Haden vs Hotpoint Microwaves

Haden and Hotpoint cover different ground. Haden's microwaves are freestanding, from the 210487 17L 700W at £44 to the 199102 25L 900W combi at £129. Hotpoint focuses on built-in microwaves for fitted kitchens: the HPMK12CXUK class 2 built-in with grill is £250, the HMD44MXUK class 4 built-in grill is £325, the HMD44MBUK class 4 with a 1000W quartz grill is also £325, and the HCT9A9PHTSBUK class 8 compact oven with microwave costs £899.

Hotpoint's differences are installation and oven-style functions. The HMD44MBUK adds a quartz grill, and the HCT9A9PHTSBUK combines a compact oven with a microwave for baking as well as heating. Hotpoint's guide highlights a digital display with a 24-hour clock, quick-start buttons in 30-second steps and weight-based defrost programmes. Haden's 199102 offers eight auto-cook menus and 900W combi cooking, while its 199003 has six power levels and a dial control that is simpler to use. Haden's entry models have basic features, so the choice depends on whether you need built-in fitting.

Haden suits people who want a budget freestanding microwave for a flat, office or spare room, and the combi model suits anyone who wants to bake or brown food without a separate oven. Hotpoint suits people fitting a kitchen who want the microwave built into a housing, with the trim and installation planned in. Its guide notes that built-in installation costs extra, that built-in units need a dedicated 230V socket, and that 20cm clearance above and 10cm behind is advisable. Hotpoint's standard guarantee is one year for parts and labour, extendable to three years.

Bottom line: choose Haden if you want a freestanding microwave at a low price or a combi that bakes, and choose Hotpoint if you are fitting a built-in unit, want a quartz grill, or prefer a combined oven and microwave.