For years, I found myself wrestling with a common kitchen woe: limited counter space combined with the desperate need for quick meal solutions. The thought of adding another appliance, especially something as bulky as a microwave, seemed impossible. Yet, the daily struggle of reheating leftovers on the hob or waiting for the oven to preheat for a simple snack was becoming a real time sink. It was clear this problem needed solving; otherwise, I’d be perpetually behind schedule, sacrificing precious minutes that could be spent elsewhere, not to mention the added effort for basic tasks. Finding a compact, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing solution, like the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N 17 Litre Matt Green Manual Microwave with Wood Effect handle and dials, would have been a game-changer back then.
Before You Buy: Key Considerations for a New Microwave Oven
A microwave oven fundamentally solves the universal problem of needing to heat food quickly and conveniently, whether it’s defrosting, reheating, or cooking simple meals. For anyone with a bustling lifestyle or a compact living space, investing in a good microwave isn’t just a luxury, but a practical necessity. The ideal customer for a microwave, particularly one in the compact category, is someone who lives alone or in a small household, values speed and convenience over elaborate cooking functions, and perhaps has limited kitchen counter space. They might be a student, a young professional, or an elderly person looking for ease of use. This appliance is perfect for those who primarily use it for reheating drinks, defrosting ingredients, or warming up pre-cooked meals.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to cook large family meals from scratch, require precise digital controls for complex recipes, or intend to use your microwave for grilling and baking, a smaller, basic model might not be suitable. For such users, a larger capacity microwave, perhaps with higher wattage, convection, or grill functions, would be a more appropriate investment, albeit at a higher cost and requiring more space. Before purchasing any microwave, consider its capacity (litres), wattage (which indicates heating speed), specific features like defrost settings or power levels, the type of controls (manual or digital), and, importantly, its dimensions to ensure it fits your designated space. Don’t forget to think about the design – will it complement your kitchen aesthetic? And, of course, the price needs to align with your budget and expected usage.
Introducing the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N: A Closer Look
The Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N is a 17-litre manual microwave, designed to blend Scandinavian-inspired aesthetics with simple, functional efficiency. Its promise is straightforward: provide quick, easy, and stylish heating solutions for everyday needs. When you unbox this appliance, you’ll find the microwave unit itself, a glass turntable, and an instruction manual – everything you need to get started right away. Compared to some market leaders that often boast a plethora of digital features, the RHMM713MG-N distinguishes itself with its minimalist, manual approach and distinctive wood-effect handle and dials, offering a refreshing alternative to standard chrome or black designs. It’s a successor to previous Russell Hobbs models which often focused on basic functionality, but this version adds a significant style upgrade.
This specific microwave is truly for individuals or small households who prioritise design and ease of use above all else. It’s ideal for those with limited space who appreciate a cohesive kitchen aesthetic. It’s not for those who need high-power cooking for large quantities, a vast array of pre-set programmes, or precise digital timing.
Here’s a quick rundown of its merits and drawbacks:
Pros:
* Striking Matt Green finish with attractive wood-effect handle and dials, adding a touch of Scandinavian style to any kitchen.
* Compact 17-litre capacity, perfect for smaller kitchens or limited counter space, yet still fitting a standard dinner plate.
* Extremely simple and intuitive manual controls with two dials (power and timer), making it very user-friendly.
* Features 5 power levels and a dedicated defrost setting, covering essential microwave functions.
* Good value for money, offering decent quality for its price point.
Cons:
* 700W power might be considered low by some, potentially leading to longer heating times or uneven results for certain foods.
* The build quality, particularly concerning internal components and finishes, may not hold up well over long-term use, with some reports of rusting and plastic parts breaking.
* The manual timer lacks pinpoint accuracy, not ideal for recipes requiring precise timing.
* The internal light is often criticised for being too dim.
* Potential for external labels (e.g., “POWER” markings) to wear off easily with cleaning.
Deep Dive into the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N’s Core Attributes and Advantages
Having lived with the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N for a considerable period, I can offer an extensive perspective on its features and how they translate into real-world benefits, as well as some of its less appealing aspects. This microwave aims to deliver a fuss-free experience, but like any appliance, it has its strengths and weaknesses that become apparent with prolonged use.
Stylish Scandinavian-Inspired Design
The first thing that genuinely drew me to this particular microwave was its design. The Matt Green finish combined with the wooden effect handle and dials truly sets the RHMM713MG-N apart from the sea of generic white, black, or chrome microwaves. It brings a touch of modern, minimalist elegance to the kitchen, echoing the popular Scandinavian interior aesthetic. This wasn’t just a functional appliance; it was a statement piece that complemented my kitchen decor beautifully. The visual appeal is undeniable, making it an excellent choice for those who want their appliances to be as much a part of their home’s style as their furniture. It looks fantastic alongside matching kettles or toasters, even if they’re from different brands, thanks to its cohesive design language. However, as noted by some, the “wood” effect on the handle is a film, and over time, a slight seam might become noticeable, or in some rare cases, the handle itself might not be perfectly aligned upon delivery, hinting at minor manufacturing inconsistencies.
Compact 17 Litre Capacity: A Space-Saving Solution
With a capacity of 17 litres and dimensions of 32.6D x 45.1W x 25.6H centimetres, the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N is undeniably compact. This was a critical factor for me, given the limited counter space in my kitchen. It fits snugly into smaller areas without dominating the space, a significant benefit for apartments, student dorms, or even as a supplementary microwave in a larger home. Despite its modest size, the internal cavity and 10.5-inch turntable are surprisingly accommodating, easily fitting a standard dinner plate. This means you can warm up most meals without hassle. The benefit here is clear: it provides essential microwave functionality without demanding extensive real estate, making it an ideal solution for compact living.
700W Power and 5 Power Levels: Functionality for Everyday Use
The RHMM713MG-N operates at 700 watts and offers five power levels, alongside a defrost setting. For basic tasks like reheating a cup of tea, warming up leftovers, or defrosting bread, this power level is perfectly adequate. The five power levels provide some flexibility, allowing you to tailor the intensity of heating for different food types – lower settings for delicate items and higher for quicker warming. The defrost function, in particular, is a lifesaver, allowing you to quickly prepare ingredients straight from the freezer.
However, after extended use, the 700W power has emerged as one of the product’s main drawbacks for me. While sufficient for simple tasks, it often feels underpowered for larger portions or dense foods. Reheating a plate of dinner, especially if it contains rice, frequently results in uneven heating – some parts are piping hot, while others remain disappointingly cold. I’ve found myself constantly needing to extend cooking times or stir food mid-cycle to ensure it heats through, adding minutes and frustration to what should be a quick process. A simple cup of tea might require 1.5 to 2 minutes, far longer than higher wattage models. This inefficiency can be a significant annoyance if you frequently warm larger meals.
Effortless Manual Controls and a 30-Minute Timer
Simplicity is a hallmark of the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N. It features two prominent manual dials: one for power level and one for the timer, which goes up to 30 minutes. This mechanical knob system is incredibly straightforward, perfect for anyone who finds digital displays and numerous pre-set buttons overwhelming. There’s no complex programming, no obscure menus to navigate – just turn the dials and go. This ease of use makes it a fantastic choice for the elderly or anyone who prefers a no-fuss appliance. It even allows for a quick “start” simply by turning the timer dial to 1 minute, which can then be adjusted.
The manual timer, while simple, does come with its own set of limitations. It’s not accurate to the second, meaning precise cooking times are difficult to achieve. For tasks where exact timing is crucial, this can be a minor inconvenience. Furthermore, I’ve noticed that the painted labels for the dials, such as the word “POWER,” can be surprisingly delicate. Mine started to rub off with what I considered light wiping, which is a minor aesthetic flaw but reflects on the durability of the exterior finish.
Defrost Setting for Added Convenience
Among its limited but essential functions, the dedicated defrost setting stands out. This feature is invaluable for preparing frozen items quickly and safely. Rather than waiting hours for food to thaw naturally, or risking uneven thawing with a standard power setting, the defrost function on the RHMM713MG-N provides a controlled way to bring food to a ready-to-cook temperature. This saves a lot of time and makes meal preparation more spontaneous, allowing you to cook straight from the freezer.
Internal Light and Ringer Function
The inclusion of an internal light is a standard, yet important, feature. It allows you to monitor your food as it cooks, ensuring nothing boils over or gets forgotten. When the cooking cycle is complete, a clear ringer sounds, alerting you that your food is ready. These seemingly minor features contribute to the overall convenience and safety of the appliance. However, as noted by some, the internal light is quite dim, making it difficult to truly see what’s happening inside, which is a small but noticeable aesthetic and functional oversight given the otherwise thoughtful design.
Long-Term Durability and Build Quality Concerns
This is where my long-term experience with the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N becomes quite critical. While it looks stylish and performs basic functions, some serious concerns about its build quality have emerged over roughly nine months of use. Within the first few weeks, the inner sealant around the door started to come away. More alarmingly, rust began to appear in the inside corners, edges, and vents within the first month, and this issue has progressively worsened. The turntable’s support ring, a thin and brittle plastic component, snapped relatively early on, making the glass plate unstable and prone to dislodging when putting dishes in or taking them out. This indicates that while the exterior is appealing, the internal components and overall construction seem to be made from very cheap materials. These issues significantly impact the long-term usability and hygiene of the microwave, casting a shadow on its initial charm. It feels like a product designed for aesthetics with corners cut on durability.
What Users Are Saying: A Glimpse at Real-World Feedback
Having delved into various online reviews, it’s clear that my experience with the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N resonates with many other users. The overwhelming sentiment praises its appealing design and ease of use, with numerous comments highlighting how well it fits into modern kitchen aesthetics and how straightforward its manual operation is. Many appreciate its compact size, deeming it ideal for smaller kitchens. However, the recurring negative feedback often points to the perceived fragility of its internal components and general build quality, with reports of rusting, flimsy plastic parts, and occasional issues with the external finish, such as labels wearing off. The 700W power level also receives mixed reviews, with some finding it perfectly adequate and others frustrated by its slower and sometimes uneven heating, echoing my own sentiments. Despite these imperfections, a significant number of users still found it to be good value for money, opting to overlook minor flaws for its overall style and basic functionality.
Final Thoughts: Is the Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N Right for You?
Ultimately, the problem this microwave solves is the need for quick, convenient food heating in a space-constrained environment, all while looking good. Without it, you’d be stuck with slower, more labour-intensive heating methods, or forced to compromise on kitchen aesthetics. The Russell Hobbs RHMM713MG-N is a great fit for this specific need because of its undeniable style, compact footprint, and incredibly simple manual controls. If you’re looking for a basic, attractive, and user-friendly microwave for light use in a smaller kitchen, and you’re willing to overlook potential long-term durability issues with internal components, then this could be an excellent choice for you. To explore this stylish and practical appliance further, Click here to check the product out.