In our kitchen, as in many homes, the counter space is sacred territory. It’s a battleground where the toaster, the coffee machine, and the ever-present fruit bowl vie for dominance. The last thing we wanted was another behemoth appliance, blinking with a dozen cryptic buttons and a user manual thick enough to be a novel. We’ve been down that road—a high-tech microwave with 25 pre-programmed settings, of which we used exactly two: “Add 30 seconds” and “Start.” It felt like using a supercomputer to check the time. The problem is that modern convenience has often become a synonym for complexity, leading to frustration and underutilised features. Forgetting to clear a program or hitting the wrong button could result in a sadly nuked meal or a confusing error code. This search for a simpler, more intuitive solution—a tool that does its job effectively without demanding a steep learning curve—is what led us to investigate the world of compact, manual microwaves.
- Compact Design: The mini compact microwave is smaller than normal 17L microwave ovens but with bigger 17L capacity, which can be suitable for any limited space. External: 43.4*32.9*24.1CM, internal:...
- InverTech: The revolution of new inverter technology can bring better cooking peformance for even defrost, even heating and no more overcooking.
Before You Buy: A Practical Guide to Choosing the Right Solo Microwave
A solo microwave is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for rapid reheating, simple cooking, and efficient defrosting. For students in dorms, couples in small apartments, or anyone looking to declutter their kitchen, its main benefit is its focused functionality. It promises to heat your food quickly and evenly without the added complexity or cost of convection or grilling features. It’s the workhorse of the modern kitchen, designed for speed and convenience, turning a frozen block of mince into a meal-ready ingredient or a cold cup of coffee into a comforting warm beverage in minutes. The value lies in its directness—it solves a core problem without unnecessary frills.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing space constraints or who simply values straightforward operation. Think of elderly relatives who appreciate familiar dial controls, city dwellers in compact flats, or families looking for a reliable secondary microwave for the utility room. It’s perfect for the person who primarily uses a microwave for reheating leftovers, defrosting ingredients, or making popcorn. However, it might not be suitable for those who are culinary adventurers, hoping to bake, roast, or grill in their microwave. For them, a combination or convection model would be a far better investment. If you’re a large family that needs to heat large casserole dishes, the limited capacity might also be a significant drawback.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: This is paramount for a “mini” microwave. Measure your intended counter space—width, depth, and especially height, leaving room for ventilation around the unit. The COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven boasts external dimensions of 43.4 x 32.9 x 24.1 cm, making it a true space-saver. Always check the internal dimensions as well to ensure your favourite dinner plates will fit and rotate freely.
- Capacity/Performance: Capacity, measured in litres, dictates the size of the dish you can use. 17 litres is on the smaller side, ideal for single meals or smaller households. Wattage (700W in this case) affects cooking speed; higher wattage generally means faster heating. Look for features like multiple power levels, which offer greater control for tasks like gently melting butter versus boiling water.
- Materials & Durability: The microwave’s interior is typically enamel or stainless steel. While enamel is easy to clean, some user feedback suggests it can be prone to peeling or rusting over time if not meticulously maintained. The exterior is usually metal and plastic. Pay attention to the quality of the door, handle, and dials, as these are the components you’ll interact with daily.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The primary appeal of a manual microwave is its simplicity. Two dials—one for power, one for time—should be all you need. For maintenance, a removable glass turntable is a must for easy cleaning. Wiping down the interior after any spills is crucial for preventing long-term damage and odours, a point underscored by some user complaints about premature wear.
While the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for its category, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- MIRRORED FINISH - The Russell Hobbs RHM2076B features a sleek black body and contemporary mirror door finish
- Ceramic Enamel Interior - It's exceptionally smooth antibacterial surface makes it easy to clean. It is also highly rust and scratch resistant so it won't discolour over time.
- COMPACT EVERYDAY COOKING: A practical 20L capacity with a 24.5cm glass turntable fits standard dinner plates and bowls, delivering reliable, even heating for quick meals, snacks and reheats in busy...
First Impressions: Retro Charm Meets Modern Simplicity in the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK
Unboxing the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven was a refreshingly straightforward affair. The first thing we noticed was its astonishingly light weight. At just 6.1 kg, it felt more like a large toaster than a microwave, making it incredibly easy to lift and position on the counter. This is a significant plus for anyone who might need to move it for cleaning or rearrange their kitchen layout.
The aesthetic is immediately striking. The blend of clean white metal with the soft, trendy Sage Green handle and dial accents gives it a retro-modern vibe that stands out from the usual sea of black or stainless steel boxes. The mirrored door adds a touch of elegance, though we immediately noted it would be a magnet for fingerprints. The two mechanical dials have a satisfying, tactile feel with a distinct “clunk” as you turn them, a welcome sensation in our increasingly digital world. Inside, it’s a standard affair with a glass turntable and roller ring, but we did notice a small, unusual protrusion on the interior wall, a detail mentioned by some users that we were keen to investigate further.
What We Like
- Incredibly simple and intuitive two-dial manual control system.
- Chic retro-modern aesthetic with a stylish Sage Green accent.
- Extremely compact and lightweight, perfect for small spaces.
- InverTech technology provides surprisingly even heating and defrosting.
Drawbacks
- Numerous user reports of serious long-term durability and safety issues.
- Internal “lump” on the cavity wall can restrict the size of rotating plates.
Putting It to the Test: A Detailed Performance Analysis of the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven
A microwave can look great on the counter, but its true value is revealed in the day-to-day grind of heating, defrosting, and cooking. We put the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK through a series of real-world tests to see if its performance matched its charming appearance. We focused on its core functions: the simplicity of its controls, the effectiveness of its heating technology, its practical design, and, crucially, the concerning reports about its long-term reliability.
Simplicity in Action: Mastering the Art of the Manual Dial
The greatest strength of this microwave is its unapologetic simplicity. In an age of complex touchscreens and endless sub-menus, the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven is a breath of fresh air. There are two dials and nothing else. The top dial controls the power, offering five distinct levels from low (for defrosting or softening butter) to high (for reheating liquids and meals). The bottom dial is a simple manual timer, up to 35 minutes, which concludes its cycle with a resonant and wonderfully nostalgic “ping!”
During our testing, this was a joy to use. There’s no need to decipher icons or press a button multiple times to get to the right setting. Want to heat soup for two and a half minutes? Just turn the dial. This straightforwardness was echoed in user feedback, with one person noting it’s a relief compared to “complex digital versions with several buttons.” Another called the defrost setting a “godsend for someone like me who meal-preps!” We found that for 90% of common microwave tasks, this simple setup is not just adequate, but superior. It’s fast, efficient, and virtually foolproof. It’s the kind of appliance you can use confidently straight out of the box without ever glancing at the instructions, a design philosophy we wholeheartedly endorse.
Compact Powerhouse? Unpacking the 700W InverTech Performance
With just 700 watts of power, we were curious to see how the COMFEE’ would handle various heating tasks. We started with the basics: a mug of cold water. It brought it to a rolling boil in just under three minutes, a perfectly respectable time for its wattage. Reheating a plate of leftover lasagne, a classic microwave challenge, yielded impressive results. This is where the “InverTech” feature comes into play. Unlike traditional microwaves that simulate lower power by cycling their full power on and off, an inverter delivers a constant, steady stream of lower power. The result? Our lasagne was heated evenly throughout, with no scorching hot edges and no frustratingly cold center. This consistent heating is a premium feature not often found in budget-friendly manual models, and a feature that really sets it apart.
The defrost function also benefited from this technology. We tested it on a frozen chicken breast, using the dedicated low-power setting. It thawed the chicken gently and evenly without starting to cook the edges, a common failure point for lesser microwaves. However, we must address the internal capacity. The 17-litre cavity is compact, and the aforementioned “lump” on the interior side wall is a real, if minor, design flaw. While our standard 25cm dinner plates fit and rotated without issue, larger 27cm plates would likely catch on this protrusion. It’s a small detail, but one that could be a deal-breaker if you frequently use oversized plates.
Design, Aesthetics, and Everyday Practicality
Beyond its performance, the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven is designed to fit seamlessly into modern life. Its small footprint is its biggest selling point for those with limited space. It tucks neatly into a corner, leaving plenty of precious prep space free. We found it “so cute not too loud and nice and small,” as one user aptly put it. The White and Sage Green colourway is a design choice that elevates it from a mere appliance to a piece of kitchen decor.
On a practical level, the ease of cleaning is a definite plus. The smooth enamel interior and removable glass turntable are simple to wipe down. The mirrored door, while stylish, does require frequent wiping to remove fingerprints, but that’s a small price to pay for the sleek look. The internal light, mentioned as a key feature by one user, is bright enough to let you monitor your food and prevent boil-overs—a simple but essential feature. Its lightweight construction also means it’s not a permanent fixture; you can easily move it, store it, or even take it with you to a holiday cottage, making it a surprisingly versatile little machine.
The Elephant in the Room: Addressing Durability and Safety Concerns
No honest review of this product can ignore the significant volume of concerning user feedback regarding its long-term performance. While our short-term, hands-on testing revealed a charming and effective appliance, we must responsibly address the patterns seen in reviews from those who have owned the product for a year or more. Several users reported cosmetic but worrying issues like the interior enamel “bubbling and cracking” or the door developing rust after about a year of what they described as light use. This points to potential issues with the quality of materials or coatings that may not stand the test of time.
More alarmingly, we found multiple, independent reports of the unit catching fire during normal operation, such as when making popcorn. One user stated, “14 months old and it caught fire while cooking. Luckily I was in the room at the time.” Another had a similar experience, warning potential buyers, “don’t leave it unattended!” These are not isolated incidents and represent a critical safety concern that weighs heavily against the product’s positive attributes. While it’s impossible for us to replicate these long-term failures, the consistency of these reports from different users is a major red flag that any potential buyer must take into serious consideration.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing feedback from a wide range of buyers provides a crucial, balanced perspective. On the positive side, the overwhelming sentiment celebrates the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven for its simplicity and design. One user who had owned it for over a year praised it, saying, “Setting and directions for use are very straightforward compared to complex digital versions.” Another was thrilled with the value, stating that for the price, “it’s a great deal… works perfect.” These reviews paint a picture of an affordable, stylish, and easy-to-use appliance that is perfect for basic needs.
However, this is starkly contrasted by the negative experiences. The durability and safety issues form a disturbing counter-narrative. One user documented how after a year, “all the enamel is coming off and the door has gone rusty.” Another reported that the “bottom of microwave under and around the glass plate started to crack and bubble.” The most critical feedback, of course, revolves around the fire risk. This feedback isn’t about performance quirks; it’s about fundamental issues of product longevity and user safety, making it essential to weigh the initial charm and functionality against the potential for long-term failure and risk.
How Does the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK Stack Up? A Look at the Competition
The COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven operates in a competitive field. To understand its true place in the market, it’s essential to compare it against some popular alternatives, each catering to a slightly different user need.
1. Panasonic NN-SD25HBBPQ 1000W Microwave Oven
- Inverter technology - allows food to cook evenly for more consistent results
- 23 Litre capacity - can fit up to 2 kg of food
For those who like the sound of inverter technology but crave more power and features, the Panasonic NN-SD25HBBPQ is a formidable alternative. With 1000W of power and a much larger 23-litre capacity, it’s built for families and more demanding cooking tasks. It also features inverter technology for even cooking, but pairs it with digital controls, 10 “one-touch” programs, and a child lock. This is the choice for a user who is willing to trade the COMFEE’s manual simplicity and compact size for significantly more power, capacity, and automated cooking convenience. It represents a step up in both performance and price.
2. Samsung MS23K3513AK 23L Microwave
- Ceramic Enamel Interior - It's exceptionally smooth antibacterial surface makes it easy to clean. It is also highly rust and scratch resistant so it won't discolour over time.
- Eco mode - reduce the use of your standby power with eco mode to help save money on your energy bills.
Samsung is a brand renowned for its build quality and sleek design, and the MS23K3513AK solo microwave is no exception. It offers a generous 23-litre capacity and 800W of power, placing it squarely in the mid-range family-size category. Its key selling points are the durable ceramic enamel interior, which is scratch-resistant and easy to clean, and a range of healthy cooking pre-sets. If the durability concerns of the COMFEE’ are your primary worry, this Samsung model offers a reassuring alternative from a major brand known for reliability. It’s for the buyer who prioritizes longevity and a polished finish over retro charm.
3. Tower T24021 20L Digital Microwave
- POWERFUL 800W & 6 POWER SETTINGS: Offers faster cooking with 6 power settings to perfectly cook a wide selection of meals at the turn of a dial within a matter of minutes
- 20L LARGE CAPACITY: The spacious 20 litre capacity fits a standard sized dinner plate so there is plenty of room to cook or re-heat any of your favourite dishes
The Tower T24021 offers a stylish middle ground. With a 20-litre capacity and 800W of power, it’s slightly larger and more powerful than the COMFEE’ but remains relatively compact. Its standout feature is its striking black and rose gold design, appealing to a similar aesthetic-conscious buyer. However, it opts for digital controls, featuring 8 autocook settings and a 60-minute timer. This is the perfect alternative for someone who loves the stylish look of the COMFEE’ but prefers the precision of digital controls and pre-programmed options without moving up to a much larger or more expensive model.
Our Final Verdict: A Charming Microwave with a Serious Question Mark
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the COMFEE’ CMO-MP012ND(GN)-UK 17L Mini Microwave Oven is deeply divided. On one hand, it is a beautifully designed, wonderfully simple, and impressively effective machine for its size and price point. Its compact footprint, lightweight build, and intuitive manual controls make it an ideal choice for small kitchens, students, the elderly, or anyone who despises feature bloat. The InverTech performance delivers genuinely even heating, a standout feature in this category.
On the other hand, the chorus of user complaints regarding long-term durability and, most critically, safety, is impossible to ignore. The reports of peeling interiors, rust, and fire are significant red flags that cast a dark shadow over an otherwise stellar product. Therefore, we can only recommend it with a major caveat: it may be a fantastic short-term solution or for very light, supervised use. For anyone seeking a primary kitchen workhorse that will provide peace of mind and reliable service for years to come, the potential risks may outweigh the benefits. If you are captivated by its charm and simplicity, we strongly advise you to check the latest price and read through the most recent user feedback before making your final decision.
Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API