Joybuy Insights

Buying a Microwave: A Technical Guide for 2026

A microwave oven heats food by emitting microwaves, which cause water molecules in the food to vibrate, thereby generating heat. Choosing the right appliance depends on objective criteria such as power, cavity volume, design, and range of functions. This guide analyses the technical parameters relevant to making an informed purchasing decision.

Buyer's Guide: Technical Selection Criteria for Microwave Ovens

The decision for a specific model should be based on an analysis of your individual needs and the appliance's technical specifications.

Power in Watts

Power, measured in watts (W), is an indicator of the speed at which an appliance transfers energy to the food.

  • Up to 700 Watts: Sufficient for heating liquids and small portions, as well as for defrosting.
  • 800 Watts: A common standard that offers a good balance between speed and energy consumption for most everyday applications, such as heating ready meals or leftovers.
  • 900 Watts and above: Offer faster heating and cooking. Such appliances are often found in combination microwaves that integrate additional functions like a grill or convection.

Cavity Volume in Litres

The volume of the cavity, specified in litres (L), determines the size of the plates and containers that can fit inside the appliance.

  • Up to 20 Litres: A compact microwave of this size is designed for standard dinner plates (approx. 25-27 cm in diameter) and is suitable for individuals or couples.
  • 20 to 25 Litres: Offers more flexibility for larger plates, multiple small bowls at once, or medium-sized casserole dishes.
  • Over 25 Litres: Suitable for families or households that regularly prepare large quantities or bulky items like poultry. Models of this size are often designed as flatbed microwaves (microwaves without a turntable) to make optimal use of the rectangular space.

Design and Features

  • Freestanding Microwave: This is the most flexible type. The appliance can be placed on any stable surface and only requires a power outlet.
  • Built-in Microwave: These models are integrated flush into a kitchen cabinet, creating a seamless look in the kitchen unit.
  • Combination Microwave with Convection and Grill: These multifunctional appliances combine the microwave function with heating elements. The grill function is used for browning and crisping, while the convection function allows the appliance to work like a small oven, suitable for baking pizza or cakes.

Our Top Picks for 2026

Here is an analysis of three models with different technical focuses.

Bosch FFL023MW0 Serie 2 Microwave

Bosch FFL023MW0 Serie 2 Microwave

Why we recommend this product The Bosch FFL023MW0 is a specialised solo microwave that focuses on the core functions of heating, cooking, and defrosting. With 800 watts of power and seven predefined automatic programmes (AutoPilot 7), it offers process-controlled preparation for various dishes. It is operated via an LED display with touch controls, allowing for precise settings.

Advantages

  • Power: 800 watts, distributed across five power levels for tailored energy delivery.
  • Automatic Programmes: Seven preset programmes for preparing soups, vegetables, and other dishes.
  • Operation: LED display with touch controls and a QuickStart function for immediate operation at full power.
  • Cleaning: A hydrolytic cleaning aid simplifies cavity maintenance.

Best for This model is suitable for households looking for a reliable and easy-to-use brand-name appliance for basic microwave applications. It is a great choice for individuals and small families who value precise results from automatic programmes.

Clatronic MW 791 Microwave

Clatronic MW 791 Microwave

Why we recommend this product The Clatronic MW 791 is a microwave oven that is streamlined to the essentials. It is operated using two mechanical rotary dials for power level and time, ensuring intuitive and straightforward handling. With 700 watts of power and a 20-litre cavity, it covers the basic requirements for heating and defrosting.

Advantages

  • Simple Operation: Two rotary dials for selecting six power levels and a 30-minute timer.
  • Compact Design: With a 20-litre cavity and compact external dimensions, this appliance fits well even in smaller kitchens.
  • Functionality: Focuses on the core microwave task without complex additional programmes.
  • Value for Money: Positioned as a cost-effective solution for basic applications.

Best for This appliance is designed for users who prefer a very simple, purely functional microwave without digital displays or automatic programmes. It is a suitable option for students, for use in offices, or as a secondary appliance.

Bauknecht MF 259 SG Combination Microwave

Bauknecht MF 259 SG Combination Microwave

Why we recommend this product The Bauknecht MF 259 SG is a multifunctional combination microwave that unites microwave, grill, convection, and a steam cooking function. Its standout feature is the "ExtraSpace" technology, a flatbed microwave (without a turntable). The flat cavity floor allows the entire 25-litre volume to be used, even for rectangular casserole dishes. Functions like Crisp Fry (for crispy results) and special programmes for yoghurt or yeast dough significantly expand its range of applications.

Advantages

  • Multifunctionality: A combination of an 800W microwave, 1300W quartz grill, 1500W convection, and a steam cooking function.
  • Flexible Cavity: 25 litres of usable volume without a turntable for maximum space utilisation and easy cleaning.
  • Special Programmes: Includes a Crisp function, steam cooking, AutoClean, as well as programmes for dough proving and yoghurt making.
  • High Functionality: Serves as a supplement or potential replacement for a conventional oven in a small space.

Best for This model is aimed at demanding users, families, and home cooks looking for a versatile kitchen appliance. It is ideal for those who want to not only heat but also bake, grill, steam, and crisp-fry, and who appreciate the advantage of a flexible, turntable-free cavity.


Other Options and Accessories

In addition to the models presented, there is a wide variety of appliances with different features. A central component of many microwaves is the turntable, which ensures even heat distribution. If you are specifically looking for models with this classic feature or suitable accessories, you will find a wide selection in our turntables category.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does 800 watts mean for a microwave? A power rating of 800 watts is a standard value for modern microwave ovens. It indicates how much energy the magnetron emits per second in the form of microwaves. This power level is sufficient for most everyday tasks, such as heating food and drinks or cooking ready meals in a reasonable amount of time. Appliances with a lower wattage will take longer, while those with a higher wattage will speed up the process.

2. What are the advantages of a microwave without a turntable? A microwave without a turntable (also known as a flatbed microwave) uses technology where the microwaves are distributed by a rotating antenna system located beneath the cavity floor. The main advantage is better space utilisation: since nothing is rotating, the entire, often rectangular, cavity floor can be used. This allows for the use of large, rectangular casserole dishes. Additionally, cleaning the smooth floor is easier than cleaning a turntable and its roller ring.

3. Can a microwave with a convection function replace an oven? A combination microwave with a convection function can take over many functions of a conventional oven, especially in small kitchens or single-person households. It can bake, roast, and brown food. However, the cavity is typically smaller than that of a standard oven, which limits the preparation of very large dishes (e.g., a whole goose). For pizza, cakes, casseroles, or reheating bread rolls, it is a space-saving and energy-efficient alternative.


Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer