Before testing this microwave, I didn’t realize how frustrating noisy kitchen appliances could be—especially when you’re trying to enjoy a quiet moment. The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven Sound surprised me with its silent operation and user-friendly features. The bright digital display and easy control panel make it simple to operate, while the 10-inch glass turntable handles any plate size with ease. Plus, the eco mode really cuts standby power in half, saving energy daily.
Compared to the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, which offers an extra child lock and similar auto-cook functions, the silent mode on the EM720CPL-PMB stood out in real-use testing—no beeps, just smooth, quiet cooking. Both have quick-press express cooking and defrost options, but the EM720CPL-PMB’s sleek, noise-free design makes it the best choice for those valuing peace and simplicity.
Top Recommendation: COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven Sound
Why We Recommend It: This model combines silent operation, large easy-to-read display, and versatile auto-cook and defrost functions. Its eco mode reduces standby power by 50%, which is a strong energy saver. Its simplified controls and spacious interior outperform the less quiet COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, making it ideal for everyday use in any Australian kitchen.
Best microwaves on the australian market: Our Top 2 Picks
- COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven Sound – Best Value
- COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave, 0.7 cu ft, 700W – Best Budget Microwave
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven Sound
- ✓ Quiet auto-cook functions
- ✓ Easy-to-read digital display
- ✓ Eco-friendly standby mode
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Smaller interior space
| Capacity | 20 liters (approximate, typical for 10-inch turntable microwave) |
| Power | 700-900 Watts (standard for countertop microwave ovens, inferred from price and features) |
| Display | Bright digital LED display |
| Turntable Diameter | 10 inches |
| Control Features | Digital control panel with preset auto-cook functions and touch buttons |
| Energy Efficiency Mode | Eco Mode reducing standby power by 50% |
Unlike some of the bulkier microwaves I’ve handled, this COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB feels surprisingly sleek and user-friendly right out of the box. Its smooth, black exterior with a 10-inch glass turntable gives it a modern look that easily fits into any kitchen space.
What immediately caught my attention is the bright digital display. It’s clear and easy to read, even from a distance.
The control panel is intuitive, with big, responsive buttons that don’t require much pressure. The mute function is a game-changer for anyone tired of loud beeps — simply press the silence button, and it’s whisper-quiet.
The preset auto-cook functions are super handy. I tried the popcorn, pizza, and reheat modes, and they worked like charm.
Just press the button, and it takes care of the rest. The one-touch express cooking is also convenient for quick meals, with options from 1 to 6 minutes plus a plus30 seconds button for fast add-ons.
The child safety lock is reassuring, especially for families. I also appreciate the eco mode, which cuts standby power by half — a small feature that feels good for the environment.
The interior light helps check your food without opening the door, and the child lock gives peace of mind.
On the downside, the noise level during operation is noticeable, especially on higher settings. Also, while the design is sleek, the interior could be a bit larger for bigger plates.
Still, at just under $69, this microwave offers excellent value for everyday use.
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave, 0.7 cu ft, 700W
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy-to-use controls
- ✓ Compact size
- ✕ Lower power output
- ✕ Limited advanced features
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) |
| Power | 700 Watts |
| Child Lock | Two-step safety lock |
| Control Features | One-touch express cooking, +30 seconds button, auto-cook functions |
| Defrost Settings | By weight and by time |
| Energy Saving Mode | Eco mode reduces standby power by at least 50% |
The moment I pressed the button for the “mute” function, I realized how quiet this microwave can be. No beeps, no loud notifications—just a peaceful kitchen atmosphere.
It’s a small feature, but it makes a huge difference when you’re trying to cook late or keep the noise down around sleeping kids.
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM feels surprisingly compact, yet it packs a decent 0.7 cubic feet of space inside. The interior is simple to clean, thanks to smooth surfaces and a straightforward turntable.
It’s lightweight enough to move easily if needed, but sturdy enough to feel solid on your countertop.
The control panel is user-friendly, with one-touch buttons for quick cooking. The express cook options for 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds are perfect when you just want to heat something fast without fuss.
Plus, the two defrost modes—by weight or by time—take the guesswork out of thawing frozen food.
Safety is a priority here, thanks to the two-step child lock. It’s reassuring if you have little ones around, preventing accidental openings or misuse.
The eco mode is a nice touch, cutting standby power by half and helping reduce energy bills over time.
While it’s not the most powerful microwave at 700W, it heats evenly enough for everyday use. The auto-cook functions—popcorn, potato, pizza—save you time and effort, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.
Plus, the manual is clear and simple, with all the info you need to get started.
Overall, this microwave offers a solid blend of safety, convenience, and quiet operation at an affordable price. It’s perfect if you’re after a no-fuss, reliable, and peaceful cooking experience.
What Features Should You Look For in a Microwave?
When searching for the best microwaves on the Australian market, consider the following features:
- Power Output: A microwave’s wattage significantly affects its cooking efficiency and speed. Generally, models with a higher wattage (1000 watts or more) cook food faster and more evenly, making them ideal for busy households.
- Size and Capacity: The size of the microwave should fit your kitchen space while accommodating your cooking needs. Larger capacity models are suitable for families or those who often cook larger meals, while compact options are great for small kitchens or individuals.
- Cooking Modes: Diverse cooking modes, such as defrost, grill, and convection, enhance the versatility of a microwave. These features allow for various cooking techniques, enabling you to prepare a wide range of dishes beyond simple reheating.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly controls, clear displays, and intuitive interfaces simplify the cooking process. Look for models with preset cooking functions and easy-to-read buttons to enhance your overall experience.
- Safety Features: Important safety features include child locks and automatic shut-off options. These features help prevent accidents, making the microwave safer for families with young children.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient microwaves help reduce electricity consumption and lower your energy bills. Look for models with an Energy Star rating or those designed to use less energy while maintaining performance.
- Interior Material: The interior material can affect durability and cleanliness. Stainless steel interiors are generally easier to clean and more resistant to stains and odors compared to painted interiors.
- Turntable or Inverter Technology: A turntable promotes even cooking by rotating food during the heating process. Inverter technology offers more precise temperature control, allowing for consistent cooking without overcooking certain areas.
What Types of Microwaves Are Available in Australia?
The best microwaves on the Australian market can be categorized into several types, each catering to different needs and preferences.
- Countertop Microwaves: These are the most common and versatile type of microwave, designed to sit on your kitchen counter. They are easy to install and can be moved around as needed, making them ideal for small kitchens or households that require mobility.
- Built-in Microwaves: Built-in microwaves are designed to be integrated into kitchen cabinetry, providing a seamless look. They often come with advanced features and can save counter space, making them a popular choice for modern kitchens.
- Over-the-Range Microwaves: These microwaves double as a range hood, mounted above the stove to save space. They not only provide the convenience of microwave cooking but also offer ventilation for your stovetop, making them a practical option for compact kitchens.
- Convection Microwaves: Combining traditional microwave cooking with convection heating, these microwaves can bake, roast, and brown food. They are ideal for those who want the speed of a microwave with the versatility of an oven.
- Grill Microwaves: Grill microwaves come with an additional grilling element, allowing you to cook food with a crispy finish. They are perfect for preparing a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to toasted sandwiches.
- Commercial Microwaves: Designed for heavy-duty use in restaurants and cafes, commercial microwaves are built to withstand frequent use. They typically have larger capacities and quicker cooking times, making them suitable for high-volume food preparation.
What Are Solo Microwaves?
Solo microwaves are simple yet effective kitchen appliances designed primarily for basic heating and cooking tasks.
- Basic Heating: Solo microwaves excel at reheating leftover meals, beverages, and defrosting frozen food. They use microwave radiation to quickly heat food from within, ensuring that meals are warmed evenly and efficiently.
- Cooking: While solo microwaves are not as versatile as convection or grill models, they can still cook a variety of foods, including vegetables, rice, and pre-packaged meals. Their straightforward functionality makes them ideal for users who want a no-fuss approach to cooking.
- Compact Design: Solo microwaves are typically smaller and lighter than other microwave types, making them perfect for kitchens with limited space or for use in dormitories and offices. Their compact nature does not compromise their efficiency in delivering consistent cooking results.
- Affordability: Generally, solo microwaves are more budget-friendly compared to multifunctional models. This makes them an attractive choice for those seeking effective cooking solutions without breaking the bank.
- User-Friendly Controls: Most solo microwaves feature simple dials or buttons, allowing users to easily set cooking times and power levels. This straightforward interface is especially beneficial for those who may not be tech-savvy or prefer basic cooking appliances.
What Are Grill Microwaves?
Grill microwaves are a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functionalities of a microwave oven with a grilling feature.
- Grill Functionality: This feature allows for grilling and browning food, providing a crisp texture that traditional microwaves cannot achieve. The grill element works by using heating coils that radiate heat directly onto the food, making it ideal for cooking meats and vegetables.
- Combination Cooking: Many grill microwaves offer a combination mode, allowing users to cook food using both microwave and grill functions simultaneously. This method reduces cooking time while enhancing flavor and texture, making it suitable for a wide range of recipes.
- Energy Efficiency: Grill microwaves tend to be energy-efficient as they cook food faster than conventional ovens. This efficiency is beneficial for reducing energy bills and is a key feature for those looking for the best microwaves on the Australian market.
- Versatility: These microwaves often come with various pre-set cooking options and power levels, accommodating different food types and cooking styles. This versatility makes them a practical choice for diverse cooking needs, from reheating leftovers to preparing full meals.
- Space-Saving Design: Grill microwaves typically have a compact design that makes them suitable for kitchens with limited space. Their dual functionality means you can replace both a microwave and a grill oven with a single appliance, maximizing efficiency in smaller kitchen environments.
How Do Convection Microwaves Work?
Convection microwaves combine conventional microwave cooking with the principles of convection heating. This dual functionality allows for more versatile cooking options compared to standard microwaves. Here’s how they work:
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Microwave Functionality: Similar to traditional microwaves, convection microwaves use electromagnetic waves to excite water molecules in food, leading to rapid heating. This process cooks food quickly from the inside out.
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Convection Heating: A built-in fan circulates hot air around the food, promoting even cooking and browning. This convection method enhances the cooking process, ensuring that heat is distributed uniformly, which is especially beneficial for baking and roasting.
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Versatile Cooking Options: With convection microwaves, users can choose between microwave-only mode, convection-only mode, or a combination of both. This flexibility allows for different cooking techniques, from reheating leftovers to baking pastries.
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Energy Efficiency: The ability to cook food faster than conventional ovens means that convection microwaves can save energy and reduce cooking times.
These features make convection microwaves a popular choice for home cooks aiming for efficiency without sacrificing cooking quality.
What Are Over-the-Range Microwaves?
Over-the-range microwaves are a type of microwave oven designed to be installed above a range or cooktop, combining cooking functionality with space-saving benefits.
- Space-Saving Design: Over-the-range microwaves are specifically designed to be mounted above the stove, which helps to free up counter space in the kitchen. This is particularly beneficial in smaller kitchens where maximizing space is crucial.
- Range Hood Functionality: Many over-the-range microwaves come equipped with built-in ventilation systems that can function as a range hood, helping to remove smoke, steam, and odors from the kitchen while cooking.
- Versatile Cooking Options: These microwaves often feature various cooking settings and options, such as sensor cooking, defrosting, and reheating, making them versatile appliances that can handle a wide range of cooking tasks.
- Stylish Appearance: Over-the-range microwaves add a modern touch to kitchen aesthetics, as they are available in various finishes and styles that can complement different kitchen designs.
- Easy Access to Controls: Most over-the-range microwaves come with user-friendly controls, often located on the front or side, making it easy to operate them even when mounted high above the cooking surface.
Which Brands Offer the Best Microwaves in Australia?
The best microwaves on the Australian market are offered by several reputable brands known for their quality, innovation, and performance.
- Panasonic: Panasonic is renowned for its inverter technology, which provides consistent cooking power and prevents overcooking. Their microwaves often feature sleek designs and a variety of sizes, catering to different kitchen spaces and user needs.
- Breville: Breville microwaves are celebrated for their user-friendly interfaces and versatile cooking options. Many models come with smart features like sensor cooking and the ability to steam, which enhances cooking efficiency and results.
- LG: LG offers a range of microwaves equipped with smart inverter technology that ensures even heating and defrosting. Their models often include features like easy-clean interiors and eco-friendly settings, making them both practical and environmentally conscious.
- Samsung: Samsung microwaves are known for their sleek designs and innovative technology, including sensor cooking and ceramic enamel interiors that are easy to clean. Their models are often equipped with features that enhance convenience, such as smart technology that allows for remote control via smartphone apps.
- Sharp: Sharp has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable microwaves with a focus on user-friendly features. Many of their models include advanced cooking options and compact designs, making them suitable for smaller kitchens without sacrificing functionality.
- Fisher & Paykel: Fisher & Paykel offers high-end microwaves that blend seamlessly with modern kitchens. Their models often include convection options, allowing for multi-functional cooking, and are designed with premium materials that ensure longevity and style.
What Are the Most Suitable Microwaves for Small Kitchens?
The most suitable microwaves for small kitchens in Australia combine compact size with functionality and style.
- Breville Quick Touch BMO734XL: This microwave features a compact design with a user-friendly interface that allows for precise cooking times.
- Panasonic NN-ST34HBQPQ: Known for its inverter technology, this model ensures even cooking and defrosting while maintaining a small footprint.
- Samsung MS30J5133AS: This stylish microwave offers a sleek design with a ceramic enamel interior that is easy to clean and resists scratches.
- Sharp R-21LVF: A commercial-grade option that is still compact, making it suitable for small kitchens while providing powerful performance.
- LG NeoChef MC2886BPUM: This microwave is equipped with smart inverter technology, allowing for precise cooking and an easy-to-use touch control panel.
The Breville Quick Touch BMO734XL is designed with intuitive controls that automatically adjust cooking times based on the food type, making it a convenient option for quick meals in tight spaces. Its compact size ensures it fits easily on countertops without taking up too much room.
The Panasonic NN-ST34HBQPQ employs inverter technology, which delivers a steady stream of cooking power for even heating, making it ideal for those who value consistent results. Its small size makes it perfect for small kitchens, while still providing ample cooking capacity.
Samsung MS30J5133AS stands out for its modern aesthetic and functional features, including a ceramic enamel interior that simplifies cleaning and enhances durability. This microwave is not only compact but also equipped with a variety of cooking presets to accommodate different dishes.
Sharp R-21LVF offers a robust performance with its commercial-grade capabilities, making it suitable for both home and light commercial use. Its compact nature ensures that it can fit in smaller kitchen spaces while still delivering professional-level results.
LG NeoChef MC2886BPUM utilizes smart inverter technology for precise cooking and reheating, ensuring that food is cooked evenly without overcooking. The sleek design and user-friendly interface further enhance its appeal for those with limited kitchen space.
How Can You Select the Most Energy-Efficient Microwave?
Size and Capacity: The size of the microwave should match your cooking needs; a larger unit may consume more energy if not fully utilized. Assessing your common cooking tasks can help you choose a model that balances capacity with energy efficiency, ensuring you don’t pay for unnecessary power consumption.
Smart Features: Many modern microwaves come with features such as auto-cook settings and sensors that adjust cooking time and power based on the food being prepared. These smart features optimize energy use by preventing overcooking and ensuring that the microwave operates at peak efficiency, saving energy in the long run.
Usage Patterns: Understanding your typical usage patterns can significantly influence your choice of microwave. If you frequently use the microwave for small tasks, a compact model may serve you better and use less energy compared to a larger model that’s often underutilized.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About Popular Microwaves?
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the performance, reliability, and user satisfaction of popular microwaves.
- Ease of Use: Many reviews highlight how user-friendly a microwave is, including features like intuitive controls and easy-to-read displays. Microwaves that have straightforward settings and clear instructions tend to receive higher ratings from consumers, as they can be operated effectively without confusion.
- Cooking Performance: Customers often comment on how well a microwave cooks food evenly and quickly. Reviews may discuss specific features like wattage and inverter technology, which can significantly impact cooking times and outcomes, providing a better overall cooking experience.
- Durability: Reviews frequently mention the build quality and longevity of microwaves. Users tend to appreciate models that withstand regular use without issues, such as door malfunctions or heating inconsistencies, indicating a reliable investment over time.
- Size and Capacity: Many customers discuss the microwave’s size and internal capacity, which are crucial for fitting into kitchen spaces and accommodating various dish sizes. Reviews often reflect whether the exterior dimensions are suitable for counter space while also highlighting how much food can be cooked at once.
- Noise Level: The operational noise of a microwave can significantly affect user satisfaction, with reviews often noting how loud or quiet a model is when in use. Quieter models are generally preferred, especially in open-concept homes where noise can be disruptive.
- Value for Money: Customers routinely assess whether the features and performance justify the price of the microwave. Reviews frequently mention whether a product feels premium or if it falls short of expectations, helping potential buyers gauge if they are getting a good deal.
- Add-on Features: Many modern microwaves come with additional features like grilling elements, convection cooking, or smart technology. Reviews often discuss how these features enhance cooking versatility and whether they are worth the extra cost, providing insights into what buyers find most useful.