Last Updated on February 28, 2024 by Mosabbir
The basic/solo microwave has come far since it first came into being on the kitchen counter.
It has since become the stable part for any student residence and a tool to save time when cooking.
Most of these appliances work well in heating time to cook food and space taken on the cabinetry or counter. Also, they have unique styles and designs.
What is a Basic/Solo Microwave Oven?
The basic/solo microwave oven is equipped with the most basic options that reheat, cook, and defrost different foods but don’t have the other functions to grill or bake.
It comes with the magnetron that produces microwaves that bombard food items stored inside a microwave.
The water molecules vigorously vibrate inside the food by the impact of the microwave, making food get cooked.
It also uses the sensor function to ensure the food receives the right amount of energy at the correct time.
What Can You Cook in a Basic Microwave?
The basic microwave can cook food, such as popcorn, pasta, rice, or brew milk, tea, or coffee. This is facilitated with the jog dials, which allow you to adjust cooking according to your requirement.
You can also use it to reheat frozen foods and drinks because of the power defrost, enabling you to evenly and quickly defrost them. Foods that need simple preparation can be prepared.
This includes cooking fried eggs, rehydrating stale bread, and toasting spices and nuts. On the other hand, you can use it to melt butter or chocolate and steam vegetables.
This is made easy because it has an easy-to-clean and anti-bacterial coating, making it easy to clean and prevent bacterial growth.
How to Choose a Basic Microwave?
Material: The material used to make the basic microwave is supposed to be durable and sturdy. Before you decide to choose, investigate all its parts to ensure they meet the necessary standards. Also, the design matters more which means, you need to look for a stylish appliance.
Power: The power of a basic digital microwave is measured in watts. If the wattage is high, the microwave will be powerful and fast, and it will be evenly cooking food. However, many microwaves available today have a power output of 500 to 1000 watts. Which option works best will depend on how you are planning to use the device.
Sensors: Some cheap basic microwave oven UK have sensors, which automatically adjust the power level and cooking time-based on the amount of moisture detected in the food.
The sensors help ensure uneven cooking and prevent overcooking, so you don’t get caught in undercooked or overdone meats or dishes with cold spots.
Therefore, when buying the basic microwave, you need to consider the sensors.
Flatbed/Turntables: When choosing the best basic microwave, you need to decide about this. Turntables can be round, rectangular, movable, or rotate circularly. They are designed to make food keep moving for smoother cooking. On the other hand flatbed has its unique benefits. So if you have interest in flatbed microwave, you can get it too depending on your need.
Also read: Flatbed Microwave Vs Turntable Microwave
Most turntables need to be removable to ensure easy cleaning and dishwasher safe to remove food stains. When shopping one, make sure the turntable is big enough to accommodate microwave dishes, favorite microwave foods, and dinner plates.
Large dishes, such as casseroles, can perfectly fit the rectangular turntable.
Capacity: You can measure the capacity of a microwave in cubic feet. Generally, if the cubic feet is more, the microwave will be bigger. The smallest model can have a capacity of 0.5 cubic feet, and the largest one can have two cubic feet. If you want baking or grilling function in your oven check out this best combination microwave with grill in UK
The most used basic digital microwaves are within 1-2 cubic feet. It can be difficult to determine whether a microwave oven can meet your needs by looking at the cubic feet.
The best measurement might be the interior size. Ensure the door is wide and high enough to accommodate your most frequently used basic microwave oven Uk items.
Our Best Basic Microwave Reviews
1. Samsung MS23F301TAS Silver Basic Solo Microwave Oven
Samsung has come up with this microwave oven that replaces ready-to-heat convenience foods with healthy homemade meals.
It has a smooth ceramic interior, which does not discolor or scratch over time and is easy to clean. The scratch-resistant and anti-bacterial lining make it easy to maintain and durable.
THE Samsung MS23F301TAS microwave features a black glass front with a hairline pattern exterior with crystal blue display, crystal blue display, and matching handle, which makes it appear.
In addition, there is the ECO Mode setting that offers the least standby power consumption to save on the energy bills.
Also, it has a triple distribution system, delivered through three slots in an oven cavity for more accurate heat distribution and broader coverage.
Pros
- Easy to maintain
- Easy to clean
- Anti-bacterial and scratch-resistant
- Accurate heat distribution
- Significantly reduce the power usage
Cons
- It comes with no instructions
2. Russell Hobbs RHM2076B Digital Basic Microwave
If you are looking for a microwave with an attractive mirror door finish and super stylish black color, then go for Russell Hobbs RHM2076B microwave.
It comes with a removable glass turntable and wipeable painted interior that is dishwasher safe and easy to clean. You will get the pre-programmed auto feature, which cooks menus like pizza, popcorn, and fish, allowing you to cook at a push of the button
The pre-set function and handy digital clock are crucial because they allow you to know when the food is ready and keep track of cooking time.
Russell Hobbs RHM2076B microwave has a 20-liter cavity capacity that comfortably fits the glass turntable and the standard dinner plate. Similarly, it comes with five microwave power levels, which you can choose to make sure all foods are cooked to a perfect temperature.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- It is dishwasher safe
- Safe for children use
- Easy to use
- Looks very sleek
Cons
- Internal space is very small
3. Panasonic NN-ST45KWBPQ 32 liters Solo Microwave Oven
You can now discover the joy of healthy and fresh cooking using Panasonic NN-ST45KWBPQ Solo Microwave. It has precise power control, which can ensure the evenly cooking of dishes.
Thanks to the big capacity of 32 liters and the spacious glass turntable of 34cm that offer more flexibility to use larger plates and dishes for cooking for an entire family.
Panasonic NN-ST45KWBPQ microwave comes with three automatic programs, which is easy to conjure delicious meals like vegetable puree, porridge, and fruit puree for little ones.
In addition, the Inverter Technology is paramount because it helps you defrost and heat the most sensitive food evenly in a record time.
It has an advanced sensor that automatically sets the best time and measures the steam level inside the microwave.
Pros
- Ensure a healthy cooking
- It has a large capacity to ensure more flexibility
- Easy to conjure up the delicious meals
- Easy to defrost and heat most sensitive foods
- Easy to clean
- The controls are straightforward and clear
Cons
- It is very expensive
4. Sharp YC-MS01U-S Manual Basic Solo Microwave Oven
The advantage of the Sharp YC-MS01U-S microwave is that it can handle different cooking requirements at once.
It features the manual control panel, allowing you to set cooking times to about 35 minutes to make sure the food is cooked well. There is the defrost functionality that allows you to adjust the time and choose the weight accordingly.
Sharp YC-MS01U-S microwave has a 20-liter capacity, which can easily hold the standard-sized dinner plate.
On the other hand, it comes with flat contours with an easy-to-clean design to ensure easy wiping and cleaning. Moreover, the model comes with a sleek silver finish and handleless design, ensuring simple and contemporary aesthetics.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Has a wide range of cooking requirements
- It is sleek
- Perfect to any kitchen
- Cook food perfectly
Cons
- Poor customer service
5. Panasonic NN-E28JMMBPQ Silver Compact Solo Microwave
Do you want a microwave model that can easily cook fresh fish and vegetables to ensure a healthy life?
Then, go for the Panasonic NN-E28JMMBPQ microwave because it has a power of 800 W to let you enjoy your delicious meals within no time.
For one thing, it comes with nine auto programs, which include auto reheat and auto defrost for foods like fresh fish and jacket potatoes.
There is a child safety lock that helps to protect the little fingers from any harm. Thanks to the 30 seconds program, which can assist you in setting the cooking time quickly in a 30-second increment. Check out our Panasonic microwave oven reviews.
Similarly, the Panasonic NN-E28JMMBPQ microwave has five available power settings that allow you to choose the correct cooking method for the meal.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Food is cooked quickly and evenly
- Protect your little fingers from any harm
- Daily cooking routine is made simple
- Easy to clean
- Compact and versatile
Cons
- It is very small
6. Samsung MS23F301TAK 800W Solo Microwave
There is nothing good than having a perfectly cooked dish in every meal. This is achieved with the Samsung MS23F301TAK microwave with three heat distribution areas to enjoy consistently even and thorough cooking.
In like manner, it comes with a ceramic enamel interior, which is exceptionally smooth to make it easy to clean.
The model has a highly scratch and rust-resistant surface, so it will not discolor over time.
In addition, there is the ECO Mode, which helps to reduce the standby power and save money on the energy bills. Likewise, it comes with a memory function that allows you to store the cooking power and time necessary to cook your favorite foods.
Pros
- Saves on energy bills
- Help you enjoy consistently even and thorough cooking
- Scratch and rust-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Defrost frozen foods very fast
- It ensures a healthy cooking
Cons
- Difficult to use
- The internal light is very dim
7. Russell Hobbs RHM2017 20 Litres Silver Digital Microwave
Those people who want a perfect model for use in the kitchen can use the Russell Hobbs RHM2017 microwave.
It has a 20-liter capacity, which comfortably fits the dinner plate that has the standard size. Thanks to the dishwasher safe and removable glass turntable that makes it easy to clean.
Russell Hobbs RHM2017 microwave comes with a pre-programmed auto feature that cooks menus, like pizza (reheat), popcorn, and fish, allowing you to cook all the favorite foods with just the button push.
In addition, there are five microwave power levels, which enable you to tailor the cooking experience.
What is more, it has automatic defrost settings that allow you to choose the right defrost time, hence saving you effort and time.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- It is dishwasher safe
- Provide convenient and quick cooking
- Safe for children use
- Compact and stylish
- Easy to use
Cons
- It has a poor design
- It does not last for long
8. Swan SM22090COPN 800W Digital Solo Microwave
Now you can enjoy ultimate convenience when cooking with Swan SM22090COPN microwave.
It comes with a capacity of 20 liters, which is suitable for the standard dinner plate of 9 inches.
The cooking end signal and a 60-minute digital timer are important because they allow you to continue with many pressing tasks as the food cooks.
The model features a stylish copper finish, stainless steel handle, and mirrored door, making it stylish and functional.
In addition, it has five powerful cooking levels and defrosts setting, which lets you cook ingredients straight from the freezer to ensure maximum efficiency and convenience when cooking.
Furthermore, the swan SM22090COPN microwave comes with a tempered glass turntable, allowing even cooking and easy cleaning.
Pros
- It has a sleek style
- You can track time as you cook
- It is family-friendly
- Convenient to use
- Easy to clean
- Easy to use
Cons
- It has poor customer service
9. Beko MOC20200C 20L 800W Solo Retro Microwave
Beko MOC20200C microwave is unique because it has retro styling that adds a stylish finish to the kitchen.
Furthermore, it comes with the pre-set menu functions that automatically set the cooking time, saving time for cooking. In addition, there is a digital display that makes it easy to read.
Beko MOC20200C microwave comes with a bold color, making it prominent while adding the style touch to any kitchen.
Besides, it has a compact size that allows you to place the microwave any place you want while offering a 20-liter cooking capacity. Thanks to the power output of 800 watts, which makes it slightly powerful than most of its competitors.
Pros
- It has a stylish finish
- Easy to use
- It prepares food quickly
- Compact size
- Easy to close and open the door
- Spacious and inexpensive
Cons
- Get faulty with time
10. Panasonic NN-ST48KSBPQ Solo Inverter Microwave (Family Size)
Enjoying your delicious meals is now possible with the Panasonic NN-E28JMMBPQ 32L family size microwave.
It comes with 7 power levels, allowing you to choose the correct cooking method for the meal by just selecting one. The unique thing is the child safety lock that protects the little fingers from any possible harm.
There are nine auto programs: auto reheat and auto defrost for fresh fish and jacket potatoes to make the daily cooking routine easy.
It is easy to use because you just place the food on a round glass tray, enter a weight through the digital touch control, and allow the auto weight program to cook perfectly.
Likewise, comes a touch control panel that helps you choose your settings effortlessly and quickly.
Pros
- Family size microwave
- Quick 30 Sec Programme
- Chaos Defrost
- Inverter System
- Ensure easy and flexible cooking
- Easy to clean
- Easy to maintain
- Compact and sleek
- Easy to use
Cons
- It becomes very hot outside during operation
Frequently Asked Questions
Are solo microwave and basic microwave the same?
Yes, They are the same. Solo microwave produces uniform heat where working and are designed to defrost frozen foods, reheat beverages and food, and cook noodles.
Which microwave is good basic or convection?
A convection microwave is good compared to a basic microwave because it can bake, grill, roast, crisp, and brown. Also, it carries out the work of the basic microwave, which is to cook, defrost, and reheat food.
Can we cook chicken in a basic microwave?
No. This is because the basic microwave cannot thoroughly cook it, making it remain raw, giving it a chance of illness. The basic microwave has a single microwave function that can only carry out the basic functions.
Can basic microwave bake cake?
No. It is because it does not have special features. For example, the cake will not be fluffy like you may get from the regular oven. Also, it will not rise well and can be crust devoid like formation known as browning.
Conclusion
The basic microwaves become the key appliance you need to have in the kitchen. When compared to other cooking devices, they are very reliable and fast.
Also, they come with a wide range of features, models, and functions to choose from. For instance, they come with an auto cook menu and time that make cooking convenient.
Likewise, they have inverter technology, which helps you shorten the cooking time.
