From reheating leftover meals to the likes of cooking, baking, roasting, and grilling foods, there are many things you can do with a microwave oven. Of course, that depends on its respective functionality, types, and price range. But one thing’s for sure, a microwave oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that's convenient for home and office use.
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Mae An NG chevron_right
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Top 8 Microwave Ovens in Malaysia
Why It's Our Top Pick?
Here’s a value-for-money microwave oven from Sharp that packs plenty of features. At this price point, it's worth every penny for the features you're getting; multiple steam settings that accompany the usual reheat and defrost functions. It even comes with a child lock. This no-frills microwave oven gets the job done and is a great option for those on a budget.
Who is this for?
Combining efficiency, convenience, and versatility, the Sharp R207EK is perfect for families that need a reliable microwave that’s easy to use and user-friendly. With its generously large capacity and many other features, it is perfect for the working person or for anyone who rarely has the time to cook. Furthermore, its sleek design would just enhance the looks of your kitchen.
However, some users pointed out the lack of assorted pre-programmed functions to cook different foods. In the case of this model, the function leans more on the singular different types of steaming. But if you look past this minor inconvenience, it remains a good buy for those who do not want to spend a fortune on a microwave oven.
What to know
First things first, it has a medium-sized 20L capacity that can fit most dishes. There’s also a 255mm turntable that automatically rotates the food inside and cooks it evenly while eliminating hot or cold spots. On the right side of the oven, you’ll find a few buttons for handy functions like defrosting frozen foods like fries, or mixed vegetables either by 'time defrost' or 'weight defrost'.
There are also 6 presets that allow you to prepare different foods. Those who love to steam their food will find this microwave useful as you'll be able to steam dumplings, fish, rice, and vegetables -- all with one touch of a button apart from the usual; Reheat and Dinner Plate functions.
The Child Lock is a thoughtful safety feature that prevents accidents. Finally, there’s the LED panel which displays clear and easy-to-read timing.
Key info
- Power: 230 - 240V, 50Hz
- Capacity: 20 L
- Child lock: Yes
- Dimensions: Exterior: 440 x 259 x 359mm; Interior: 306 x 206 x 304mm
- Features: Energy-saving mode
Who is this for?
Here’s a microwave oven at a budget-friendly price for those who don’t want to spend a lot on a kitchen appliance. The Midea MM720CGE model features a 20L capacity, which is suitable for single individuals or small families.
Apart from the affordability, it also has a compact size that makes it suitable for smaller spaces while having features that make it also suitable for someone starting in their culinary journey and looking for a budget microwave oven.
What to know
The Midea 20L MM720CGE covers the basic functions, namely the Defrost setting for defrosting frozen foods like mixed vegetables, fries, and fillets straight out of the freezer. Utilizing a convenient push-button door that is easy to open as well, this overall medium-sized build doesn’t take up much space, making it ideal to place even on a small kitchen counter.
Setting the cooking power is easy. All you need to do is turn the power knob located on the upper right side of the oven to your preferred setting: low, medium-low, medium-high, or high. Once you are done, the microwave oven will automatically start cooking. Might we add that the oven heats up fast too!
The five temperature settings come in handy especially when you are using them for different purposes. For instance, the medium-low setting is best for making soup stew or softening butter from the fridge. Meanwhile, the medium-high setting is suitable for cooking fish, chicken, or meat in the oven.
Key info
- Power: 700W
- Capacity: 20 L
- Child lock: Yes
- Dimensions: 439.5 x 328.0 x 258.2mm
- Defrost setting
Who is this for?
Simplify cooking with the Toshiba Microwave Oven With Grill ER-SGS20(K)MY, which allows you to cook a wide range of meals with ease, especially with its grill function. This means you can grill a steak, make a crispy sandwich, or reheat yesterday's leftovers.
It’s also easy to use thanks to the touch panel and multiple cooking options. So, if you’re looking for a microwave oven that also comes with a grill, consider getting the Toshiba ER-SGS20(K)MY.
What to know
This microwave oven features an easy-to-use touch control panel with 9 auto-cooking menu options that include potatoes, popcorn, frozen pizza, and the usual weight defrost and time defrost, among other presets.
There’s also a child safety lock so you won’t have to worry for your family’s safety, especially if you have kids who may let their curiosity get the best of them and try and tamper with the settings.
Key info
- Power: 1000 W
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: Exterior: 440 x 325 x 258mm; Interior: 306 x 304 x 208mm
- 11 power levels
- Touch control
Who is this for?
Cooking a family lunch or dinner has never been this easy and convenient with the Sharp R954AST convection-type microwave oven. But those who bake regularly will benefit most from using this microwave oven.
Given its larger build and 42L capacity, it’s also made suitable for baking purposes regardless of size and height (yes, your dream of making taller baked goods is possible as well). So, if you find yourself making things like cakes, or if you want to start baking, a microwave oven would help you on your journey.
What to know
This oven allows you to adjust a wide temperature range, between 140°C to 230°C. With a bigger-sized turntable measuring 345mm, you can use this oven to bake a 6” round pizza or roast a whole chicken.
Some of the highlights of this oven include 10 auto menus, an easy-to-read LED display as well as a simple-to-use tact dial type that enables you to control the temperature and timing smoothly. As with other Sharp models, this one also features a Child Lock to prevent your kid’s itchy fingers from interfering with the oven-cooking process.
The overall stainless steel finish looks both classy and elegant, making it a seamless fit for any modern kitchen.
Key info
- Power: 1000W
- Capacity: 42 L
- Dimensions: Exterior: 553 x 326 x 550mm; Interior: 395 x 272 x 394mm
- 2 Multiple Sequence Cooking
- 5 power level
Who is this for?
If you want a premium-looking microwave to fit the aesthetic in your kitchen, the Samsung Dual Dial MS23F300EEK/SM will fit that criterion. The best part is that you don’t even need to spend too much money on it. So, if you want to upgrade your microwave oven without spending too much, consider getting this Samsung microwave oven.
What to know
Samsung Dual Dial MS23F300EEK/SM has a Triple Distribution System that emits microwaves in 3 different directions, allowing you to cook your meals and heat your food evenly.
With a 23L capacity, it is large enough for more than one person, so you can cook all your delicious recipes, and even heat your leftovers to a satisfactory state. It comes in a compact design that doesn’t take up space in your kitchen as well as smartly designed so that it has an easy-to-navigate design and layout.
Key info
- Power: 240V, 50Hz
- Capacity: 23L
- Dimensions: 489 x 275 x 374mm
- Triple Distribution System
- Dual Dial Control
Who is this for?
Small but mighty, the Panasonic NN-ST25JBMPQ packs a wealth of features for an otherwise 20L capacity oven in a similar category. It fits best in smaller areas but still allows you to cook meals, and heat up leftovers with ease and quickly. Overall, this microwave oven is recommended to those who are seeking a reliable and space-saving one, especially since it doesn’t fall short on features.
What to know
First off, it has 9 auto cooking menus to make your cooking simpler and more convenient. This includes everything from baking bread and potatoes to heating/reheating hot beverages as well as cooking vegetables and fish.
Some of the other highlights to look out for include a 30-second setting, which allows you to set a faster cooking time without having to fiddle with any other settings. It also has an auto-defrost setting that comes in handy for thawing the likes of frozen bread, cake, or mixed vegetables.
Worry that your kid might accidentally open the oven door during the cooking process? Thankfully, this oven has a safety Child Lock feature to prevent that from happening. To activate, just press the Start button three times and vice versa to switch off the feature.
Given its compact form factor, this oven is suitable even for those who live in a smaller apartment since it doesn’t take up much of your kitchen counter space. The all-black design brings a sleek and sophisticated look to your kitchen.
Key info
- Power: 800W
- Capacity: 20 L
- Dimensions: Exterior: 443 x 330 x 258 mm; Interior 306 x 308 x 214 mm
- Quick 30 functions
- 5 power level
Who is this for?
This microwave oven is ideal for those who need one that’s budget-friendly without having to compromise on functionality. It also comes in a smaller size which means it doesn’t take up too much space on your countertop. Plus the settings are pretty easy to use, making it beginner-friendly for all.
What to know
Microwave ovens don’t need to break the bank, and there are always great alternatives for a more affordable price. One of them is the Electrolux EMM20K18GWI, especially since it has a large capacity that is wide enough to cook or warm up your food.
You can also enjoy a wider turntable for larger dishes with the Electrolux EMM20K18GWI. It comes with 5 power levels which you can adjust manually. The internal capacity is also large enough at 20L to cook or heat your favorite dishes.
Key info
- Power: 230-240V, 50-60 Hz
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 451 x 343 x 258 mm
- Quick Defrost
- Wide turntable
Who is this for?
Remodeling your kitchen and want a built-in microwave? Then the Rubine RMO-OREO-28BL would be perfect for you. Its built-in design makes your kitchen look more organized while allowing for more space for other important items on your countertop. The best part is that it is one of the more affordable ones out there.
There is a child-lock feature which ensures that you don’t have to worry about your kids opening the oven when in use. So, heat your food quickly, or make your favorite meal effortlessly with this Rubine built-in microwave oven.
What to know
This microwave oven has a nice size with a 28L capacity, which is not too big or small, but then again this depends on the amount of space you have. Other than that, cooking food such as grilling is convenient as this microwave oven is equipped with a grilling rack. With 8 presets that include settings for fish, pasta, and vegetables, meal prep will be quick and easy.
Since it’s built into the wall, you won’t need to worry about taking up space on your countertop, and it would also elevate the looks of your kitchen. It combines functionality with elegance and enhances the overall looks of your kitchen. Something else worth noting is this microwave oven has 8 auto menus, for an easier cooking experience.
Key info
- Power: 230-240V~50Hz
- Capacity: 28 L
- Dimensions: 653 x 500 x 466 mm
- Weight and time defrost
- Grill function
FAQ
How to choose a microwave oven
So, you have decided to take the leap and buy a microwave oven. But before you spend your hard-earned money, there are a few important things you need to take into consideration when it comes to choosing the right microwave oven.
Types of Microwaves
There are generally three major types of microwave ovens available in the market.
First and foremost is the countertop microwave. You commonly see them on display in many departmental stores and electronic shops. These countertop varieties are generally affordable, although some come at a premium price tag due to varying features.
The other two are known as built-in and over-the-range microwaves, both of which typically require a professional installer.
Usually, either of these types is more suitable for those who own a big home. However, these two types are quite rare in Malaysia. Therefore, our list is limited to countertops that are just as great.
Wattage
Good microwaves require a good amount of power. It is recommended to pick one with a minimum power of 1,000 Watts, Those that are 700 Watts or lower will result in slower cooking time and uneven cooking results.
The rule of thumb is that the higher the wattage, the quicker the cooking time. Of course, a higher-wattage microwave oven usually comes at a higher price.
Know Your Oven Capacity
Every microwave oven has a different capacity level, which is measured in liters. The capacity of an oven serves as a guide as to the amount of food you can cook in one go. Here’s a guide on microwave capacity based on family size and frequency of use:
i) Solo Microwave (2-4 members, ideal capacity between 15L to 20L)
ii) Solo Microwave (4-6 members, ideal capacity between 25L to 30L)
iii) Grill/Convection Microwave (2-4 members, ideal capacity between 21L to 30L)
iv) Grill/Convection Microwave (4-6 members, ideal capacity from 32L and above)
Features
Depending on the model and price range, there is a wide range of features when it comes to microwave ovens. Here are some of them:
Auto Cook
As the name suggests, this feature helps to simplify your cooking with just the push of a button. By using the auto cook function, you don’t even need to set the timer and configure the right power level.
Defrost
Some microwave ovens have both auto and adjustable defrost functions while others come with a single defrost feature. Either way, this feature comes in handy for defrosting and heating frozen packaged food such as mixed vegetables, meat, fries and fish fillets straight from the freezer.
Convection
Certain microwave ovens come equipped with a convection fan, which is typically built into the back of the unit. The general function of a convection fan is to help circulate the heat around the food so it can cook faster and more evenly. Depending on the model and your budget, you will find thatsome microwaves have more than one convection fan.
Child Lock
If you have kids at home, it would be wise to invest in a microwave oven that comes with a Child Lock. It's a handy safety feature to keep your kids’ from tampering with the settings especially when you can't have eyeballs on them at all times.
Microwave Oven vs Oven
Both of these appliances have become commonplace in most kitchens, yet some may still be confused about how they differ. Microwave ovens or microwaves employ electromagnetic radiation to heat and cook food. On the other hand, an oven is a generic name for a thermally insulated chamber used to heat, cook, or bake food.
In addition, they differ in the following areas:
The Physics
A microwave oven uses safe radiation to heat meals efficiently. It is equipped with a magnetron, an electron device that emits microwave radiation to cause the molecules in the meal to vibrate, rotate, and finally generate heat. Microwaves penetrate the food and produce friction from within, which causes the food to heat up.
The faster the food molecules move and the hotter the meal, the more radiation there is. The turntable plate and mirrored walls of a microwave oven allow food to be cooked uniformly in a shorter duration of time.
On the other hand, an oven generates heat and bakes food using thermal insulation. It comprises two heating elements; one on top and the other on the bottom. Copper wires are twisted into bundles within the heating equipment. Fans pump heated air across the chamber, evenly cooking the food.
Nutrient levels
Compared to an oven, a microwave oven prevents overcooking, thus reducing the loss of nutrients in food. This is because food is cooked evenly, also retaining the flavor and texture.
The surface of the food will not get overly hard, dry, or brown if it is exposed to controlled radiation.
Cooking and the Price
Preheating, defrosting, boiling, steaming, and simmering are just some of the functions of a microwave oven.
Microwave ovens can help you save because you can switch it on right away instead of waiting for it to heat up to a set temperature. It cooks food from the inside out, which means they are more efficient and require less electricity than conventional ovens, saving up to 75% electricity.
Meanwhile, ovens are ideal for roasting and baking cake, meat, bread, cookies, and other pastries. The most significant difference between a microwave oven and an oven is that the latter cannot be used to reheat food since the food might turn out charred.
Furthermore, it is best to preheat the oven before using it as the copper coils require time to heat up.
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