For preparing several portions in a small kitchen, start by considering which dishes you want to cook together and how much space you actually have. A large basket suits a bigger batch, while two baskets let you set a main dish and its side separately. Measure the available width, depth and height, as well as the space needed to open the drawers, then check the manual for the model’s clearance and electrical requirements. A higher total capacity or more cooking programmes alone does not guarantee that the portions and recipes you have in mind will fit.
If you cook for several people, first measure the available width, depth and height. A vertical appliance can take up less width, but you’ll still need to allow for its depth and height. Les Numériques’ test of the Ninja SL400EU illustrates these dimensions.
If you want to serve a main dish and a side at the same time, compare the size of each basket, independent settings and synchronisation features rather than looking only at total capacity. Que Choisir and Philips France explain these considerations for models with two drawers.
If you’re considering an appliance that combines several cooking functions, check the modes and accessories actually included against your recipes and the appliances you already own. Que Choisir and Moulinex outline these considerations for multi-function appliances.
Start by measuring the space, then compare the usable capacity for your recipes and the features that suit the way you cook.
Worth considering: if you mainly cook one dish at a time or need to fit a larger item in a single space.
Bear in mind: two recipes that need different settings may have to be cooked in separate batches.
Worth considering: if you often cook two dishes with different timings or temperatures. Check that the settings are independent and, if useful, that the appliance can synchronise the finish times.
Bear in mind: the two baskets divide up the space, so they may not suit one large item.
Worth considering: if you plan to use functions such as toast, baking or rotisserie cooking regularly. Check which accessories are included.
Bear in mind: these functions won’t necessarily replace a mini oven or multicooker, and the accessories take up space when storing and cleaning them.
| What matters | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and installation | Measure all three dimensions and the space needed to open the drawer. Check the manual for clearance, power requirements and plugging-in instructions. The SL400EU tested by Les Numériques measures 28 × 38,5 × 47 cm, in width × height × depth order. | If my worktop is narrow, I also check the depth, height and drawer clearance before choosing. Around 36% of consumers prioritise size and installation. |
| Quantity per batch | Compare the shape of each basket with the food you cook and check the maximum quantity specified. For the models and foods concerned, Philips recommends not exceeding two-thirds of the maximum mark for the best results. | If I want to cook the planned quantity without making several batches, I compare the basket shape with the food and dishes I usually prepare. Around 29% of consumers prioritise the quantity they can cook per batch. |
| Two dishes ready at the same time | Check that the zones can accommodate your portions, that their settings are independent and that the model includes a synchronisation function. Philips lists two baskets of 6 L and 3 L and a synchronisation function for the NA352/00. | If I want to serve my main dish and side at the same time, I check the settings for each zone and whether they can be synchronised. Around 21% of consumers prioritise coordinating two dishes. |
| Versatility and cleaning | Check which modes and accessories are included, and which parts are specifically listed as dishwasher-safe. Compare these uses with those of your current oven or multicooker. | If I want one appliance to cover several uses without accumulating gadgets or extra cleaning, I check which functions I’ll actually use. Around 14% of consumers prioritise versatility and cleaning. |
Two baskets added together don’t necessarily make one large enough space for a bigger item. The right quantities also vary depending on the food and the model.
Compare each compartment with your portions and the size of the dishes you usually use, not just the advertised total capacity.
The Ninja SL400EU tested by Les Numériques is 28 cm wide, but also 38,5 cm high and 47 cm deep. You’ll also need to allow room to open the drawers and for clearance around the appliance.
Measure all three dimensions and check the manual for the required clearance and space to use the appliance in its chosen spot.
A multi-function model may offer several modes and accessories, but that doesn’t mean it can replace every use of an oven or multicooker.
List the recipes you’ll actually make and compare them with the appliances you already own.
Results vary depending on the model, food and cooking conditions. An energy-use comparison won’t automatically apply to every recipe and portion size.
Before applying a figure to your meals, check which food and portion were tested, which appliance was used for comparison and how the measurements were taken.
The range includes single-basket and dual-basket models; the NA352/00 is an example of a model with two different-sized baskets.
The Double Stack SL400EU is a dual-drawer option to consider when worktop width is a key constraint.
The Easy Fry Multifunction AL501810 has a mini-oven-style design and offers several advertised functions.
The Dual Easy Fry Flex EY9228E0 is an example of a flexible cooking compartment that can be used as two zones or one large zone.
These models offer dual baskets or a larger capacity for cooking several portions. Compare how the capacity is divided and check the dimensions against your recipes and available space.
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The two zones are a good fit if you want to cook two dishes with different settings. Make sure the air inlets and outlets aren’t blocked, and allow for adequate ventilation.
Advertised 9,5 L capacity split between two 4,75 L drawers; six advertised functions and baskets listed as dishwasher-safe.
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This model with two drawers is designed for cooking two dishes with separate settings. Keep the air inlets and outlets clear while it’s in use.
Advertised 7,6 L capacity split between two 3,8 L drawers; six advertised functions and baskets listed as dishwasher-safe.
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A stated 9 L capacity may be worth considering if you want one large cooking space for several portions. Compare its shape with the food and dishes you usually prepare.
Advertised 9 L capacity, 1 800 W power, temperature range of 80 to 200 °C, timer and 12 pre-set cooking programmes. The appliance also features a colour touchscreen and viewing window.
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The advertised capacity can be a useful benchmark for several portions. Check that the shape of the cooking compartment suits your usual recipes.
Advertised 8,5 L capacity and 1 800 W power; colour display with viewing window and 12 advertised automatic programmes.
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The two advertised baskets may suit you if you want to cook two dishes separately. Check that each basket can hold the portion you have in mind.
Advertised total capacity of 9 L, split between two 4,5 L baskets, with a synchronisation function, timer, touchscreen and 10 advertised automatic programmes.
Measure the available width, depth and height, as well as the space needed to open the drawers. The SL400EU tested by Les Numériques measures 28 × 38,5 × 47 cm, in width × height × depth order. For clearance requirements, especially beneath a cupboard, follow the manual for the model you choose.
Check the appliance’s power rating and the plugging-in instructions in its manual, as well as the capacity of your electrical installation. Legrand points out that an extension lead has a limited load, which is marked on it. Having spare sockets doesn’t guarantee that it can power several appliances at once.
Follow the maximum quantity specified for the food and model, and don’t block the airflow. For the models concerned, Philips recommends filling the basket to two-thirds of the maximum mark for chips to get the best results. Check the manual separately to see which parts of your chosen model are dishwasher-safe.
No. These results haven’t been established for every recipe and portion size. Que Choisir says it measures energy use per cooking session for specific dishes as part of its testing protocol. For a useful comparison, the food, quantities and conditions need to be the same. Any claim about reducing fat should also specify the food and comparison method, and shouldn’t be taken to imply a medical benefit.
You can make a claim under the legal guarantee of conformity through the retailer, subject to the conditions set out by law. The DGCCRF states that you have two years from delivery of the goods to take action. This guarantee is separate from a commercial warranty or paid-for extended warranty. Before buying, also check who the seller is and how their after-sales service works.