A Modern Kitchen has found the best flatbed microwave for your kitchen. After all, knowing the difference between all the types is important. This is whether you want a simple turntable microwave, a more complex and combination microwave, or a flatbed microwave that cooks food more evenly. When shopping around for the best microwave, it is important to know what you're looking for.
Often overlooked, flatbed microwaves don't have a turntable that we've become so familiar with as they heat from the bottom via a rotating antenna instead, which sends out the microwaves at different angles in order to cook your food more evenly. They offer a bigger capacity than other microwaves and are much more versatile, as you can place dishes of any shape inside. If you're looking for something counter-space-friendly, perhaps a small microwave is best.
The Best Flatbed Microwave At A Glance:
• Best for value: Russell Hobbs RHEM2301S 23L Easi Flatbed Digital 800w Solo Microwave, WAS £144.99, NOW £119, Amazon UK
• Best for smaller households: Sharp 20L Digital Flatbed Microwave with Grill, £119, Appliances Direct
• Best for programme variety: Panasonic 1000W Standard Flatbed Microwave NN-SF464M, WAS £200 NOW £180, Argos
What is a flatbed microwave, you ask? A flatbed microwave looks and performs just as well as a regular microwave but uses a different technology that evenly distributes heat, so it doesn't need to have a turntable. This means you'll have extra cooking space, and it's easier to clean. The increase in capacity means that flatbed microwaves are a little more expensive. Do the pros outweigh the cons? That's for you to decide with our buyer's guide.
We've rounded up all the perks you can get from a flatbed microwave and the best available to shop right now. In times when we're all feeling the pinch, we're here to get you the best deals on appliances for your kitchen. Luckily, a microwave is one of many spectacular energy-saving appliances, saving you dosh on your monthly bills.
Best Flatbed Microwaves
Best for value
As well as being a great brand at a great price, this Russell Hobbs RHEM2301S 23L Easi Flatbed Digital 800w Solo Microwave is simple and easy to use, with just four simple buttons that allow you to Microwave, Defrost, Start and Stop/Cancel.
From almost 1,500 reviews, this Russell Hobbs (good value) pick has garnered an average rating of 4.7/5 stars, with many reviews praising the simplicity of this microwave. Though expected of a budget-friendly pick, it's nice to see that Russell Hobbs has made their appliances user-friendly for all - with basic controls and even a defrost. Like most microwaves, it's easy to clean and roomy enough to fit larger dishes with no hassle. Ideal.
Are there any negatives? A customer did find the control a little panel cheaply made.
This means there are no auto-cook or pre-programmed features to worry about. It's perfect for those who want a simple but effective microwave that will last years.
Pros
- Simple settings
- LED light
- Easy to clean
Cons
- No bells and whistles
| Dimensions: | 57 x 44.5 x 37.2 cm |
| Capacity: | 23 litres |
- 800 watts
- Auto Cook
- Defrost
- Easy clean
Editor's Choice
With a sleek finish and appealing look, this Russell Hobbs Silver Digital Flatbed Solo Microwave includes an impressive array of functions, with five power levels, eight auto-cook menus, an automatic defrost, and a clock and a timer. The 23-litre capacity means that there is plenty of room for square plates and casserole dishes, but it is not too bulky to fit neatly on your countertop.
From over 800 reviews, this Russell Hobbs Microwave has averaged a 4.6/5 star rating on Amazon UK, which is super impressive. There are many positives to this pick, with customers praising the appearance, size and quality. Many love how sleek and modern it looks - and appreciate the larger inside for larger meals and portions. It's simple to use and clean. One customer commented that it's not trying to be anything other than a microwave - so easy!
That being said, there are a few mixed opinions about heating and value. Plus, a few customers said it may need a little more polishing due to mucky fingerprints.
We especially love the pre-programmed auto-cook menus, such as pizza, fish, and popcorn, that allow you to cook all your favourite foods at the push of a button.
Pros
- Sleek finish
- Touch screen
- Pre-programmed
Cons
- Be careful of fingerprint marks
| Dimensions: | H30.2 x W50.2 x D42.2 |
| Capacity: | 23 litres |
- Auto Cook
- Timer
- Defrost
- 800W Microwave Power
- Flatbed Technology
- Defrost Setting
- Diamond Cavity
- Clock & Digital Timer
- Black Housing with Mirror Finish Door
Best for smaller households
www.appliancesdirect.co.uk
A compact flatbed microwave is hard to come by, but this Sharp 20L Digital Flatbed Microwave with Grill is the smallest that we've come across, although it still delivers 20 litres, which means you don't have to sacrifice entirely on space. What about the reviews?
With a four-star average, this Sharp pick is good but not perfect. It's attractive to look at, too. The reviewer says the quality and value of the microwave well. Any negative?
As for negatives, the review gives one suggestion: the control buttons are quite small - and difficult to read on a black background - however, it may take a little while to get used to.
As well as being compact enough for smaller kitchens, it also has 12 automatic programmes, including defrosting. It's perfect for smaller households and kitchens.
Pros
- Small and compact
- Easy to use
- 10 levels of power
Cons
- Control buttons are quite small, hard to read
| Dimensions: | H27.2 x W45.7 x D39.1 cm |
| Capacity: | 20 litre |
- 10 Levels of power
- 12 Automatic Programmes, including defrost
- 20 usable capacity
- 800w max power
Best for programme variety
www.argos.co.uk
This Panasonic 1000W Standard Flatbed Microwave NN-SF464M is simple to use and comes with a huge 18 programmes for all your cooking needs, from soup to chicken, fish, and pudding. There's even a Turbo Defrost setting, meaning you can cut down the defrost time.
From over 300 customer reviews, this Panasonic has received an exceptional 4.8/5 star average - which we are very impressed by. Many customers are happy with this high-quality pick, with a quick and easy function - alongside recipes to try, too. They love that it can hold more than one dish and, as ever, the service from AO is exceptional. One customer commented that it's easy to use, and set up and is at a great price. What's not to love?
Some customers found the auto-cook set-up a little fiddly, as it suggests adding in weight before you start heating. Though this helps the microwave understand what power setting and for how long it needs to cook, we can understand why it's a slight inconvenience. Have your kitchen scales to hand to make things a little more seamless, we say.
As well as the impressive programs and 5 power levels, the acrylic lining also makes cleaning easy. If you've got a larger family, the 27-litre capacity of this microwave will suit all kinds of mealtimes. It's perfect for large families who require some programme variety.
Pros
- Big capacity for large plates
- Impressive programmes
- Quiet when in use
Cons
- Need to input weight before using auto cook, which can be a little fiddly
| Dimensions: | H32.6, W52.9, D43cm |
| Capacity: | 27 litres |
- Child safety lock
- Flat bed
- Weight 20kg
- Interior made from Metal
- Exterior made from Silver
- 1m cable
Best for ease of use
donaghybros.co.uk
Delivering a sturdy build (we love the handle) and great performance, this Sharp R360SLM 900W 23 Litre Standard Flatbed Microwave from Sharp is great for smaller households with fewer people to cook for. But, what are the reviews saying? Unfortunately, there are no customer reviews at the Donaghy Bros website, but previous listings say:
It's easy to use, easy to clean, and cooks very well. Overall, it is recommended.
Any negatives? Though some customers said it was noisy, it does need to vent after cooking has finished. Some reviews said that the touchpad was not responsive, but may be due to pressing the button in the wrong place. So, this may not be user-friendly for all.
It has simple, clear buttons and auto-programmes that include jacket potatoes and rice. This small but powerful bit of kit will aim to become your kitchen's best friend.
Pros
- Powerful with large capacity
- Not complicated to use
- With a defrost function
Cons
- A little noisy for some
| Dimensions: | 287mm x 490mm x 385mm |
| Capacity: | 23 litres |
- 900w Power
- 5 Power Levels
- Defrost Function
- Auto programmes
OUR VERDICT: Which Is The Best Flatbed Microwave?
Russell Hobbs Silver Digital Flatbed Solo Microwave takes the top spot for us as a microwave that not only looks sleek and modern but delivers excellent cooking capabilities and easy cleaning. It's designed to fit into any kitchen design and has so much to offer, whether you're looking for auto-programmes that make life easier or just need space to microwave a large plate of food. This microwave has got your back, and have we mentioned how simple it is to wipe clean?
Flatbed Microwave FAQs
What To Consider When Buying A Flatbed Microwave
Capacity
Microwave capacity varies from around 17L to over 32L. For larger households, look for at least 27L, but the turntable size and interior height are more important than capacity. Flatbed microwaves are usually bigger, so make sure you have the space on your kitchen sides. Or why not go for a built-in or integrated microwave for a seamless look?
Cooking functions and programmes
Not all flatbed microwaves are built the same, and some offer more cooking functions than others. Some flatbed picks may also have combination microwave capabilities. Consider which you will actually use and make use of, especially if you intend to use it more than or instead of your oven. The most used microwave functions are reheating, defrosting, and sensor cooking.
Touch panels
Some microwaves have digital touch panels that are clearer to read and easier to clean than buttons or knobs. However, buttons are simpler to use than touch panels.
Budget
Finally, budgets come into play. If you're looking for a microwave for under £100, it's unlikely you're going to find a flatbed appliance. However, there are budget-friendlier models if you're not wanting to fork out too much dosh. Prices will vary from brand to merchant. It's our job to find the best deals - and we certainly have done our best.
Our microwave buyer's guide explains all the possible functions and how to find the best microwave for you.
Are Flatbed Microwaves Noisier?
Yes, the noise of a flatbed microwave is louder than other microwaves, but it is not overly noticeable.
What Are The Benefits Of A Flatbed Microwave?
As a flatbed microwave doesn't have a turntable, you're not limited in what shape of dish you can put inside.
They often have a larger capacity compared to normal microwaves.
You can heat two or three dishes at once.
Flatbed microwaves have an even surface area that cooks food more evenly.
They are much easier to clean as they have a flat surface.
Hannah Mellin is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens, A Modern Kitchen, Yours and Take A Break. She has been working in the Journalism industry for over a decade and has written for an array of brands including John Lewis, Daily Mirror and Grazia. When she's not writing, researching or testing products, she's renovating her Victorian terrace and chilling in the garden with her sausage dog Waffle.