Things to consider
Capacity: Find the right fit
If you’re a solo chef or have a small family, a microwave with a capacity of up to 20 liters should suffice. This size is perfect for basic tasks like reheating and making small meals.
For households with slightly larger needs, a microwave with a capacity of 20 to 25 liters offers a bit more room, making it suitable for moderate cooking tasks and small family meals.
If you often prepare more substantial dishes or need extra space, consider a microwave with a capacity of above 25 . This size is ideal for cooking larger portions without taking up excessive space.
Power
Wattage determines how quickly and efficiently a microwave cooks food. A higher wattage means faster cooking but also higher energy consumption. Choose the wattage based on how frequently and intensively you plan to use your microwave.
Types of Microwaves
It’s time to choose the type of microwave that suits your culinary style. There are three main types: Solo, Grill, and Convection. Each has its own set of features, so let’s break them down.
Solo Microwave: Ideal for basic cooking tasks like reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking. Solo microwaves are affordable and user-friendly, making them perfect for those who just need the essentials.
Grill Microwave: If you love grilled sandwiches or perfectly browned cheese, a grill microwave might be your match. It has a heating element that allows you to grill, toast, and brown food. However, it doesn’t offer baking capabilities, so it’s best suited for those who don’t need a full range of cooking options.
Convection Microwave: The multitasker of the microwave world! A convection microwave can cook, grill, bake, and roast. It uses a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking and baking. If you’re a foodie who loves experimenting in the kitchen, a convection microwave is worth the investment. It’s pricier, but the versatility it offers is unmatched.
Features
Modern microwaves come loaded with features that can make your life in the kitchen a whole lot easier. Here are some handy features to keep an eye out for:
Auto Cook Menus: These preset programs take the guesswork out of cooking. Just select the dish, and the microwave automatically sets the cooking time and power level.
Child Lock: If you’ve got little ones running around, a child lock feature is a must. It prevents accidental operation and keeps curious hands safe.
Inverter Technology: Microwaves with inverter technology provide consistent power, ensuring your food is cooked evenly. This is especially useful for delicate dishes that require precise cooking.
Defrost Function: A good defrost function is essential if you often cook with frozen ingredients. It thaws food quickly and evenly, saving you time and preventing any cold spots.
Budget
Finally, let’s talk about the price. Microwave ovens come in a wide price range, so set a budget before you start shopping. Remember, the most expensive microwave isn’t always the best one for you. Consider what features you’ll actually use and avoid paying for bells and whistles you don’t need.
Products
1. Panasonic 20L Solo Microwave Oven:
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 20 litres
- Power: 800 watts
- Type: Solo Microwave
- Cooking Modes: Reheat and defrost functions with dedicated buttons for convenience
Overview:
The Panasonic 20L Solo Microwave Oven is tailored for those who value simplicity and efficiency in their kitchen. With its 20-litre capacity, it’s ideal for households that need a reliable microwave for everyday tasks like reheating leftovers and defrosting frozen foods. One of the standout features of this microwave is its 51 auto cook menus, which allow you to easily prepare a wide range of foods
Pros:
- Versatile Cooking Options: With 51 preset menus, you can quickly whip up anything from a quick snack to a full meal.
- Affordable: Priced reasonably, this microwave offers great value for money, especially for those who don’t need the bells and whistles of more advanced models.
Cons:
- Limited Advanced Features: This model lacks advanced features like grilling or convection cooking.
- No Handle on Door: The microwave door needs to be pushed shut, as it doesn’t have a handle.
- Button Sensitivity: The touch keypad requires a bit of pressure to operate.
Final Verdict: If you’re on the hunt for a compact, user-friendly solo microwave oven that offers ample pre-programmed cooking options, the Panasonic NN-ST26JMFDG is a solid choice. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in pricier models, it more than makes up for it with its ease of use and affordability. Perfect for small to medium-sized families, this microwave is a reliable kitchen companion that won’t break the bank.
2.IFB 20L Solo Microwave Oven
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 20 litres, ideal for small to medium-sized families
- Power: 200 watts
- Type: Solo Microwave
- Cooking Modes: Auto Defrost, Overheating Protection, Timer Option.
Overview:
The IFB 20 Litre Solo Microwave Oven is compact yet powerful enough to handle daily cooking tasks. This microwave’s simple functions make it an ideal option for those looking for ease of use and safety. Its anti-bacterial cavity keeps your food safe and hygienic, while the mechanical knobs offer a durable and intuitive user interface.
Pros:
- Ease of Use: The mechanical knobs are refreshingly simple and make this microwave easy to operate.
- Safety First: This microwave is equipped with overheating protection and a child safety lock, which are crucial for family households.
Cons:
- Limited Functionality: As a solo microwave, it lacks the versatility of models that include grilling or convection functions. If you’re looking for more advanced cooking options, you might want to explore higher-end models.
Final Verdict: If you’re searching for a reliable, no-fuss microwave that focuses on the essentials, the IFB 20 Litre Solo Microwave Oven is a fantastic option. It may not come with advanced features like grilling or convection, but it makes up for it with ease of use, safety features, and affordability.
3.Haier 20L Convection Microwave Oven:
Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: 20 litres, suitable for small to medium-sized families.
- Power: 1000 watts
- Type: Convection Microwave, ideal for baking, grilling, and defrosting.
- Cooking Modes: Auto defrost, multi-stage cooking, and steam cleaning.
- Additional Features: 66 auto-cook menus, child lock for safety, and a keep-warm function.
Overview:
The Haier 20L Convection Microwave Oven (HIL2001CSPH) is a versatile appliance designed to meet diverse cooking needs. Its convection functionality allows it to handle baking, grilling, and heating efficiently. With 66 pre-programmed auto-cook options, it offers convenience for users, allowing for quick preparation of various meals. The steam cleaning feature makes it easy to maintain, while the child lock ensures safe usage in households with children.
Pros:
- Versatility: Its convection feature is a standout, enabling grilling and baking, which adds to its overall utility.
- Power: 800 watts
- Convenience: The 66 auto-cook menus and multi-stage cooking streamline meal preparation.
- Safety: The inclusion of child lock and overheating protection makes it family-friendly.
Cons:
- Power Output: Some users may find the 800W microwave wattage slightly lower for larger or more complex dishes.
- Capacity: Although ideal for small families, the 20L capacity may be limiting for larger households.
Final Verdict: For those looking for a reliable, multifunctional microwave that covers baking, grilling, and defrosting, the Haier HIL2001CSPH is an excellent choice. It offers great value, especially for small to medium households, with convenient features .
4. Bajaj MTBX 20L Grill Microwave oven
Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: 20 litres, suitable for small to medium-sized families.
- Power: 800 watts
- Type: Grill Microwave, great for grilling, reheating, and defrosting.
- Cooking Modes: Combination of microwave and grill cooking, auto defrost.
- Additional Features: Mechanical control dials, 30-minute timer, and reheating functions.
Overview:
The Bajaj MTBX 2016 20L Grill Microwave Oven is a compact, practical microwave offering a blend of grilling and heating functions. It is designed to cater to essential cooking needs like grilling, reheating, and defrosting. With easy-to-use mechanical dials, it’s perfect for individuals or small families looking for an affordable, no-fuss appliance. The 20-litre capacity is ideal for everyday tasks like warming meals, grilling, and quick cooking.
Pros:
- Versatility: The grill feature adds extra utility, allowing users to cook a range of dishes from grilled sandwiches to roasted vegetables.
- Compact Design: Its compact size fits easily in smaller kitchens without taking up much counter space.
- Ease of Use: The simple jog dials make operation straightforward and user-friendly, even for those unfamiliar with digital controls.
Cons:
- Power Output: At 800W, the microwave’s power may be lower than some users expect, potentially increasing cooking times for larger meals.
- Basic Features: It lacks advanced cooking options, like convection or multi-stage cooking, which may limit its appeal for more advanced home cooks.
Final Verdict: The Bajaj MTBX 2016 20L Grill Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for individuals or small families looking for a simple and affordable microwave with grilling capabilities. While it may not have advanced features or high power, it’s reliable for everyday cooking tasks like reheating and grilling small portions.
5. LG 20L Solo Microwave Oven
Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: 20 litres, suitable for small to medium-sized families.
- Power: 700 watts
- Type: Solo Microwave, ideal for reheating, cooking, and defrosting.
- Cooking Modes: Multi-stage cooking and auto defrost.
- Additional Features: 44 auto cook menus Touch keypad controls, energy-saving mode.
Overview:
The LG 20 L Solo Microwave Oven (MS2043BP) is a compact and efficient appliance designed to simplify daily cooking tasks. With its solo microwave functionality, it excels in reheating, cooking, and defrosting, making it an excellent choice for individuals or small families. The 20-litre capacity provides ample space for everyday meal preparation, while the user-friendly touch controls add to its convenience.
Pros:
- Ease of Use: The intuitive touch keypad allows for straightforward operation, making it accessible for users of all ages.
- Energy Efficient: Features an energy-saving mode that helps reduce electricity consumption, making it environmentally friendly.
- Compact Design: Its sleek and compact form factor fits well in smaller kitchens, maximizing counter space.
Cons:
- Power Output: With a power output of 700W, some users might find it slower for cooking larger meals compared to higher-wattage models.
- Limited Cooking Functions: As a solo microwave, it lacks grilling and convection options, which may not suit users looking for more versatility.
Final Verdict:The LG 20 L Solo Microwave Oven (MS2043BP) is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient microwave for basic cooking tasks. While it may not offer advanced features like grilling or convection cooking, its ease of use, compact design, and energy efficiency make it a practical option for small households or individuals looking for a dependable appliance for everyday use.
6. Godrej 20L Convection Microwave Oven
Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: 20 litres, suitable for small to medium-sized families.
- Power: 800 watts
- Type: Convection Microwave, ideal for baking, grilling, cooking, reheating, and defrosting.
- Cooking Modes: Multi-stage cooking, auto defrost.
- Additional Features: 255 InstaCook menus, child lock for safety, deodorizer function and digital display for ease of use.
Overview:
The Godrej 20 L Convection Microwave Oven (GME 720 CF2 QZ) is a versatile kitchen appliance that covers a wide range of cooking needs. With convection functionality, it supports baking, grilling, reheating, and defrosting, offering a multi-purpose solution for everyday cooking. The oven’s 255 InstaCook menus simplify meal preparation by automating various cooking processes.
Pros:
- Versatile Cooking: The convection mode allows for baking and grilling, making this microwave ideal for users who want more than just reheating and defrosting.
- Convenience: The 255 InstaCook menus take the guesswork out of cooking, offering pre-programmed settings for a variety of dishes.
- Safety: The child lock and overheat protection features ensure safe operation, especially in family homes.
Cons:
- Power Output: At 800W, the microwave may require slightly longer cooking times for certain dishes compared to higher-wattage models.
- Learning Curve: With 255 InstaCook menus, it may take some time to get familiar with all the settings and options.
Final Verdict:The Godrej 20 L Convection Microwave Oven (GME 720 CF2 QZ) is an excellent option for those who need a multi-functional appliance. Whether you want to bake, grill, or reheat, this microwave offers the flexibility and ease of use that busy households will appreciate. While the power output might not be the highest, its vast cooking options and safety features make it a strong contender for small to medium families looking for a reliable, feature-packed microwave oven.
7. Whirlpool 20L Convection Microwave Oven
Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: 20 litres, suitable for small to medium-sized families.
- Power: 800 watts
- Type: Convection Microwave, suitable for baking, grilling, and reheating.
- Cooking Modes: Features like Auto Defrost and multi-stage cooking.
- Additional Features: LED display, feather touch control, Grill rack and child lock for safety.
Overview
The Whirlpool 20 L Convection Microwave Oven (MAGICOOK PRO 22CE BLACK) is a reliable, multifunctional microwave with robust convection and grilling capabilities. Designed for everyday cooking tasks, it offers convenience with 118 auto-cook menus, allowing users to easily prepare a variety of dishes. Its stainless steel cavity ensures even heat distribution, while features like child lock and overheat protection add extra safety.
Pros:
- Multi-functionality: The convection and grill modes allow for baking, roasting, and grilling, enhancing versatility in the kitchen.
- Pre-set Options: 118 auto-cook menus simplify meal prep, especially for beginners.
- Design: The sleek black finish and feather touch controls make it a stylish addition to modern kitchens.
Cons:
- Power Output: The 800W microwave power might require longer cooking times for larger or more complex dishes.
- Size: The 20L capacity might be limiting for larger households or those looking to cook bigger portions.
Final Verdict: The Whirlpool 20 L Convection Microwave Oven is a solid choice for small families seeking an all-in-one solution for baking, grilling, and reheating. While its power output could be improved, the multiple cooking modes and large auto-cook menu make it a convenient and versatile option.
8.Bajaj 17L Solo Microwave Oven
Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: 17 litres, perfect for small families or bachelors.
- Power: 700 watts
- Type: Solo Microwave, best suited for basic tasks such as reheating, cooking, and defrosting.
- Cooking Modes: Defrost
- Additional Features: It includes a 30-minute timer, multi-power level settings, and a cooking alarm to ensure convenience during cooking.
Overview
The Bajaj 17L Solo Microwave Oven (1702 MT) is an affordable and compact option designed to meet the basic needs of small households. This microwave is great for simple tasks like reheating leftovers, boiling, and defrosting frozen foods. Its compact size allows it to fit easily into kitchens with limited space. The mechanical control knobs are easy to use, making it beginner-friendly.
Pros:
- Compact Size: Fits easily into small kitchens, perfect for those with limited counter space.
- Ease of Use: Simple mechanical dials make it easy to operate, even for first-time users.
- Affordable: Its budget-friendly price makes it an excellent option for those looking for basic microwave functionality without spending too much.
Cons:
- Limited Features: As a solo microwave, it lacks advanced features such as grilling or convection, which might be a drawback for users looking for versatility.
- Slow Cooking for Larger Dishes: The 700W power output may be insufficient for cooking larger or more complex meals, leading to longer cooking times.
Final Verdict: The Bajaj 17L Solo Microwave Oven (1702 MT) is a solid choice for users seeking a simple, no-frills microwave for basic cooking, reheating, and defrosting. While it may not offer advanced features, it excels in affordability and ease of use, making it ideal for small households or individuals on a budget.
9. Godrej 19L Convection Microwave Oven
Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: 19 litres, suitable for singles or small families.
- Power: 800 watts
- Type: Convection Microwave, allowing for baking, grilling, reheating, and defrosting.
- Cooking Modes: It offers combination cooking, express cooking, and defrosting options. It also comes with a steam cook option for healthier meals.
- Additional Features: 125 auto-cook menus, child lock for safety, LED display with touch keypad, quartz heater, and 4-step cooking.
Overview:
The Godrej 19 L Convection Microwave Oven (GMX 519 CP1 PZ) is an ideal choice for small households or individuals looking for a versatile cooking appliance. It is packed with features like 125 pre-programmed Instacook menus, making it convenient for users to prepare various Indian and international dishes with minimal effort. The stainless steel cavity ensures better durability and even cooking.
Pros:
- Wide Range of Menus: The 125 Instacook menus cover a variety of meal options, making cooking hassle-free, especially for beginners.
- Versatility: It handles baking, grilling, and convection cooking efficiently, offering excellent value for everyday meals.
- Compact Design: Its 19L size is perfect for smaller kitchens or compact spaces.
Cons:
- Limited Power Output: With only 800W, some users may find it slower when cooking larger meals compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
- Basic Grill Accessories: The grill tray is not included in the package, which could be a drawback for those keen on grilling frequently
Final Verdict: This Godrej microwave oven is a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly, multipurpose appliance. Its wide range of pre-programmed menus and ease of use make it suitable for users seeking convenience without breaking the bank. However, for those with larger cooking requirements, the limited power output may be a consideration.
Comparison Table
Product | Type | Capacity | Auto cook menus | Cooking functions | Amazon | Flipkart | Review |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Panasonic 20L Solo Microwave Oven | Solo | 20 | 51 | Reheat, Defrost | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
IFB 20L Solo Microwave Oven | Solo | 20 | N/A | Auto Defrost, Timer, Overheating protection | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Haier 20L Convection Microwave Oven | Convection | 20 | 66 | Baking, Grilling, Defrost, Multi-stage cooking | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Bajaj MTBX 20L Grill Microwave Oven | Grill | 20 | N/A | Grilling, Reheat, Defrost | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
LG 20L Solo Microwave Oven | Solo | 20 | 44 | Multi-stage cooking, Auto Defrost | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Godrej 20L Convection Microwave Oven | Convection | 20 | 255 | Baking, Grilling, Reheat, Defrost | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Whirlpool 20L Convection Microwave | Convection | 20 | 118 | Baking, Grilling, Reheat, Defrost | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Bajaj 17L Solo Microwave Oven | Solo | 17 | N/A | Reheat, Cooking, Defrost | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Godrej 19L Convection Microwave Oven | Convection | 19 | 125 | Baking, Grilling, Reheat, Defrost, Steam Cook | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Our Top Picks
Godrej 20L Convection | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Whirlpool 20L Convection | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Haier 20L Convection | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
Panasonic 20L Solo | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |
IFB 20L Solo | Amazon | Flipkart | Read Review |