Microwave oven: how to choose and buy at a better price
Freestanding or built-in
This is the first thing that sets microwave ovens apart. A freestanding one goes on a table or shelf and needs free space around it for ventilation. A built-in one is made for a niche, usually 60 cm wide, and you can't simply put it on an ordinary shelf: it needs its own fitting kit or a suitable housing. Measure the niche and write the dimensions in your request.
Capacity and power
For reheating food for 1–2 people 17–20 litres is enough. For a family, big plates and actual cooking, people usually take 23–30 litres. But capacity also decides the size of the oven itself: a tight kitchen can limit your choice.
Microwave power is often 700–900 W. It affects the speed of heating, but it is not the only thing: evenness of heating and the type of controls matter too.
Which functions you really need
- Solo: only reheating and defrosting, the simplest and cheapest option.
- With grill: browns the top of a dish.
- With convection: works like a small oven, so you can bake.
- Inverter: microwaves are delivered smoothly rather than in pulses, and defrosting is gentler.
If you don't plan to bake, convection is an unnecessary extra. If you want to cook without a full oven, look for a combination model with convection and grill.
Look at the controls as well: mechanical knobs are simpler and last longer, a touch panel is easier to wipe but dearer to repair. The diameter of the turntable matters too, because on a small one you can't fit a large plate or a pizza.
What to put in your request
- Built-in or freestanding — for a built-in, the size of the niche.
- Capacity — for example, 20 l.
- Functions — grill, convection, inverter, steam.
- Model — brand and name, if you have already chosen.
- Colour — white, black, stainless steel.
- New or used.
- Warranty.
- Delivery and city, budget.
Example: “I need a new 23 l microwave with a grill, freestanding, in black. Brand warranty, courier delivery to Manila. Budget up to ₱6,000.”
How to compare offers
Check that all of them have the same capacity, type and set of modes. Ask what is in the box: glass plate, support ring, roller, fitting frame. For built-in models this matters especially.
When buying used, ask about its age, whether there was any sparking inside, and the condition of the door and its seal. The door must close tightly, and the enamel on the walls shouldn't be damaged.
How it works on BlaBlaPrice
Instead of searching shop by shop, you create a request and sellers write to you themselves. They can see where their offer stands and usually improve their terms. You compare price, what is included, delivery and seller reviews, and open contacts only for the one you choose. More in How it works.
See also cookers and ovens and electric kettles.
