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Turntable-Less Microwaves: Recommendations and Buyer’s Guide

In modern kitchens, where every inch counts and versatility is prized, appliances that combine flexibility and efficiency are gaining prominence. A turntable-less microwave, often called a flatbed model, is one such solution. It not only offers more usable space for various dish shapes but is also frequently equipped with advanced features that go far beyond simply reheating food.

This article serves as your guide. It explains the key features of flatbed microwaves and presents a selection of appliances suited for different applications based on their specific characteristics.

What to Look for When Choosing a Turntable-less Microwave

Choosing the right appliance depends on your individual needs. The following points summarise the most important criteria to consider during your selection.

1. Cavity and Design: Flexibility with a Flatbed

The most obvious advantage of a flatbed microwave is the elimination of the rotating plate. Instead of a turntable that limits the usable diameter, these appliances feature a fixed ceramic or glass plate. Microwaves are distributed evenly throughout the cavity by an antenna rotating beneath the floor. This allows you to use large, rectangular, or oval cookware, such as casserole dishes, which would often get stuck or blocked in conventional models. Pay attention to the specified cavity volume (in litres) and the internal dimensions to ensure your usual cookware will fit. A freestanding turntable-less microwave also offers the advantage of being flexibly placed on your countertop.

2. Range of Functions: From Oven Replacement to Steamer

Modern appliances are often much more than just microwaves. They combine various cooking methods in a single unit, allowing them to partially replace other kitchen gadgets.

  • Combination Microwave with Convection and Grill: These models feature a convection fan and a grilling element. This allows you not only to reheat but also to bake, roast, and brown food. The combination of microwave and convection can also shorten cooking times compared to a conventional oven.
  • Microwave with Steam Function: The steam function is ideal for the nutrient-rich preparation of vegetables, fish, or dumplings. Food is cooked with hot steam, which better preserves flavours and vitamins.
  • Microwave with Crisp Function: This special function combines the grill, microwave, and a dedicated crisp plate to make foods like pizza, fries, or quiche crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside in a short amount of time.

Our Top Product Recommendations

Here, we present a selection of appliances that cover a range of needs—from multifunctional combination units to specialised models.

Bauknecht MF 259 SG: The Flexible Space-Saver

Bauknecht MF 259 SG Turntable-less Microwave

Bauknecht MF 259 SG Microwave/ExtraSpace: Turntable-less Combination/ My Menu/ Crisp Fry/ Special Programmes /Steam Function including Steamer Container/ Convection/ Quartz Grill/ Auto Clean/ 25 L

What sets this model apart The Bauknecht MF 259 SG is a prime example of a turntable-less combination microwave with convection and grill. Its "ExtraSpace" technology creates a completely flat cavity floor, making optimal use of the 25-litre interior. This appliance is designed as an all-rounder, combining microwave, grill, convection, and steam cooking.

Advantages

  • ExtraSpace Technology: The flatbed design offers maximum flexibility for any type of dish and simplifies cleaning.
  • Multi-functionality: Combines an 800-watt microwave, a 1300-watt quartz grill, and 1500-watt convection.
  • Crisp Function: Delivers crispy results in conjunction with the included crisp plate.
  • Steam Function: Enables gentle cooking with steam.
  • AutoClean Programme: A steam-based cleaning programme that simplifies the manual cleaning of the interior.
  • Special Programmes: Offers automatic programmes for yoghurt, dough proofing, melting, and more.

Who is this appliance for? This model is ideal for users who want to save space in their kitchen without sacrificing the functions of an oven or a steamer. Home cooks and families will benefit from the flexibility of the flatbed design and the wide variety of cooking options.

Bauknecht MW 304 M: The Powerful All-Rounder with Steam Function

Bauknecht MW 304 M Microwave with Grill and Steam Function

BAUKNECHT MW 304 M Microwave (900 Watt, 30L Cavity, Grill & Steam Function)

What sets this model apart Although the Bauknecht MW 304 M is equipped with a classic turntable, it presents an interesting alternative, especially for users looking for a very large cavity and a powerful microwave with a steam function. With a 30-litre volume and extensive accessories, such as a rectangular steamer container, it is designed for preparing larger quantities of food.

Advantages

  • Large Cavity:30-litre capacity offers plenty of space.
  • Powerful Combination:900-watt microwave and 1050-watt grill.
  • Integrated Steam Function: The included steamer container allows for easy and healthy preparation.
  • Extensive Auto Programmes: 23 pre-set recipes as well as functions for melting, dough proofing, and making yoghurt.
  • AutoClean Function: Uses steam to make cleaning easier.
  • Removable Turntable: The 31.5 cm turntable can be removed for cleaning.

Who is this appliance for? This model is suitable for households that need an appliance with a large capacity and a focus on steam and grill functions. Anyone who regularly cooks for several people and appreciates the convenience of automatic programmes will find this to be a fitting solution.

Other Options and Alternatives

If your main focus is on achieving extra-crispy results and you're looking for a supplement to your existing kitchen setup, an air fryer could be an alternative worth considering. These devices specialise in low-fat frying, grilling, and baking with circulating hot air.

One example is the Dreame Tasti PT60 Air Fryer. It works with glass containers, which allows for cooking without non-stick coatings, and uses a combination of 3D hot air and steam technology for juicy results.

Dreame Tasti PT60 Air Fryer

For a wider selection of convection appliances and similar kitchen gadgets, check out our Air Fryers category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How does a turntable-less microwave work?

In these models, a special antenna (stirrer) is installed beneath the flat cavity floor. This antenna rotates and distributes the microwaves evenly throughout the entire interior. This ensures that food is heated evenly without needing to rotate itself.

2. Can you use rectangular casserole dishes in a turntable-less microwave?

Yes, that is one of the main advantages. The flat, continuous floor allows for the use of rectangular, square, or oval casserole dishes and baking trays that often wouldn't fit in models with a turntable. This maximises the usable cavity space.

3. Is cleaning easier with flatbed models?

Generally, yes. Since there are no moving parts like a turntable with a roller ring, the interior is a smooth, continuous surface. Food residue and splatters can be wiped away easily. Many models, like the ones presented here, also feature special cleaning programmes (e.g., AutoClean) that use steam to loosen stubborn grime.