Buying without seeing it.

With the demise of our built in microwave we set out to buy a replacement. At over £500 I really was bauking but OH said it was an essential buy. Whilst thinking I could buy ten microwaves for the same amount, I decided to do some research. Despite trying everywhere it was impossible to go to a store or showroom and see one in the flesh in situ. All we could do is read a leaflet or watch an online video. So it got me wondering just how many products are on sale that you cannot actually see before buying. In case you are wondering the microwave is a Neff one with built in grill. I was told we had to buy this one as it had to match the other fitted appliances.