A freestanding combi microwave is worth considering if you want to reheat, defrost and cook with one appliance, provided its cooking modes and capacity suit the food you prepare. If you often cook in an oven but also need a microwave for reheating, a separate mini oven and microwave let you use both functions independently, but take up two spaces.
If you want to cook, reheat and defrost without setting aside space for two appliances, start by comparing freestanding combi microwaves. Check that the cavity is big enough for the dishes you usually use and that the advertised modes suit your recipes.
If oven cooking is your main priority, look at mini ovens with the modes you need, particularly fan-assisted cooking. You’ll need a separate microwave if you also want to reheat food using microwave power.
If you want to be able to reheat or defrost food while another dish is cooking, two separate appliances mean you won’t have to share a single cavity. However, measure the space each one needs before choosing this set-up.
A combi microwave brings several functions together in one cavity; a separate mini oven and microwave can be used independently, but need two spaces. If you’re considering a mini oven on its own, first decide whether you can manage without microwave reheating.
| Consideration | What to check | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| One appliance | Measure the appliance’s external dimensions and check its functions, as well as how much usable space there is for your dishes. | In a studio flat, I want to cook and reheat without giving up a second spot on the worktop; around 40% of consumers would make having one appliance their priority. |
| Oven cooking | Check the advertised heating modes, temperature range and the dimensions of dishes that will fit. | If I often make gratins or tarts, I prioritise modes suited to those recipes over reheating alone; around 30% of consumers would put oven cooking first. |
| Using both at once | For two appliances, compare their combined footprint, available sockets and the installation instructions in each manual. | I want to reheat a meal while another dish is cooking, even if it takes up more space; around 30% of consumers would prioritise this use. |
A microwave with a grill doesn’t necessarily have the same modes as a fan-assisted mini oven. Electrolux lists a grill for the EMZ421MMK, while Moulinex explicitly advertises fan-assisted cooking for the Optimo 33L CT.
Start with the recipes you usually make and check the heating mode listed for the exact model.
The advertised capacity alone won’t tell you whether your dishes will fit inside or how much worktop space the appliance will take up.
Compare the external dimensions and the shape of the cavity. Depending on the model, check the turntable size or the usable flat surface against the dishes you use most often.
The required clearances and ventilation openings vary by model. Electrolux also notes that the cooling fan on some microwaves continues running after use.
Before buying, check the manual for the exact model to confirm its installation requirements, ventilation and electrical specifications.
The fan-assisted cooking advertised for the Moulinex Optimo 33L CT doesn’t give it a microwave function.
If microwave reheating or defrosting is part of your daily routine, compare a combi microwave with the space needed for a mini oven and a separate microwave.
The MWF255B is a useful point of comparison if you’re looking for a freestanding combi microwave.
The Optimo 33L CT is an example of a freestanding mini oven for people who prioritise oven cooking.
The EMZ421MMK is a useful model to consider when assessing the space and power supply needed for a freestanding microwave in a two-appliance set-up.
These two combi microwaves are options if you want one appliance for reheating and cooking. Compare their advertised capacity with the size of your dishes, then check the functions and installation instructions for the model you choose.
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Worth considering if you want one appliance for both reheating and cooking.
Advertised capacity: 39 L. Check that your dishes fit inside the cavity and that the available modes meet your cooking and defrosting needs.
Measure the space available and follow the ventilation clearance instructions in the model’s manual.
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Worth comparing if you want a combi appliance for reheating and cooking without installing a separate mini oven.
Advertised capacity: 42 L. Check the model’s product details for its cooking modes, defrost function and the space available for your dishes.
Before installing it, check the manual for ventilation clearances and electrical specifications.
No. What it can do depends on its heating modes and cavity size. Moulinex advertises fan-assisted cooking for the Optimo 33L CT, while Electrolux describes the EMZ421MMK as a microwave with a grill. Check the functions of the combi microwave you’re considering before relying on it for oven recipes.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then check that the door can open and allow for the clearances specified in the manual for the exact model. To compare the difference between models, Whirlpool lists the MWF255B at 49 × 32.5 × 46.8 cm, while Electrolux gives dimensions of 262 × 442 × 345 mm for the EMZ421MMK.
Yes, on some models. Electrolux says that the cooling fan may continue running after use. Keep the ventilation openings clear and check your appliance’s manual to understand how it works.
Yes, for ovens covered by the rules in France. The French Ministry of the Economy says the energy label is one of the things to check when comparing these new appliances, both in shops and online. Check the label for the exact model you’re considering; don’t assume that two types of appliance display the same information.