convection oven feature
Basic feature set
The Bosch BFL523MB0 is a built-in microwave designed to integrate seamlessly into modern kitchen cabinetry. It features a 20-litre capacity, 800W of power, and retractable knobs that create a clean, flush appearance when not in use. It is a solid choice for those who prioritise a tidy kitchen aesthetic.
Pros
Sleek built-in design for integrated kitchens
Retractable knobs for a flush, clean look
Compact 20-litre capacity
Five different power levels
Cons
Does not have a grill function
No convection oven capability
Smaller 255 mm plate diameter
This versatile Panasonic model is a powerful combination appliance that can handle a wide variety of cooking tasks. It boasts a large 34-litre capacity, 1000W of microwave power, and both grill and convection functions. Inverter technology helps ensure food is cooked evenly without hot or cold spots.
Pros
Large 34-litre capacity
Powerful 1000W microwave
Functions as a convection oven and grill
Inverter technology for even cooking
Cons
Large size takes up significant counter space
Mechanical buttons can feel dated
The Russell Hobbs RHM2076B is a compact and user-friendly microwave with a 20-litre capacity. It simplifies cooking with eight automatic programs for common foods, and includes a child lock for safety. Its small footprint makes it a good option for kitchens where space is at a premium.
Pros
Compact 20-litre design
Features 8 automatic cooking programs
Includes a child lock for safety
Affordable option for basic needs
Cons
No grill or convection functions
Relatively small 255 mm turntable
This Samsung model is a versatile combination microwave with a 23-litre capacity. It features grill and convection capabilities, plus a handy crisp function for browning food. Its interior is made of a smooth ceramic enamel that is scratch-resistant and very easy to wipe clean.
Pros
Versatile with grill and convection functions
Durable and easy-to-clean ceramic interior
Includes a special crisp function
Keep Warm function maintains food temperature
Cons
Standard 800W microwave power
Freestanding design occupies counter space
Compare specifications
| Max. power (microwave) | 800 W | 800 W | 1000 W | 800 W | 800 W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installation type | Freestanding | Built-in | Freestanding | Freestanding | Freestanding |
| Oven capacity | 20 litre | 20 litre | 34 litre | 20 litre | 23 litre |
| Grill function | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Features | Timer, Clock, Display, Rotating plate | Timer, Clock, Ret retractable knobs, Display, Rotating plate | Child lock, Timer, Display, Inverter, Rotating plate | Child lock, Clock, Display, Rotating plate | Child lock, Clock, Display, Rotating plate |
| Cooking modes | Defrost function, Reheat, Keep warm function, Auto Cook | Defrost function, Reheat, Auto Cook | Convection cooking, Defrost function, Reheat, Keep warm function, Auto Cook | Defrost function, Reheat, Auto Cook | Convection cooking, Defrost function, Keep warm function, Preheat, Crisp function, Auto Cook |
How we create the list
The ranking is updated monthly and is based on data we collect from our own platform. Products that rank highly are popular among our users while also maintaining high quality according to editorial expert assessments. Specifically, we weigh how many users follow the product via price alerts or lists, how it is rated by experts and users, as well as how much traffic it generates to stores and how well it is represented in retail. The texts on this page are AI-generated and created to give you a quick and clear overview. No products are paid placements – the ranking is driven solely by data.
