The best microwave ovens in Australia

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A convenient kitchen appliance, microwave ovens use microwave radiation to reheat and warm your favourite meal in an instant. A huge selection ranges from under $100 to over $1,000.

When choosing the right microwave for your needs, consider the model's value for money, functionality and user-friendliness. You should also consider its size and how much space it would consume. Additionally, view the model's cleanability and energy efficiency to save on running costs.

The team at Finder has evaluated over a hundred microwaves to help make your buying decision easier. We picked models based on customer ratings.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

Kogan 20L Microwave

Best microwave under $100

• Compact size fits neatly into small kitchens without sacrificing functionality.
• Simple, intuitive controls with student-friendly presets

Cons

• Slower than higher-powered models when cooking larger portions
• 20L capacity may be too small for some recipes
• Some users report uneven heating, especially with dense or multi-layered foods.

Buy now

The Kogan 20L Microwave (Silver) is a compact 700W microwave that punches above its weight for everyday tasks like reheating and defrosting. It's especially well suited to solo users, students and small households thanks to its space-saving design and preset cooking programs (including options for pizza, popcorn and frozen dinners).

With a generous 20L capacity, it's large enough to cook most food types, although you may need to use a smaller bird when cooking whole chickens (and turkeys are not going to fit).

On the Kogan website, it boasts an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 100 verified reviews, with 82% of users giving it a full five stars. Customers frequently praised its reliability, sleek silver finish and ease of use.

That said, it's not without trade-offs. The 700W power output means it's slower than more premium models, especially when cooking larger or denser items. Some users also note that heating can be uneven at times, particularly with thick foods.

While it's not packed with advanced features, the Kogan 20L Microwave (Silver) nails the basics and does so at a very wallet-friendly price point that is frequently discounted even further. (At the time of writing it was selling for an aburdly low $54.99.)

How do Australians rate Panasonic's microwaves?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend Panasonic

How Panasonic compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For microwaves, Panasonic was ranked 2nd for value for money, 1st for cleaning & maintenance, 2nd for cooking performance and 3rd for ease of use.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Panasonic 31L Inverter Flatbed Microwave Convection Oven with Steam Function

Best overall microwave

• Two-level cooking

Cons

• Not cheap
• May be overwhelming for non-tech-savvy users

Buy now

The Panasonic 31L Inverter Flatbed Microwave Convection Oven with Steam Function is our pick as the best overall microwave, earning a 4.4 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Bing Lee.

This top-tier appliance offers the ultimate convenience with two-level cooking and combination cooking options and 36 Auto programs that save you precious time in the kitchen. The high-density steaming feature emits approximately 1.7x more steam than previous models, allowing your food to reach higher temperatures faster and ensuring perfect steaming conditions.

However, no product is perfect. The NNCS89L could improve its water tank design, as the inbuilt 800ml removable water tank can be slightly cumbersome to handle. Additionally, some users have found the flat heater a little challenging to clean due to its design.

How do Australians rate Panasonic's microwaves?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend Panasonic

How Panasonic compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For microwaves, Panasonic was ranked 2nd for value for money, 1st for cleaning & maintenance, 2nd for cooking performance and 3rd for ease of use.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Westinghouse 23L Stainless Steel Microwave Oven

Best cheap microwave

• Won’t break the bank

Cons

• Only 6 presets
• May not suit bigger families

Buy now

The Westinghouse WMF2302SA 23L Countertop 800W Microwave Oven is a fantastic budget-friendly option, offering a raft of features that combine functionality, style, and safety.

Rated at 4.4 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online, it's clear that this appliance is a crowd-pleaser. Its seamless design integration will blend effortlessly into your existing kitchen ensemble.

The versatile cooking options, from multistage cooking to time and weight defrosting, offer convenience and flexibility in meal preparation. Furthermore, it sports an easy-clean, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior, meaning those pesky smudges won't be an issue. A child safety lock adds security, preventing unintentional operation by children.

However, it's worth noting that with a 23L capacity, it might not cater to larger families or bulk cooking. And while the 6 pre-set programs certainly add convenience, more advanced cooks might find them limiting.

Panasonic 34L Convection Microwave Oven

Best convection microwave

• 7 Junior Menu Options

Cons

• Requires frequent cleaning
• May be too bulky for some

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The Panasonic 34L Convection Microwave Oven undoubtedly stands out as the best convection microwave in the market.

With an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating on Appliances Online and Amazon, it's evident that customers are delighted with its performance. The Easy One Push Reheating function takes the guesswork out of reheating leftovers, and the Genius Sensor Auto Program, with its 7 Junior Menu Options, ensures that meals are perfectly cooked and reheated every time.

The Inverter Microwave Technology is a game-changer, offering precise cooking and defrosting control while cooking food evenly. The simultaneous combination cooking, which allows for grilling or convection baking in conjunction with Inverter Microwave cooking, is a handy feature. And for bread enthusiasts, the Freshly Baked Taste with Re-Bake Bread Program delivers bread that tastes as if it's straight from the bakery.

However, it's worth noting that the microwave's large size may not be suitable for compact kitchens. Moreover, while sleek and stylish, its full stainless steel design may require frequent cleaning to maintain its shine.

How do Australians rate Panasonic's microwaves?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend Panasonic

How Panasonic compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For microwaves, Panasonic was ranked 2nd for value for money, 1st for cleaning & maintenance, 2nd for cooking performance and 3rd for ease of use.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

LG Neochef 42L Smart Inverter Microwave Oven

Best inverter microwave

• 1200W power

Cons

• Controls are too sensitive for some
• Tempered glass door requires extra care

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For the best inverter option, we recommend LG's Neochef 42L Smart Inverter Microwave Oven, earning a noteworthy 4.3 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online.

Its 42L capacity makes it perfect for families and large meals, ensuring no one goes hungry during family gatherings or dinner parties. The Smart Inverter technology is a real game-changer, offering precise temperature control and even heating, eliminating those pesky cold spots in your food.

It features a sleek black stainless steel finish, adding a modern touch to any kitchen. Not to mention, its Easy Touch Controls and Tempered Glass Door echo its overall user-friendly design. With 1200W of power, this microwave guarantees fast cooking, meaning less time waiting and more time enjoying your meals.

The Anti-Bacterial EasyClean Interior Coating is a fantastic preventative measure, ensuring your microwave stays clean and hygienic. The Stable Turntable minimises rocking, making for smoother operation. The LG Smart Inverter™ further provides even heating and superior defrosting.

As with any product, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. For one, it's pretty bulky, which may not be ideal for smaller kitchens. Additionally, some users found the exterior marks easily.

How do Australians rate LG's microwaves?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend LG

How LG compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For microwaves, LG was ranked 5th for value for money, 2nd for cleaning & maintenance, 2nd for cooking performance and 1st for ease of use.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Panasonic 31L Inverter Flatbed Microwave Convection Oven with Steam Function

Best flatbed microwave

• Two-level cooking

Cons

• Not cheap
• May be overwhelming for non-tech-savvy users

Buy now

The Panasonic 31L Inverter Microwave Oven with Steam Function NN-CS89LBQPQ is also our choice for the best flatbed microwave on the market. It boasts a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Bing Lee.

One key feature that sets this microwave oven apart is its ultimate convenience. The 2-level and combination cooking options offer flexibility and ease of use for various dishes.

The 36 auto programs are another highlight, significantly reducing prep time in the kitchen. The high-density steaming feature, which uses two outlets to produce approximately 1.7x more steam than the previous model, ensures that your food reaches higher temperatures faster and in perfect conditions. Impressively, it comes with an inbuilt 800ml removable water tank.

However, the control panel touch panel may seem a bit overwhelming to those who are not tech-savvy. Secondly, the sheer number of cooking programs, while generally a plus, can also be a bit confusing to navigate for first-time users.

How do Australians rate Panasonic's microwaves?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend Panasonic

How Panasonic compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For microwaves, Panasonic was ranked 2nd for value for money, 1st for cleaning & maintenance, 2nd for cooking performance and 3rd for ease of use.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Inalto 20L 700W Microwave Oven

Best small microwave

• Great value for money

Cons

• No quick start function
• No adjustable rack

Buy now

The Inalto 20L Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for those searching for the best small microwave on the market. Rated at an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars on Bing Lee, this microwave stands out for its compact size and formidable power.

Equipped with 6 preset cooking menus, it takes the guesswork out of preparing everything from veggies to popcorn. The defrost function, which can be set by weight or time, makes it easy to prepare frozen meals in a jiffy.

But the list of features conspicuously lacks a quick start function, which might be a valuable asset for those in constant rush. Another con is that it doesn't come with an adjustable rack, which can limit its versatility for some users.

However, these downsides are easily overlooked when considering the impressive specs of this microwave. Its 20L capacity and 11 power levels provide ample space and options for different cooking needs.

LG Neochef 42L Smart Inverter Microwave Oven

Best large-capacity microwave

• 1200W power

Cons

• Controls are too sensitive for some
• Tempered glass door requires extra care

Buy now

The LG Neochef 42L Smart Inverter Microwave Oven is also our pick for the best large microwave. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online.

Ideal for families and preparing large meals, its generous 42L capacity doesn't compromise performance. The appliance leverages Smart Inverter technology, providing precise temperature control for even heating your dishes.

There's an emphasis on ease of use, with the Sensor Cook technology automatically adjusting cooking time and power based on the type of food. Maintenance is equally stress-free, thanks to the EasyClean interior. The sleek black stainless steel finish adds a touch of modern elegance to any kitchen.

For quick-cooking enthusiasts, the 1200W power ensures a speedy meal prep. Its Anti-Bacterial EasyClean Interior Coating enhances hygiene, while the Stable Turntable minimises any rocking during operation.

Overall, the LG Neochef is a reliable and efficient choice for any kitchen; however, a few users have reported that the Easy Touch Controls can be somewhat sensitive to touch, and the tempered glass door might need extra care while handling.

Breville the Combi Wave 3 in 1

Best microwave air fryer combo

• 12.4-inch turntable

Cons

• No steam function
• Not fingerprint-resistant

Buy now

The Breville the Combi Wave™ 3 in 1 is our pick for the best microwave with an air fryer, garnering an impressive 4.3 out of 5 stars on Bing Lee.

Exhibiting a sleek stainless steel design and an easy-to-read LCD, this 3-in-1 microwave serves as a convection oven, air fryer, and microwave. It simplifies cooking with its smart settings for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, and vegetables. The large 12.4-inch turntable ensures even heating, and its child lock safety feature provides an added layer of safety.

Plus, this microwave is incredibly easy to install and has a quick start function, making it perfect for busy individuals or families. However, while the Combi Wav offers many features and capabilities, there are a few potential downsides.

For one, this microwave does not have a steaming function or an adjustable rack, limiting its versatility in some cooking tasks. Additionally, it is not fingerprint-resistant, making cleaning more challenging.

How do Australians rate Breville's microwaves?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend Breville

How Breville compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For microwaves, Breville was ranked 5th for value for money, 5th for cleaning & maintenance, 5th for cooking performance and 4th for ease of use.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Save on microwaves with these deals and discounts:

Microwave sale from $99

Shop and save on microwave ovens and built-in microwaves including conventional, inverter, sensor and convection microwaves from leading brands such as Panasonic, Samsung, LG, and more. T&Cs apply.

Up to 41% off Microwaves

Get up to 41% off microwaves with brands like Cuisinart, Panasonic, Kleenmaid, and more while stocks last. Limited time only. T&Cs apply.

How did we pick this list?

• Coffee
• Healthy Choice
• Kmart
• Kogan
• LG
• Maxim
• Midea
• Miele
• Morphy Richards
• Panasonic
• Russell & Hobbs
• Samsung
• Sharp
• Westinghouse
• Whirlpool

We narrowed down our choices based on customer ratings and reviews from the past year. We also considered each model's key product features like value for money, functionality and user-friendliness. We came up with what we believe are the 9 best microwaves available online.

How to compare microwaves

When it comes to microwaves, there's a huge range of prices, from less than a hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

When comparing microwaves, consider the following features:

Functionality

What do you want to use your microwave for? If all you need is something to warm up last night's leftovers, you'll probably be happy with a conventional microwave. If you'd like something that will grill or bake as well, you'll need to consider a microwave with multiple functions.

Its place in your kitchen

All types of microwaves, other than conventional microwaves, require professional installation into a specific location in your kitchen. Conventional microwaves can be plugged in and used immediately. However, they tend to take up a lot of bench space.

Your mobility

Some microwaves are ideally suited to people with mobility issues. For example, if you have arthritis in your hands, you'll want to look for a microwave with large buttons that are easy to use.

Power

The lower the wattage, the cheaper the microwave. However, what you'll save in money, you'll lose in power. Generally, microwaves between 900 and 1,000 watts will get the job done well. Anything below 700 watts will struggle to heat your food effectively.

Energy efficiency

A less powerful microwave might suit you better if you're concerned about energy efficiency. Note that most microwaves use about the same amount of electricity as a stove-top element to do the same job. Microwaves use less power than a traditional oven to do the same job.

New or second-hand?

The average microwave lasts at least 10 years. So if you want a quality microwave but are strapped for cash, consider buying one second-hand. If you can, test the microwave before you buy it to make sure it still works as it should.

What are the different types of microwaves?

There are 3 main types of microwaves: conventional, convection and built-in.

• Conventional. A conventional microwave is ideal if you want to use your microwave just for reheating or defrosting. This is the most common and cheapest type of microwave.
• Convection. A convection microwave might suit you if you want a microwave with a greater range of cooking options.
• Built-in. As the name suggests, built-in microwaves don't sit on your kitchen's countertop, but instead need to be installed. A built-in microwave has the most cooking options, including convection and grilling. These are usually the most expensive type of microwave.

Where can I put a microwave?

The type of microwave you should get depends on where you plan to put it in your kitchen. Check out the following options:

Freestanding microwaves

Freestanding microwaves are the traditional microwaves that stand on your countertop. They are usually used for heating, reheating and defrosting food as well as cooking simple meals.

• Require no specialist installation.
• Usually the cheapest type of microwave.
• Have a limited range of cooking functions.
• Cooking times can vary greatly depending on how powerful the microwave is.

Built-in microwaves

You might consider buying a built-in microwave if you are remodelling or building your kitchen since this type of microwave must be installed. Built-in microwaves usually come with conventional microwave functions as well as grill and convection functions.

• Keeps your kitchen countertops clear.
• Usually comes with a wide range of cooking options.
• Cannot be placed anywhere – must have a specific location in the kitchen.
• More expensive than freestanding microwaves.

Over-the-range microwave

Over-the-range microwaves fit over the top of your range and have several different functions beyond the conventional microwave.

• Multi-function – many over-the-range microwaves operate as lights and vents for your stovetop.
• Conveniently located if you need to use it while you are cooking.
• Must be a specific size to fit over the stovetop.
• May require professional installation.

Drawer microwaves

A drawer microwave is exactly what it sounds like – a microwave in a drawer that slides in and out of the wall.

• Very economical on space.
• Can be designed to look like another drawer in your kitchen.

• Not easy to install.
• One of the more expensive types of microwaves.

How to clean a microwave

We've all had the unpleasant experience of opening a microwave to find caked-on food splattered across the interior. But don't panic. We have you covered with our best tips for cleaning a microwave, including some you may not have thought of before.

1. Spray and wipe. Simply use a cleaning spray of your choice and wipe it off with a cloth or paper towel.
2. Steam with paper towels. If you need to get rid of caked-on grime, place a handful of wet paper towels in your microwave and set the microwave to run for a few minutes. The steam from the heated paper towels will loosen the grime and can usually be wiped straight off.
3. Try the lemon method. Cut a lemon in half and place the cut side down on a plate along with a small amount of water. Microwave on high for a minute then remove the plate with the lemons and wipe the microwave clean.
4. Use dishwashing liquid. Half fill a bowl with warm water and add a generous amount of dishwashing liquid. Run the microwave for a minute on high. Remove the bowl and use a cloth to wipe the inside of the microwave.
5. Experiment with other methods. You can use similar methods described above using other cleaning products such as vinegar, baking soda or window cleaner. Although you can use baking soda and vinegar together, be aware that they react when combined and will fizz strongly.
6. Stay away from bleach. Don't use bleach to clean your microwave. It's not necessary, as microwaves generally don't get stained, and it can damage the plastic parts of your microwave.

Best microwave bonus features

Where possible, look out for microwaves with the following handy features:

• Pre-set cooking programs for different foods
• An automatic defrost setting
• Automatic sensor heating

• A child lock
• A removable plate and rack
• Self-cleaning functionality
• LCD dials and screens
• A keypad to set exact cooking times

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a convection microwave differ from a traditional one?

Unlike a traditional microwave, which only uses microwaves to heat or cook food, a convection microwave also has a heating element and a fan to circulate hot air around the food for even cooking and browning.

What are some advantages of a convection microwave?

Convection microwaves offer the quick heating of a microwave with the baking and roasting capabilities of a convection oven. They are versatile and can save time and energy.

Are there any downsides to using a convection microwave?

While convection microwaves offer many benefits, they can have a steeper learning curve due to their multiple cooking methods. Additionally, they tend to be more expensive than traditional microwaves.

What should be considered when buying a convection microwave?

Consider factors like the size of the appliance, the available space in your kitchen, and the power output - higher wattage means faster cooking and the available features and settings to suit your cooking preferences.

Which is the best microwave oven?

We picked the Samsung 28L Sensor Microwave Oven as the best overall microwave oven.

Which brand of microwave is best?

At the 2021 Finder. Retails Awards, customers picked LG as the best-rated microwave brand. It was ranked 1 for overall rating, 2 for cleaning and maintenance, 2 for cooking performance and 1 for ease of use.

How does a microwave work?

A microwave oven uses microwaves produced inside the appliance by a magnetron or electron tube. The waves are then reflected inside the metal interior and absorbed by food for heating.

What is an inverter microwave?

An inverter microwave allows the magnetron to run continuously, altering the amount of radiation that comes out depending on your chosen program.

What is a convection microwave?

A convection microwave combines the power of both a microwave and a convection oven so you can bake, roast and heat food.

Can I bake using a microwave oven?

You can bake tasty dishes as long as your microwave has a convection oven function.

Do I need to preheat my microwave oven?

You don't need to preheat your microwave for reheating purposes. For convection cooking, preheating is ideal.

When were microwave ovens invented?

Raytheon engineer Percy Spencer invented the microwave in 1945.

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