Joybuy Insights

How to Choose a Solo Microwave: A Practical Buying Guide

Quickly heating up a meal after a long day, warming a drink, or defrosting leftovers. For these daily tasks, a simple, reliable microwave is often all you need. A solo microwave is designed for exactly that: heating and defrosting, without the complex grill or oven functions you might never use.

But even within this category, there are choices to be made. Do you prefer rotary dials or a digital display? With or without a turntable? This guide will help you find a freestanding microwave that fits your kitchen and your needs, without unnecessary extras.

What to Look for When Buying a Solo Microwave?

Before we highlight a few models, here are some practical points to make your choice easier.

1. Capacity and Size: How Much Space Do You Need?

The capacity of a microwave is expressed in litres. For most households, a 20-litre microwave is an excellent standard size. This is large enough for a standard dinner plate, a bowl of soup, or a container with a ready meal. A compact microwave with this capacity fits easily on the countertop in a student dorm, a small kitchen, or as a secondary appliance. Always measure the available space on your countertop beforehand to ensure the appliance will fit.

2. Controls: Dials or Digital?

The way you operate the microwave significantly impacts its ease of use.

  • Simple control with rotary dials: This is the classic, mechanical control system. One dial for power and one for time. It's direct, intuitive, and leaves little room for error. Ideal for those who appreciate simplicity or for seniors who don't need digital menus.
  • Digital controls: Models with push buttons and a display often offer more precision. You can set the time to the second, and they usually have automatic programmes for specific dishes like popcorn, potatoes, or defrosting meat by weight.

3. With or Without a Turntable?

Most microwaves have a glass turntable that ensures even heating. However, there is an alternative: the microwave without a turntable, also known as a 'flatbed'.

  • Advantages of a flatbed: The entire interior space is usable, allowing for square or rectangular oven dishes. Cleaning is also simpler, as you don't have to remove and clean a separate plate. The microwaves are distributed via a rotating antenna beneath the base plate.

Our Recommended Product Picks

Based on the features above, we have selected a few popular solo microwaves for you.

ETNA SMV820: The Digital All-Rounder

ETNA SMV820 Solo Microwave

Why It Stands Out: The ETNA SMV820 combines a compact size with the benefits of digital controls. With 8 automatic programmes, you don't have to guess the right settings for common tasks. The bright LED display and the combined dial-and-push-button control make it modern and user-friendly.

  • Pros:

    • Power: 800 Watts for fast and efficient heating.
    • Ease of Use: 8 automatic programmes and a digital display.
    • Safety: Equipped with a child lock.
    • Design: A sleek, black microwave that fits into many kitchens.
  • Who Is It For? For students, couples, or small families looking for a reliable microwave with a bit more convenience and precision than a basic model.

View the ETNA SMV820

ETNA SMV720: Simplicity Itself

ETNA SMV720 Solo Microwave

Why It Stands Out: This model is the definition of an easy-to-use microwave. No displays, no menus, no frills. With two clear rotary dials—one for the 5 power levels and one for the timer—the SMV720 does exactly what it's supposed to do.

  • Pros:

    • Controls: Extremely simple and intuitive mechanical dials.
    • Compact: With a 20-litre capacity and modest dimensions, it fits almost anywhere.
    • Functionality: Ideal for basic tasks: heating and defrosting.
    • Price: An affordable option for those on a limited budget.
  • Who Is It For? Perfect for seniors, people who are not tech-savvy, or if you just need a no-nonsense appliance for the office, workshop, or a student flat.

View the ETNA SMV720

Sharp YC-QS204AE-B: Modern Convenience Without a Turntable

Sharp YC-QS204AE-B Flatbed Microwave

Why It Stands Out: The Sharp YC-QS204AE-B is a microwave without a turntable. This 'flatbed' design offers two major advantages: you can make optimal use of the 20-litre interior for larger or square-shaped dishes, and cleaning is significantly easier.

  • Pros:

    • Flatbed Design: No turntable means more effective space and easy cleaning.
    • Power:800 Watts with 10 different power levels for more control.
    • Controls: Semi-digital controls that combine the best of both worlds.
    • Extras: Equipped with an ECO function and a child lock.
  • Who Is It For? For anyone who dislikes cleaning a turntable or regularly uses oven dishes that don't fit on a standard plate. A modern choice for a busy household.

View the Sharp YC-QS204AE-B


Looking for a Different Style?

The models mentioned above all feature a neutral black finish. If you're aiming for a consistent look in your kitchen, it might be worthwhile to consider other appliances in the same style.

Check out our full collection of black kitchen appliances for more inspiration.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. What exactly is a solo microwave?

A solo microwave is a basic microwave designed for the core tasks: heating and defrosting food using microwaves. It does not have extra features like a grill, convection oven, or steam function, which makes the appliance simpler to use and often more affordable.

2. How much wattage does a good solo microwave need?

For general use, such as heating meals and drinks, a power output between 700 and 900 watts is typically sufficient. A higher wattage means your food will reach the desired temperature faster. Most microwaves have multiple power levels, so you can select a lower setting for defrosting or gently warming delicate dishes.

3. Is a microwave without a turntable (flatbed) a better choice?

That depends on your preference. A flatbed microwave is easier to clean and offers more flexibility for the shape of your cookware. Traditional models with a turntable have been the standard for years and are known for their very even heating. However, modern flatbed technology has improved significantly and also distributes heat effectively. The choice is therefore mainly a matter of personal convenience.