Choosing the right microwave can feel overwhelming when you’re shopping through dozens of options at Argos. Whether you’re upgrading a compact kitchen appliance or buying your first countertop microwave, the right choice depends on more than just price. This guide breaks down what to look for in terms of size, power, and features so you can make a confident decision. We’ve also compiled a comparison table and practical buying tips to help you find a microwave that fits your space, cooking habits, and budget without the guesswork.
Our Top 10 Argos Microwave Side-by-Side
| Image | Product | Highlights | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
VEVOR 1000W Commercial Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
FOREST RIVER MCG992ARB Compact Countertop Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
Summit 24 Inch Built-In Stainless Steel Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
Toshiba 2.2 Cu Ft Smart Sensor Countertop Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
Toshiba 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Countertop Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
Panasonic 1000W Commercial Touchscreen Countertop Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
Farberware 0.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
COMFEE Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Apricot Countertop Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
Toshiba ML-EM45PIT 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Smart Sensor Microwave |
|
Check Price |
|
Emerson 1.1 Cu Ft Built-In Grill Microwave |
|
Check Price |
Table of Contents
- 1. VEVOR 1000W Commercial Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
- 2. FOREST RIVER MCG992ARB Compact Countertop Microwave
- 3. Summit 24 Inch Built-In Stainless Steel Microwave
- 4. Toshiba 2.2 Cu Ft Smart Sensor Countertop Microwave
- 5. Toshiba 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Countertop Microwave
- 6. Panasonic 1000W Commercial Touchscreen Countertop Microwave
- 7. Farberware 0.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
- 8. COMFEE Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Apricot Countertop Microwave
- 9. Toshiba ML-EM45PIT 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Smart Sensor Microwave
- 10. Emerson 1.1 Cu Ft Built-In Grill Microwave
Top Rated Argos Microwave: Full Review
The argos microwave has become a staple in many UK households thanks to its reliable performance and accessible price point. Whether you live in a studio flat or a family home, an argos microwave offers the convenience of quick heating without taking up too much space. In this roundup, we’ve gathered the top-rated argos microwave options currently available, comparing key specs, real-world usability, and value for money. From budget-friendly basics to feature-packed models, these picks reflect what shoppers are actually buying and loving right now.
1. VEVOR 1000W Commercial Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
We have all experienced the frustration of waiting endlessly for a weak countertop microwave to heat a meal during a rushed lunch break. The VEVOR 1000W Commercial Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave eliminates that wait with robust power output and an intuitive touchscreen interface, making it a reliable workhorse for any kitchen that values speed and precision.
This unit features ten cooking presets and five power levels, giving you fine-tuned control over every dish. The multi-lock door ensures safety in busy environments, and the stainless steel interior makes cleanup after messy meals effortless. It handles high-volume use without breaking a sweat, maintaining consistent performance throughout long service hours.
It is best suited for restaurants, cafes, and busy households demanding commercial-grade reliability. The easy-clean design and durable construction mean less downtime and more focus on preparing great food. This appliance delivers where it counts, combining power, convenience, and durability in one compact package.
- Powerful 1000W heating for fast results
- Intuitive touchscreen with 10 cooking presets
- Stainless steel interior for easy cleaning
- Multi-lock door for enhanced safety
- Five adjustable power levels
- Durable commercial-grade construction
- May be too large for small kitchens
- Requires proper ventilation due to commercial power output
Get the VEVOR 1000W Commercial Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave now:
2. FOREST RIVER MCG992ARB Compact Countertop Microwave
If you live in a dorm room, studio apartment, or compact kitchen with limited counter space, the FOREST RIVER MCG992ARB was designed with you in mind. This small footprint microwave delivers solid cooking performance without hogging valuable workspace, making it an ideal choice for anyone who needs dependable heating in tight quarters.
Despite its compact size, it offers multiple power levels and cooking functions that handle everyday tasks well. The straightforward controls make operation simple, so there is no learning curve. Whether you are reheating leftovers or warming up a quick snack, this microwave gets the job done without unnecessary complications or feature overload.
This model is best for students, travelers, or anyone furnishing a small living space on a budget. It provides reliable performance at a price point that will not strain your wallet. While it may not replace a full-size oven, it absolutely excels as a convenient, no-fuss heating companion for compact lifestyles.
- Compact design fits small spaces
- Affordable price point
- Simple and intuitive controls
- Reliable heating performance
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Limited capacity for larger dishes
- Fewer preset options than larger models
Get the FOREST RIVER MCG992ARB Compact Countertop Microwave now:
3. Summit 24 Inch Built-In Stainless Steel Microwave
The standout feature of the Summit 24 Over The Range Microwave is its built-in installation capability, which frees up precious counter space and creates a sleek integrated look. Finished in durable stainless steel, this 0.9 cubic foot unit blends seamlessly into kitchen cabinetry, giving your cooking area a polished and modern appearance.
Beyond its space-saving design, this microwave offers reliable heating performance with multiple power settings suited for everyday tasks. The over-the-range configuration also doubles as a ventilation fan, helping to clear smoke and cooking odors from your stovetop. This dual functionality makes it a smart addition to any kitchen renovation project.
It is ideal for homeowners investing in a kitchen upgrade who want both style and substance. The compact 0.9 cubic foot capacity suits small to medium households well. With its clean stainless steel finish and built-in convenience, this microwave delivers a sophisticated cooking experience without overwhelming your kitchen layout or budget.
- Built-in design saves counter space
- Sleek stainless steel finish
- Doubles as a ventilation fan
- Modern integrated appearance
- Reliable everyday heating performance
- Great for kitchen renovations
- Professional installation may be required
- 0.9 cu ft capacity is modest
Get the Summit 24 Inch Built-In Stainless Steel Microwave now:
4. Toshiba 2.2 Cu Ft Smart Sensor Countertop Microwave
One of the most common annoyances with standard microwaves is uneven heating, where some portions of your food are scalding hot while others remain ice cold. The Toshiba Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor directly addresses this frustration by automatically adjusting power and cooking time based on moisture levels in your food, ensuring thorough and consistent results.
With a generous 2.2 cubic foot capacity and 1200 watts of power, this microwave handles large meals and family-sized portions with ease. The spacious interior accommodates tall containers and multiple dishes, making it practical for households that cook and reheat in larger batches without needing to run multiple cycles.
This model is excellent for families and anyone who has given up on unevenly reheated meals. The smart sensor takes the guesswork out of microwaving, so you spend less time watching your food and more time enjoying it. Reliable performance and generous capacity make this Toshiba unit a standout choice in its category. (See Also:Best Over Range Microwave Oven Reviews)
- Smart sensor ensures even heating
- Large 2.2 cu ft capacity
- Powerful 1200W output
- Accommodates tall containers
- Ideal for families
- Reduces need for manual monitoring
- Larger footprint requires counter space
- Higher price than basic models
Get the Toshiba 2.2 Cu Ft Smart Sensor Countertop Microwave now:
5. Toshiba 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Countertop Microwave
Imagine you are making a quick breakfast and need to thaw frozen eggs without partially cooking them into rubber. The Toshiba Countertop Microwave with Inverter Technology handles this scenario beautifully, delivering steady low-power heat that defrosts and warms food evenly rather than leaving cold spots and overcooked edges behind.
At 1.6 cubic feet and with inverter technology, this microwave offers a meaningful upgrade over conventional models that fluctuate between full power and nothing. The result is smoother cooking, better-tasted reheated meals, and more predictable defrosting. Its compact size fits comfortably on most countertops without dominating the space.
This unit is best for cooking enthusiasts and households that value precision over raw power. It excels at reheating soups, warming beverages, and preparing delicate dishes that demand gentle treatment. If your current microwave leaves your food unevenly heated, this Toshiba model is a welcome and practical upgrade for your daily routine.
- Inverter technology for even heating
- Smooth low-power cooking
- Compact 1.6 cu ft size
- Excellent for defrosting
- Better-tasted reheated meals
- Fits most countertops
- Lower wattage than larger models
- Capacity may limit large dishes
Get the Toshiba 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Countertop Microwave now:
6. Panasonic 1000W Commercial Touchscreen Countertop Microwave
When outfitting a small business kitchen, premium commercial appliances can quickly drain your budget. The Panasonic NE-1054F delivers impressive value for the money by packing ten programmable memory settings and a responsive touch screen into a compact 0.8 cubic foot stainless steel body that punches well above its price point.
You get commercial-grade durability without the commercial-grade price tag. The programmable memory lets you store frequently used cooking programs for one-touch access, streamlining kitchen workflows during busy service periods. Its compact footprint means it fits into tight spaces behind counters or in small prep areas where larger units simply will not go.
This microwave is ideal for small cafes, food trucks, and start-up kitchens that need reliable performance without overspending. It handles daily light-duty tasks efficiently and consistently. For business owners who want quality and functionality at a manageable investment, the Panasonic NE-1054F represents one of the best value propositions available in compact commercial microwaves today.
- Excellent value for the price
- Ten programmable memory settings
- Responsive touch screen controls
- Compact 0.8 cu ft footprint
- Stainless steel construction
- Commercial-grade durability
- Small capacity limits large dishes
- Designed for light-duty use only
Get the Panasonic 1000W Commercial Touchscreen Countertop Microwave now:
7. Farberware 0.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
How many times have you stood in your kitchen staring at a microwave, unsure of exactly what power level or cooking time to pick for your meal? The Farberware 0.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave solves this common dilemma with auto cook settings that take the guesswork out entirely, so you just press start and wait.
This 900-watt unit handles reheating, defrosting, and everyday cooking with consistent results. The stainless steel exterior looks clean and modern, while the easy-clean interior means you spend less time scrubbing after messy spills. A child safety lock adds peace of mind for families with curious little ones around the kitchen.
It is well suited for small families, couples, or anyone who wants a straightforward microwave that simply works without complicated programming. The auto cook feature alone makes it stand out in this price range. If you value simplicity and reliable performance, this Farberware model is a dependable addition to any kitchen countertop.
- Auto cook settings simplify use
- 900W power for efficient heating
- Easy-clean interior
- Child safety lock included
- Modern stainless steel design
- Simple and intuitive controls
- 0.9 cu ft capacity is modest
- Limited advanced cooking features
Get the Farberware 0.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave now:
8. COMFEE Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Apricot Countertop Microwave
If you love the charm of vintage kitchen aesthetics but refuse to sacrifice modern functionality, the COMFEE’ Retro Microwave is designed specifically for you. Its distinctive apricot-colored exterior and retro-inspired curves bring a playful nostalgic elegance to kitchens that would otherwise look like every other appliance setup, making it a genuine style statement.
Beyond its eye-catching appearance, this 0.9 cubic foot, 900-watt microwave delivers dependable everyday cooking performance. It handles reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking tasks efficiently, while its compact footprint suits small apartments and studio kitchens perfectly. The intuitive control panel keeps operation simple, so you enjoy the vintage vibe without any frustration.
This microwave is ideal for style-conscious homeowners, young professionals, and anyone who wants their kitchen appliances to reflect their personality. It proves that good design and good function can coexist beautifully. If you are tired of boring black boxes on your counter, this COMFEE’ model brings warmth, charm, and reliable performance together.
- Unique retro apricot design
- Compact 0.9 cu ft size
- Reliable 900W heating power
- Suits small kitchens perfectly
- Intuitive and simple controls
- Adds personality to kitchen
- Limited capacity for large meals
- Fewer advanced cooking presets
Get the COMFEE Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Apricot Countertop Microwave now: (See Also:Best Panasonic Microwave Oven Reviews)
9. Toshiba ML-EM45PIT 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Smart Sensor Microwave
The single standout feature of the Toshiba ML-EM45PIT is its impressive 33-pound cooking capacity paired with inverter technology, making it the most generous and precise countertop microwave available. This combination means you can cook larger quantities of food more evenly than with any competing compact model on the market today.
The 1.6 cubic foot interior and 1250 watts of power deliver fast consistent results across every type of dish. The removable 13.6-inch turntable accommodates large plates and casserole dishes easily. Smart sensor and auto defrost functions further refine the cooking experience, ensuring meals are heated through properly every single time you use it.
This microwave is best for large families, meal preppers, or anyone who regularly cooks for groups and needs a single appliance that handles big loads without sacrificing even heating. The inverter technology elevates this beyond a standard microwave, making every cooking session smoother and more predictable. It is a top-tier choice for demanding kitchens.
- 33 lb capacity is outstanding
- Inverter technology for even cooking
- 1250W powerful heating output
- Large removable turntable
- Smart sensor and auto defrost
- Ideal for large families
- Requires significant counter space
- Heavier and less portable
Get the Toshiba ML-EM45PIT 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Smart Sensor Microwave now:
10. Emerson 1.1 Cu Ft Built-In Grill Microwave
Most standard microwaves can reheat and defrost, but they fall short when you want actual grilling or browning capability without firing up a full oven. The Emerson MWG1191SB directly solves this common annoyance by incorporating a built-in grill function, letting you crisp, brown, and grill foods that a regular microwave simply cannot handle well.
With 1100 watts of power, 11 power levels, and nine preset cooking options, this 1.1 cubic foot microwave offers impressive versatility. The stainless steel finish looks sleek, and the LED timer display keeps cooking times clear and easy to read. A removable glass turntable simplifies cleaning, while the child lock adds a safety layer for families.
It is ideal for households that want more from their microwave than just reheating. Home cooks who enjoy grilling small portions, crisping pizza, or browning toppings will find this combination invaluable. The Emerson MWG1191SB bridges the gap between microwave and oven, making it a versatile and practical upgrade for any modern kitchen.
- Built-in grill function for versatile cooking
- 1100W power with 11 power levels
- Nine preset cooking options
- LED timer display is clear
- Removable glass turntable for easy cleaning
- Child lock for safety
- Grill function takes up interior space
- 1.1 cu ft capacity is moderate
Get the Emerson 1.1 Cu Ft Built-In Grill Microwave now:
A Complete Guide to Buying Argos Microwave
1. What Is a argos microwave?
A argos microwave is a countertop or microwave oven sold through Argos, designed for quick and convenient heating of food in homes across the UK. These appliances typically range from compact 17L models suitable for student flats to larger 30L+ units ideal for families. They are most useful for reheating leftovers, defrosting ingredients, and cooking ready meals with minimal effort. Anyone who values speed and simplicity in the kitchen, from busy professionals to parents juggling dinner prep, can benefit from having one.
2. Key Features That Actually Matter
When evaluating a argos microwave, certain features have a far greater impact on daily use than others. Focus on these core aspects to ensure long-term satisfaction.
- Performance in everyday scenarios like reheating, defrosting, and cooking standard meals determines how often you’ll actually use the microwave.
- Build quality and durability affect how well the appliance holds up under regular use and whether it will last beyond the warranty period.
- Ease of setup and maintenance means less hassle during installation and simpler cleaning after each use.
- Size, capacity, and fit are crucial to ensure the microwave fits your counter space and accommodates your typical portion sizes.
- Value at different budgets helps you decide whether spending more upfront delivers meaningful improvements in functionality.
- Brand reliability and warranty coverage provide peace of mind and support if something goes wrong.
- Compatibility with existing setups, such as matching plug sockets and fitting under wall cabinets, prevents awkward adjustments later.
3. How to Choose the Right argos microwave
Start by assessing how frequently you cook or reheat meals in a typical week. If you’re a light user, a compact model with basic functions may suffice, while heavy users benefit from higher wattage and advanced settings. Set a realistic budget that accounts for both initial cost and potential replacement down the line. Consider your kitchen layout and measure available counter space before settling on dimensions. Finally, compare the top picks in our list against your priorities to find the best match for your lifestyle and expectations. (See Also:Best 27 Inch Microwave Drawer Reviews)
4. Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying a microwave that is too small for regular family meals leads to uneven heating and frustration; measure your largest dish first.
- Ignoring wattage ratings results in longer cooking times and poor defrosting performance; aim for at least 800 watts for decent results.
- Overlooking door clearance causes the microwave to block nearby cabinets or drawers; always check the full opening arc before purchasing.
- Failing to read customer reviews hides recurring issues such as faulty turntables or loud operation; a quick scan saves future headaches.
- Choosing the cheapest option without considering build quality often means replacing the unit within a year, costing more in the long run.
- Not checking for included accessories like grilling plates or child locks means discovering missing features after delivery; verify what’s included first.
Most Asked Questions for Argos Microwave Buyers
Can I use metal containers in a argos microwave?
No, metal containers should never be used in a microwave as they can cause dangerous sparks and damage the interior. Always use microwave-safe materials such as glass, ceramic, or designated plasticware. Check for any metallic trim on dishes, as even small amounts of metal can pose a risk during heating.
Do argos microwaves come with a warranty?
Most argos microwaves include a manufacturer warranty that typically lasts one to two years, though terms vary by brand. This coverage usually protects against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Always register your appliance after purchase to ensure you’re covered if issues arise later.
What size microwave is best for a small kitchen?
For smaller kitchens, a compact microwave with around 20L capacity is often ideal, as it saves valuable counter space while still handling everyday tasks. These models are well-suited for reheating single portions and small dishes. Just make sure to measure your available space and account for door clearance when choosing.
Is it safe to leave a microwave running empty?
Running a microwave without any food or liquid inside can damage the magnetron, the component responsible for generating heat. Even 30 seconds of empty operation can lead to costly repairs. Always ensure there is something inside, such as a cup of water, before turning it on.
Are built-in microwaves better than countertop models?
Built-in microwaves offer a sleeker look and save counter space, but they require professional installation and are harder to replace. Countertop models are more flexible, easier to move, and often more affordable. The choice depends on your kitchen design, budget, and how permanent you want the setup to be.
Do I need a microwave with convection cooking?
Convection microwaves combine microwaves with a heating element and fan, allowing for baking and roasting. If you frequently prepare multi-course meals or want to reduce oven use, convection adds useful versatility. However, basic microwaves are perfectly adequate for reheating and simple defrosting tasks.
Can children operate a microwave safely?
Many modern microwaves include child safety locks that prevent accidental operation, making them safer around young children. It’s still important to teach kids how to use the appliance properly and supervise them while it’s running. Look for models with simple controls and clear instructions to minimize confusion.
Final Verdict
Selecting the right microwave from Argos really comes down to balancing your cooking habits, kitchen space, and budget. With a bit of research and attention to key features like wattage, capacity, and build quality, you can find a model that serves your household efficiently for years. The options in our roundup reflect a range of needs and preferences, so take your time to compare and choose confidently.