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Microwave Buying Guide

Microwave Buying Guide
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Microwave Buying Guide

Microwaves are ideal when one of the dishes of a full-blown 4-course menu has to be prepared just that little bit faster, so it all comes together on the dinner table. Our kitchen helpers include ovens with microwaves and built-in microwaves.

The best microwaves are often the most convenient appliances in our kitchens. Whether you use it for cooking a meal, warming up a snack, or reheating a forgotten brew, your microwave’s instant and even heat can be helpful in many ways.

Because of how often we use them, buying a microwave can feel like a big decision. In this guide, we’ll talk you through the different types and sizes available and highlight some features you might want to look out for. Finally, we’ll share some tips for looking after your microwave to make sure you get the most out of your appliance.

What are the different types of microwave NEFF has?

There are a few main types of microwave out there: ovens with microwaves and built-in microwaves. The type you choose will depend on your household needs.

Suppose you only need a microwave for an odd cooking job and will use your large stovetop and oven for everything else. In that case, a solo microwave could be the appliance for you. If you’re going to rely on your microwave for many types of cooking, you might also benefit from a grill and oven function.

What are the capacities of our microwaves?

Microwaves are available in various sizes to suit your needs. If you cook for one or two people or don’t have much space in your kitchen, you might prefer to choose a compact model. Mid-size microwaves offer a little more room, while full-size microwaves can cater for the whole family.

You should know how much length and depth you have available before choosing a microwave size. 1 to 2 inches of space for ventilation is essential around the edges and back of your microwave.

How to

How to use the microwave on your NEFF oven

You can use the microwave to cook, heat up or defrost food quickly. The microwave can be used on its own, or in combination with a type of heating. A variety of microwave power settings that are suitable for different types of food and food preparation are available. The compact oven starts at 90 and goes up to 600 until it reaches its maximum power. Use the NEFF user friendly control element to select the type of heating and other functions.

Setting the microwave to combi-mode : Different types of heating are available: HotAir, CircoRoasting, large grill area and small grill area. These types of heating are suitable for combining with the microwave.

What are the advantages of ovens with microwave?

When you’re wanting space and functionality, this two-in-one oven is just right. Defrosting, microwaving, baking and roasting – it’s all part of the package. You can thaw out your casserole and cook it afterwards, quickly bake your puff pastries, and roast your rotisserie-style chicken to tender goodness. All in one convenient space.

Depending on the model, NEFF ovens with microwaves offer additional functions:

  • Dual cleaning options:
    Pyrolytic cleaning programmes - just let the oven interior clean itself.
    EasyClean - the quick and easy option for day to day maintenance.
  • HotAir - Takes your baking to new levels thanks to our optimal heat distribution.
  • Baking and Roasting Assistant with Automatic Programmes - the duo for optimal baking at your command.

What are the best microwave features to look out for?

Modern microwaves offer many exciting features that can make cooking with these appliances a joy. But what are some of the latest to look out for?

  • LED display : LED display panels offer detailed and precise information about how long’s left on your microwave programme. They also make choosing the correct settings easy.
  • LED lighting : Bright LED lights inside your microwave let you see what’s happening inside. This can be useful for ovens with an integral microwave since you can see the progress of baked and grilled foods that might overcook.
  • Automatic programmes : If you aren’t sure how long to cook something, microwaves with automatic programmes can be helpful. Simply select the dish you’re trying to cook, confirm with a touch, and press start. Your intelligent automatic appliance will do all the hard work for you.
  • Shift Control : A control pad that lets you swipe quickly from one programme to another. With just a touch, you can change mode, find out if your microwave oven is hot enough, and see how long is left on your timer.
  • Self-Cleaning : Make cleaning your kitchen easier than ever with a microwave that helps you along. Self-cleaning microwaves can reach a high temperature, helping loosen splashes and spills so you can wipe them away without a struggle.
  • Defrost : Many microwaves offer a defrost programme, which can be invaluable if you want to cook something frozen at the last minute. These programmes run the appliance at low power, bringing the temperature up quickly and safely. That means you can enjoy delicious, nourishing meals without waiting.

CHOOSING THE BEST MICROWAVE FAQs

When should a microwave be replaced?

If you take good care of your microwave, it could last for as long as 10 years. Signs that your appliance needs to be replaced include loud or unusual noises when running, sparks, smoke, or if the door or control panel stops working.

How do I know the wattage of my microwave?

To find out the wattage of your microwave, have a good look around the appliance. Often the wattage is stated on the door or the serial number plate on the back of your microwave. If you can’t find it there, look in your owners manual or on the manufacturer website.

Is 800 watts enough for a microwave?

Yes, an 800-watt microwave should be enough for your cooking needs. A more powerful appliance might cook your food a little faster, but it won’t be necessary for great results.

What capacity microwave do I need?

The size of your perfect microwave will depend on the space you have available and your household needs. If you are only cooking for 1 or 2 people regularly, you might be better with a compact microwave. For busy kitchens, a large microwave could be best.

What is the best small microwave?

NEFF compact microwaves offer various cooking programmes and a sleek design in multiple sizes, with options available to fit into any kitchen. Choose a model with innovative features to suit your needs and enjoy guaranteed high performance for years to come.

View Compact Microwaves

What is a standard size microwave?

Standard microwave capacities are between 1.5 and 2.2 cubic feet. That means a width of around 30 inches, a height of approximately 18 inches, and a depth of about 15 inches.

What are our best microwaves?

Thinking of buying a NEFF built-in microwave? Our appliances are available in various compact, integrated designs, so you can choose a stylish option that works for your kitchen.

Our N50 built-in microwave oven is available in black or white to suit your taste, with a hinged door, LED control panel, and automatic programmes to make cooking straightforward.
The N70 is a larger integrated microwave oven with the added bonus of Shift Control, which lets you flick between settings and information quickly.
After something smaller? The N30 is a compact option with an LED display and chunky buttons for fuss-free microwave cooking.

What size microwave fits a dinner plate?

Most dinner plates have a diameter of around 10 inches. That means an appliance with a more than 11 inches width will fit microwaveable crockery inside comfortably.

How to look after your microwave?
How to look after your microwave

If you’re going to keep your microwave running smoothly for years to come, you’ll need to care for it correctly from the start. That means maintaining clean microwave accessories and wiping down the insides whenever something splashes or spills. You should also open and close the door carefully and avoid pulling, leaning, or slamming to keep hinges intact.


If you’re caring for a NEFF integrated microwave, you can find lots of support and arrange an engineer visit online.

Dealer Locator

Find Your Local Dealer

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Dealer Locator
Contact Us

Do you need further help and support? Our customer service team will be able to provide the help you need.

Repair Service

Need to book a repair? Not a problem. We can arrange for an engineer to repair your NEFF appliance, both in and out of warranty.

User Manuals

If you need any help and support that is specific to your NEFF appliance model, your user manual is the best place to find this information.

NEFF Store

Search for original spare parts and buy tested and approved accessories and cleaning and care products for your NEFF appliances in the NEFF store.