Featuring Flatbed technology, this removes the need for a turntable to offer a microwave with more useable space. This is due to its innovative flatbed design, which we think is the future of microwaves, and strong all-round performance. But it does boast excellent controls and programs, plus some cool features especially for keen cooks. The pitta bread came out warm but not cooked and it was impressively not soggy, compared with other microwaves.

Flatbed technology– No turntable means you can place square plates and casserole dishes inside the microwave for more versatile usage. It started cooking for 5 minutes before revealing on the display that it planned to cook for 5 more minutes. Nothing to take out and no nooks and crannies, you can clean off all but the most cooked-in stains with a quick wipe. Alternatively it has eight programs: pizza, meat, vegetable, pasta, potato, fish, beverage, popcorn.

The chocolate program was slightly annoying quantity wise as it melts 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, 200 or 250g. Russell Hobbs claims that this increases the efficiency of the microwave, leading to faster cooking times and a reduced chance of “cold spots.

Other nice touches include the heart button for saving your favourite program and the “A bit more” button – one of the features you’ll find yourself using most.

Automatic defrost settings– Simply input the weight of the food and the microwave selects the ideal defrost time.