Best Microwave Oven in India 2025 — Houme India Expert Guide
Microwave ovens are no longer just for reheating. Today’s models in India can grill, bake, ferment curd, and even do tandoor-style cooking—handy for compact kitchens and busy families. This guide shortlists 9 Amazon-available models so you can pick fast.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Check Price on Amazon
- Samsung 28 L Convection (MC28A5033CK/TL) Value for MoneyCheck Price on Amazon
- Panasonic 20 L Solo (NN-SM25JBFDG) EconomicalCheck Price on Amazon
- Samsung 28 L Convection (MC28A5033CK/TL) Value for MoneyCheck Price on Amazon
- Panasonic 20 L Solo (NN-SM25JBFDG) EconomicalCheck Price on Amazon
Best Microwave Oven Brands in India
SamsungJethalal Rajnikant
- Notable For: Ceramic enamel cavities, Slim Fry technology, and strong presets for Indian cooking.
LGJethalal Rajnikant
- Notable For: Charcoal heater and rotisserie on higher-end models, with a broad service network across India.
PanasonicBhide Jethalal Rajnikant
- Notable For: Consistent, even heating and reliable convection systems that are great for baking.
IFBBhide
- Notable For: Strong warranty on magnetron and cavity, with practical, durable features.
BajajBhide
- Notable For: Simple, budget-friendly solo units perfect for basic reheating and defrosting.
Understanding Our Categories
To make our recommendations easier to understand, we've grouped our top picks into three categories inspired by popular characters. **Please note:** These categories are for representative purposes only to help you quickly find a microwave that fits your needs and budget.
Bhide (Economical)
17–20L Solo models. Best for reheating, defrosting, and steaming for bachelors or 2-person households.
Jethalal (Value for Money)
27–28L Convection models that can bake, grill, and reheat. Ideal for families of 3 to 5 people.
Rajnikant (Luxury)
32–34L Convection+ models with rotisserie, charcoal heating, or Slim Fry for serious home cooks.
Detailed Comparison Table
| Feature | Panasonic 20L Solo | Samsung 28L Convection | LG 32L Charcoal Conv. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Bhide (Economical) | Jethalal (Value) | Rajnikant (Luxury) |
| Capacity / Type | 20 L / Solo | 28 L / Convection | 32 L / Convection |
| Best For | Reheating / Defrosting | Baking, Grilling, Reheating | Tandoori, Roasting, Baking |
| Key Feature | Vapor Clean | Curd/Yogurt Mode | Charcoal Heater + Rotisserie |
| Household Size | 1-2 People | 3-5 People | 4+ People / Enthusiasts |
| Houmeindia's Expert Rating | 8.1 / 10 | 8.7 / 10 | 8.9 / 10 |
Panasonic 20L Solo
Samsung 28L Convection
LG 32L Charcoal Conv.
How to Choose Your Perfect Microwave
Capacity
- 1-2 People: 17–20 L (Solo) is enough.
- 3-5 People: 27–28 L (Convection) is the ideal choice.
- Bakers/Large Families: 32–34 L for larger trays and dishes.
Power & Sockets
- Solo (700-800W): Works on a standard 10A socket.
- Convection (27L+): Requires a dedicated 15A power socket.
- Check your home's MCB and wiring before buying a large model.
Cavity & Features
- Ceramic Enamel: Easy to clean and resists scratches.
- Stainless Steel: Very durable and handles high heat well.
- Look for features like Child Lock, Deodorize, and Steam Clean.
Service & Warranty
- Check brand service availability for your pincode before buying.
- Look for longer warranties on the magnetron and cavity (e.g., IFB).
- Keep the purchase bill safe for warranty claims.
Microwave Oven Types Explained
Solo Microwave
Cheapest option, best for simple reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking. Cannot bake or grill.
Grill Microwave
Adds a grilling element for making tikkas, toasting bread, or browning dishes. Still no true baking function.
Convection Microwave
The best all-rounder. A fan and heating element allow for baking cakes, cookies, and pizzas, in addition to grilling and reheating.
Convection+ (Premium)
Includes advanced features like Charcoal heating, Slim Fry, or HotBlast for faster, crispier, tandoor-style results.
Sizes & Suitability for Indian Homes
| Family / Use Case | Counter Depth < 60cm | Counter Depth > 60cm |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 people (Reheating) | 17-20 L Solo | 17-20 L Solo |
| 3–5 people (All-purpose) | 27 L Convection | 28 L Convection |
| Baking/Grilling Enthusiasts | 28 L Convection | 32-34 L Convection+ |
Rule of thumb: Always leave ~10 cm clearance on all sides for ventilation. Never place it in a tightly enclosed cabinet.
Top Microwaves: In-Depth Reviews
Top Microwaves by Category
Top 3 in Economical - Bhide Category
Top 3 in Value for Money - Jethalal Category
Top 3 in Luxury - Rajnikant Category
Ar. Sourabh's Pick: Which Microwave is for You?
Choosing an appliance is personal. Here’s our breakdown based on different household needs and kitchen realities in India.
The Bhide Category
Perfect for reliable, everyday reheating for one or two people. The Vapor Clean feature is a great bonus for keeping it fresh.
The Jethalal Category
The ideal family workhorse. It offers a great balance of size, features like the curd mode, and an easy-to-maintain cavity.
The Rajnikant Category
For the home chef. The combination of a charcoal heater and rotisserie delivers tandoor-like browning that's unmatched for Indian grilling.
Maintenance & Safety Guide
Quick Safety Tips
Practical Maintenance Schedule
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✔ Buying a Solo to Bake: You need a Convection model with a fan and heater for baking cakes and cookies. A Solo oven cannot do this.
- ✔ Undersizing for Your Family: A 20L microwave for a family of four will be too small. Choose a 27-28L model to avoid frustration.
- ✔ Using the Wrong Power Socket: Plugging a large convection microwave into a standard 10A socket can lead to tripped circuits and is unsafe. Always use a 15A outlet.
- ✔ Blocking Ventilation: Placing the microwave in a tight, sealed cabinet will cause it to overheat. Ensure at least 10cm of clearance on all sides.
Colours & Materials
Match your microwave's finish (black glass, mirror, stainless steel) to your other kitchen appliances like the hob and chimney for a cohesive design. Be aware that mirror finishes look great but show fingerprints easily, while stainless steel is durable but can also smudge. Choose a finish that complements your kitchen style and cleaning habits.
Elder-Friendly & Accessible Solutions
For easier use, look for models with large, high-contrast displays and simple controls like mechanical knobs or clear membrane panels. Placing the microwave at a comfortable height between the countertop and eye level is crucial to avoid lifting hot bowls from too high or too low.
Small Details for Architects & Designers
Power Point
Plan a dedicated 15A MCB-protected socket for any 28L+ convection model.
Clearances
Mandate ~10 cm clearance on sides, back, and top. Do not box into sealed cabinetry.
Landing Zone
Ensure clear counter space in front for placing hot trays and dishes safely.
Service Access
The unit must be able to slide out easily for cleaning and potential repairs.
Designer’s Perspective: Trade-Offs & Thresholds
“The 27–28L convection oven is the sweet spot for most Indian families. Only upgrade to a 32L+ if you frequently use large baking trays or host gatherings. For most, the extra cost and space aren't justified.”
- Sourabh Jain | Design Educator
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a solo microwave bake?
No. A solo microwave can only reheat, defrost, and do basic cooking. For baking cakes, cookies, or pizzas, you must choose a convection microwave, which has a fan and a heating element to circulate hot air.
Is a 28L convection enough for 4–5 people?
Yes, a 27-28L convection microwave is the ideal all-rounder size for a typical Indian family of 4-5 members. It's large enough for daily cooking, baking small cakes, and grilling.
Do I need a stabilizer?
If you live in an area with frequent voltage fluctuations, using a stabilizer is highly recommended to protect the microwave's sensitive electronic components. Always check the brand's specific advice on this.
Ceramic enamel vs stainless cavity?
Ceramic enamel (found in many Samsung models) is very easy to clean and resists scratches and stains. Stainless steel is extremely durable and handles the high heat of grilling and convection cooking very well.
What is Slim Fry/HotBlast/Charcoal?
These are premium features for better browning and crisping. Slim Fry (Samsung) uses hot air for an air-fryer-like effect. A Charcoal heater (LG) mimics a tandoor for crispier results on dishes like naan and tikka.
Is a rotisserie worth it?
If you frequently grill whole chickens or large chunks of paneer, a motorised rotisserie is a fantastic feature for achieving even cooking and browning. Models like the LG MJEN326UH are excellent for this.
Is a starter kit necessary?
A starter kit is useful for beginners as it provides a set of microwave-safe bowls and utensils. However, it's not mandatory, and you can always buy these accessories separately as needed.
Which is best for making curd?
Many modern convection models from brands like Samsung and LG include a dedicated curd/yogurt program that maintains the low, consistent temperature needed for fermentation.
What outlet do I need?
A 15A power outlet is strongly recommended for any convection microwave 27L or larger. Solo microwaves (under 25L) can typically run on a standard 10A socket. Always confirm with an electrician.
How do I remove food smells?
The best way is to steam clean it weekly. Place a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon inside and run it on high for 3-5 minutes. The steam will loosen grime and the lemon will neutralize odors. Many models also have a "deodorize" function.
How We Test & Review
We shortlist products from internal research and live Amazon India listings, focusing on availability. We then check for power compatibility (10A vs. 15A), run practical performance trials (reheat evenness, grill browning), and look for durability markers like cavity coating and door seal quality. This is combined with long-term feedback from Houme India client projects, with final scoring reviewed by Ar. Sourabh Jain.
Conclusion
For small budgets or 1-2 users, the Panasonic 20L Solo is a reliable choice for daily reheating. Most families of 3-5 will find their perfect match in the Samsung 28L Convection, which offers balanced features and easy maintenance. For baking and grilling enthusiasts, the premium features of the LG 32L Charcoal Convection deliver unmatched tandoor-style results. Always check service availability for your pincode and ensure you have the correct power outlet before installation.
Disclaimer: Availability & Pricing change on Amazon India—check live pages. Specs may vary by batch—verify on the product page. Installation/Service charges are usually extra. At Houmeindia, we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase through our links.
