Microwave Buying Guide: Choose the Perfect One For Your Home

Looking for the right microwave can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. This expert microwave buying guide breaks it all down; whether you’re eyeing countertop, built-in, or over-the-range microwaves, we’ve got you covered.

1. Start With Size: Microwave Dimensions and Capacity #

The first decision when choosing a microwave is figuring out the right size for your kitchen and lifestyle. Microwaves range from compact 17-litre countertop microwaves to spacious 40-litre built-in microwaves. But what does that mean day-to-day?

Microwave Size Chart (Litres to Cubic Feet) #

Litres	Cubic Feet	Best For
17–20L	0.6–0.7 cu ft	Simple reheating, small meals
21–25L	0.8–0.9 cu ft	Medium meals, small families
26–30L	1.0–1.1 cu ft	Whole plates, casseroles
30–40L	1.2–1.4 cu ft	Large portions, multiple dishes

If you regularly cook or reheat multiple dishes or need to fit a dinner plate inside, aim for at least 25L. Standard dinner plates are around 26–28cm wide, so check the internal turntable size before buying.

2. Location Matters: Countertop, Built-In, OTR, and More #

Where your microwave goes influences the type you buy. Let’s look at the four main options:

Countertop Microwaves #

These are the most common. Just plug it in and place it wherever you’ve got counter space. They’re affordable and don’t require installation, but they do eat into your working area.

This is where MasterCare can help down the line, and if your countertop unit malfunctions, repairs are just a policy call away.

Best for: Renters, small kitchens, or those wanting plug-and-play convenience.

Watch out for: Depth and ventilation clearance on all sides (usually 5–10cm).

Built In Microwaves #

Built-in microwaves are designed to integrate seamlessly into your kitchen cabinetry. They’re sleek, permanent, and save counter space.

However, installation can be costly, and incorrect fittings can damage the unit over time. If you’re investing here, make sure your appliance is backed by a solid repair plan—MasterCare covers built-in models under our appliance repair policies if something does go wrong.

Best for: Modern fitted kitchens, homeowners.

Watch out for: Ensuring enough airflow around the unit to avoid overheating.

Over-the-Range Microwave (OTR Microwaves) #

These combine a microwave with a ventilation hood and are installed above your stovetop. They’re ideal when kitchen space is tight.

OTR microwaves also work as microwave hood combinations, filtering out smoke and grease. But managing installation, ducting, and future repairs can get tricky. Not planning for these extras is a common mistake.

Best for: People who want both a microwave and range hood in one fixture.

Watch out for: Cabinet compatibility, proper venting options.

Drawer Microwaves #

Installed directly into base cabinets like a drawer, these are increasingly popular for their accessibility and space-saving design.

Best for: Custom kitchens where ergonomics and design are high priorities.

Watch out for: Higher price point and professional installation.

3. How Much Power Do You Need? Understanding Microwave Wattage #

Microwave wattage dictates how fast and evenly your food cooks. Most microwaves range from 600 to 1200 watts.

• 600–700W: Ideal for basic reheating, but slow for full meals
• 800–1000W: Standard for most microwaves; cooks quickly and evenly
• 1000–1200W: Fastest cooking power for dense or larger foods

Higher wattage also typically means better performance for convection cooking and defrosting.

If your appliance ever stops heating properly, don’t toss it—consider a repair. Many microwave ovens simply need a new heating element, and repairs through MasterCare may save you thousands.

4. Convection vs Inverter Microwaves vs Solo: Know Your Types #

Solo Microwaves #

Basic heating and defrosting. No grilling or baking.

Example: Heating leftovers, popcorn, defrosting chicken.

Convection Microwaves #

These include a built-in heating element and fan for baking, crisping, and roasting. Perfect for pies, roasts, and pizza.

Best for: Replacing your wall oven’s baking function.

Downside: More expensive, more parts to break — but remember, MasterCare repair cover keeps you protected.

Inverter Microwaves #

Inverter technology adjusts output for even heating instead of switching between high and low. You’ll get better texture and consistent hot food, especially when defrosting or slow cooking.

Ideal for: Anyone tired of half-frozen centres and overcooked edges.

Note: These are slightly pricier, but more efficient long-term.

5. Microwave Features That Actually Matter #

With all the buzzwords floating around, which microwave features are actually useful? Here’s what to keep an eye on:

• Sensor Cooking: Adjusts cooking time automatically
• Air Fry Mode: Lets you crisp foods without oil
• Quick Keys: 30-second boosts and presets for speed
• Child Lock: Prevents accidental use
• Turntable vs Flatbed: Turntables rotate food, flatbeds give more cooking space
• Grill Function: Adds that browned top to your dishes

Most microwaves advertise several of these features, but not all are created equal. If your unit supports air fry mode and it stops working, that’s often just a failed heating element, not a reason to buy new.

With MasterCare, you can repair instead of replace.

6. Material and Finish: Aesthetic Meets Durability #

A stainless steel microwave resists rust and looks sleek in virtually any kitchen design. They’re also easier to clean than plastic interiors.

If aesthetics matter and your kitchen leans modern, stick with stainless options—just keep in mind they’re prone to fingerprints and may cost a bit more.

Interior options matter too:

• Enamel-coated interiors are common and easy to clean
• Stainless steel interiors are more durable and support better reflection for even cooking

7. Matching Your Microwave to Your Cooking Style #

Think about how you cook:

• Busy family reheating multiple dishes? Go for 30L+ with presets
• Fit-conscious? Air fry mode and grill features are nice-to-haves
• Love baking but lack a wall oven? A convection microwave is your best microwave option
• Single or student? Small 20L countertop microwaves will do fine

8. Reliability and Repairs: Long-Term Peace of Mind #

Even the best microwave will eventually need a fix, from faulty door sensors to a flickering control panel. That’s where having an appliance repair policy in place pays off.

MasterCare policies cover many types of microwave ovens, including inverter microwaves, built-in models, countertop microwaves, and matched appliances like oven/microwave stacks. We repair components like heating elements, internal lights, and circuit boards—without you needing to shop for a new appliance each time.

So if your microwave stops spinning or isn’t heating, file a repair request and get back to enjoying hot food without delay.

9. Comparing Microwave Models: What to Look for Before You Buy #

Before purchasing, compare:

• Wattage: 1000W+ recommended for daily use
• Size: Standard microwave size ranges from 20–40L or 0.7–1.4 cu ft
• Type: Convection microwaves for baking; inverter microwaves for precision
• Features: Do you need air fry mode or sensor cooking?
• Design: Will it fit your aesthetic and your cabinet space?

Online reviews and forums, like Reddit threads on microwave buying guides, can offer real-life feedback from users. But remember to balance fan-favourites with reliability, repair availability, and local support in South Africa.

10. Final Checklist: 8 Steps to Choose the Right Microwave #

1. Measure your counter space or cabinet area
2. Decide on installed vs freestanding (OTR/built-in/drawer vs countertop)
3. Choose a suitable capacity (litres) for your household
4. Select the right microwave wattage (800W min for meals)
5. Match your cooking habits with features (grill, air fry, inverter)
6. Check that it fits a dinner plate
7. Review warranties and repair policy options
8. Choose a reputable microwave brand with local service support

The Right Microwave Starts With the Right Knowledge #

The ideal microwave oven fits your space, suits your cooking habits, and comes with peace of mind for the years ahead.

Should your microwave ever break down, especially higher-end units like built in microwaves or convection microwaves, don’t stress. With a MasterCare repair plan, you’re protected against pricey repairs and unnecessary replacements. It’s our way of making sure your investment keeps working as hard as you do.

So whether it’s your first microwave or an upgrade, use this guide to choose smarter.