Haden vs Panasonic Microwaves

Haden and Panasonic both offer microwaves at the lower end, although Panasonic's range is wider. Haden's 210487 17L 700W model costs £44 and its 199102 25L 900W combi £129. Panasonic starts at £78 for the NN-E28JMMBPQ 20 litre solo microwave with a 25.5cm turntable, rising to £199 for the NNSF464MBPQ 27L 1000W solo model without a turntable, and reaching £509 for the NN-CF87LBBPQ 31L 3-in-1 combination microwave.

Panasonic's main difference is its technology. Its guide describes Inverter Technology that delivers continuous power and a Genius Sensor that adjusts cooking by detecting steam. The NNSF464MBPQ uses inverter control with no turntable, which frees up cooking space, and the NN-CF87LBBPQ offers 32 auto programmes with 1000W. Haden's 199102 gives 25 litres and 900W with eight auto-cook menus and convection, while the Haden dial model has six power levels. These are simpler controls than Panasonic's inverter system.

Haden suits buyers who want a low-cost microwave, a reheating appliance for a flat or office, or a combi that bakes at a modest price. Panasonic suits people who value precise power control and a larger cavity, especially the turntable-free model. Its guide says the flatbed design fits dishes up to 34cm across. The combination model is a big step up in price, so it suits anyone who will use the baking and grilling functions regularly rather than just reheating. Its humidity sensors adjust power and cooking time from the steam given off by the food, so less guesswork is needed.

Bottom line: choose Haden if price is the deciding factor or you want a 25L combi for baking, and choose Panasonic if you want inverter power control, a turntable-free 27L cavity or a 3-in-1 combination microwave for a larger budget.