Buying Guide
Best Small Microwaves UK
Compare small microwaves for compact kitchens, flats and tighter worktops, with simple, space-saving and easy-use options for everyday reheating and defrosting.
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Best Overall
Best for: Extra power settings
The Toshiba MM-EM20P is a compact 20L microwave with 800W power, digital controls and 11 power levels. It may suit buyers who want more control than a basic dial microwave.
11 power levels
Digital display
Express Cook
Best for Quieter Cooking
Best for: Quieter everyday cooking
This is a well-equipped small microwave with presets, memory settings and a mute function, all packed into a compact design.
800W power
Useful mute mode
Six quick presets
Quick Picks
Best for Small Spaces
Best for: Low-profile spaces
A compact 19L microwave with a lightweight build, five power levels and inverter technology. Its low height may suit smaller kitchens or limited worktop spaces.
Compact height
Lightweight build
Inverter heating
Here are our detailed reviews of the microwaves we selected for this guide. Each product has been compared for everyday use, key features, value for money and the type of buyer it may suit best.
Detailed Reviews
Product Reviews
1
Best for: Low-profile spaces
A compact 19L microwave with a lightweight build, five power levels and inverter technology. Its low height may suit smaller kitchens or limited worktop spaces.
Pros
Compact height
Lightweight build
Inverter heating
Things To Consider
Mirror door finish
700W power
Manual controls
2
Best for: Simple everyday use
This compact 17L microwave offers straightforward dial controls, five power levels and a defrost setting. Its clean white finish may suit smaller, brighter kitchens.
Pros
Compact capacity
Simple controls
Defrost setting
Things To Consider
Manual timer
No digital display
700W power
3
Best for: Compact capacity
This compact 20L microwave offers simple dial controls, five power levels and automatic defrosting for everyday use.
Pros
Useful 20L capacity
Simple dial controls
Quick-minute setting
Things To Consider
700W output
Mirror finish
35-minute timer
4
Best for: Quieter everyday cooking
This is a well-equipped small microwave with presets, memory settings and a mute function, all packed into a compact design.
Pros
800W power
Useful mute mode
Six quick presets
Things To Consider
More button controls
No manual dials
Not the smallest
5
Best for: Extra power settings
The Toshiba MM-EM20P is a compact 20L microwave with 800W power, digital controls and 11 power levels. It may suit buyers who want more control than a basic dial microwave.
Pros
11 power levels
Digital display
Express cook
Things To Consider
Button controls
White finish
20L capacity
Buying Guide
What to look for in an Microwave
Capacity
Choose a microwave size that suits how many people you usually cook for. A 20L microwave may suit individuals, couples or smaller kitchens, while larger models can be better for bigger plates and family use.
Ease Of Use
Look for controls that match how you like to cook. Manual dials can be simple and quick, while digital controls may suit buyers who want presets, timers and more precise settings.
Cleaning
Check whether the microwave has an easy-clean interior and a removable turntable. A simple interior, smooth surfaces and fewer awkward corners can make everyday wipe-downs easier.
Power range
Microwaves usually use power levels rather than a true temperature range. Higher wattage, such as 800W, can help with faster heating, while multiple power levels give you more control.
Features
Think about which features you will actually use. Defrost settings, auto-cook menus, child locks and digital timers can be useful, but basic models may still suit simple reheating.
Value For Money
Good value is not just about the lowest price. Look at the capacity, wattage, controls, features and brand support to decide whether a microwave feels worth the money.