How to Choose the Right Inverter Microwave

What Is an Inverter Microwave?

An inverter microwave uses inverter technology to deliver continuous, steady microwave power at any wattage level, rather than cycling the magnetron on and off at full power (as conventional microwaves do). The result is more even, consistent heating throughout the food and better results when cooking delicate items that can be damaged by bursts of full power.

This guide explains how inverter technology works, why it matters, and what to look for when choosing an inverter microwave. You can compare all microwave types in our complete microwave buying guide.

Inverter vs. Conventional Microwave: The Key Difference

In a conventional microwave, power levels below 100% are achieved by cycling the magnetron on and off in timed pulses. For example, at 50% power, the microwave is on at full power for a few seconds, then off for a few seconds. This creates uneven heating, with some parts of the food being overcooked while others remain cold.

An inverter microwave delivers genuinely continuous power at the set level. At 50% power, the inverter actually outputs 50% power continuously throughout the cooking cycle. This produces more even heating, better texture in delicate foods, and more reliable defrosting results.

When Inverter Technology Makes the Most Difference

• Defrosting: Continuous lower power thaws food more evenly without cooking the edges while the centre remains frozen.
• Fish and seafood: Delicate proteins that can become rubbery if overheated benefit significantly from steady, gentle heat.
• Custards and egg dishes: Require consistent gentle heat to set properly without curdling.
• Chocolate and butter: Melt more evenly without scorching hot spots.
• Reheating: Food reheats more evenly across the plate, reducing cold spots in the centre.

Key Features to Look For

Wattage

Inverter microwaves are available from around 800 watts up to 1,200 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For most households, 1,000 to 1,100 watts provides a good balance of speed and precision. The benefit of inverter technology is most noticeable at lower power levels, where conventional microwaves struggle with consistent output.

Capacity

Countertop inverter microwaves range from around 20 litres up to 34 litres. A 25 to 30 litre model suits most family households. Consider the size of dishes you regularly use in the microwave when choosing capacity.

Turntable vs. Flatbed

Most inverter microwaves use a rotating glass turntable to help distribute microwave energy. Some premium models use a flatbed design with no turntable, using a stirrer system to distribute energy instead. Flatbed models allow you to use the full floor area of the microwave for larger dishes and are easier to clean.

Sensor Cooking

Sensor cooking detects steam emitted from food during cooking and automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level. This complements inverter technology by further reducing the risk of overcooking. Look for sensor cooking in mid-range and premium inverter models.

Auto Programs

Pre-set auto programs for common tasks including reheating, defrosting, and cooking specific foods add convenience. The combination of inverter power delivery and good auto programs produces noticeably better results than a conventional microwave for everyday tasks.

Design and Controls

Inverter microwaves are available in countertop and built-in formats. Touch controls are standard on most current models and easy to clean. Some models include a dial for quick power and time adjustment.

What to Expect at Different Price Points

Budget (Under $250)

Entry-level inverter microwaves offer the core benefit of inverter power delivery at an accessible price. Expect standard capacities and basic programs.

Mid-Range ($250 to $500)

Mid-range models add sensor cooking, larger capacities, flatbed designs in some models, and more cooking programs. Most households will find an excellent inverter microwave in this range.

Premium ($500 and Above)

Premium inverter microwaves deliver the highest wattage, largest capacities, advanced sensor cooking, flatbed design, and premium finishes. Some premium models include grill elements for combination cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an inverter microwave worth the extra cost?

Yes, for most households. Inverter microwaves generally cost a modest premium over conventional models with similar features, and the improvement in defrosting and reheating quality is genuinely noticeable in everyday use. The technology is now standard across most mid-range and premium microwave lines.

Can I use an inverter microwave for combination cooking?

Some inverter microwaves include a grill element for combination microwave-grill cooking. For full oven-style cooking with convection heat, look for a combination microwave oven. See our combination microwave guide for more detail.

Ready to Shop?

Browse our full range of inverter microwaves. You can also explore our complete microwaves range and full kitchen appliance collection.