For years, my kitchen counter was a graveyard of purely functional, yet soul-crushingly bland, appliances. The microwave, in particular, was a beige box of necessity. It did its job—reheating leftovers, defrosting chicken, popping popcorn—but it added nothing to the space. It was an appliance I used daily but actively tried to ignore. I think many of us fall into this trap; we see a microwave as a tool, not as a piece of kitchen décor. But when you’ve spent time and effort curating a certain aesthetic in your home, a drab, generic appliance can stick out like a sore thumb, quietly undermining the entire look. The search wasn’t just for a machine that heats food; it was for a countertop piece that could blend in, stand out for the right reasons, and prove that utility and beauty can, in fact, coexist in one compact package. This is the challenge that led us to test the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven.
- Elegant Design & Versatility: This microwave's putty hue blends seamlessly with various kitchen interiors. Whether you have a modern stainless steel setup or a retro kitchen, this countertop microwave...
- Digital Precision: Eliminate guesswork with digital controls that ensure precise cooking times and temperatures. Ideal for defrosting, reheating, or cooking, this 800w microwave makes your kitchen...
What to Consider Before Buying a Solo Microwave
A solo microwave is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for fast-paced, modern living. It represents the essence of convenience, designed to perform the core tasks of reheating, cooking, and defrosting with efficiency and simplicity. Unlike combination models that include grills or convection ovens, the solo microwave focuses on doing one job and doing it exceptionally well. The primary benefit is its straightforward operation and typically smaller footprint, making it an indispensable tool for quick meals, warming beverages, and preparing ready-made dishes without the complexity or cleaning hassle of a full oven. It’s the workhorse of the kitchen, saving precious time for busy professionals, students, and families alike.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the need for speed and simplicity in their daily routine. This includes small families, couples, individuals living in apartments or dorms, or anyone who values a clutter-free countertop. If your primary kitchen tasks involve reheating last night’s dinner, defrosting meat for a recipe, or making a quick bowl of porridge in the morning, a solo microwave is your perfect ally. However, it might not be suitable for those who are passionate home bakers or who love grilling and roasting. If you’re looking to bake a cake, brown a lasagne, or achieve a crispy finish on a pizza, you would be better served by a combination microwave or a dedicated countertop oven. For those users, the simplicity of a solo microwave becomes a limitation.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Before you fall in love with a design, measure your available counter space meticulously. Consider not only the width and depth but also the height, especially if you plan to place it under cabinets. Remember to account for ventilation space, typically a few centimetres around the back and sides, to prevent overheating and ensure longevity.
- Capacity/Performance: Capacity, measured in litres, determines the size of the dishes you can fit inside. A 20L model, like the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven, is ideal for standard dinner plates but may struggle with large casserole dishes. Wattage dictates cooking speed; 800W is a solid standard for even and efficient heating, while lower wattages may take significantly longer.
- Materials & Durability: The exterior is often a choice between plastic and stainless steel. Stainless steel, as seen on the Haden, offers a more premium look and better durability. Inside, look for stainless steel or easy-clean ceramic enamel interiors, which are more resilient to scratches and stains than simple painted cavities.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the control interface. Do you prefer tactile dials or modern digital touch buttons? A clear display and intuitive pre-set programs can save a lot of frustration. For maintenance, a removable turntable makes cleaning spills much easier, and a smooth interior surface can be wiped down in seconds.
While the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven is an excellent choice, 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...
Unboxing the Haden Cotswold: First Impressions and Key Features
Opening the box of the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven feels less like unboxing an appliance and more like revealing a piece of designer homeware. The first thing that strikes you is the colour. Described as ‘Putty’, it’s a warm, sophisticated neutral that one user aptly called ‘Latte’. It’s a welcome departure from the harsh blacks, whites, and sterile stainless steel that dominate the market. The retro-inspired design, with its soft, rounded edges and chrome-effect handle and dials, immediately evokes a sense of nostalgic charm without feeling dated. It feels substantial and well-planted on the counter, weighing in at a reassuring 6 kilograms.
The build quality feels solid for its price point. The stainless steel casing is smooth, and the door opens and closes with a satisfying click rather than a cheap-sounding clang. The digital display is bright and clear, and the control buttons are responsive to the touch. Inside, the 20-litre cavity is compact but thoughtfully laid out, with a 24cm glass turntable that’s easy to remove for cleaning. Setting it up was as simple as plugging it in. It’s a statement piece that promises not just to perform a function but to actively enhance the kitchen environment, something we were eager to put to the test. You can see the elegant design and full specifications for yourself.
What We Like
- Stunning retro-inspired design that elevates kitchen aesthetics.
- Unique and versatile ‘Putty’ colour that complements various decors.
- Simple and intuitive digital controls with useful pre-set programs.
- Compact footprint ideal for smaller kitchens or limited counter space.
What We Didn’t Like
- User reports raise concerns about the fragility of the glass turntable.
- Some units have reportedly arrived with shipping damage, requiring inspection.
In-Depth Performance Analysis: How the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven Handles Daily Life
An appliance can be beautiful, but if it doesn’t perform its core function well, it’s just an expensive decoration. Over several weeks, we integrated the Haden Cotswold into our daily kitchen rhythm, using it for everything from defrosting mince for bolognese to reheating coffee and cooking jacket potatoes. We aimed to discover if its performance could live up to its impeccable style.
Aesthetic Achievement: The Cotswold Design Philosophy in the Kitchen
It’s impossible to begin a deep dive into this microwave without first celebrating its design, which is undoubtedly its primary draw. Haden has masterfully crafted an appliance that feels both timeless and contemporary. The ‘Putty’ finish is a triumph of colour theory. It’s a chameleon; in our modern kitchen with stainless steel accents, it provided a soft, organic contrast that felt warm and inviting. We could easily see it fitting perfectly into a country-style or shaker kitchen, where it would blend seamlessly with cream or stone-coloured cabinets. This versatility is its superpower. Many user reviews echo this sentiment, with multiple people stating they bought the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven specifically to match their Haden kettle and toaster, creating a cohesive and intentionally designed look across their countertop. This isn’t just a microwave; it’s the anchor piece of a collection.
The details are what truly sell the retro aesthetic. The chunky, chrome-effect door handle has a pleasingly mechanical feel, and the dial, while controlling digital functions, offers a satisfying tactile feedback that’s often missing from flat, touch-panel-only interfaces. The rounded corners and subtle Haden branding are elegant touches that prevent the design from looking like a cheap imitation. In a sea of utilitarian black and silver boxes, the Haden stands apart as a conscious design choice. For anyone tired of hiding their microwave away, this model is a feature worth displaying. It successfully transforms a mundane appliance into a conversation starter.
Core Cooking Capabilities: 800W of Power in Practice
With 800 watts of power, the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven sits comfortably in the sweet spot for solo microwaves. It’s powerful enough for speedy cooking without being so aggressive that it obliterates delicate foods. Our tests confirmed this. A large bowl of leftover chilli heated through evenly in just under three minutes, with no cold spots in the centre—a common failing of lesser microwaves. Reheating a mug of tea took a swift 60 seconds. The five power levels provide excellent control for more nuanced tasks. We used a lower setting (around 40%) to gently soften butter for baking, and the defrost function worked admirably on a pair of frozen chicken breasts, thawing them without starting to cook the edges.
The 20-litre capacity is well-suited for its intended audience. It easily accommodated our largest dinner plates and standard Pyrex bowls. While you won’t be fitting a family-sized roasting dish in here, that isn’t its purpose. The 24cm turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring even heat distribution. The eight auto-cook programs are a genuinely useful addition. We tested the ‘Potato’ setting on a medium-sized baking potato, and it cooked it perfectly in about 7 minutes, ready for a final crisping in the main oven. The ‘Popcorn’ and ‘Pizza’ (for reheating a slice) functions also performed as expected. The ‘Express Cook’ function, which starts the microwave for 30 seconds at full power with a single button press, quickly became our most-used feature for its sheer convenience.
Usability and Controls: Simplicity Over Complexity
Where some modern microwaves bombard you with an array of confusing buttons and sub-menus, Haden has opted for elegant simplicity. The control panel is a masterclass in intuitive design. A handful of clearly labelled buttons cover the main functions: Power Level, Clock, Auto Cook, and Defrost (by weight or time). The large dial is used to set the time or select auto-cook options, and the prominent Start/Express Cook button is impossible to miss. Setting a custom cook time is effortless: press ‘Power Level’ to cycle through the five settings (100%, 80%, 50%, 30%, 10%), use the dial to set your desired time, and press start. It’s a process that takes seconds to learn and becomes second nature almost immediately.
The digital LED display is bright, clear, and easy to read from a distance. When not in use, it functions as a simple digital clock. Maintenance is equally straightforward. The painted stainless steel interior is a significant step up from basic painted metal. We found that spills and splatters wiped away easily with a damp cloth, leaving no stains behind. The removable glass turntable and rotating ring can be popped into the dishwasher for a thorough clean. This focus on user-friendliness is a core part of the product’s appeal; it does its job effectively without requiring you to consult the manual for every minor task. The overall experience is refreshingly hassle-free, a feature that really sets it apart in a crowded market.
Build Quality and Durability Concerns: The Elephant in the Room
While our hands-on experience with the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven was overwhelmingly positive, it would be remiss not to address the concerns raised in some user feedback. The overall unit feels solid, but a couple of potential weak points have been highlighted. The most significant is the glass turntable. One user reported that their plate broke from a minor knock after less than a year of use. During our testing, the plate felt no more or less fragile than any other microwave turntable we’ve handled, but this report is worth noting. It suggests that while the main chassis is robust, some individual components may require a more delicate touch. We recommend handling the turntable with care during removal and cleaning to mitigate this risk.
Another point of concern is the potential for damage during shipping. We noted one review where a user received a dented unit. Our review model arrived in perfect condition, but this highlights the importance of thoroughly inspecting the appliance upon delivery. This isn’t necessarily a flaw in the product itself but rather a reality of online purchasing and shipping of larger items. We advise prospective buyers to purchase from a retailer with a robust and easy-to-use returns policy, just in case. These concerns don’t negate the product’s many strengths, but they do add an important layer of context. It’s a beautifully designed and highly functional machine, but one that warrants a careful check upon arrival and mindful handling of its glass components during its service life. If you’re considering a purchase, be sure to check the latest price and delivery options available.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing the broader user experience provides a clear and consistent picture. The praise for the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven is overwhelmingly focused on its aesthetic appeal. Review after review celebrates its “stunning” retro shape and beautiful colour, which users have described as “Latte” or “Taupe.” Many have purchased it as part of a matching set with the Haden kettle and toaster, confirming its success as a piece of “kitchen jewellery.” Functionally, it receives high marks for being “super, solid” and “very straightforward to use,” indicating that the simple control scheme is a hit with consumers.
However, the negative feedback, though less frequent, highlights important caveats. The primary concern revolves around durability, specifically the glass turntable plate. One user expressed deep disappointment when theirs broke from a seemingly minor knock, a frustration compounded by a lack of response from customer service. Another report of a unit arriving damaged suggests potential issues with quality control or shipping protection. This feedback paints a picture of a product that excels in design and basic functionality but may have vulnerabilities in component durability and requires careful inspection upon arrival.
How Does the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven Compare to the Competition?
The HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven occupies a unique niche, balancing style and function. But for those whose priorities lie elsewhere, several strong alternatives exist. We’ve compared it against three popular models to help you decide.
1. Russell Hobbs RHEM2301B 23L Digital Microwave
- The easiest and most instinctive microwave with 4 simple buttons that allow you to Microwave, Defrost, Start and Stop/Cancel.
- No complicated auto cook menus or power levels.
The Russell Hobbs RHEM2301B is the pragmatic choice for those who prioritize ease of cleaning and maximum usable space. Its key feature is the flatbed design, which completely eliminates the need for a turntable. This not only makes wiping the interior incredibly simple but also allows you to use larger, rectangular dishes that wouldn’t fit or rotate properly in a traditional microwave. With a slightly larger 23L capacity and the same 800W power, it’s a functional powerhouse. You sacrifice the retro charm of the Haden, but if your main frustrations with microwaves are cleaning difficulties and fitting in oddly shaped containers, the Russell Hobbs is a superior functional alternative.
2. Toshiba 23L Microwave Oven
- Microwave Oven: Enjoy great results and an array of convenient features with this 800w solo 23L microwave oven from Toshiba, made to add modern conveniences to your busy life.
- Express Cook: Start cooking instantly by selecting cooking time from 1 second to 6 min. The pre-programmed menu and procedural memory will allow you to heat your favourites in just one touch!
The Toshiba ML-EM23P(BS) represents the modern, feature-rich workhorse. It matches the Russell Hobbs with a 23L capacity and 800W of power but retains a traditional turntable. Its strengths lie in its robust digital interface, featuring a clear display, one-touch express cooking, and a suite of pre-programmed auto-cook menus for precise results. It’s built for durability and performance, with an easy-clean interior and a sleek, understated black design. For a user who values performance and features over distinctive styling, and wants a reliable appliance from a well-known electronics brand, the Toshiba offers a compelling, no-nonsense package that will handle daily kitchen tasks with ease.
3. Sage The Smart Oven Pro Brushed Stainless Steel
- The Sage Smart Oven Pro with Element iQ System is a high performance countertop oven. Reduce your cooking time by up to 30 Percent using the convection setting and choose from 10 cooking functions as...
- Elemet iq System. Using 5 independent quartz elements, smart algorithms steer power to where and when it's needed to create the ideal cooking environment for perfect results every time. Fast 2400 Watt...
The Sage Smart Oven Pro is in a completely different league and is aimed at a different user. This is not a solo microwave; it’s a premium, high-performance countertop oven that also happens to have microwave functionality. It’s for the serious home cook who wants to bake, roast, and grill without firing up their main oven. With its Element iQ system for smart, even heating and a host of advanced cooking functions, it far surpasses the Haden in versatility and raw cooking power. However, it comes with a significantly larger footprint and a much higher price tag. This isn’t a direct competitor but rather an aspirational upgrade for those who see their countertop appliance as a primary cooking tool, not just a reheating device.
Final Verdict: Is the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven the Right Choice for Your Kitchen?
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the HADEN 800W 20L Microwave Oven is overwhelmingly positive, with a few important conditions. This appliance is, first and foremost, a triumph of design. If you are tired of boring kitchen appliances and want a functional piece of art that will genuinely enhance your countertop, this is one of the best options available. The unique ‘Putty’ colour, charming retro details, and simple, intuitive controls make it a joy to look at and use. Its 800W performance is more than adequate for all standard microwaving tasks, from defrosting to reheating and light cooking.
It is the perfect choice for individuals, couples, and small families who prioritize kitchen aesthetics as much as functionality. However, prospective buyers must be aware of the user-reported concerns regarding the fragility of the glass turntable and the potential for shipping damage. Our recommendation is to handle the turntable with care and inspect the unit thoroughly upon arrival. If style, simplicity, and solid everyday performance are your main criteria, the Haden Cotswold is an exceptional choice that will bring a smile to your face every time you use it. For a beautiful appliance that performs its duties with grace, we highly recommend you check the latest price and add this stylish workhorse to your kitchen.
Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API