Best Microwaves September 2026
Finding the right microwave depends on whether you need a built-in unit or a freestanding countertop model. This guide lets you compare top-rated options across power levels, internal capacities, and special cooking modes. Explore our independent ranking to find the ideal match for your kitchen setup.
Last updated: 1 September 2026
Bosch BFL523MB0 (Black) climbed 1 position
Bosch FFL023MW0 (White) dropped 1 position
Microwaves: Top 5
1
Bosch BFL523MB0 (Black)
from £364.0019 stores
1
from £364.00
19 stores
2
Bosch FFL023MW0 (White)
from £129.0013 stores
1
from £129.00
13 stores
3
LG MH-6535GIS (Black)
from £129.0011 stores
from £129.00
11 stores
4
Neff HLAWD23N0 (Black)
from £389.0013 stores
from £389.00
13 stores
5
Samsung MS23K3515AS (Silver)
from £95.003 stores
from £95.00
3 stores
The Bosch BFL523MB0 is a dedicated built-in microwave designed to fit neatly into standard kitchen cabinetry. It delivers up to 800 W of power across five selectable settings with auto-cook and defrost modes.
Pros
Seamless built-in design
Durable stainless steel cavity
Retractable control knobs
5 power levels up to 800 W
Cons
No integrated grill function
Small 20 L cavity volume
The Bosch FFL023MW0 is a compact freestanding microwave featuring both 800 W microwave power and an integrated grill. It includes a durable stainless steel interior, keep-warm modes, and auto-cook programmes.
Pros
Integrated grill function
Stainless steel interior
Wide 270 mm turntable
5 power levels up to 800 W
Cons
No convection oven mode
Modest 20 L capacity
The LG MH-6535GIS is a high-performance freestanding microwave equipped with inverter technology and a 900 W grill. It offers 28 automated programmes and a spacious 25 L interior for varied family meals.
Pros
High 1,000 W microwave power
Inverter technology for even heat
Generous 25 L interior
28 automated cooking programmes
Cons
Larger countertop footprint
No retractable rotary dials
The Neff HLAWD23N0 is a minimalist built-in microwave engineered for standard kitchen niches. It offers up to 800 W of microwave power, smooth retractable dials, and reliable defrost and cooking modes.
Pros
Flush built-in installation
Retractable rotary controls
Easy-to-clean stainless cavity
5 selectable power settings
Cons
No grill or convection mode
Limited to 3 preset programmes
The Samsung MS23K3515AS is a 23 L freestanding microwave with a scratch-resistant ceramic enamel interior and six power steps. It includes useful features like steam cooking, quick defrost, and an integrated deodorising mode.
Pros
Durable ceramic enamel interior
Large 288 mm turntable
6 power levels with child lock
Dedicated odour-removal programme
Cons
Lower 750 W maximum output
Heavily tinted viewing window
No integrated grill
Compare specifications
| Max. power (microwave) | 800 W | 800 W | 1000 W | 800 W | 750 W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installation type | Built-in | Freestanding | Freestanding | Built-in | Freestanding |
| Oven capacity | 20 litre | 20 litre | 25 litre | 20 litre | 23 litre |
| Grill function | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Features | Timer, Clock, Ret retractable knobs, Display, Rotating plate | Timer, Clock, Display, Rotating plate | Clock, Display, Inverter, Rotating plate | Timer, Clock, Ret retractable knobs, Display, Rotating plate | Child lock, Clock, Ret retractable knobs, Display, Rotating plate |
| Cooking modes | Defrost function, Reheat, Auto Cook | Defrost function, Reheat, Keep warm function, Auto Cook | Convection cooking, Defrost function, Keep warm function, Auto Cook | Defrost function, Auto Cook | Steam cooking, Defrost function, Reheat, Keep warm function, Baking 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.
