Microwaves
Last updated: June 14, 2026
Let's be honest: most microwaves are just overpriced boxes that make your plates hot and your food lukewarm. In June 2026, you shouldn't be paying for 'smart' features that try to talk to your fridge. You need a reliable workhorse that can handle a Sunday roast reheat or a late-night bowl of porridge without blowing a fuse. I've tested the lot, ignored the marketing fluff, and found the only five worth your hard-earned quid.
How we rank these products
Our rankings combine real-time UK consumer interest data from PriceSpy with structured analysis of key specs like video quality, stabilization, battery life, and value for money. We continuously update rankings to reflect both market trends and product performance. We also highlight key trade-offs and use cases to help you choose whatβs actually right for you.
What changed this month?
Updated for June 2026 to focus on durability and energy efficiency as electricity prices remain a headache. We have prioritised models that survive the daily grind of a British kitchen without the electronics failing by autumn.
Russell Hobbs RHMM715 (White)
π Best for Student Digs
A no-nonsense, 17-litre white box that does exactly what it says on the tin without any unnecessary faff.
If you just want to heat up a tin of beans without reading a manual the size of a Tolstoy novel, this is your winner.
Reasons to buy
- βCompact footprint fits even the smallest studio flat counters
- βSimple manual dials that won't confuse your nan
- βRidiculously easy to wipe down after a soup explosion
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe white plastic casing will inevitably start yellowing by next summer
- βThe 700W power means you will be waiting an extra minute for that jacket potato
- βThe 'ping' sounds like a 1980s bicycle bell
DeLonghi Argento Flora Sage (Green)
π Best for Country Kitchens
A stylish, matte-finish microwave that looks more like a piece of furniture than a kitchen appliance.
For those who care more about their kitchen's aesthetic than the internal magnetron, this DeLonghi is a looker.
Reasons to buy
- βThe sage green colour is a refreshing break from boring black and silver
- βTactile buttons provide a satisfying click that feels premium
- βDefrost function is surprisingly even, avoiding the 'frozen in the middle' disaster
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βYou are paying a significant 'style tax' for the brand name
- βThe matte finish shows greasy thumbprints far more than you would expect
- βThe paint around the handle tends to chip if you have long fingernails
Hotpoint MWH 1331 B (Black)
π Best for Small Kitchens
A unique curved-back design specifically engineered to sit in the corner of a cramped worktop.
Hotpoint realised that most people have useless corners in their kitchens and built a microwave to fit them.
Reasons to buy
- βThe curved back is a stroke of genius for saving counter space
- βFits a full-sized dinner plate despite its diminutive exterior
- βTouch controls are responsive and don't require a heavy shove
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe interior light is so dim you will need a torch to see if your cheese has melted
- βThe door mechanism is loud enough to wake the neighbours during a midnight snack
- βThe black gloss finish is a magnet for dust and cat hair
Cookworks 700W Standard Microwave P70J17P-VB (Stainless Steel)
π Best Budget Pick
A basic stainless steel unit that looks far more expensive than its price tag suggests.
If you have just moved into a new place and your bank balance is looking pathetic, this is the sensible choice.
Reasons to buy
- βStainless steel finish gives it a modern, professional look
- βUnbeatable value for money in the current 2026 market
- βLightweight enough to move around easily when cleaning
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe 700W output is the bare minimum for modern convenience food
- βThe stainless steel is not 'fingerprint resistant'βexpect to spend your life polishing it
- βThe internal turntable feels a bit wobbly under a heavy casserole dish
Haden 186683 (Blue)
π Best Retro Design
A vibrant, 1950s-inspired microwave that brings a splash of colour to a dull kitchen.
Haden knows how to do retro, and this blue box is a masterclass in nostalgia-driven design.
Reasons to buy
- βThe blue colour is genuinely stunning and doesn't fade over time
- βChrome-effect accents look great under kitchen spotlights
- βVery straightforward operation with no hidden menus
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe timer dial is about as precise as a sundial; good luck with 30-second bursts
- βThe chrome trim on the buttons starts to peel after about a year of heavy use
- βIt is quite noisy, sounding like a small aeroplane taking off in your kitchen
Still not sure which one to buy?
Join the Smart Spenders community! Talk to real buyers, ask questions about specific models, and make sure you are getting the absolute best deal.
Ask the Community βHow to buy a microwave without being mugged off
Buying a microwave seems simple until you're staring at a wall of them in a retail park. Here is what actually matters in 2026.
Wattage vs. Patience
Most budget models are 700W. That's fine if you have all day, but if you're in a rush, look for 800W or 900W. Just remember that a higher wattage usually means a higher price and a bigger hit to your electric bill.
The Footprint Fiasco
Measure your counter before you buy. If you live in a tiny London flat, look for 'corner' models or compact 17L units. Don't buy a 25L beast if you only ever heat up mugs of tea and the occasional ready meal.
Dials vs. Buttons
Digital buttons allow for precision, which is great for melting chocolate. Manual dials are better for people who hate technology and just want to turn a knob and walk away. Dials are generally more reliable long-term, as there are fewer circuits to fry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 700W enough for a family of four?
Only if you enjoy eating in shifts. For a family, you really want at least 800W to ensure food is piping hot throughout without waiting an eternity.
Why does my microwave smell like burnt popcorn after three months?
Because you haven't cleaned the ceiling of the interior. Splatters get stuck up there, carbonise, and eventually start to stink. Give it a wipe, for heaven's sake.
Are 'flatbed' microwaves better than turntable ones?
They are easier to clean and fit square dishes better, but they are usually more expensive. For most Brits, a standard turntable is perfectly adequate.
Transparency & Data: Prices and availability are updated regularly using data from PriceSpy and retailers.
We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on user activity and data β not paid placements. Read our full methodology here.