Microwave Buying Guide
Microwaves offer a fast, convenient and energy-efficient way to prepare food at home; they’re more versatile than you may think, too.
More than a microwave
As well as heating and defrosting, you can find microwaves that grill, roast and bake like a conventional oven too.
How and where will you use it?
Selecting the right microwave depends on your needs. To help you decide which microwave to buy, first think about how you’ll use it day-to-day, and where you’re planning to put it.
Compare your options
There are lots of different types of microwave to choose from - from freestanding to built-in, classic controls to multi-functional. Compare by type, size, and features to find the best microwave for you.
Freestanding or Built-in Microwave?
Freedom to move
Freestanding microwaves – sometimes referred to as ‘countertop’ microwaves – sit on your kitchen counter. These are the most common type of microwave and there are a wide range of affordable options. Simply plug them in to start cooking, and move them whenever required.
Keep surfaces clear
Built-in microwaves are fitted into a cabinet or wall – usually above the hob or oven. They need to be installed by an accredited professional, and will cost more than most freestanding options. That said, they keep your kitchen counters clear, blend seamlessly into your kitchen and can be reached more easily when using your hob or oven, if they’re installed above them.
Microwave oven or compact oven?
Built-in microwaves and compact ovens look very similar. Compact ovens are smaller than single ovens, often with a capacity of up to 50 litres. Many Samsung compact ovens include microwave functionality, the flexible cooking options meaning they can be used as a second oven, or a primary cooking appliance in smaller homes.
Microwave oven types
Three types of microwaves are available: solo, grill and combi. It’s possible to find freestanding or built-in versions of each.
Round turntable or flatbed style?
Most microwaves have a round turntable to aid cooking, but some are flatbed style, which don’t use a turntable, meaning trays and rectangular baking dishes can easily fit inside. Interior space is maximised, and you don’t need to transfer food into smaller containers to use the microwave.
Or enjoy the best of both
Some models allow you to disable the turntable, transforming the microwave into a flatbed style whenever you need. This feature is offered by several Samsung microwaves.
Solo
Solo microwaves are also referred to as ‘standard’ microwaves or ‘microwave-only’ models. They’re ideal for simple tasks like reheating food, cooking ready meals, steaming vegetables and defrosting meat.
Why choose a solo microwave?
If you primarily want to heat up and defrost food, and don’t need extra features for more complex cooking, this is the option for you. Solo microwaves are the most affordable, and there’s a wide selection of models available.
Grill
Grill microwaves offer the same features as solo microwaves, with the addition of an internal grill. This means you can brown and crisp food as well as cook it, improving food texture and giving you better-looking results.
Cook everything from fish to pizza
Grill meat and fish, and even cook pizza too. Both the grill and microwave function can be used together or separately, giving you more flexibility when cooking.
Why choose a grill microwave?
Consider a grill type if you need a microwave that can provide a wider variety of dishes than standard (an efficient option for smaller kitchens). If you don’t currently have a grill, or if you want a second one, this is an ideal solution.
Combi
Combination or ‘combi’ microwaves use convection heating (fanned hot air), as well a grill and microwave functionality. You can use each feature separately, or grill and microwave together.
Roast, bake, steam and more
A combi microwave can perform like a conventional oven, offering quick cooking times on meals. It’s possible to roast chicken or bake a cake with a combi microwave, and some offer extras such as air frying (called HotBlast™ in Samsung models), steam cooking and yoghurt making.
Why choose a combi microwave?
If you need the widest range of functions, go for a combi microwave. You can defrost, heat, roast, brown, crisp and bake food using the same appliance, making it a smart space-saver for smaller kitchens, or a second oven for more complicated meals.
Microwave Sizes
Always consider a microwave’s external dimensions and its capacity in litres before purchasing. This will help you to ascertain whether you have the space for it, and if it can accommodate the meal sizes you require.
Bigger meals - bigger microwave
If you cook for a large family or entertain guests often, a larger microwave will probably be best. Microwaves come in a range of sizes, so there are plenty of options to choose from.
Microwave Wattage
Microwave power is measured in watts – the more watts, the quicker food cooks. So, if cooking speed is important to you, look out for microwaves with a higher wattage.
Features to Look Out For
Microwaves come with a host of features that make cooking quicker and easier, and it's worth understanding which of these you’ll find most useful.
Energy Efficiency
Microwaves are ‘generally the most efficient way of cooking,* as less energy tends to be used in the cooking process.
Heat the food and not the container
Microwaves heat water and fat molecules within the food, but not the container they are held in – unlike an oven, which heats from the outside in. This is why microwaves can heat up some food, like jacket potatoes, quicker than an oven.
Use energy save mode in standby
However, microwaves can use a lot of energy when in standby. This is bad news for sustainable living – and for household bills. Selecting an Energy Save mode ensures power is only used for the microwave clock, and nothing else.
Microwave Maintenance
Microwaves perform best when they’re properly maintained. Follow the basics and you should get years of use from your new appliance.
Always
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Clean regularly with warm, soapy water and a cloth - a dirty interior will mean food cooks slowly and less evenly
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Check the door and hinges for corrosion
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Always unplug your microwave whilst cleaning
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Only use cookware labelled ‘microwave safe’
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If you have a freestanding microwave, check the user manual to understand how large a ventilation gap you should leave behind and above the appliance
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Make sure covered food is vented when cooking, so steam can escape safely
Never:
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Clean with abrasives like steel wool or scouring sponges
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Use metal containers or objects inside the microwave – including food twist ties
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Press start when the microwave is empty; the microwaves released could damage the interior walls.
Whether you’re looking for a straightforward solo microwave, a versatile grill microwave or a do-it-all combi, reimagine microwave cooking with appliances from Samsung.
