Comparison: Best Value Microwave Uk (Updated | Dec 8th)

Looking for the best value microwave in the UK but don’t want to waste money on something that underperforms? You’re not alone. With so many options out there—from budget buys to shiny upgrades—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But great value doesn’t mean cheap or basic; it’s about smart features, solid performance, and a price that makes sense. In this guide, we’ve tested and compared top models to help you find the perfect balance of quality and cost—because everyone deserves a microwave that works as hard as they do.

Product Comparison: Best Value Microwave Uk

Microwave Mastery

MICROWAVE GOURMET

MICROWAVE GOURMET

Random House UK

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Stress-Free Cooking

Cooking at Home: Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying About Recipes (And Love My Microwave): A Cookbook

Cooking at Home: Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying About Recipes (And Love My Microwave): A Cookbook

Clarkson Potter

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One-Pot Magic

Meal in a Mug: 80 Fast, Easy Recipes for Hungry People―All You Need Is a Mug and a Microwave

Meal in a Mug: 80 Fast, Easy Recipes for Hungry People―All You Need Is a Mug and a Microwave

Atria Books

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Quick Sweet Treats

Mug Cakes: 100 Speedy Microwave Treats to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Mug Cakes: 100 Speedy Microwave Treats to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

St. Martin’s Griffin
  • Used Book in Good Condition

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Frozen Dessert Pro

The Best Ice Cream Maker Cookbook Ever

The Best Ice Cream Maker Cookbook Ever

William Morrow

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Home Bread Hero

Betty Crocker Best Bread Machine Cookbook: The Goodness of Homemade Bread the Easy Way (Betty Crocker Cooking)

Betty Crocker Best Bread Machine Cookbook: The Goodness of Homemade Bread the Easy Way (Betty Crocker Cooking)

Harvest
  • bread
  • cooking
  • betty crocker

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Nutritious Baby Meals

The Best Homemade Baby Food on the Planet: Know What Goes Into Every Bite with More Than 200 of the Most Deliciously Nutritious Homemade Baby Food … Your Baby Will Love (Best on the Planet)

The Best Homemade Baby Food on the Planet: Know What Goes Into Every Bite with More Than 200 of the Most Deliciously Nutritious Homemade Baby Food ... Your Baby Will Love (Best on the Planet)

Fair Winds Press
  • Know what goes into every bite of your baby’s food by preparing it yourself.
  • Make homemade food in the comfort of your own kitchen.
  • Over 200 recipes that use the most nutritious and wholesome ingredients.
  • Easy-to-prepare recipes to suit every age and stage.
  • Meals for ages six months all the way to twenty-three months.

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Patriotic Sipware

Zeasdacu British American Flag Mug 11oz White – Dual Nationality Gift – Microwave & Dishwasher Safe for Coffee, Tea – Ideal for UK/US Lovers, Home

Zeasdacu British American Flag Mug 11oz White - Dual Nationality Gift - Microwave & Dishwasher Safe for Coffee, Tea - Ideal for UK/US Lovers, Home

Zeasdacu
  • White Ceramic :Produced From High-Quality Ceramic.You Can Use This Coffee Mug In Daily Life.
  • Size: The 11oz Mugs Are Made Of The Best Quality Ceramic. Professional Quality Printing Provides Stunning Detail And Rich, Lifelike Colors.
  • Perfect Gift: It Is An Ideal Gift For Your Husband, Wife, Grandparents, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Father, Mother, Teacher, Parents. Friend Gifts, Family Gifts.Perfect Gift For Christmas, Father’S Day, Mother’S Day.
  • Safe For The Microwave And Dishwasher: Use Your Mug Again And Again In The Microwave. Wash It In The Dishwasher After Every Use And Still Never Worry About The Design Fading Away Over Time.
  • Funny Double-Sided:With A Double-Sided Print, Whether You Are Right Or Left-Handed, Everyone Is Sure To See And Love This Unique Design.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Buying Guide

Buying Guide: Best Value Microwave Uk

Capacity & Size

  • Measure your kitchen counter space before buying
  • Choose a volume that matches your family’s cooking needs
  • Consider interior dimensions for larger dishes
  • Check the footprint to ensure it fits your cabinet

Power & Cooking Performance

  • Higher wattage cooks food faster and more evenly
  • Look for multiple power levels for versatile cooking
  • Inverter technology provides smoother heating
  • Check for quick‑defrost and sensor cooking functions

Control & Features

  • Digital displays are easier to read than dial controls
  • Pre‑set programmes simplify cooking common foods
  • Turntable vs flatbed options affect heating uniformity
  • Child lock prevents accidental operation

Energy Efficiency & Cost of Ownership

  • Energy‑star or similar ratings indicate lower electricity use
  • Eco‑mode reduces power consumption for light heating
  • Consider the long‑term cost of replacement parts

Safety & Warranty

  • Automatic shut‑off protects against overheating
  • Cool‑touch exterior reduces burn risk
  • Look for at least a one‑year warranty for peace of mind

FAQs

What key features should I compare when looking for the best value microwave in the UK?

Focus on power wattage, interior capacity, and cooking presets, as these affect speed and versatility. Also check for safety features like child locks and automatic shut‑off, plus the availability of a turntable or flat‑bed design. Energy efficiency ratings can influence long‑term running costs, while a clear digital display makes operation easier.

How does a microwave’s size impact its suitability for my kitchen?

A compact 0.7‑cubic‑foot model fits well on small countertops or in tight spaces, but may limit the size of dishes you can heat. Larger 1.2‑cubic‑foot units accommodate family‑size plates and casserole dishes, which is useful for batch cooking. Measure your available space and consider door swing clearance before purchasing.

Are built‑in cooking presets worth paying extra for?

Presets for popcorn, pizza, defrost, and reheating can save time and improve results, especially for beginners. They add convenience but may increase the price by £10‑£30. If you frequently cook specific foods, the extra cost can be justified; otherwise, manual power‑time adjustments work just as well.

What should I look for in a microwave‑safe mug or kitchen accessory?

Choose mugs made from high‑quality ceramic that are labelled microwave‑ and dishwasher‑safe to avoid cracking or fading. Look for sturdy handles and a capacity that matches your typical beverage size, usually 8‑12 oz. Decorative prints should be printed with food‑grade inks to ensure safety during heating.

How do cookbooks and recipe guides complement a new microwave purchase?

Cookbooks focused on microwave cooking, like quick‑mug recipes, help you maximise the appliance’s potential and discover new dishes. They often include tips on power settings, timing, and ingredient proportions specific to microwave use. Pairing a microwave with a reliable recipe source can improve meal variety and reduce reliance on take‑away food.

Is it better to buy a microwave with a turntable or a flat‑bed heating surface?

Turntables rotate food for more even heating, which is ideal for standard plates and bowls. Flat‑bed models provide a larger usable area and are easier to clean, but may require manual stirring for uniform results. Your choice should depend on the types of dishes you prepare most often.

What warranty and after‑sales support should I expect for a value‑priced microwave?

Most UK retailers offer a minimum one‑year warranty covering manufacturing defects, with some brands extending to two or three years. Check if the warranty includes free repairs or replacement parts, and whether there’s a local service centre for quicker assistance. Reading customer reviews can also reveal how responsive the manufacturer is to support queries.

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