You need a microwave based on your household size and usage: 20-25L for individuals/couples for basic reheating, 25-32L for small families (2-3) for more flexibility, and 32L+ for larger families (4+) to fit big dishes and cook larger meals, ensuring you can fit your standard dinner plates. Consider your cooking habits (just reheating vs. family meals) and available kitchen space.
A guide to internal microwave capacity
Small microwaves usually offer 15-20 litres of capacity, while medium models range from 20-25 litres. Large microwaves provide 25-32 litres of space, and extra-large models offer 32+ litres, perfect for family cooking.
Yes, a standard dinner plate generally fits in a 20L microwave because they are designed for typical dishware, usually with turntables around 24-27cm that accommodate plates, but you should always check the specific internal dimensions (width, depth, and height) for your plate and microwave model to be sure, as actual space varies.
Size of Microwaves
When looking at microwave capacity, you will typically find them between 20-40 litres. Generally, the only advantage to a larger one is purely capacity and the ability to place larger dishes in it. If you are purely using it for defrosting and reheating a smaller size would be more than suitable.
When figuring out what size microwave you need, measure the height, width and depth of your current microwave or the space on your countertop or shelves you want it to occupy. Account for the following: 1 inch of ventilation space between the microwave and the wall behind it.
Size matters! You need to ensure that you buy a microwave that is big enough to fit what you need to cook inside of it. Typical family sized microwaves are around 20 to 25 litres. If you would like a larger microwave you can buy one that is able to hold up to a staggering 42 litres.
For the best microwave in Australia, look towards Panasonic, LG, and Sharp, with Panasonic often leading in tests for quality and reliability, while LG's NeoChef and Sharp's Inverter models offer great features like even heating and sensor cooking; budget-friendly options like Kmart also perform well for basic needs, but consider inverter technology for more even cooking.
The dimensions of the Samsung 40L Solo Microwave Oven are H 313mm x W 555mm x D 476mm.
On average, microwaves range in capacity from 0.7 cu. ft., which is suitable for most dinner plates, to 2.2 cu. ft., which is a better size for bigger cookware.
Sharp R211DB 20L Compact Microwave is the smallest microwave for any kitchen. Designed to provide better utility to homes, the Sharp microwave has advanced features for cooking and reheating meals. It works on 750W output and two defrost modes that allow efficient cooking without freezing in the coldest temperatures.
Things you shouldn't put in a microwave oven
Samsung Smart Oven
The Samsung Solo Microwave has a capacity of approximately 23 litres, making it suitable for medium-sized food items.
What Features to Look for When Buying a Microwave
Microwaves generally last 7 to 10 years, but this varies greatly with usage; heavy use by large families might see them last only 4-5 years, while light use with good maintenance (keeping vents clear, cleaning spills) can push them to 10 years or more, with some high-end models lasting 15+ years. Factors like brand quality and repairability also play a big role in longevity.
42L microwave dimensions vary slightly by brand, but generally fall around 54-55 cm wide, 31 cm high, and 43-44 cm deep, with common models like the LG NeoChef being approximately 540mm W x 310mm H x 434mm D or 544mm W x 308mm H x 432mm D, while a Westinghouse model might be around 553mm W x 331mm H x 507mm D. Always check the specific model's dimensions for accuracy as these large-capacity microwaves often share similar external footprints.
Between 1.5 and 2.2 cubic feet are typical capacities. Typically, the width ranges from 21 to 24 inches. Height is usually around 13 inches. Closed-door depths range roughly from 16 to 20 inches.
30L Capacity. Available in silver. 900 Watts. Dimensions (WxDxH) 495x396x290.
Dimensions (WxDxH) 519 x 460 x 315mm.
How much does a countertop microwave oven cost? Schiffmann said you should expect to spend between $100 and $150 on a good 800 to 1,000-watt microwave, and a bit more as wattage increases.
Kmart (Anko) microwaves offer great value for their low price, ideal for basic tasks like reheating, but reviews show mixed durability and some models have design flaws like confusing controls, low power (slower cooking), and potential for paint chipping or internal rust if not cleaned properly, with many users finding them disposable but functional for everyday use. They are praised for ease of use (especially flatbed models), pull handles, and being lightweight, but some users report premature failure, needing replacements, while others find them long-lasting.
In the realm of performance and efficiency, inverter microwaves take the lead, especially when you need to defrost food evenly without hot spots. These microwaves, known for their constant power output, ensure evenly cooked food every time. There's no more worrying about cold spots or overcooked edges.
There's no single "best," but Panasonic, Toshiba, and LG consistently rank high for overall performance, reliability, and features like inverter technology (even heating). Panasonic often leads in overall testing, while Toshiba excels in value and basic functions, and LG offers strong performance with features like inverter tech. Other strong contenders include Breville for feature-rich models and Sharp, known for power.
Mid-Size Microwaves (1.0 - 1.5 cu.
It is big enough to fit standard dinner plates and medium-sized bowls. This size is great for reheating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, and making popcorn. Mid-size microwaves also have more power and extra features like defrost settings or sensor cooking.
Small Kitchens
Naturally, for smaller kitchens, we would recommend a standard or compact microwave (20L or less) to save space on your kitchen worktops.