Best Flatbed Microwave For Thorough Cooking

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.