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11 best microwaves to buy in 2026 for quick and easy cooking
Enjoy meals in minutes with our expert-approved best freestanding microwaves
Tested by Jasmin Joyce, Gemma Dawson and Albert Orech-Achato
When you come home tired and hungry and need a filling meal in minutes, that's where the best microwaves step in.
From reheating last night's leftovers and warming up a cuppa that's gone cold, to defrosting mince and speedily cooking a fluffy jacket potato, this do-it-all kitchen appliance can make busy days a lot easier.
The joy of freestanding microwaves – also known as solo microwaves – is that you simply pop them onto a spare square of counter space, plug them in and press 'start'. You’ll find our tried and tested winners below.
The best microwaves to buy in 2026
Note, if you're after more versatility than just heating and defrosting foods (like grilling or air frying) check out our guide to the best combination microwaves.
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How we test microwaves
Each solo microwave is put through its paces by our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute to see how it performs in everyday situations. Our rigorous tests involve cooking ready meals (from both chilled and frozen), heating soup, defrosting mince and cooking jacket potatoes, according to the packet instructions where advised.
After cooking, we take temperature readings from both the middle and all four edges of the dish, before leaving it for 2-5 minutes (depending on instructions). We then take more readings and calculate the temperature range, so we can see how well each microwave has distributed heat.
Along with our cooking tests, we also consider:
- Auto-cook programmes: We try out the auto functions to see how accurately and well-cooked the results are.
- Size: From the internal capacity to the amount of counter space it takes up. We also look at how much room needs to be left for ventilation.
- Ease of use: We look for simplicity – microwaves with straightforward and intuitive controls earn higher marks in this section.
- Instructions: We analyse each page of the instruction manual, looking for clear diagrams and detailed descriptions of how to use the microwave, as well as troubleshooting sections and advice.
- Cleaning: We clean each microwave from the inside to the out, to make sure the job can be done without a fuss.
Once we've completed all our tests, and assessed every model on these key elements, we award each microwave a final score out of 100.
Panasonic NN-ST23QMBPQ 20L Solo Microwave
Panasonic NN-ST23QMBPQ 20L Solo Microwave
Pros
- Has a child lock for added safety
- Turntable can easily fit a dinner plate for reheating leftovers
Cons
- Instructions for defrosting were lacking in detail
Score: 87/100
Delivering top scores in our chilled and frozen ready meal microwaving tests, this model is one you can rely on for speedy dinners. Each dish was heated evenly with minimal temperature differences measured throughout.
The auto-cook programmes proved excellent – our jacket potatoes came out well-cooked, fluffy and flavoursome. However, the standard setting left us with unevenly heated tomato soup, so that will definitely need a stir through.
The ‘Quick 30’ button is convenient for speedy reheating though, allowing you to give your food an extra 30 seconds at the press of a button. Plus, all the controls were intuitive, and the clear manual is on hand to help should you need it.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 20 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 44 x 32.4 x 25.8cm |
| Programmes | 11 (3 for reheating) |
| Wattage | 800W |
| Number of power levels | 5 |
Samsung MS23T5018A
Samsung MS23T5018A
Pros
- Simple to use
- Plenty of auto-cook programmes to choose from
Cons
- On the expensive side
Score: 85/100
This sleek microwave has responsive touch screen buttons, an easy-to-read fascia (our experts didn’t need to consult the manual once) and a wipeable ceramic interior.
We found it heated our food as quickly and effectively as higher-wattage models; our ready meal was perfectly cooked, while our soup warmed well and our meat was evenly defrosted, without getting too hot. It’s a reliable buy and will look chic on your countertop.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 23 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 48.9 x 27.5 x 36.3 cm |
| Programmes | 6 |
| Wattage | 800 |
| Number of power levels | 6 |
Russell Hobbs Bronte 800W Microwave RHMD834B
Russell Hobbs Bronte 800W Microwave RHMD834B
Pros
- Attractive design with mirror door and ridged finish
- Produced excellent jacket potatoes
- Intuitive controls
Cons
- Somewhat inconsistent defrosting results
Score: 80/100
We love the design of this stylish microwave, with its sleek mirrored door, fluted control panel and chrome accents. It was also a real standout when it came to cooking jacket potatoes, which emerged evenly cooked and fluffy. It also impressed when heating chilled lasagne, while it handled frozen meals and soup well, too. Defrosting was its weak spot, with some ice crystals remaining in the centre of our mince while parts of the edges began to cook.
It scored full marks for ease of use, thanks to its simple controls, quick-start button and clearly labelled auto-cook programmes. It also comes in a two-dial manual version if you’re after an even simpler design – though we haven’t tested this model. Overall, the Bronte is a strong performer that will look great in any kitchen.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 20 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | H26.4 x W45.6 x D30.2cm |
| Programmes | 8 |
| Wattage | 800W |
| Number of power levels | 5 |
Pros
- Door and outside of microwave don’t mark easily with fingerprints
- Instant start key is clearly labelled
Cons
- Had to refer to the manual when using the auto programmes as the controls weren’t intuitive
Score: 80/100
Heating up leftovers has never been so simple, thanks to this good-sized microwave. It fits a dinner plate comfortably and boasts easy-to-use settings and detailed accompanying instructions, should you need some back-up deciphering the cooking modes.
It heated soup and frozen ready meals without a fuss. But our tester’s chilled ready meal cooled down too quickly when left to stand post-cooking, so you may need to add a minute or so on for those.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 20 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 45 x 34 x 25.8cm |
| Programmes | Defrost, auto cooking, instant start |
| Wattage | 800W |
| Number of power levels | 5 |
Russell Hobbs RHM2017
Russell Hobbs RHM2017
Pros
- Very simple to use
- Mirrored door is sleek to look at
Cons
- Cooked unevenly at points in testing
Score: 79/100
Take the confusion out of calculating cooking times with the help of this microwave’s 10 auto-cook settings, which will make prepping the likes of pizza, potatoes, meat and fish even easier.
On test, it heated our soup evenly and our jacket potato was light and fluffy, but we had to put both our chilled and frozen ready meals back in as they came out tepid.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 20 litres |
|---|---|
| Programmes | 10 including auto-cook and defrost |
| Wattage | 800 |
| Number of power levels | 5 |
Morphy Richards 20L 800W Digital Microwave with Mirror Door
Morphy Richards 20L 800W Digital Microwave with Mirror Door
Pros
- Sleek mirror door looks premium
- Good performance with frozen food in particular
Cons
- Controls could be more intuitive – must refer to manual at first
Score: 79/100
This stylish microwave has a sleek mirror-door finish, which will look great on the countertop. The controls are mostly clear and intuitive, and we particularly like the handy quick-start function – but for other options, like the defrost settings, you'll probably need to refer to the manual at first.
It performed best when cooking frozen ready meals and defrosting minced beef, producing evenly thawed and heated results. It wasn't quite as consistent when it came to soup and chilled ready meals, with some temperature variation throughout, and our jacket potatoes needed extra time to fully cook through. Still, for everyday reheating and defrosting, this microwave is a solid pick for smaller households.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 20 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | H20 x W45.2 x D34.8 cm |
| Programmes | 6 |
| Wattage | 800 W |
| Number of power levels | 6 |
VonShef Fika Microwave 20L
VonShef Fika Microwave 20L
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Clear instructions
Cons
- Difficult to set an accurate time with the dial
Score: 79/100
Rated as super straightforward to use by our testers, all it takes to get heating is the turn of two dials. It delivered a brilliant, evenly-cooked jacket potato but struggled to defrost minced beef and cook chilled ready meals evenly – the edges heated more than the middle. This is likely down to its low wattage, so play around a little by adding an extra minute or two onto the recommended timings and this should ensure everything is thoroughly cooked.
We’d have liked a larger capacity because we struggled to fit a dinner plate inside, but for kitchens with a lack of counter space, the compact design is ideal. The Nordic finishes are chic, too.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 20 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 34 x 45 x 24cm |
| Programmes | Defrost and reheat |
| Wattage | 700 |
| Number of power levels | 6 |
Russell Hobbs 23L Flatbed Digital Microwave RHFM2365B
Russell Hobbs 23L Flatbed Digital Microwave RHFM2365B
Pros
- Flatbed design creates more usable space and is easier to clean (no turntable)
- Clear, intuitive controls
Cons
- Inconsistent defrosting results
Score: 77/100
This flatbed microwave stands out from traditional models because it doesn't use a spinning turntable. Instead, the energy is distributed from beneath the microwave's cavity, allowing for a completely flat interior. The result is more usable space for large plates, rectangular dishes and multiple bowls, while also making the interior much easier to wipe clean.
In our tests, it performed well when heating both chilled and frozen ready meals, producing relatively even, consistent results. Our jacket potatoes were mostly cooked through too. Defrosting was less consistent, with some frozen spots remaining in our mince while the edges started to cook.
We found the controls intuitive enough to use without referring to the manual, and the sleek mirror-door design feels premium (the body is available in black or silver). Overall, a good choice for larger households looking to maximise cooking capacity without sacrificing valuable counter space.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 23 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | H29.5 x W47.2 x D37.7 cm |
| Programmes | 8 |
| Wattage | 800 W |
| Number of power levels | 5 |
Haden Cotswold Green Microwave Oven
Haden Cotswold Green Microwave Oven
Pros
- Turntable is easy to remove for cleaning
- Well built and sturdy
- You can’t adjust the power level
Cons
- The smaller design may not fit taller jugs and pots (although it’s still wide enough for a dinner plate)
- The turntable can’t be deactivated
Score: 76/100
Who said appliances have to be grey, white or black? Haden’s microwave is here to bring a splash of colour to our kitchen counters.
The controls are nice and simple – just turn the dial to set the time and press the quick-start button to get cooking. But, if you do get stuck, the instructions are filled with clear diagrams and good safety advice to help you on your way.
In testing, our jacket potatoes came out near-perfect, but our ready meals weren’t heated as evenly, with the corners of our lasagne drying out slightly. All in all, though, it’s a good choice for anyone looking for a well-sized, fuss-free microwave that isn’t black!
Key specifications
| Capacity | 20 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 25.2 x 45.5 x 34cm |
| Programmes | Defrost, express |
| Wattage | 800 |
| Number of power levels | 5 |
Cookworks 700W Standard Microwave
Cookworks 700W Standard Microwave
Pros
- Defrosting function was easy to use
- Uncluttered fascia
Cons
- Power values are displayed as percentages, which may be confusing
- Viewing window is quite small
Score: 73/100
If you’re looking for a simple, yet efficient microwave, this will do the job. The budget machine is easy to use, with six power levels and a defrost option to choose from – just turn the dial to select the time to start.
Jacket potatoes came out hot and fluffy and our frozen ready meal was cooked to perfection. We had to deduct marks for defrosting and the cooking of our chilled lasagne though, as the edges were heated more than the middle.
Note, this is one of the smallest microwaves on the list so could be better suited to couples or small families.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 17 litres |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Heat and defrost |
| Wattage | 700 |
| Number of power levels | 6 |
Russell Hobbs 20 Litre 800W Solo Microwave RHM2027B
Russell Hobbs 20 Litre 800W Solo Microwave RHM2027B
Pros
- Big enough to fit a dinner plate
- Manual has clear diagrams that explain the cooking modes
- Good amount of power settings
Cons
- Internal lighting is very dull, making it tricky to see your food cooking
- No quick-start button
Score: 70/100
While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some premium microwaves, this model is a reliable choice. It scored full marks for defrosting minced beef and delivered jacket potatoes that were crisp on the outside but soft and fluffy on the inside.
The temperature of our lasagne varied across the four corners, highlighting uneven heating, but it reached a safe temperature for eating and the surface hadn’t dried up.
There aren’t any quick-start buttons and it’s tricky to set a specific time due to the one-minute time intervals on the dial. We found the button on the door wiggled in place too, which made the overall design seem less durable (and it created a dirt trap). Those small niggles aside, you’ve got a compact, basic microwave, with clear instructions that will make everyday cooking straightforward.
Key specifications
| Capacity | 20 litres |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 44 X 33.8 X 25.9cm |
| Programmes | 2 |
| Wattage | 800W |
| Number of power levels | 5 |
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
We’ve been testing products for over 100 years at the Good Housekeeping Institute and have been reviewing microwaves since they first came to the market in the 1980s, so we know what we’re looking for and how the tech has evolved.
Led by homes testing manager, Blossom Boothroyd, our experts follow strict protocols to assess each model against its claims. We use them exactly as you would at home, whether that’s heating up frozen ready meals or speeding up the cooking time of your jacket potatoes.
Our senior homes and lifestyle writer, Megan Geall, then analyses the results and researches the market to bring you easy-to-read reviews you can trust.
What microwave type is best?
Finding the right microwave might be more complex than you first think. From standard solo microwaves to combination models that can grill, oven cook, and even air fry, there’s a lot to consider.
Solo microwaves: These are the ultimate buy for simple tasks. They tend to be cheaper, easier to use and less bulky than combination models, saving you kitchen space. On the downside, they generally have a smaller capacity and limited functionality than their combination counterparts. While modern solo microwaves offer a helpful array of auto-cook programmes, they can’t crisp or brown your food like a regular oven.
Combination microwaves: Featuring an additional internal grill alongside the normal microwave function, they brown and crisp up your food as well as cooking it, for a superior appearance and texture. Bear in mind that the grill element tends to be less powerful than a conventional one, so toasting may be slower and foods can be drier. The most advanced combination microwaves can also be used for baking, roasting, steaming and yoghurt making.
Air fryer microwaves: Many new combination microwaves also have air fryer functions to ensure top-level crispiness, while offering a space-saving solution. If you can’t fit both appliances on your countertop, then the best air fryer microwave might be a worthwhile investment.
What is the best wattage for a microwave?
In general, the higher the wattage, the faster the microwave cooks. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that a 1000W+ microwave will be the best model. Our winner is an 800W machine, for example, so don't be swayed by this factor alone.
If you’re a ready meal fan, it’s also worth bearing in mind that most food packages call for an 800 or 900W microwave in their instructions, so opting for this power level will be sufficient for speedy dinners.
Note that the amount of electricity microwaves consume can be higher than their output wattage, so this isn’t a good measure of their energy consumption. But, as microwaves heat smaller spaces more quickly than ovens, they should use less electricity.
How to choose the right microwave
Before buying a microwave, consider these key factors.
Range of power levels: Most solo microwaves let you adjust the power level to suit different foods. However, not everything should be microwaved on full, so it’s worth looking for a model with a range of settings. Use the highest setting to microwave dishes with a high liquid content such as soups, drinks or vegetables; select medium for everyday jobs like cooking ready meals; and choose the lowest setting for gentle heating and any precise tasks, such as softening butter or melting chocolate.
Auto-cook programmes: Some solo microwaves offer auto-cook programmes that adjust the power and time based on the type and weight of food. Common options available include pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. If auto programmes are a priority, pick the Panasonic NN-ST48KSBPQ microwave, which has 25 in total, including fresh fish, rice and pasta. Look out for models with handy reheating and defrosting modes, too.
Size and capacity: Microwaves generally vary in size from around 17L to over 32L. For larger households, look for at least 27L, but note that the turntable size and interior height are often more important than capacity. To accommodate larger plates and bigger portions, the turntable diameter should be at least 30cm and the interior height more than 20cm.
What other features should I consider?
Microwaves generally vary in size from around 17L to over 32L. For larger households, look for at least 27L, but note that the turntable size and interior height are often more important than capacity.
To accommodate larger plates and bigger portions, the turntable diameter should be at least 30cm and the interior height more than 20cm.
Clear viewing window: You would be surprised by how many microwave doors are tricky to see through. To save having to repeatedly open the door to check on your food's progress, invest in a model that lets you see inside.
Child lock: Some microwaves come with a function that locks the control panel, preventing a child from operating the microwave unsupervised and injuring themselves.
Clearance space: As well as ensuring your microwave fits comfortably on your worktop, you’ll also need to leave space for sufficient ventilation. Every microwave requires at least 15cm above and behind it – although this is more important for a combination oven, as a lot of air is expelled when using the dual function. If the microwave is being built into your kitchen, pick up a model-specific ventilation kit from the manufacturer.
Turntable or flatbed: Most solo microwaves feature a turntable that automatically rotates food to ensure even cooking. These can be removed for cleaning. Some models allow you to turn this feature off, so it remains stationary. Flatbed microwaves such as the Russell Hobbs 23L Flatbed Digital Microwave RHFM2365B use a different technology that evenly distributes heat without the need for a turntable, giving you extra cooking space. The flat surface is easier to clean, too.
What is the average lifespan of a microwave?
This depends on lots of factors, from how often you use your microwave to how well you look after it. However, on average, microwaves last between six and ten years.
Some microwaves will also come with a warranty so check how long it lasts and what is covered when buying.
The verdict on the best microwave
Panasonic stood out during our microwave testing, claiming the top spot on our list. Our winning Panasonic NN-ST23QMBPQ comes in sleek black or silver, is user-friendly and aced our tests with a score of 87/100. It would make a great family microwave.
For a budget buy, go for the Cookworks 700W Manual Microwave (under £50), which has a simple yet efficient design.
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Megan is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s senior homes and lifestyle writer. She loves diving into the latest product releases to find the very best buys on the market and has written hundreds of product reviews on everything from the best vacuum cleaners and coffee machines to the best ice cream makers and robot window cleaners.
When she’s not writing about the newest gadgets and gizmos for your home and garden, you’ll find her running every distance from 5km to 100km or relaxing at home with her cat – there really is no in between.
Megan has an MA in Magazine Journalism and has previously written for Stylist, Glamour, Women's Health, TimeOut, SquareMeal, and YOU magazine. You can find Megan on Instagram @meganlouisegeall.
Jasmine is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s homes writer. With a background in design, she is committed to sorting the good products from the great –and helping Good Housekeeping readers do the same.
Throughout her career, Jasmine has written extensively about product quality, craftsmanship and sustainability, and is passionate about consumer rights. She previously worked as a writer and researcher at the product longevity platform Buy Me Once.
If she isn’t reviewing the latest gadgets for your home, you can probably find Jasmine cooking elaborate meals or crafting something weird and wonderful!
Jasmin is a Household Product Specialist at the Good Housekeeping Institute, with extensive experience testing products across kitchen, sleep, laundry care, household cleaning, refrigeration, dish care and more. Her work ranges from detailed performance analysis of washing machines, dishwashers and refrigeration appliances to hands-on assessments of cookware, cleaning products and sleep essentials.
With a Master’s degree in Chemistry from Imperial College London, Jasmin combines technical expertise with a strong aptitude for interpreting large datasets to deliver clear, evidence-based consumer insights.
Gemma brings a unique blend of skills to the Good Housekeeping Institute's homes testing team, with a degree in physical product design and experience working in UX research and product management at NBCUniversal’s Hayu. She played a key role in platform projects, including supporting the launch of The Real Housewives of London (the streaming platform's first original show), so she knows a thing or two about efficiency and detail.
Passionate about making shopping smoother and more intuitive, she's on a mission to help consumers feel confident in their purchases, because let’s be honest, no one has time to scroll forever!
Albert Orech-Achato is a Homes Product Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, bringing a technology-led background that includes experience at Apple. He applies a critical, evidence-based approach to product testing, with a particular focus on performance, usability and value for money. Albert especially enjoys assessing kitchen appliances, while also testing a wide range of products for the home. His work helps consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions based on rigorous, real-world evaluation.
