When you’re hunting for the best microwave Australia has to offer, you’re investing in convenience. Whether you’re defrosting mince for a midweek spag bol, softening butter for baking or cooking jacket potatoes in a hurry, a good microwave makes life easier.
As Fran Abdallaoui, Food Director at The Australian Women’s Weekly, points out, most of us aren’t using these machines for five-course meals. “Most people use their microwave primarily for quick, everyday tasks rather than serious cooking,” she says.
Quick guide: The best microwaves for every need
- Best overall for families: Panasonic Inverter, $349
- Best for large households: LG NeoChef Smart Inverter, $299
- Best multi-tasking appliance: Breville The Combi Wave, $649
- Best for confident cooks: Panasonic Inverter Flatbed, $1266
- Best compact budget buy: Hisense Compact microwave, $119
- Best reliable basic: Westinghouse microwave oven, $149
- Best for design lovers: Smeg microwave with grill, $391
- Best retro style: Swan Retro LED microwave, $163
- Best built-in microwave: Bosch Series 6 built-in, $1232
- Best premium investment: Miele 26L microwave, $1699
According to IKEA’s 2026 Cooking and Eating Report, Aussies are stand-out users of the microwave, with 50.2% saying they regularly rely on one – well above the global average of 34.6%.
We cook at home an average of 5.6 times a week, more than half of us cook from scratch (56.2%), yet we’re also unapologetic about smart shortcuts. Nearly a quarter of us even admit to opting for a microwave meal (23.6%, compared to 15% globally).
“Australians are rewriting the dinner rulebook, especially when we compare the habits from around the world,” says Josh Cooling, Range Manager Dining & Outdoor at IKEA. “While we are confident in our ability in the kitchen and cooking from scratch, the report shows that convenience is a big factor in Aussies lives.”
But you might be wondering what actually makes a good microwave. Is inverter technology worth it? How much capacity do you need? And which models are genuinely top rated in Australia?
In this guide, we’ve extensively researched the best microwaves on the market. We’ve also answered some of your most frequently asked questions when it comes to choosing the best microwave Australia has to offer.
If we had to pick just one: Pansonic 32L microwave
This $349 microwave is big enough for family dinners, heats evenly and is super easy to use. The sensor does the thinking for you, and the turntable fits full-size plates. Simple, reliable and gets the job done every time!
SKIP TO 2026’s BEST MICROWAVES:
The best microwaves in Australia 2026
Best all-rounder microwaves for families
When you’re juggling meal prep for the whole crew, you need a microwave that can keep up. These family-friendly models offer generous capacity, smart sensors and enough power to handle everything from Monday night pasta to Friday’s leftover pizza.
Tip: For family use, look for at least 30L capacity and 1000W+ power. Inverter models heat more evenly, which makes a noticeable difference with leftovers and defrosting meat.
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Pansonic 32L microwave
$349 at The Good Guys
Best for: Busy families who want reliable cooking
This is the kind of microwave that quietly does it all. The generous 32L size means you’re not squeezing in dinner plates, and the inverter power heats food evenly (so no more boiling edges and cold middles). The sensor settings are especially helpful when you’re distracted – just press start and let it figure things out.
It’s no wonder it scored a 4.5-star rating from almost 1000 reviewers at The Good Guys. One shopper wrote: “My last Panasonic microwave was 25 years old so it was time for a replacement. This one is great, more powerful, invention driven, quieter and fits in the old ones spot with ease. Highly recommend this brand.”
Another shared: “After extensive research we selected this Panasonic microwave oven to replace our ageing Panasonic. The new one suited our kitchen decor perfectly and it had all of the features we needed.”
Key features:
- 32L capacity fits family-sized dishes
- 1100W inverter power for even, consistent heating
- Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time
- 19 auto menus including pasta, rice, fish and chicken
- Sleek black stainless steel finish
- 340mm turntable accommodates large plates
- Add Time function for quick touch-ups
Also available at:
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LG 42L NeoChef Smart Inverter microwave
$299 at The Good Guys
Best for: Large families wanting extra space and smart features
If you’re regularly reheating family-sized pasta bakes or defrosting kilos of mince, the extra space here makes a real difference. The steady inverter power helps food heat more gently and evenly, which is handy for everything from melting butter to warming leftovers properly.
This one earned itself a 4.6-star rating from over 1250 reviews at The Good Guys, with 90% of reviewers recommending it. They love that it heats evenly, has strong and consistent power and is easy to use.
One reviewer called it “sophisticated but simple to use” and praised the large capacity and reliability. A few noted minor quirks, like the panel being a bit tricky to read, but overall most agree it’s solid and great for busy family kitchens.
Key features:
- Large 42L capacity for large family meals
- 1200W Smart Inverter for precise, even heating
- Sensor Cook technology detects optimal cooking time
- Anti-bacterial EasyClean coating
- Stable turntable minimises rocking
- Low temperature proofing function for yoghurt
- 2-year warranty
Also available at:
Best multi-tasking microwaves
Why have three appliances when one can do it all? These multitasking machines combine microwave convenience with air frying crispiness, convection baking, grilling power and even steam cooking. Perfect for smaller kitchens or those short on time.
Tip: If you don’t have much space, a combi microwave can replace your air fryer or small oven, but check the interior size. Some three-in-one models sacrifice usable space for extra functions.
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Breville The Combi Wave 3 in 1
$649 (usually $799) at Amazon
Best for: Busy households who don’t want multiple appliances
The Breville Combi air fries, bakes and microwaves. The clever combination settings speed things up without drying food out, and there’s even a shortcuts panel inside the door for your go-to tasks.
321 out of 389 reviewers recommended this appliance on the Breville website. “Game changer, absolutely love it,” said a recent reviewer. “Was daunting and cautious to start with but gone is the old microwave reheating only gal. I had never even used an air fryer before. I am now trying new things like crumbed tofu and roast chicken breast.”
“Takes a little while to get used to all the options and settings but it really isn’t rocket science. Instructions are pretty easy to follow. Can’t wait to try more new things.”
Key features:
- 3-in-1: air fryer, convection oven and microwave
- Element IQ system intelligently directs power
- Fast Combi function cooks faster than traditional ovens
- Cook from Frozen function for convenience
- Soft-close door is 80% quieter
- 19 smart presets including Smart Cook, Reheat and Defrost
- Shortcuts panel for one-touch favourites
Also available at:
04
Panasonic 31L Inverter Flatbed microwave convection oven
$1266 (usually $1649) at Appliances Online
Best for: Confident cooks who want steam, grill and bake in one
It’s not the cheapest option out there, but this one does far more than reheat leftovers. You can steam dumplings properly, roast a tray of veg or grill dinner without dragging out three different appliances. The flatbed interior (no clunky turntable) gives you extra usable space too, which makes a real difference when you’re squeezing in a larger dish.
“The multiple functions are great and I find I can use this instead of my big oven, saving time and power,” wrote a reviewer who left five stars at Appliances Online.
“It’s so much easier to clean too. I use it for air frying veggies and steaming rice. It does things that far more expensive appliances can’t. So versatile and powerful too. Highly recommended. I use it every day and keep finding more uses for it.”
Key features:
- Flatbed design (no turntable) maximises usable space
- 4-in-1: Steam, convection, grill and microwave functions
- 36 auto programs for foolproof cooking
- High-density steam with dual outlets
- Two-level cooking for efficiency
- Junior Menu programs for kid-friendly cooking
- Genius Sensor detects perfect cooking time
Also available at:
Best budget-friendly microwaves
Good things don’t have to cost a fortune. These wallet-friendly options are perfect for first homes, student accommodation or just anyone who wants an easy, reliable microwave.
Tip: Even inexpensive microwave ovens should have multiple power levels and weight defrost. Skip overly basic models with just two dials if you cook more than reheating soup.
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Hisense 20L 800W Compact microwave
$119 at The Good Guys
Best for: Small kitchens and simple everyday reheating
Neat and uncomplicated, the Hinsense compact microwave covers the essentials without taking over your bench. The controls are straightforward, and there’s even a mute function – perfect for early mornings when the rest of the house is still asleep.
With most reviewers giving it 4-5 stars at The Good Guys, people love that it’s easy to use, heats food evenly and fits neatly in smaller kitchens. Even the compact size hasn’t stopped shoppers from enjoying its functionality, though a few said it’s best suited for smaller meals.
“This beautiful black microwave is easy to use and clean,” wrote a reviewer. “I love it so much.”
Key features:
- Compact 20L capacity, perfect for smaller spaces
- 10 power levels for precise cooking control
- Chef Menu with 6 preset options
- Express Start for instant 1-6 minute heating
- Mute function for quiet operation
- LED display and touch controls
- 2-year warranty
Also available at:
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Westinghouse 23L microwave oven
$149 at Bing Lee
Best for: Reliable basics on a budget
Sometimes you just need a microwave that does the basics brilliantly. The clean white finish suits any kitchen, the touch controls are intuitive, and with 23 litres of space, it easily handles family dinners and weeknight leftovers. There are six preset programs for common tasks, a memory function for your go-to settings, and multistage cooking that takes you from frozen to cooked without you having to hover nearby.
A recent Bing Lee reviewer shared: “We are not huge users of a microwave and so only wanted a small capacity oven. This unit does everything we ask of it, looks attractive, fits in our alcove and is perfect for our needs.”
Another said: “Has been perfect for my simple everyday usage – cooking vegetables, making porridge/noodles/popcorn, softening butter for baking. Love that it doesn’t show the clock unless you set it. Sturdy, easy to use buttons, good looking (love the black and white contrast) and great value for money.”
Key features:
- 23L capacity for everyday meals
- 800W power with 10 adjustable levels
- 6 preset programs
- Multistage cooking from frozen to cooked
- Memory function for frequently used settings
- Quick Start and auto weight defrost
- Clean white finish
Also available at:
Best stylish microwaves
These beauties bring genuine design flair to your kitchen, whether you’re after retro charm or sleek Italian sophistication. They prove that function and fashion can absolutely coexist.
Tip: Don’t let looks distract you from performance. Check wattage and cavity material – stainless steel interiors generally distribute heat better than painted enamel.
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Smeg 34L 1000W microwave oven with grill
$391 at Billy Guyatts
Best for: Design lovers who still want solid performance
This microwave combines a gorgeous Italian design with genuinely useful features. The stainless steel finish is timeless, while the 34-litre capacity is more generous than you’d expect from such a sleek appliance. The 10 auto cook functions cover everything from pizza to popcorn, and you can defrost by time or weight.
Although what we love most is that it doesn’t sacrifice performance for looks – the stainless steel cavity distributes heat beautifully, and the electronic dial and button controls feel really solid.
One Smeg reviewer said it’s “super easy to use and very easy clean,” while another called it “exactly what we needed.” A few noted quirks, like tricky dials, condensation inside, or the gap if replacing an older built-in model, but overall it’s considered reliable, stylish and something that lives up to the Smeg name.
Key features:
- Iconic Smeg design in stainless steel
- Generous 34L capacity
- 1000W microwave power plus 1100W grill
- 10 auto cook functions from pizza to popcorn
- Stainless steel cavity for even heat distribution
- Defrost by time or weight
- 2-year warranty
Also available at:
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Swan Retro LED digital microwave with glass turntable
$163 (usually $272.60) at Amazon
Best for: Retro kitchens with personality
If your kitchen aesthetic leans toward charming rather than clinical, you’ll adore this retro pick. The 1950s-inspired design brings genuine personality (it’s available in several colours too), while the chrome pull-handle and curved lines make it a proper talking point.
But it’s not all show. The 20-litre capacity is great for daily cooking, and 800W with five power levels gives you decent control. The LED display makes the microwave look modern, the 60-minute timer is precise and the glass turntable ensures even heating.
It also scores well with most reviewers, averaging 4.4 out of 5 stars from over a thousand Amazon ratings. Customers love its look, colour options, simple controls and removable turntable for quick cleaning.
Key features:
- 1950s-inspired retro design with chrome details
- Available in multiple colours to match your kitchen
- 20L capacity with 800W power
- 5 power levels including defrost
- 60-minute timer with cooking end signal
- LED display
- 2-year warranty (extendable to 3 years)
Best built-in microwaves
For seamless, sophisticated kitchens where every detail matters, these premium built-in and designer models deliver the ultimate in integrated style. They’re engineered for precision, built to last and designed to disappear beautifully into your cabinetry.
Tip: Built-in models require precise cabinet measurements and ventilation clearance. Always confirm cut-out dimensions before purchasing – installation costs can add up quickly.
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Bosch Series 6 25L built-in microwave with grill
$1232 (usually $1349) at Winnings
Best for: Sleek, integrated kitchens
Bosch brings that signature German precision to this beautifully integrated model. The black glass finish is elegant, and those pop-out controls are brilliant – they retract for easy cleaning while maintaining that sleek, minimalist look.
The AutoPilot 8 takes care of the thinking, automatically adjusting time and power for eight different cooking programs. The 1200W grill is also genuinely powerful, giving you perfectly crisped gratins and golden toppings without transferring anything to your oven.
Key features:
- Built-in design with sleek black glass finish
- AutoPilot 8 programs for automatic perfect results
- Powerful 1200W grill function
- Pop-out controls for easy cleaning
- 900W microwave with 5 power levels
- Dedicated cleaning program
- 2-year warranty
Also available at:
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Miele 26L microwave
$1699 at Winnings
Best for: Long-term quality and precision cooking
This freestanding model is engineered to last decades. The integrated 800W quartz grill lets you cook shepherd’s pie or crème brûlée from start to finish without swapping appliances.
The Combination mode is particularly clever, seamlessly cooking and browning in one continuous process. Yes, it’s an investment, but Miele appliances are well known for lasting 20+ years.
“After a lot of research I decided to purchase this microwave,” shared a five-star reviewer on the Winnings website. It was not the least costly, but it did not disappoint. I am very happy with its performance on every level. Miele has done it again…excellent product on every level.”
Key features:
- Premium Miele construction built to last
- Integrated 800W quartz grill for perfect browning
- Combination mode cooks and browns seamlessly
- 17 automatic programs for versatile cooking
- 3-stage memory for multi-step processes
- Keep Warm function
- 2-year warranty
Also available at:
What is the best microwave in Australia?
The best microwave in Australia depends on how you actually use it.
For everyday reheating and defrosting, a reliable 25-32L model with 900-1000W power will handle most needs. Larger families might prefer 30L+ capacity with inverter technology to ensure even heating for leftovers or full meals.
Combination microwaves with convection and grill functions are worth considering if you bake, roast or want one appliance to replace several in the kitchen.
The key to finding the best microwave Australia has to offer (for you personally) is matching the microwave to your routine, not simply buying the most expensive model.
More FAQs on the best microwaves in Australia:
Inverter microwaves deliver a steady stream of power rather than cycling on and off. This means more even heating, better defrosting and gentler melting. If you’re searching for the best microwave Australia has for actual cooking (rather than just reheating), an inverter model is almost always worth the extra investment.
Most good microwave models in Australia range from 800W to 1200W. Lower wattage around 800-900W suits light use or smaller households, while 1000W and above is ideal for families who need faster, consistent cooking. Higher wattage reduces cooking time, but even heat distribution is often more important than raw power.
Microwave size is measured in litres, but the turntable diameter is just as important. Compact 20-25L microwaves suit singles, students, or small kitchens, while 25-32L models work for most households. Larger capacity 32L+ microwaves are best for families or anyone regularly reheating large dishes. Always check that your largest plates fit comfortably inside.
Price usually reflects extra features rather than basic performance. Inverter technology, steam cooking, grill elements, or air fry functions typically come at a premium. Budget-friendly microwaves handle everyday reheating and defrosting perfectly well. The best microwave in Australia is usually the one that fits your cooking habits rather than the one with the highest price tag.
In another article, we talked about how to “banish chemical cleaners” when cleaning your microwave. Simply fill a microwave-safe bowl one third-full with water and add two slices of lemon or 1/4 cup white vinegar. Microwave on HIGH for three minutes, then leave to steam for five minutes. The steam “should have loosened any baked-on food residue,” allowing you to simply wipe the surfaces clean.
How we determined the best microwave in Australia for 2026:
While we haven’t personally defrosted a chicken or popped every bag of corn in every microwave, our recommendations are built on years of appliance reporting and deep dives into the specs that actually matter in an Australian kitchen.
We evaluated the top-rated models locally against these key pillars:
- Heating evenness: We looked for models that avoid the “hot on the outside, cold on the inside” effect, prioritising inverter technology.
- Defrosting precision: The best units thaw mince and bread without “cooking” the edges, using smart sensors to adjust power levels automatically.
- Usable capacity: We looked beyond the litre rating to ensure the turntable (or flatbed) actually fits standard Australian dinner plates and large microwave-safe containers.
- Intuitive controls: We prioritised interfaces that don’t require a manual to operate – looking for one-touch “Add 30 Seconds” buttons and clear, readable displays.
- Versatility: For multi-tasking models, we assessed how well they actually air fry or grill, ensuring they aren’t just “jack of all trades, master of none.”
- Build & noise: We analysed feedback on door latch sturdiness, ease of cleaning (like anti-bacterial coatings) and “silent” modes for late-night snacking.
- Real-world reliability: We cross-referenced thousands of Australian consumer reviews from major retailers like The Good Guys, Myer and Bing Lee, alongside expert brand reliability data.
- Value for money: We weighed the price tag against the warranty period and energy efficiency to ensure the long-term investment stacks up.
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- The best rice cookers for fluffy, restaurant-quality dishes
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