For years, my kitchen felt incomplete. I grappled with an old, bulky microwave taking up valuable counter space, or worse, no microwave at all, which meant constant reliance on the hob or oven for simple reheating tasks. This inefficiency was a daily frustration, turning quick meals into drawn-out affairs and making my kitchen feel cluttered. Had I known about the Candy MIC201EX Built-in Microwave sooner, it would have undoubtedly saved me countless hours and significantly streamlined my cooking routine, alleviating the constant worry of an unorganised workspace.
Considerations Before Purchasing a Built-in Microwave
A microwave oven fundamentally solves the problem of quick reheating, defrosting, and even cooking small portions, offering unparalleled convenience in a fast-paced world. One would seek to buy an item in this category primarily for efficiency and ease of use. The ideal customer for a built-in microwave is someone looking to achieve a seamless, integrated kitchen aesthetic, often as part of a new kitchen installation or a significant renovation. They value clean lines and space-saving solutions, prioritising design coherence alongside functionality. Those who should *not* buy a built-in model are individuals in rented accommodation with no provision for built-in appliances, or those on a very tight budget who simply need basic reheating functionality without aesthetic considerations; a countertop model would be far more suitable and cost-effective for them. Before committing to a purchase, buyers must think about the available cabinet space, the wattage required for their typical usage, capacity needs, specific features like grill functions, and the overall design compatibility with their existing kitchen decor.
Introducing the Candy MIC201EX
The Candy MIC201EX Built-in Microwave is a sleek, stainless steel appliance designed to integrate seamlessly into your kitchen cabinetry. It promises efficient and rapid heating for your everyday needs, offering a convenient solution for modern living. Upon purchase, this microwave comes complete with a grill function and a glass turntable, ready for immediate installation. While many premium brands dominate the built-in appliance market with higher price tags, the Candy MIC201EX positions itself as an excellent value alternative, delivering core functionality without the hefty cost. It’s an ideal choice for homeowners undertaking a kitchen renovation who seek a cohesive look without breaking the bank, or for those replacing an older, less efficient integrated model. It may not be for large families who need to heat multiple large dishes simultaneously, given its 20-litre capacity, but for individuals, couples, or smaller families, it’s remarkably efficient.
Here’s a quick overview:
Pros:
* Sleek, modern stainless steel design for seamless integration.
* Excellent value for a built-in model.
* Effective grill function for versatile cooking.
* Quick and efficient heating (800W).
* Multiple power levels and automatic controls enhance usability.
Cons:
* 20-litre capacity may feel small for some users.
* Front frame material is quite thin and prone to minor dents.
* Manual controls can be less intuitive, requiring a read of the guide.
* Shiny metallic finish is a magnet for fingerprints.
* Aesthetics of control buttons might not appeal to everyone (some appear greenish).
Key Features and Benefits
Having lived with the Candy MIC201EX Built-in Microwave for a significant period, I can attest to its practical performance and the benefits each feature brings to daily life. It’s more than just a kitchen appliance; it’s an integral part of my routine.
Seamless Built-In Design and Aesthetics
One of the primary reasons I opted for the Candy MIC201EX was its built-in nature. The dimensions (31.5D x 59.5W x 38.2H centimetres) are standard for a compact integrated unit, allowing it to slot perfectly into pre-prepared cabinetry. The stainless steel finish exudes a modern, clean aesthetic that elevates the look of the entire kitchen. Gone are the days of a clunky microwave dominating my countertop; this unit discretely blends into the background, contributing to a minimalist and uncluttered feel. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the kitchen but also frees up valuable counter space, which is a huge benefit in smaller kitchens. The clean lines and integrated appearance make the kitchen feel more deliberate and custom-designed, rather than a collection of disparate appliances. However, it’s worth noting, as some users have experienced, that the front stainless steel trim, while aesthetically pleasing, is quite thin. This means it can be susceptible to minor dents if accidentally knocked or if undue pressure is applied during cleaning. While this hasn’t been a major issue for me, it’s something to be mindful of during installation and everyday use.
Capacity and Turntable Efficiency
The 20-litre capacity of the Candy MIC201EX Built-in Microwave might seem modest to some, but for me, it has proven perfectly adequate for typical microwave tasks. The 24.5cm diameter glass turntable is designed to accommodate standard dinner plates, making it ideal for reheating leftovers or a single serving meal. I can easily fit most of my plates and bowls without issue, and they rotate smoothly, ensuring even heating. While it can handle a plate up to 25cm, it’s true that anything larger, or dishes with unusual shapes, might not turn freely, potentially requiring manual rotation for consistent results. This isn’t a flaw, but rather a characteristic of its compact design, perfect for those who primarily use their microwave for single portions, re-heating coffee, or quick defrosting, rather than cooking large casseroles. The compact size also contributes to faster heating times for smaller items, which is a definite plus for busy households.
Powerful Performance: 800 Watts and 5 Power Levels
At 800 watts, the Candy MIC201EX heats food remarkably quickly. This wattage is a sweet spot for home microwaves, offering a good balance between speed and energy efficiency. Whether it’s a bowl of soup, a plate of pasta, or defrosting chicken, the appliance gets the job done without excessive waiting. The inclusion of 5 power levels is incredibly beneficial for versatility. I can select full power for rapid boiling or reheating, or opt for lower settings for more delicate tasks like gently warming baby food, softening butter, or defrosting items without cooking the edges. This control ensures that food is heated precisely as desired, preventing overcooking or uneven temperatures, which is a common complaint with less versatile microwaves.
Versatile Cooking Functions: Microwave and Grill
Beyond basic microwave capabilities, the Candy MIC201EX Built-in Microwave boasts 3 cooking functions, including a dedicated grill. This added functionality truly sets it apart from simpler models. The grill is surprisingly effective, allowing me to brown cheese on toast, crisp up bacon, or finish off dishes with a golden crust without needing to switch on the main oven. This is fantastic for energy saving and speed, especially for smaller portions. For example, reheating a pizza slice in the microwave alone often results in a soggy base, but a quick blast with the grill function after heating can bring back that desired crispiness. It effectively acts as a compact, secondary grill, which is incredibly useful for small meals or snacks. The grill element does take up a little vertical space inside the cavity, slightly limiting the height of dishes that can be used when grilling, but this is a minor trade-off for the added versatility.
Convenience of 8 Automatic Controls
For those moments when you don’t want to fiddle with power levels and timings, the 8 automatic controls are a godsend. These pre-programmed settings are designed for common tasks like reheating beverages, defrosting bread, or cooking popcorn. Simply select the appropriate automatic program, and the microwave adjusts the power and time automatically. While the manual controls for power and time adjustment can be a bit less intuitive initially, requiring a quick glance at the manual to understand the precise sequence, the automatic settings offer a straightforward alternative for everyday convenience. This feature makes the appliance very user-friendly for quick tasks, streamlining the entire process and reducing guesswork, making it accessible even for less tech-savvy users.
Material and Maintenance
The stainless steel interior and exterior not only contribute to the sleek aesthetic but also make the Candy MIC201EX Built-in Microwave relatively easy to clean. Spills and splatters wipe away easily with a damp cloth, maintaining hygiene and preventing lingering odours. The included glass turntable is also removable and dishwasher safe, simplifying cleaning even further. However, the polished stainless steel finish is prone to showing fingerprints and smudges, meaning it requires frequent wiping to maintain its pristine appearance. This is a minor aesthetic point, but worth considering for those who prefer a low-maintenance finish. Despite this, the material ensures durability and a long-lasting aesthetic appeal, standing up well to daily use in a busy kitchen environment.
Customer Feedback
Having scoured the internet for other users’ experiences, it’s clear that the general sentiment towards the Candy MIC201EX Built-in Microwave is overwhelmingly positive. Many praised its excellent value for a built-in model, often acquiring it at a highly competitive price. Users frequently highlighted its appealing aesthetics and quick heating capabilities, noting its efficiency even compared to higher-wattage models. The grill function was also a popular feature, adding versatility. While the 20-litre capacity was occasionally mentioned as small, most users found it perfectly adequate for typical microwave tasks like reheating single plates. A few minor criticisms surfaced regarding the button aesthetics appearing slightly off-colour or the control interface being less intuitive at first, and some noted the front trim’s susceptibility to minor dents, but these were generally considered minor points against the product’s overall performance and value.
Concluding Thoughts
The core problem of inefficient and cluttered kitchen spaces, coupled with the need for quick meal solutions, is effectively addressed by a well-chosen microwave. Without one, daily routines can become a constant struggle against time and mess, complicating even the simplest culinary tasks. The Candy MIC201EX Built-in Microwave stands out as a great fit to solve these issues because of its seamless built-in design that maximises counter space, its surprisingly quick and versatile performance for everyday use, and its exceptional value within the built-in appliance category. It delivers reliable convenience without compromising on kitchen aesthetics. To experience the benefits for yourself and transform your kitchen efficiency, click here to check out the product!