Who doesn’t love convenience and warm food? You can satisfy your hunger at any time of the day thanks to the best microwave oven in Malaysia 2021!
It takes less than a minute for you to whip up a piping hot bowl of something tasty! The good news is, you won’t have to spend more than RM300 on a microwave that meets all your basic needs.
Keep reading for our recommended list of reliable microwave ovens. Some can even double up as convection ovens and even food steamers!
Types Of Microwave Oven
1. Technology (How It Heats Up Food)
Conventional
Conventional microwaves use radio waves converted from electricity to heat up food on a molecular level.
Vibrating molecules generate heat. Thus, the microwaves pass on heat energy to the food molecules, causing the food to cook rapidly.
Convection
Convection ovens have fans to circulate the heat produced by a heating element. These ovens may have heating elements at the top and bottom of the oven to ensure even heat distribution.
Don’t like the thought of electromagnetic radiation cooking your food? Try one of the best air fryers in Malaysia!
2. Application
Countertop
Conventional microwave ovens are typically the most affordable option. Thus, they are also the most commonly used microwave oven.
They are portable and can be placed on kitchen countertops.
Over-The-Range
Over-the-range microwaves are installed above your stove and connected to a range hood. They are able to filter and release cooking fumes to the outside of your house. But you will need to call in an expert to install it.
They are usually wider and shorter than countertop microwaves to accommodate the range hood.
Built-In
Built-in microwave ovens have a way of making your kitchen appear more stylish. These take up less counter space and thus, allow for more cooking space!
However, built-in microwaves tend to cost more, even when you exclude the installation fees.
11 Best Microwave Ovens In Malaysia 2021
Our recommended list:
- Best Microwave Oven (Large Turn Table & Minimalist Design) – Electrolux 20L Microwave Oven EMM20K18GWI
- Best Family-Friendly Microwave Oven – Sharp R607EK 25L Microwave Oven with Grill
- Best Budget Microwave Oven – Sharp R213CST
- Best Value-For-Money Microwave Oven – Sharp R357EK 25L Microwave Oven
- Best Microwave Oven (With Steam Function) – Electrolux EMS3087X
- Best Designer Microwave Oven – Samsung 23L Grill Microwave Oven MG23T5018CN/SM
- Best Combination Microwave Oven (With Grill Function) – Panasonic NN-GT35HMMPQ 23L Microwave Grill Oven
- Best Microwave Oven (Large Capacity) – Electrolux EMS3087X 30L Microwave Convection Oven
- Best Space Saving Microwave Oven (Smallest Dimensions) – Sharp R607EK 25L Microwave Oven With Grill
1. Midea MM720CXM 20L Microwave Oven
Choose to defrost by weight or time with the Midea MM720CXM 20L Microwave Oven. It’s straightforward to use as there are only 2 control dials (power and time)!
It may look simple, but many reviewers are happy with its good quality, especially at its low price point. Considering the price, the quality is more than satisfactory!
This microwave is a decent choice for everyday use of reheating food. However, some users note that certain features could be improved.
For example, the timer is rotary, which is less precise than a digital timer.
Some users also note that the jog dial might be slippery and difficult to grip at times. Others also mentioned that they have to press a button to open the door as there is no handle.
Overall, users are still happy with the product given its affordability as it gets the job done!
- Type: Countertop | Solo
- Size: 20 L
- Turntable diameter: 9.6inch / 255mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 328 x 439.5 x 258.2
- Microwave Output Power: 700 W
- Weight: ~11 kg
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM185
Pros:
- Affordable
- Simple and straightforward to use
- Good for those living alone
Cons:
- Less precise timer
- Slippery jog dial
- Button instead of a door handle
2. Sharp R213CST 20L Microwave Oven
This stylish silver R213CST 20L Microwave Oven by Sharp has up to 35 minutes of cook time. With 5 available power levels.
Like the previous model by Midea, you can defrost by weight too.
Many users praise this product for its see-through mirror glass door. And instead of a push button (like the Midea MM720CXM 20L Microwave Oven), the door of the Sharp R213CST 20L has a sleek handle.
Promo video (Testimonial):
This microwave also has some baking options, though it is quite limited. It is mainly used for heating up food. Thus, users find that it does not achieve the best results when it comes to baking.
Because while it can bake cakes. The cakes lack a golden-brown crust.
If you are satisfied with that, you can still consider the Sharp R213CST 20L! It is a great choice for those on a budget!
- Type: Over-the-range | Solo
- Size: 20 L
- Turntable diameter: 255mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 440 x 360 x 259
- Microwave Output Power: 800 W
- Weight: 11 kg
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM209
Pros:
- Affordable
- See-through mirror glass door
- Some baking options (albeit limited)
- Door has a physical handle
Cons:
- Limited heating options
3. Lebensstil Kollektion LKMW-2301SS 23L Combi Microwave
Watch for overhead shelves if you intend to get this microwave. Otherwise, enjoy its stainless steel build and numerous functions besides defrost by weight!
There are 9 auto cook programs and a child safety lock. It even comes with a grill rack with a rotating ring if you want to make use of the high-powered grill feature!
Users claim that its size is big enough to grill a whole chicken! They also note its sturdy design and simple buttons.
Some reviewers mentioned that the wordings are too small to read. While others complained about it being noisy and taking a long time to heat up food.
If you don’t mind the noise, this is a powerful microwave oven capable of grilling!
- Type: Countertop | Grill | Combi
- Size: 23 L
- Turntable diameter: n/a
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 483 x 281 x 370
- Microwave Output Power: 900 W
- Microwave Power Usage: 1,400 W
- Grill Power Usage: 1,000 W
- Weight: n/a kg
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM299
Pros:
- Comes with grill rack
- Child safety lock
- Sturdy and stable
- Simple buttons
Cons:
- Small wordings
- Noisy
- Slow cooking speed
- Door can be difficult to open
4. Sharp R357EK 25L Microwave Oven
Here’s another beautiful microwave oven by Sharp.
The cook time is even longer (~100 minutes) with this model (Sharp R357EK 25L) that also has a mirror glass door. Like the smaller R213CST 20L Microwave Oven by Sharp!
Other than reheating and defrosting, you can select any of the 6 auto menus. There are a total of 11 power levels.
At 25L capacity, this microwave is very spacious and suitable for families. Reviewers agree that this purchase is value for money!
Do note that this microwave is only meant for basic reheating and not suitable for steaming, baking or grilling.
- Type: Countertop | Solo
- Size: 25 L
- Turntable diameter: 315 mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 513 x 430 x 307
- Microwave Output Power: 900 W
- Weight: ~20 kg
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM299
Pros:
- Spacious
- Good for large families
- Value for money
- Long cook time
Cons:
- Not able to steam, bake or grill
5. Panasonic 25L Solo Microwave Oven NN-ST34HBMPQ
Cook everything from congee, steam fish, chicken, instant noodles and more with the 9 set programs in the Panasonic 25L Solo Microwave Oven NN-ST34HBMPQ.
If the food is not as fully cooked as you would like, you can punch in the exact time you need with the Add Time function.
You can also use the quick 30-second function, which heats food up for 30 seconds with a single click. There are no additional settings required and it can go up to 5 minutes at a time.
Most users are satisfied with its functions. For its capabilities and features, this is a wonderful option for those who want to explore different microwave-friendly meals.
This microwave is also very spacious as it has a 25L capacity.
However, some users experience that the buttons became faulty after a few uses.
- Type: Over-the-range | Solo | Steam
- Size: 25 L
- Turntable diameter: 288 mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 485 x 400 x 287mm
- Microwave Output Power: 800 W
- Weight: 12.7 kg
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM358
Pros:
- Has a steaming function
- Quick 30-second function
- Convenient Add Time function
- Spacious
- Modern-looking
Cons:
- Buttons may become faulty quickly
6. Sharp R607EK 25L Microwave Oven With Grill
The Sharp R607EK 25L Microwave comes with a rack that you can grill meat on. There’s a dedicated mode for pizza too!
Watch it in action:
Other than this, it’s quite identical to the R357EK 25L model but smaller in size. Nevertheless, it is suitable for medium to large families. Users also love its stylish and sleek exterior!
The great thing about this microwave is that it can defrost food quickly. The door is also equipped with a child safety lock to prevent accidental use too.
- Type: Over-the-range | Grill
- Size: 25 L
- Turntable diameter: 315 mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 328 x 368 x 206
- Microwave Output Power: 900 W
- Weight: ~16 kg
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM379
Pros:
- Comes with a grill rack
- Great for families
- Sleek look
- Child safety lock
- Light for its cooking capacity
Cons:
- Expensive
7. Panasonic NN-GT35HMMPQ 23L Microwave Grill Oven
This is the grill version of the Panasonic NN-ST34HMMPQ 25L Solo Microwave Oven with 3 more set programs (e.g. roast chicken, roast lamb/beef, reheat bread, etc):
Where food is subjected to dual cooking with both microwaves and the grill to achieve a crispy outer layer!
Many reviews cite good product quality as a merit of this microwave. Based on user reviews, there seems to be no major disadvantages.
This product is likely most suitable for those who are looking for an extra grill function.
- Type: Countertop | Grill
- Size: 23 L
- Turntable diameter: 288 mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 486 x 405 x 292 mm
- Microwave Output Power: 800 W
- Weight: 13.4 kg
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM389
Pros:
- Has a grill function
- Good quality
- Stylish look
Cons:
- Pricey
- Could afford to be bigger considering the price
8. Morphy Richards Accents Red 511512 23L Microwave Oven
How about this striking microwave to add some pizzazz to your kitchen? It has sufficient functions without being overly complex.
It offers 8 preset programs (e.g. pasta, porridge, pizza, chicken, soup, etc) and 5 power level settings. It also has defrost settings by weight and time!
Users are a huge fan of its bright, striking red coat! This is perfect for those who want a pop of colour in their kitchen.
The insides are all-white, which makes it easy to spot stains and clean them up.
See and hear what it looks like in real life:
The controls are very user-friendly. The microwave is compact yet spacious enough for a medium-sized family.
Be aware that some users report that the insides of the microwave began to rust after two years of usage.
And due to it being so lightweight, it can slide across the countertop when you are trying to pull the door open.
- Type: Countertop | Convection
- Size: 23 L
- Turntable diameter: 270 mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 490 x 410 x 295 mm
- Microwave Output Power: 800 W
- Weight: 13.1 kg
- Warranty: 2 years
- Price: ~RM490
Pros:
- Eye-catching red colour
- White insides for easier cleaning
- User-friendly buttons
- Compact yet spacious
- Many pre-set programs and power levels
Cons:
- Insides may rust as soon as after 2 years
- Too lightweight
9. Electrolux EMS3087X 30L Microwave Convection Oven
Highly versatile, the EMS3087X 30L Microwave Convection Oven by Electrolux is as elegant as it is practical!
It’s much more than a microwave with its grill, baking and steaming programs! It is also large enough to fit a whole chicken (albeit a small chicken) on top of the included rack.
Promo video:
There are mixed reviews on its user-friendliness. Some find it very intuitive whereas others struggle to understand the buttons.
Many reviewers complained about the loud noise and short 1-metre power cable. Users also say that it has poor quality and a slow heating speed.
- Type: Countertop | Grill, Steam and Convection
- Size: 30 L
- Turntable diameter: n/a
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 539 x 438 x 300 mm
- Microwave Output Power: 900 W
- Grill Power Usage: 1,250 W
- Convection Power Usage: 2,200 W
- Weight: 18.4 kg
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM770
Pros:
- Versatile - Has grill, baking and steaming programs
- Extremely spacious
- Comes with grilling rack
Cons:
- Price is on the higher side
- Noisy
- Short 1-metre power cable
- Slow heating speed
10. Samsung 23L Grill Microwave Oven MG23T5018CN/SM
The round grill plate is a unique feature of the Samsung 23L Grill Microwave Oven MG23T5018CN/SM.
Other than grilling and baking on it, you can defrost food or cook from a selection of pre-set programs!
This microwave uses healthy grill fry technology, which is an alternative to frying food. This might be suitable for those who are more health conscious.
The durable ceramic interior makes for a quick cleaning job too!
Generally, reviews seem to be positive. Users especially adore the bright, unique colours that the microwave comes in.
- Type: Countertop | Grill, Fry
- Size: 23 L
- Turntable Diameter: 288 mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 489 x 381 x 275 mm
- Microwave Output Power: 800 W
- Grill Power Usage: 1,150 W
- Weight: 14.3 kg
- Warranty: 2 years
- Price: ~RM599
Pros:
- Eye-catching colour options
- Has grilling and baking functions
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Some colour options may not be available in Malaysia
11. Electrolux 20L Microwave Oven EMM20K18GWI
If you worry about being able to fit large plates in, the Electrolux 20L Microwave Oven EMM20K18GWI has a generous turntable of diameter 27cm!
The simple exterior is complimented with minimal markings on the mechanical timer and power dials (5 adjustable power levels indicated by letters and icons).
Based on reviews, this is a compact and easy-to-use microwave. Its simplicity does not compromise its good product quality.
Hence, this is a great option for those who want a no-frills, basic microwave.
- Type: Free-standing | Countertop
- Size: 20 L
- Turntable Diameter: 270 mm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 451 x 331 x 258 mm
- Microwave Output Power: 800 W
- Weight: n/a
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM299
Pros:
- Able to fit large plates
- Simple buttons
- Compact
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Limited to basic heating functions
- Pricey for its cooking capacity
How To Choose A Microwave Oven
1. Size
Microwave ovens are measured in terms of liters (L). Most models fall in the range of 20L to 44L.
A good family size is around ~27L with a turntable diameter of ~300mm.
Pick your oven size based on how much you plan to cook with your oven!
You need to consider the space in your kitchen as well. Find a power outlet close enough for the oven’s cord to access without straining the wire.
Don’t forget to include an extra 2 inches all around the microwave for ventilation!
2. Power (Wattage)
Microwave ovens tend to be within the range of 800W and 1500W.
The power determines how fast the microwave oven can cook your food! A larger oven will need higher power too!
3. Features/ Settings
Solo
The basic settings of a microwave oven are to reheat leftovers and defrost frozen food.
Combination
Some models have additional settings such as baking, grilling or toasting.
There are also more sophisticated ovens with sensors to detect when the food is cooked.
This enables the oven to adjust the temperature accordingly or switch off automatically.
Still wonder what the difference is? Microwave oven vs oven.
Other Features:
Some microwave ovens come with a child lock which locks the control keypad for safety (*1).
Others come with shortcut keys to enable quick access to specific functions, such as heating up a particular food.
Safe Use Of A Microwave Oven
- Never ever use metal in a conventional microwave oven! That includes aluminum foil and utensils! You can use microwave-safe plastic, ceramic and microwave-safe glass.
- Covered food should have some holes for steam to escape
- Don’t turn on your microwave when it is empty! That will cause the microwaves to damage the oven interior. You don’t want that to happen!
How To Clean Your Microwave Oven
- Freshen up your microwave by heating up bowl of water with some lemon slices until the window steams up! Then wipe down after 15 minutes.
- Wipe down your microwave oven (inside and outside) occasionally.
- If the turn-table is removable, you can wipe it down too!
Conclusion
In this list of the best microwave ovens in Malaysia 2021, the budget winner is Sharp R213CST. While Sharp R357EK (best value for money) offers a lot of features for ~RM300.
Lastly, we have to mention the Electrolux EMS3087X – this is a microwave convection oven with steaming capability!
