Microwaves have become an essential appliance in modern kitchens, providing us with the ultimate cooking convenience. From heating leftovers to preparing quick meals, these compact machines have revolutionized our approach to food preparation.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect microwave for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top microwave picks, unveiling their features, functionalities, and performance to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply seeking an efficient way to cook, join us on this journey as we explore the best microwaves available, ensuring you find the perfect companion for your kitchen adventures.
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Table of Contents
Difference between Flatbed vs Turntable Microwave
Two different types of microwaves are popular in New Zealand. Flatbed models and turntable models each provide their own set of advantages.
Turntable: These microwaves come with a rotating glass plate, which turns food for more even cooking and heating. They typically cost less and are more common. The turntable mechanism can slightly limit usable space and may require occasional alignment or replacement.
Flatbed: Flatbed microwaves utilize a rotating antenna or advanced microwave distribution to cook food evenly without a turntable, offering a more usable cooking area and accommodating larger or irregularly shaped dishes. They tend to be easier to clean and can be more expensive, reflecting the newer technology and added convenience.
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How to choose the Best Microwave for you
Choosing the best microwave for you involves considering various factors based on your lifestyle, kitchen space, cooking needs, and budget. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Types of Microwaves:
Solo Microwaves: Good for basic tasks like cooking, reheating, and defrosting.
Grill Microwaves: Include a grilling feature for browning food.
Convection Microwaves: Combine microwave energy, a grill, and convection heating (fan-forced hot air), suitable for baking and roasting.
Size and Capacity:
Compact: Around 14 to 23 liters, suitable for small households or limited kitchen space.
Standard: Approximately 25 to 45 liters, balancing size and functionality for most average-sized families.
Large: More than 48 liters, ideal for larger families or for those who frequently entertain guests or cook in larger quantities.
Power and Wattage:
Lower Wattage (600-800W): Slower cooking, more suitable for light use.
Higher Wattage (900-1250W): Faster cooking and more uniform heating.
Features to Look For:
Pre-programmed Settings: For one-touch cooking of common foods.
Sensor Cooking: Adjusts time and power based on steam emitted.
Inverter Technology: Delivers more even heat and improved texture.
Ease of Cleaning: Look for non-stick interiors and removable parts.
Smart Functionality:
Some microwaves offer connectivity to smart home systems for remote control and monitoring.
The Best Microwaves NZ
1. Panasonic Flatbed Microwave
The Panasonic 27 Litre Flatbed Inverter Microwave combines style and functionality, making it a suitable addition to any kitchen. Its 27L capacity and flatbed design accommodate larger dishes, simplifying meal prep for families or gatherings. The inverter technology is a standout, promoting even heating and energy efficiency, ensuring your food is cooked perfectly every time.
Cleaning is a breeze with its flatbed interior, eliminating the hassle of maneuvering around a turntable. The auto weight sensor adds convenience by adjusting the power level to the weight of your food, avoiding over or undercooking. This feature is particularly useful for those who value precision and time-saving in the kitchen.
With 1400w of cooking power, 14 auto-reheat menus, and 6 power levels, this microwave is versatile for various cooking needs. The 4-digit green backlit LCD enhances its modern aesthetic while offering clear visibility of settings. This microwave not only heats food efficiently but also elevates the cooking experience with its user-centric design.
Pros:
- Easy to Clean
- Great Design
- Use any Shape Dish
Cons:
- Control Panel may not user Friendly
2. Kogan Convection Microwave with Grill
The Kogan Convection Microwave with Grill is an accommodating kitchen essential with its spacious 32L capacity, allowing the simultaneous heating of multiple dishes. Its ease of use is bolstered by a user-friendly control panel, and the contemporary stainless steel finish integrates seamlessly with modern kitchen aesthetics.
Illumination is key in any cooking scenario, and the bright LED lamp inside ensures visibility, reducing the risk of mishaps during both cooking and serving. The combination of convection and grill functions alongside the microwave adds versatility, enabling a range of cooking techniques from a single appliance.
At 1000 watts, this microwave is powerful enough to handle defrosting, reheating, and meal preparation tasks efficiently. The addition of features such as auto-reheat and turbo defrost demonstrates a commitment to convenience, ensuring that foods are evenly and quickly brought to the desired temperature without losing moisture.
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Big Push Button to open the Door
- Good Design
Cons:
- Not very convenient Control Panel
3. KitchenAid Basic Assist Culinary Microwave
The KitchenAid Basic Assist 33L microwave oven is a robust addition to any culinary space. Its durable stainless steel construction is paired with a sizeable door, mimicking a wall oven’s opening mechanism, facilitating effortless access. The stainless steel handle is a thoughtful touch, allowing for a firm grip even with an oven mitt on.
Enhanced by 1650 watts of power, this microwave promises quick and uniform heating, ensuring your meals are cooked to perfection. The innovative 3D Microwave Distribution System is key to its consistent cooking results, eliminating cold spots within your food.
With a focus on health-conscious cooking, the Steam feature of this KitchenAid microwave stands out, enabling you to steam vegetables and fish while preserving nutrients. Humidity sensor technology smartly adjusts power levels in real time, promoting optimal moisture retention in dishes. The rotating turntable is the icing on the cake, ensuring heat is evenly distributed throughout the cooking process.
Pros:
- Excellent Design
- Strong Built
- Wide Opening
- Powerful
Cons:
- Expensive
4. Sharp Sensor Microwave
The Sharp Sensor Microwave is an ideal choice for large families, featuring a generous 34-liter capacity that can handle the cooking demands of numerous servings. It is equipped with a Smart Inverter that ensures faster and more uniform heating, which is essential for consistent cooking results.
Incorporating a Smart humidity sensor, this microwave takes the guesswork out of culinary tasks, adjusting its settings for optimal results. The easy-to-navigate keypad with 10 power levels enhances the user experience, providing precise control over cooking intensity.
Practicality is a key aspect of this microwave, demonstrated by its 23 auto-cook menus and convenient features like the 2-stage programme cooking and auto weight defrost. Safety is not overlooked, with a child lock feature providing peace of mind. The compact design of the Sharp Sensor Microwave also ensures that it can be accommodated in tight spaces, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
Pros:
- User friendly
- Kitchen timer function
- Great Design and LED text guidance
Cons :
- High-priced
5. Sharp Flatbed Microwave
Sharp’s 30L White Flatbed Microwave is a stylish, modern addition to any kitchen, boasting a 1200W Inverter that promises fast and even heating, complemented by precise power management. This midsize model is designed not only for efficiency but also for aesthetic appeal.
Intuitive cooking is at the forefront with the smart humidity sensor, which automatically tailors cooking time and power to the moisture content in your food. The flatbed design means larger dishes fit comfortably, and the flat-back door is a space-saving feature that also simplifies access to your culinary creations.
The R-30L model caters to convenience with 23 auto menus, streamlining the cooking process for a variety of dishes. Additionally, the 3 favourite memory cook functions are perfect for recalling your go-to settings effortlessly. With 11 power levels and an automatic defrost function, this Sharp Flatbed Microwave is a versatile tool for both the experienced home chef and the culinary beginner.
Pros :
- easy to clean
- Sensor technology for cooking
- Child lock safety feature
- LED display
Cons :
- The sensor may not work properly on a large amount of meal
6. Samsung 32 Litter
The Samsung Black Stainless Sensor Microwave offers cutting-edge technology wrapped in an appealing black stainless finish. Its sensor cooking capabilities and keep warm function are designed to deliver even cooking and maintain your meal’s temperature, while the LED display provides clarity and ease of use.
With added convenience features like an automatic defrost option and one-touch cook settings for popular items like popcorn and frozen vegetables, this microwave adapts to various culinary needs. The child lock feature is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that the appliance remains safe from unintended use.
The durable ceramic enamel interior is easy to clean and the smart inverter power of 1000 Watts ensures efficient reheating and speedy cooking, making this microwave suitable for small to medium-sized families. Its 10 power levels give users the flexibility to perfectly adjust the heating intensity for any dish.
Pros :
- Modern Design
- 10-year warranty on the cavity
- Easy to use
Cons :
- Not ideal for cooking large food
7. Breville Inverter Flatbed Noir
Breville The Inverter Flatbed Noir microwave has a larger cooking area than a standard 34-litre microwave. Its Power Smoothing Inverter technology provides precise power with minimum noise and to cooking and reheating easily.
This 1000w cooking power microwave has a modern look and has a Sleek black mirror finish. It features an EasyClean non-stick interior and has auto defrost and a quick-minute keypad. It features a child safety lock and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
This microwave has 8 useful auto-cook menus and dual defrost by time & weight For cooking and reheating. It has 10 power levels which are adjustable according to your choice of cooking.
Pros :
- 30-sec instant start
- User friendly
- Fast and easy to clean
Cons :
- Easily stick finger marks while opening the door
8. Sheffield Digital Microwave
The Sheffield 20L Digital Microwave is an excellent choice for small families, engineered to streamline the cooking process with its multiple functions. Its compact size does not compromise on versatility, offering 11 power levels and 6 auto cooking menus, paired with a 90-minute timer that includes a convenient auto defrost option.
User-friendliness is a highlight of this microwave, with a digital display that simplifies time and power adjustments. Safety is also a priority; the child safety lock is an essential feature, providing peace of mind to households with young children.
Designed for straightforward operation, this Sheffield Digital Microwave is not only easy to use but also integrates seamlessly into various kitchen spaces. It promises to be a reliable and efficient assistant in meal preparation for those with a fast-paced lifestyle or looking to save time in the kitchen.
Pros :
- Convenient to use
- Easy to clean
- Compact size
Cons :
- Ideal for heating
9. Morphy Richards 20L 
The Morphy Richards 20L microwave presents a sleek, contemporary design fit for any modern kitchen, featuring an elegant black glass door and user-friendly push-button access. The exterior’s white stainless-steel finish is paired with the assurance of a 1-year warranty, enhancing both the aesthetic and the practical value of this appliance.
Ideal for couples or smaller households, this microwave operates at 750W, offering efficient cooking power for everyday tasks. It is equipped with 10 auto-cooking menus, making meal preparation simpler and more intuitive with its digital touch controls.
Not just a stylish kitchen addition, this microwave is versatile, catering to your quick reheating, cooking, and defrosting needs. The adjustable timer function allows for precise control when preparing your favourite dishes, ensuring that every meal is cooked just the way you like it.
Pros :
- Value of Money
- Easy to use
- Great Design
Cons :
- Not very powerful
10. Midea 20L Digital Control
The Midea 20L Digital Control Microwave is a suitable match for small families, offering a blend of functionality and sleek design with its special mirror surface that’s easy to maintain. Its quick-cooking capability means meals are ready in no time, saving valuable minutes in a busy day.
Aesthetic meets practicality with the microwave’s touchpad control, framed by a clean white face and housing. The convenient push-button door, contrasted with the white painted cavity, and the reflective design surface culminate in a modern touch-pad control system.
Accompanying the microwave is an installation kit, easing the setup process. It’s well-equipped with 6 Auto Cooking Menus, 10 Microwave Power Levels, and a Defrost Setting to cater to a variety of food preparation needs. With a 700W power output, this Midea Microwave balances efficiency and power, serving as an excellent kitchen assistant.
Pros :
- Easy to operate
- Value of Money
- Compact Design
Cons :
- Not ideal for large cooking
Microwave Accessories :
If there is not enough space in your kitchen then you may need a 3 or 2 Tier Kitchen Shelf Microwave Stand Rack.
Available on the
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