Having been disappointed with a branded microwave oven, which gave up the ghost after only two months' use, we scouted around for a replacement.

Due to the experience with a 'named' product, we decided that some rationalizing was appropriate and really thought about how we used our microwave.
Did we prepare exotic dishes in it? No! Do we mainly heat up milk for our breakfast cereals and cocoa? Yes!

This eureka moment made us realise that a basic microwave would probably do. Thus, since the local branch of Asda is on our doorstep, we made this our first port of call.

Their Smart Price 17 litre white microwave, at £32.00 seemed almost too basic. However, Asda's no quibble returns policy convinced us to give it a try.

Outwardly, the standard, white finish makes it look as good as many other makes and, let's be honest here; who really looks at the brand of anyone elses's microwave? There are two simple controls; the power dial which governs the microvaving level, and the timer, which does just what it says.

A welcome feature on this model, is the door release button. Much more reassuring than simply yanking the door open, particularly in mid cook! The 17 litre capacity will accommodate most of what you would want to cook, but the 700 watt power does mean that larger items will take that much longer to cook thoroughly. Although, a delicious, hand-made chocolate sponge pudding took just four minutes to reach perfection in our model, and was really worth waiting for!

You could do worse than this one; providing you don't try to make it do too much