

If you’d like a powerful microwave that can also function as a back-up oven and an air fryer, the Sage Combi Wave 3 in 1 is a solid choice.
#Best microwave skin
The grill proved a little weak for toasting the defrosted bread, but a combi cooking programme for a 1.6kg chicken browned its skin nicely, and air frying frozen chips crisped them up well. Combi mode took longer but resulted in brown, crispy skin and a soft, mash-like middle. A raw jacket potato took only 7mins to cook in the microwave-only mode, coming out soft and fluffy. The rice itself was prepared using the minimal-effort rice programme.
#Best microwave manual
The manual outlines specific functions, including which receptacle to use for which mode, and recipe ideas are available as an e-book on the Sage website.ĭefrosting frozen bread and reheating cooked rice yielded even results overall. But it’s versatility is handy, as are the combi mode-compatible metal trivet and crisper pan with foldable legs. With its spaceship-like design and proportions, the Sage Combi Wave 3 in 1 isn’t for every kitchen, and it’s also rather pricey. As a combination microwave, it also works as a convection oven and an air fryer, as well as boasting a grill function and a range of smart programmes and pre-sets. The quality of the Sage Combi Wave 3 in 1 is obvious: the intuitive design has a premium feel, and the large LCD, clear buttons and shortcuts make it very easy to use. Best budget combi oven: Hotpoint MWH 26321 MB – check price.Best budget microwave: Russell Hobbs Scandi Digital Microwave – check price.Best for automated programmes: Samsung Easy View Convection Oven with HotBlast Technology MC28M6075CS – check price.Best combi oven: Panasonic NN-CS89LBBPQ – check price.Best integrated microwave: Hotpoint MP676IXH – check price.Best overall: Sage Combi Wave 3 in 1 – check price.Scroll down to find our favourite picks, including the pros and cons, images of the microwaves and links to our full, in-depth reviews. We’ve packed this list with our top recommendations from the many microwaves we’ve tested.

We conduct real-world tests to determine exactly how a microwave defrosts frozen bread, reheats cooked rice and cooks raw jacket potatoes and examine any grill or combi modes the models might offer. When we review a microwave, we consider all these areas and more.

When it comes to flatbed versus turntable microwaves, on the other hand, flatbed designs often offer more space and fit larger, rectangular dishes, whereas turntable microwaves might give you a more even result as food is rotated automatically during the cooking process. When it comes to capacity the measurements of a microwave are usually a good indicator, with models 20 litres and smaller generally being too narrow for large dinner plates and tall containers. There are integrated microwaves designed to fit into a specific space, as well as freestanding models that require a certain level of space between the microwave and any nearby surfaces. It’s also important to consider the size and design of the microwave you choose. Power levels can also vary with price, as more expensive microwaves will often benefit from higher wattages. High-end combi microwaves can feature dozens of programmes, such as veg, potatoes and popcorn, while cheaper ones might only benefit from a handful. That being said, there’s also plenty of variation within the combination microwave market. Not only can microwaves provide a quick and easy way to heat up food, but combination models can be equipped with convection, grill and other functions to accomplish a variety of cooking tasks. You might not think it by looking at it, but a microwave can be one of the most versatile appliances in your kitchen.
