Solo microwaves
Best solo microwaves for UK kitchens in 2026
Straightforward microwave picks for reheating, defrosting and everyday cooking without combi complexity.
- Products shortlisted
- 8
- Last updated
- 15 Jul 2026
A solo microwave is the right choice when you mainly want fast reheating, defrosting and simple everyday cooking. It should be easy to use, quick to clean and sized properly for your plates, bowls and kitchen space.
Look for a sensible capacity, clear controls and enough power for the portions you heat most often. A simple model that fits properly is usually a better buy than paying for cooking modes you will rarely use.
Related buying guides
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Get a shortlist based on your needs, or compare the catalogue yourself.
Quick picks
Best options at a glance
See the main recommendations side by side, with enough detail to decide which picks deserve a closer look.
Best Overall Solo Microwave
Panasonic NN-ST23QMBPQ Solo Microwave
20L, 800W, Silver
Best all-round solo microwave for smaller kitchens that still need dependable everyday reheating.
Best Design-Led Solo Microwave
Samsung MS23T5018AG BESPOKE Solo Microwave
23L, 800W, Slate Grey
Best for buyers who want a smart-looking solo microwave with a little more capacity than compact 20L models.
Best Larger Solo Microwave
Panasonic NN-ST48KSBPQ Inverter Microwave
32L, 1000W, Stainless Steel
Best for households that want solo simplicity with more room and stronger everyday power.
Best Stylish Solo Microwave
Swan SM22037LBLKN Stealth Digital Microwave
20L, 800W, Matte Black
Best for buyers who want a simple solo microwave with a more distinctive look.
Best Easy-To-Use Solo Microwave
Russell Hobbs RHM2017 Digital Microwave
20L, 800W, Silver
Best for buyers who want familiar controls and a straightforward solo microwave format.
Best Budget Solo Microwave
Cookworks P70J17AP-VB Standard Microwave
17L, 700W, Black
Best for buyers who need a low-cost solo microwave for simple reheating and defrosting.
Best Simple Family Solo Microwave
Russell Hobbs RHM2027B Solo Manual Microwave
20L, 800W, Black
Best for households that want a no-fuss 20L solo model with familiar 800W performance.
Best Colourful Solo Microwave
Haden Cotswold Microwave Oven
20L, 800W, Green
Best for buyers who want a compact solo microwave with a softer, more decorative kitchen look.
Comparison
Compare the products at a glance
See the main details and prices side by side to narrow down the products that suit your kitchen.
| Product | Price | Capacity | Power | Type | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic NN-ST23QMBPQ Solo Microwave Best Overall Solo Microwave | Typical price: £70-£99 | 20L | 800w | solo | 44 x 32.4 x 25.8cm |
| Samsung MS23T5018AG BESPOKE Solo Microwave Best Design-Led Solo Microwave | Typical price: £175-£179 | 23L | 800w | solo | 48.9 x 36.3 x 27.5cm |
| Panasonic NN-ST48KSBPQ Inverter Microwave Best Larger Solo Microwave | Typical price: £180-£199 | 32L | 1000w | solo | 52.5 x 38.8 x 31cm |
| Swan SM22037LBLKN Stealth Digital Microwave Best Stylish Solo Microwave | Guide price: £100 | 20L | 800w | solo | 45 x 34 x 25.8cm |
| Russell Hobbs RHM2017 Digital Microwave Best Easy-To-Use Solo Microwave | Typical price: £79-£90 | 20L | 800w | solo | 45.2 x 39.5 x 26.2cm |
| Cookworks P70J17AP-VB Standard Microwave Best Budget Solo Microwave | Guide price: £49 | 17L | 700w | solo | 44.6 x 32.3 x 24.3cm |
| Russell Hobbs RHM2027B Solo Manual Microwave Best Simple Family Solo Microwave | Guide price: £68 | 20L | 800w | solo | 44 x 33.8 x 25.9cm |
| Haden Cotswold Microwave Oven Best Colourful Solo Microwave | Guide price: £60 | 20L | 800w | solo | 45.5 x 34 x 25.2cm |
Buying advice
How to choose a solo microwave
Use these checks to decide which features matter before comparing individual products.
Start with capacity
A 20L model is usually enough for one or two people and smaller kitchens. A larger solo microwave makes sense if you often reheat family portions, large plates or batch-cooked meals.
Choose clear controls over novelty modes
Solo microwaves should be quick to operate. Look for obvious power levels, defrost settings, timers and presets you will use regularly.
Check plate fit and external size
The litre rating is useful, but the turntable and cavity shape decide what actually fits. Measure your worktop, allow the ventilation space stated in the instructions and make sure the door can open without hitting a wall or cupboard.
Think about cleaning
A smooth interior and removable turntable are easier to wipe after spills. Steam from a bowl of water can loosen dried splashes, but avoid abrasive cleaners and follow the manufacturer's care instructions.
Do not overpay for functions you do not need
If you want browning, baking or crisping, look at a grill or combination microwave. If reheating is the main job, a simpler solo model is usually better value.
Full verdicts
Why these picks made the shortlist
A closer look at where each pick works best, what it gives up and what to double-check before buying.
Award Best Overall Solo Microwave
Key specs
- Capacity
- 20L
- Power
- 800w
- Type
- solo
- Dimensions
- 44 x 32.4 x 25.8cm
The Panasonic NN-ST23QMBPQ is the best overall solo pick because it keeps the format simple while offering enough power, capacity and programmes for normal daily use.
Typical price: £70-£99
Key features
- Compact 20L solo design
- Five power levels and useful programmes
- Clear controls for daily heating and defrosting
Where to buy
Retailer prices can change, so check the final price before buying.
| Retailer | Price | Checked | Retailer link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK | Price Check retailer | Checked - | View at Amazon |
Pros
- Compact enough for smaller kitchens
- Easy to use for everyday reheating
- Sensible balance of capacity, power and price
Cons
- Not large enough for every family dish
- No grill or combi cooking modes
Verdict
It is the right first choice if you want a compact microwave that feels dependable rather than stripped back.
Award Best Design-Led Solo Microwave
Key specs
- Capacity
- 23L
- Power
- 800w
- Type
- solo
- Dimensions
- 48.9 x 36.3 x 27.5cm
The Samsung MS23T5018A is the design-led solo pick, giving a neater worktop look and a useful 23L capacity without adding combi complexity.
Typical price: £175-£179
Key features
- 23L solo cavity
- Compact modern styling
- Simple everyday cooking modes
Where to buy
Retailer prices can change, so check the final price before buying.
| Retailer | Price | Checked | Retailer link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK | Price Check retailer | Checked - | View at Amazon |
Pros
- More internal room than many compact solos
- Clean design suits visible worktop placement
- Good fit for everyday reheating and defrosting
Cons
- No oven-style cooking modes
- Costs more than the most basic solo options
Verdict
It suits buyers who want a microwave that looks less basic while still doing simple solo jobs well.
Award Best Larger Solo Microwave
Key specs
- Capacity
- 32L
- Power
- 1000w
- Type
- solo
- Dimensions
- 52.5 x 38.8 x 31cm
Panasonic NN-ST48KSBPQ Inverter Microwave
32L, 1000W, Stainless Steel
The Panasonic NN-ST48KSBPQ is the larger solo choice for homes that need more cavity space but do not want the cost or learning curve of a combi appliance.
Typical price: £180-£199
Key features
- Larger 32L solo cavity
- 1000W microwave power
- Useful programme range for larger portions
Where to buy
Retailer prices can change, so check the final price before buying.
| Retailer | Price | Checked | Retailer link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK | Price Check retailer | Checked - | View at Amazon |
Pros
- Large capacity suits family plates and batch reheating
- Higher power helps with bigger portions
- Still simpler than a combi microwave
Cons
- Takes more worktop room than compact solo picks
- No grill, steam or convection functions
Verdict
Solo-microwave simplicity remains the priority here, but with more cavity space than a compact 20L model can offer.
Award Best Stylish Solo Microwave
Key specs
- Capacity
- 20L
- Power
- 800w
- Type
- solo
- Dimensions
- 45 x 34 x 25.8cm
The Swan Stealth is the style pick for buyers who want a compact solo microwave that does not look purely functional on the counter.
Guide price: £100
Key features
- 20L digital solo microwave
- Compact worktop footprint
- Styled finish for visible kitchens
Where to buy
Retailer prices can change, so check the final price before buying.
| Retailer | Price | Checked | Retailer link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK | Price Check retailer | Checked - | View at Amazon |
Pros
- More characterful than most budget solo microwaves
- Compact size suits smaller counters
- Straightforward digital operation
Cons
- Style is a bigger reason to buy than advanced performance
- Capacity is modest
Verdict
It is best for kitchens where appearance matters almost as much as simple reheating and defrosting.
Award Best Easy-To-Use Solo Microwave
Key specs
- Capacity
- 20L
- Power
- 800w
- Type
- solo
- Dimensions
- 45.2 x 39.5 x 26.2cm
The Russell Hobbs RHM2017 keeps the solo-microwave experience familiar, with 800W power, simple settings and a 20L cavity for everyday meals.
Typical price: £79-£90
Key features
- 20L solo format
- Five power levels
- Auto-cook and defrost options
Where to buy
Retailer prices can change, so check the final price before buying.
| Retailer | Price | Checked | Retailer link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK | Price Check retailer | Checked - | View at Amazon |
Pros
- Simple operation
- Useful automatic settings for everyday food
- Good alternative to more complicated digital models
Cons
- No grill or combi modes
- Not as roomy as larger family models
Verdict
It is a practical pick when ease of use matters more than premium styling or extra cooking modes.
Award Best Budget Solo Microwave
Key specs
- Capacity
- 17L
- Power
- 700w
- Type
- solo
- Dimensions
- 44.6 x 32.3 x 24.3cm
The Cookworks 700W Standard Microwave is the budget solo pick: small, simple and focused on reheating rather than extra functions.
Guide price: £49
Key features
- Compact 17L solo microwave
- Basic power levels and defrost
- Simple manual operation
Where to buy
Retailer prices can change, so check the final price before buying.
| Retailer | Price | Checked | Retailer link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK | Price Check retailer | Checked - | View at Amazon |
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to understand and use
- Compact enough for tight spaces
Cons
- Lower capacity than most other picks
- Basic feature set
Verdict
It makes most sense for tight budgets, smaller kitchens or occasional use where price and simplicity are the main priorities.
Award Best Simple Family Solo Microwave
Key specs
- Capacity
- 20L
- Power
- 800w
- Type
- solo
- Dimensions
- 44 x 33.8 x 25.9cm
The Russell Hobbs RHM2027B is a no-fuss family solo option for buyers who want a familiar 20L, 800W format.
Guide price: £68
Key features
- 20L solo microwave
- 800W microwave power
- Simple everyday settings
Where to buy
Retailer prices can change, so check the final price before buying.
| Retailer | Price | Checked | Retailer link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK | Price Check retailer | Checked - | View at Amazon |
Pros
- Sensible size for daily family reheating
- Straightforward solo format
- Useful alternative to smaller low-cost models
Cons
- No grill or oven-style modes
- Less distinctive than the style-led picks
Verdict
A practical everyday microwave for homes that do not need premium looks or cooking modes beyond standard microwave heating.
Award Best Colourful Solo Microwave
Key specs
- Capacity
- 20L
- Power
- 800w
- Type
- solo
- Dimensions
- 45.5 x 34 x 25.2cm
The Haden Cotswold is the colourful solo pick, aimed at buyers who want a softer kitchen style without moving into combi-microwave complexity.
Guide price: £60
Key features
- 20L solo microwave
- Compact worktop footprint
- Colour-led design
Where to buy
Retailer prices can change, so check the final price before buying.
| Retailer | Price | Checked | Retailer link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK | Price Check retailer | Checked - | View at Amazon |
Pros
- Distinctive look compared with plain black or silver models
- Compact size suits smaller kitchens
- Simple solo format keeps operation straightforward
Cons
- Design is the main differentiator
- Not the best fit for larger dishes
Verdict
It is a good decorative option for smaller kitchens, provided you are choosing it for simple solo tasks rather than larger family cooking.
Questions
Solo microwave FAQs
Straight answers to the questions that usually come up before buying.
What is a solo microwave?
A solo microwave uses microwave heating only. It is designed for reheating, defrosting and simple cooking, rather than grilling, baking or air frying.
Is a solo microwave enough for a family?
Yes, if you mainly reheat plates, leftovers and simple meals. Families should prioritise a larger capacity and simple controls rather than buying the smallest model available.
What wattage should a solo microwave have?
Most everyday solo microwaves sit around 700-1000W. Around 800W is a sensible baseline, while higher wattage can be useful for larger models if the controls are still easy to use.
Why does food heat unevenly in a microwave?
Microwave energy does not reach every part of a dish equally, especially with large or dense portions. Spread food out where possible, cover it, stir or turn it during cooking and allow the stated standing time so heat can continue to spread.
Should I buy a solo microwave or a combi microwave?
Buy a solo microwave for value and simplicity. Buy a combi microwave only if you will regularly use grill, convection, steam or air-fry style cooking modes.
Calculators
Use calculators before you choose
Sense-check size, cost and practical fit before comparing the recommendations.
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Buying advice
Helpful advice before you choose
Use these guides to settle the trade-offs that matter before comparing the recommendations.
What size microwave do I need?
Choose the right microwave size by matching litre capacity to your plates, worktop space, household size and whether you want a simple solo model or a larger combi microwave.
Read advice
Flatbed vs turntable microwaves: which is better?
Flatbed microwaves give you more usable space and easier cleaning, but a normal turntable is still the best-value choice for many kitchens. Here is how to decide.
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What wattage microwave do I need?
Choose the right microwave wattage for everyday reheating, defrosting and simple cooking without overpaying for power you will not use.
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