There was a time when the common-or-garden microwave was an expensive item, owned by the elite and bought for an incredibly high price - how times have changed! Today, a microwave is seen as a basic kitchen appliance which is found in over 90% of all households in the UK. Tesco sell a range of microwaves, with their cheapest being the £29 'Value' MM08.


The Basics
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The microwave is a relatively small model at 44 x 34 x 26 cms, and has an internal capacity of seventeen litres. In terms of its appearance, the MMO8 is pleasant enough, but there's no getting away from the fact that it does look like a budget model. The body itself is constructed from a thin white metal, whilst the door is predominantly black and plastic. The front of the microwave features two plastic dials - the top one controls the power settings ('min', 'defrost', 'mid', 'mid / max', and 'max'), whilst the bottom dial allows you to select the cooking time. In use, these controllers feel fairly flimsy, and it's actually very difficult to be accurate with the lower timer dial. The door is opened via a white button located on the bottom right of the appliance which is easy to press, and is closed again via a firm manual push. Inside, food can be placed on a transparent internal plate which rotates and can be removed for cleaning. The microwave's wattage is rated at 700, which is powerful enough for everything that I need the appliance for.


Operation
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When in use, the MMO8 features an internal light which allows you to check the progress of whatever you are cooking. When the allotted cooking time is up, the microwave emits an old-school 'ping' which is loud enough to hear in an adjoining room. Whilst cooking, the microwave is fairly quiet, although it is probably louder than some of the more expensive models on the market. As it's a basic model, the microwave is definitely lacking in features, and things like a keep warm function, auto cook, and a child safety lock, are all but lacking. In use, I have found the microwave to cook all manner of items in an effective manner, and I have no issues to report on the full power mode (which I mainly use). That said, the defrost setting is a bit of a mixed bag - sometimes it's very effective, and other times it isn't - 'hit and miss' is probably the best phrase to use. The power cable is of sufficient length to allow the microwave to be placed up to a metre away from the plug socket and the device itself is fairly light and easy to transport.


Final Word
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If it's a simple microwave that you're after then the Tesco MMO8 will suit your needs perfectly - it's an effective model which will cook your food without any fuss. I would say that the device is perfect suited to an elderly user who may get confused with the numerous devices on the market which feature excessive settings. All in all, for under £30, the appliance is very good value for money, and highly recommended.