The best microwave ovens to buy in Australia
1. LG 42L 1200W NeoChef inverter microwave, $299, The Good Guys
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Evenly reheat last night's leftovers in no time with the LG NeoChef that combines inverter technology with a powerful 1200W. Featuring Sensor Cook technology that takes the guesswork out of appropriate cook time or power level (by selecting the specific food like 'jacket potatoes'), specific reheat functions for dishes like pizza or soup, and interior anti-bacterial coating...it's no surprise LG was awarded Best Brand for microwaves by Choice in 2020.
"I have always bought cheap microwaves in the past but after buying the NeoChef microwave, it was worth every cent," wrote a five-star reviewer, "it wasn't overly expensive, and the online click and collect service was great".
2. Kogan 25L 900W microwave oven and grill, $144.99, Kogan
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As Kogan's choice of microwave, this microwave oven with grill is as sleek in design as it is reliable in functionality. Featuring 10 present cooking settings (including beverage, pizza and chicken), a jet defrosting function, a child safety lock, and a handy wire grilling rack, perfectly creamy oatmeal and grilled cheese sandwiches are just a click away...
"This microwave is just fantastic for a single person or a couple, does everything I need and more," wrote a reviewer who left five stars.
3. Breville 32L the Combi Wave 3-in-1 microwave, $649, The Good Guys
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This microwave isn't just a microwave but is also an air fryer and convection oven. Powerfully versatile, this appliance helps you create healthier dishes for any meal - whether that be crispy golden fries, chocolate brownies or roast chicken. Talk about being a triple threat.
One five-star reviewer wrote: "This thing is a beast. Each of its functions individually are top of their class for performance but combined they are next level. Great as a space-saver but amazing as a set and forget cooking device."
4. Bellini 20L white microwave, $79, Catch.com.au
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Featuring 11 power levels, a 99-minute cooking timer, and auto-cooking menus for foods such as pizza and frozen veg, this affordable model is perfect for smaller households that have simplicity front of mind when it comes to meal prep.
"Does everything I need it to do," wrote a reviewer who left five stars, "I love its smaller size and looks nice on the bench".
5. Breville 34L 1100W the Quick Touch microwave, $404.99, Amazon
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Intuitive yet incredibly easy to operate, the Breville Quick Touch is a sure choice when it comes to smart and reliable microwaves. Guesswork is a thing of the past with its Smart Settings that knows the suitable time and power level to cook, reheat and defrost your grub so that it's perfectly hot and flavoursome. Plus, with a shortcuts panel and a Bit More feature, microwaving really couldn't get any easier.
"This microwave is amazing," wrote a five-star reviewer, "Whether you are softening butter, heating up a cup of tea or meal...you get perfect result. We saw a big big difference in our previous ones and this one."
6. Whirlpool 25L Crisp & Grill microwave oven, $322, Appliances Online
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With the ability to grill, steam, crisp or just heat food, the Whirlpool is a pretty much an all-rounder when it comes to nifty cooking appliances. Featuring 3D microwave heating that evenly heats food, preset recipes, jet defrost and an auto-clean function, preparing dinner is low fuss.
"Exceptional microwave and very versatile with the grill plate," wrote a five-star reviewer, "It is the best you can get in its category and produces fab muffins etc. Couldn't live without it".
7. Kmart 20L microwave, $52, Kmart
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Last but not least, Kmart's $48 microwave is a humble yet trusty addition to any household on a budget. With six auto-cooking menus, 10 power levels and a child safety lock, cooking or reheating meals is easy as (freshly microwaved) pie.
Is a microwave oven the same as a microwave?
"Yes, convection microwaves are a type of microwave that is also known as a microwave oven," says The Good Guys expert Nick, "This is because they both a microwave and convection oven. They have a heating element and fan inside that circulates air around the food. This can result in more even cooking while still heating quickly".
Expert-recommended microwave hacks to try
- "Microwaves are great for heating plates. Simply spray water onto your microwave-safe plate and microwave for one minute."
- "You can easily juice lemons and limes after microwaving for 10 seconds if small and 20 seconds if large."
- "You can quickly and easily toast fresh nuts for your salads. Simply put them on a plate, microwave on high for two to three minutes stirring every minute, then add them for extra crunch and flavour."
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