Microwave oven - opinions and recommendations?

ArbitraryRandom

Me again  

Any experience with either this model or this company? Not a flatbed, but oven functions using separate trays like a 'normal' oven. 

https://donaghybros.co.uk/sharp-r959slm-900w-40l-touch-control-freestanding-combi-microwave-oven.html

Mum161111

I hope it is all right to ask here on your post,  ArbitraryRandom.   

My Sharp flatbed microwave is soldiering on but I suspect it will have to be replaced before too long.  I like the flatbed and would really like a more compact (smaller size) flatbed microwave to replace the present one when it does give up.  

So far all the smaller models seem to be lower watts and, if there is a compact sized one, ideally 900 w minimum, I would be very interested.  I have tried "Google" but, so far, have not seen what I am hoping for.  I had to take my, now older one, down off the wall mounting on to the worktop because I was struggling with the height - my  age is showing now.  I have limited space on my worktop and find the microwave takes up more space than i'd like.

I would really appreciate any suggestions, just for a basic microwave, compact size, flatbed and 900 w if at all possible. I don't need a grill.  Thank you very much.

ArbitraryRandom

No idea about your budget, but at work they have these: https://www.caterkwik.co.uk/cgi-bin/trolleyed_public.cgi?action=showprod_CM1089

Which aren't the cheapest, but have been in use since a few years pre-pandemic/were used by several hundred people monday to Friday (obviously not used so much in the last couple of years with more people flexi working). It's described as 'light use' but I think it's light use for a commercial product rather than domestic? 

This model is the reason I'd quite like a flatbed microwave and if I can't find a combi that I fancy then this is the one I'll go for. 

carly

I had a Panasonic combi and it used to drive me mad because after using it as an oven the cooling fan used to run for ages and it was very noisy. Might not be a problem with other makes. I currently have  a Salter  " duowave" combi with " air fryer" capabilities and its pretty good. 

mumf

we’ve had expensive ones,cheap and in - between too. We use ours a lot,and we’ve done one or two! Frankly,I’d buy the cheapest available now,and use it until it gives in. They are not made to last now,like most things sadly. 

Rosa_Damascena

That is quite an investment for a microwave! I asked a similar question recently on this thread and was very happy with my choice: https://mda.russellhobbs.com/rhm2574.html .

Whereabouts in the country are you @ArbitraryRandom ?

ArbitraryRandom

Not too far from Chester  

I'd prefer a larger capacity (especially with a turn table as I'd struggle to get some of my larger plates/dishes in a 25L I think), but I appreciate the recommendation. 

I see a few people on that thread recommending the Sharp model I found above, only issue is the only places I can find it stocked are small/independents and I'm a little leery buying something at this price point from an unknown... though if I pay on my card I'd have S75 protection I guess...  

SootySweep1

Hi
I think I've got the Sharp you've highlighted above. I've had it a few years now & I'm happy with it.

I had originally intended to get a Panasonic but when I looked at them they were too small.

ArbitraryRandom

Okay, after more reading around, I went for the Sharp 959. 

It doesn't tick all of my boxes, but it ticks most of them and the reviews were generally positive (lots on amazon for this model and most of the complaints were to do with damage on delivery or noise rather than performance etc. and I've got thick walls so can't hear the dishwasher so unlikely to be bothered by a microwave fan) 

I did place the order using my credit card (and promptly transferred the money to pay it off) so if there is a problem in the next 6 years I've got a bit of protection there  

Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and advice - much appreciated. 

PipneyJane

ArbitraryRandom said:

Okay, after more reading around, I went for the Sharp 959. 

It doesn't tick all of my boxes, but it ticks most of them and the reviews were generally positive (lots on amazon for this model and most of the complaints were to do with damage on delivery or noise rather than performance etc. and I've got thick walls so can't hear the dishwasher so unlikely to be bothered by a microwave fan) 

I did place the order using my credit card (and promptly transferred the money to pay it off) so if there is a problem in the next 6 years I've got a bit of protection there  

Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and advice - much appreciated. 

Do let us know how it turns out, please.

- Pip