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Australian customers have chosen Samsung as the best brand for microwaves, with 94% of users recommending the brand. Getting the highest overall score, Samsung microwaves got high ratings for ease of use, build quality and cooking performance. The company is also the Finder Retail Award winner for the best brand for TVs and top mount fridges.
There are three main types of microwaves: conventional, convection and built-in.
The type of microwave you should get depends on where you plan to put it in your kitchen. Check out the following options:
Free-standing 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.
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.
Over-the-range microwaves fit over the top of your range and have several different functions beyond the conventional microwave.
A drawer microwave is exactly what it sounds like – a microwave in a drawer that slides in and out of the wall.
When it comes to microwaves, there's a huge range of prices – from less than AUD$100 through to several thousand dollars.
When comparing microwaves, consider the following features:
What do you want to use your microwave for? If all you need is something to warm up last night's left-overs, 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.
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.
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.
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 1000 watts will get the job done well. Anything below 700 watts will struggle to heat your food effectively.
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.
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.
Check out our picks for the best microwaves
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.
