Bosch Microwaves

A combination microwave adds grilling or oven-style cooking to standard microwave heating, so you can brown, crisp or roast as well as reheat; examples on the page include the Bosch Series 4 (900W combination) and the Series 8 (1000W compact with grill). If you mostly reheat meals and defrost, an 800-900W standard microwave like the BFL523 models will be faster and simpler. If you want to cook complete dishes - lasagne, roast vegetables or crisped toppings - a combination model gives you that extra versatility without needing a full oven.

Capacities in this range run from about 20 litres up to 44 litres, so a 20-21 litre cavity suits a single person or couple, 25-36 litres works well for a small family, and 44 litres is best if you regularly cook larger dishes. Turntable diameters vary from around 255mm up to 360mm, and a 360mm turntable will comfortably take a 28cm dinner plate or shallow casserole. Some models show N/A for turntable because they use a different heating system or a flatbed design, which can be useful if you often use square dishes.

Series 2 represents the more basic, value-orientated models such as the freestanding Series 2, typically around 800W with essential functions. Series 4 sits in the mid-range and includes both 800-900W microwaves and combination options like the that blend performance with everyday features. Series 8 offers higher power and premium functions, for example the 1000W compact grill, so choose Series 8 if you want extra power and advanced cooking options, Series 4 for balanced everyday use, and Series 2 if you want a straightforward, budget-friendly appliance.

Most built-in models listed have a common width of 594mm, which matches the standard single-oven housing in many kitchens, so they'll give you a neat, integrated look. Heights and depths vary - several models show heights around 382mm and depths in the 318-388mm range - so check the specific model's height if you have a shallow cavity or limited vertical space. If you don't want to alter cabinetry, a freestanding option such as the Series 2 freestanding combination gives more placement flexibility on a worktop.

Black finishes give a contemporary, seamless look and tend to hide signs of heat and light splashes, while stainless steel is timeless and durable but may show fingerprints and require more frequent polishing. A black-and-stainless option offers contrast and can tie in with mixed appliances if you have both dark and metal tones in your kitchen. For a busy family kitchen you might favour black for low visual maintenance; if you want a professional, classic look choose stainless steel and keep a microfibre cloth handy for quick upkeep.