There’s a moment of quiet desperation that many of us have faced in the modern kitchen. You pull a cup of now-tepid coffee from your desk, shuffle to the counter, and are confronted by a gleaming appliance that looks more like a cockpit than a microwave. There are buttons for “Popcorn,” “Pizza,” “Beverage,” and a dozen other presets you’ve never used. You just want 30 seconds of heat, but you find yourself cycling through menus and sub-menus. This over-complication of simple tasks is a creeping frustration in our homes. We wanted convenience, but we ended up with complexity. For those of us who believe that reheating leftovers shouldn’t require a pilot’s license, the search for a straightforward, reliable microwave becomes a genuine quest. It’s a search for a tool, not a computer—a machine that does one job exceptionally well without the unnecessary digital fanfare. This is the very problem the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave promises to solve.
- 700W WITH 5 POWER LEVELS: This Swan Manual Microwave is a stylish and simple solution to everyday cooking. Whether you’re warming soup, heating up a ready meal or hot drink, the 5 heat settings give...
- 20L FAMILY SIZE MICROWAVE: The large 20L cavity comfortably fits a standard 10" dinner plate, making it the perfect family size microwave for enjoying everyday meals or late-night snacks with loved...
What to Consider Before Buying a Solo Microwave
A solo microwave is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for rapid, simple, and efficient food heating. Unlike combination ovens with grills or convection features, the solo microwave is a specialist. Its primary purpose is to reheat, cook, and defrost using only microwave energy. The main benefits are speed, ease of use, and a typically smaller, more affordable footprint. In a busy household, it’s the unsung hero that thaws frozen mince for a last-minute bolognese, warms up a baby’s bottle in the dead of night, or perfectly reheats last night’s takeaway. It strips away the non-essential functions to deliver pure, unadulterated convenience, making it a cornerstone of the modern kitchen for anyone who values their time.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the daily rush: students in compact dorms, busy professionals in city flats, elderly individuals who value simplicity, or families needing a second, no-fuss microwave for quick jobs. It’s for anyone who looks at a digital display with ten cooking functions and thinks, “I just want to heat my soup.” Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who love to experiment with complex recipes, require grilling or browning capabilities, or cook large, elaborate meals for big groups from scratch using a single appliance. For those culinary adventurers, a combination microwave oven would be a more appropriate, albeit more complex and expensive, alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: First and foremost, measure your countertop space. A freestanding microwave needs breathing room, typically a few centimetres on the sides and back for ventilation. The SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave has dimensions of 35.5D x 44W x 25.8H centimetres, making it a relatively compact unit ideal for smaller kitchens where every inch of counter space is precious.
- Capacity/Performance: Capacity, measured in litres, determines the internal size. A 20-litre capacity, like this model offers, is perfect for standard 10-inch dinner plates, bowls, and mugs. For performance, wattage is king. At 700W, this microwave sits in a sweet spot for solo models—powerful enough to cook and reheat efficiently without being excessive for everyday tasks.
- Materials & Durability: Look for robust materials that are easy to clean. The SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave features a stainless steel outer and inner construction, which is a significant advantage. Stainless steel is not only durable and resistant to rust and stains, but it also provides a more even distribution of heat and is far easier to wipe down than painted or plastic interiors.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: This is where manual models shine. The absence of complex digital menus means operation is intuitive—turn one dial for power, another for time. For maintenance, a removable glass turntable is essential for easy cleaning. Consider the long-term care; a simple, durable machine with fewer electronic components often translates to a longer, more reliable lifespan. You can check the full specifications and warranty details to ensure it meets your needs.
Ultimately, choosing a solo microwave is about embracing simplicity and efficiency for the tasks you perform most often.
While the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave 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...
First Impressions: Sleek, Simple, and Almost Perfect
Unboxing the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave felt like a breath of fresh air. In a market saturated with overly designed appliances, its minimalist aesthetic was immediately appealing. The unit arrived securely packaged, with the glass turntable and roller ring nestled safely inside. Setup was, as expected, wonderfully simple: place the ring, set the plate, plug it in, and you’re done. There are no clocks to set, no menus to navigate—just pure, instant readiness.
The first thing that strikes you is the finish. The black stainless steel body combined with a highly reflective, mirrored door gives it a premium look that belies its straightforward function. It felt solid and well-built, with a reassuring weight of 10.7 kilograms suggesting durable components within. The two control knobs have a firm, tactile feel to them, providing satisfying clicks as you select the power level and time. It sits neatly on the counter, its compact 44cm width leaving plenty of room for other kitchen essentials. Compared to more feature-packed digital models, it presents a clean, uncluttered profile. However, this commitment to minimalism leads directly to its most significant design flaw, which we noticed before we even turned it on.
Key Benefits
- Incredibly simple and intuitive two-knob manual controls.
- Sleek, modern design with a stylish mirrored door.
- Compact footprint ideal for smaller kitchens, dorms, or offices.
- Durable and easy-to-clean stainless steel interior and exterior.
Potential Drawbacks
- Control dial indicators are black-on-black, making them nearly impossible to see.
- Operation can be slightly noisier than some premium digital models.
A Deep Dive into the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave’s Performance
An appliance can look good on the counter, but its true worth is only revealed through daily use. We put the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave through a comprehensive series of tests, from reheating delicate sauces to defrosting a solid block of frozen chicken. Our goal was to understand not just what it does, but how well it performs the fundamental tasks it was built for. We focused on its core attributes: the manual control system, its real-world cooking power and capacity, and its overall design and build quality as a daily-use appliance.
The Beauty of Simplicity: Mastering Manual Controls (With a Little Help)
The primary appeal of the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave is its radical simplicity. There are two dials. That’s it. The top dial controls the power, offering five distinct levels from low (defrost) to high. The bottom dial is a 35-minute manual timer. This back-to-basics approach is a joy to use. There’s something deeply satisfying about the tactile nature of turning a knob to the desired time and hearing the machine whir to life, culminating in the classic, definitive ‘ding’ when it’s done. It’s intuitive, fast, and completely foolproof.
However, this is where we encountered the single most frustrating design choice of this otherwise excellent machine. The knobs themselves are black, and the indicator—the small line that shows you what setting you’ve selected—is merely a subtle indentation in the same black plastic. Under anything but direct, bright kitchen lighting, it is virtually invisible. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it’s a genuine usability issue. We found ourselves constantly bending down and squinting to guess where the dial was pointing. This sentiment was echoed strongly in user feedback, with several people noting they had to modify the dial themselves. Taking their lead, we applied a tiny dab of white correction fluid to the indicator groove. The difference was night and day. With this simple, two-second fix, the microwave went from frustrating to flawless in its operation.
It’s a bizarre oversight from Swan, as it mars an otherwise stellar user experience. Once marked, however, the controls are a dream. The power levels are distinct and useful; the low setting is gentle enough for defrosting without cooking the edges, while the high setting delivers the full 700W for rapid heating. For anyone tired of digital guesswork, this simple control scheme is a feature that really sets it apart, provided you’re willing to make that one small modification.
Performance in Practice: 700W Power and 20L Capacity
With the controls sorted, we moved on to its core function: cooking. The 700-watt output might seem modest compared to larger, 1000W+ models, but for a 20-litre solo microwave, it’s perfectly balanced. We started with a simple bowl of soup, which was piping hot in just over two minutes on high power. A large, dense jacket potato took around 10-12 minutes, cooking through evenly without developing tough, rubbery spots—a common failing of less consistent microwaves. The heat distribution from the 10-inch glass turntable was impressive; we rarely found significant hot or cold spots in our food.
The defrost function, which uses a lower power setting, also performed admirably. We tested it on a 500g pack of frozen chicken breasts. By setting the timer based on weight (a rough estimate is required with manual controls), the chicken was fully thawed in about 12-14 minutes, ready for cooking with only minimal cool spots in the very centre. This is a crucial test for any microwave, and the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave passed with flying colours.
The 20-litre capacity is more than adequate for single users, couples, or as a secondary appliance. It comfortably fits a standard dinner plate, large pasta bowls, and even taller containers like a Pyrex measuring jug. One user noted the machine was a bit noisy, and we can confirm it has a noticeable hum during operation. However, we agree with their sentiment that it’s not obtrusive; rather, it’s a reassuring sound that lets you know it’s working. You certainly won’t forget you have something in the microwave, which can be a hidden benefit. For everyday reheating and basic cooking, its performance is reliable and consistently effective.
Design and Build Quality: A Sleek Addition to the Countertop
Beyond its performance, the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave is a genuinely handsome appliance. The sleek black finish is modern and versatile, fitting seamlessly into a variety of kitchen decors. The standout feature is undoubtedly the mirrored door. It adds a touch of elegance and helps create a sense of space in smaller kitchens by reflecting light. While it does show fingerprints, a quick wipe with a microfibre cloth restores its pristine shine. It’s a design choice that elevates the product from a simple utility box to a stylish countertop feature.
The build quality feels robust. Both the outer casing and the inner cavity are made of stainless steel. This is a significant advantage over cheaper models with painted interiors, which can chip, rust, or absorb odours over time. The stainless steel interior is not only more hygienic but also incredibly easy to clean. Splatters and spills wipe away effortlessly without staining. The door mechanism is firm and secure, and the unit sits flat and stable on its feet without any wobbling.
Its compact dimensions are a major selling point. In an era of ever-larger kitchen gadgets, this microwave’s modest footprint is a welcome feature for anyone with limited counter space. It provides all the necessary functionality without dominating the kitchen. The combination of a thoughtful, space-saving design and high-quality materials makes the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave a smart investment for its price point.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the user consensus aligns perfectly with our own findings. The overwhelming majority of owners are pleased with the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave for its core mission: being a simple, effective heating tool. One user summed it up perfectly, calling it a “neat plain and simple to use microwave oven.” Many, like us, appreciate the stylish look, with one happy customer exclaiming, “I love the mirror on the front… works great.”
However, the praise almost always comes with the same caveat regarding the control knobs. The most common piece of critical feedback is summed up by one reviewer who stated, “…the dials… have no indication on them as all black so you have no idea what it’s on had to use tippex to put a point on them.” Another shared the exact same plan: “I will need to mark it with a white permanent marker.” This shared experience confirms that the invisible indicator is not a minor quirk but a universal design flaw. It’s relevant because it shows that while the machine is mechanically sound, buyers should be prepared for this one small but necessary DIY adjustment to achieve optimal usability.
How Does the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave Compare to the Alternatives?
While the Swan excels at simplicity, the market offers other models that cater to different tastes and needs. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular competitors.
1. COMFEE’ CM-M202RAF(RD) 20L Retro Microwave Oven
- 8 Cooking Presets: Enjoy the convenience of 8 cooking presets for popular microwave dishes including pasta, soups, baked potatoes, and more
- 5 Power Levels: This microwave's power levels makes it great for a broad range of heating jobs, whether you're softening ice cream or getting leftovers piping hot
The COMFEE’ retro microwave is a direct competitor in the 20L category but targets a completely different aesthetic. Where the Swan is minimalist and modern, the COMFEE’ is all about vintage charm with its curved edges and passionate red finish. It offers a slight power advantage at 800W and moves away from manual controls to a digital interface with 8 auto-cook menus and an express cook button. This makes it the ideal alternative for someone who loves the retro look, wants a pop of colour in their kitchen, and prefers the convenience of presets over the tactile simplicity of manual dials. It’s for the user who wants style backed by a bit more digital assistance.
2. Samsung MS23K3513AK 23L Solo 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.
The Samsung MS23K3513AK represents a step up in both size and brand prestige. With a larger 23-litre capacity, it’s better suited for small families or those who regularly use larger casserole dishes. Samsung brings its reputation for high-tech features, including a durable ceramic enamel interior that is highly scratch-resistant and easy to clean, plus a “Quick Defrost” function that is more advanced than the Swan’s manual setting. This microwave is for the user who needs more space, trusts the reliability of a major electronics brand, and is willing to pay a premium for advanced materials and slightly more sophisticated digital controls and features.
3. Nostalgia Retro 800-Watt Microwave Oven
- 800 watts cooking power: At 25L, this microwave provides the cooking power needed to quickly cook and reheat foods
- Convenient cooking controls: 12 pre programmed cooking settings, delay timer and express cooking provide options for the optimal heating of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, veggies and...
The Nostalgia Retro model takes the retro theme even further and pairs it with more power and a larger capacity. At 25.4L and 800W, it’s the biggest and most powerful of the alternatives. Its main selling point is the combination of a striking 1950s aesthetic with the convenience of 12 pre-programmed cooking settings and a clear digital clock. This appliance is for the user who is fully committed to a retro kitchen design but does not want to compromise on modern convenience. It’s the perfect choice for someone who wants a statement piece that also offers significant capacity and a wide range of automated cooking options, moving far beyond the Swan’s manual simplicity.
Our Final Verdict on the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the SWAN 700W 20L Manual Microwave is an outstanding appliance that brilliantly achieves its goal of being a simple, powerful, and stylish kitchen workhorse. Its manual controls are a delight for anyone suffering from digital fatigue, its 700W performance is consistent and reliable for all core tasks, and its sleek, compact design looks fantastic on any countertop. It is the perfect microwave for students, individuals in small apartments, or anyone seeking a secondary appliance that just gets the job done without any fuss.
However, it is impossible to ignore the baffling design flaw of the invisible dial markers. This single issue prevents it from being a perfect product out of the box. Thankfully, the fix is incredibly simple and takes mere seconds. If you are willing to make that one tiny adjustment, you will be rewarded with one of the best value-for-money manual microwaves on the market. For its target audience, who prize simplicity and reliability over bells and whistles, it is a highly recommended purchase. If you’re ready to embrace straightforward, effective cooking, you can check the latest price and secure yours today.
Last update on 2025-11-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API