You mainly reheat meals
For leftovers, ready meals and defrosting, you can compare basic models without making browning a priority. UFC-Que Choisir categorises appliances according to whether they are used for reheating, defrosting or cooking.
Who is this choice for?
You cook without an oven
If your home doesn’t have a conventional oven, decide whether a grill will be enough or whether your dishes call for a fan-assisted model or a small electric oven. The available settings vary between appliances and models.
You’re short on space
Compare the appliance’s external dimensions with the space available, then check the turntable diameter or usable dimensions for your dishes. Samsung, LG and Electrolux provide measurements for specific models, which don’t apply to every appliance in the category.
What to check
UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between basic microwaves, models with a grill and combination appliances. Start with the dishes you actually make, then check the dimensions and settings of the specific appliance.
| What matters | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Reheating and defrosting | Check the controls and defrost setting; also compare the turntable diameter with the dishes you normally use. | If I mainly reheat meals and defrost food, I prioritise the features I’ll actually use. Around 36% of consumers put these uses first. |
| Cooking without an oven | Make sure it has fan-assisted cooking if your recipes call for it, or compare it with a small oven if traditional cooking is your priority. | If I don’t have an oven, I check that the available settings suit the dishes I want to make. Around 29% of consumers prioritise cooking without a conventional oven. |
| Space for the appliance and dishes | Check the external dimensions against the space available and make sure the usable dimensions or turntable diameter will accommodate your dishes. | In a small kitchen, I need to be able to fit the appliance in and use it with my usual dishes. Around 21% of consumers prioritise the space it takes up. |
| Occasional browning | Check that the product details mention a grill; don’t confuse this feature with fan-assisted cooking. | If I mainly want to brown certain dishes, I look for a grill without paying attention to cooking settings I don’t need. Around 14% of consumers prioritise occasional browning. |
Pitfalls to avoid
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Confusing a grill with a fan-assisted combination model
A grill is used to brown food; fan-assisted cooking is a different cooking mode. The product name alone isn’t enough to confirm what a model can do.
Start with the dishes you plan to make and check the settings listed for the exact model.
A feature you don’t need is an extra option to consider, without helping you make the recipes you have in mind.
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Choosing based only on litres or watts
The stated capacity doesn’t tell you the external dimensions, turntable size or usable space for your dishes. For an appliance with a grill, the product details may also list separate power ratings for the grill and microwave.
Measure the space and your dishes, then check the dimensions and installation requirements for the exact model.
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Heating packaging without checking the instructions
Anses recommends following the preparation instructions on food packaging intended for microwave use. DGCCRF advises following the stated conditions of use for containers.
Before reheating, check that the container is suitable for the mode you’re using and follow the instructions on its label.
Brands to consider, depending on the model
Whirlpool
The MCP341WH and MCP349WH models let you compare a basic microwave with a fan-assisted combination model.
- Whirlpool states that the MCP341WH has a 25 L capacity and 800 W microwave power; it is listed as microwave-only.
- For the MCP349WH, Whirlpool states a 25 L capacity and external dimensions of 52 × 30.1 × 49.4 cm. These specifications apply to this model only.
Samsung
The MS23K3614AK/EF is an example of a basic microwave designed for tasks such as reheating and defrosting.
- Samsung lists a 23 L capacity, solo mode and automatic defrost for this model.
- Solo mode doesn’t include a grill or fan-assisted cooking; check that the model has the settings your recipes need.
LG
The MH6336GIB is a grill model worth comparing if you want to brown food as well as reheat it.
- LG states that this model has a 23 L capacity, a 292 mm turntable and 1,000 W microwave output power.
- LG lists a separate grill power rating of 900 W. This feature doesn’t mean the model has fan-assisted cooking.
Electrolux
The freestanding EMZ421MMK offers another microwave configuration with a grill.
- Electrolux lists a 21 L capacity, a 27 cm turntable and grill, microwave and microwave-with-grill settings.
- The product details don’t mention fan-assisted cooking for this model; also check that your dishes fit on the turntable.
Moulinex
The Optimo OX444810 is a compact freestanding electric oven worth comparing if oven cooking is your priority.
- Moulinex lists a 19 L capacity and fan-assisted, conventional and grill settings for this model.
- This is an electric oven, not a microwave, so it doesn’t offer the same reheating mode.
Joybuy products for these needs
This selection includes options for reheating and defrosting, browning, combination cooking and an alternative in the form of a small electric oven.
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Heinrich’s, solo microwave, 20 L
For reheating and defrosting in a small kitchen, the product details describe a freestanding solo model.
20 L capacity, 700 W power, six power levels and a 9.6-inch turntable.
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HOMCOM, electric mini oven, 10 L
Worth considering if oven cooking is your priority and microwave reheating isn’t essential.
Adjustable temperature from 100 to 230 °C, 60-minute timer and stated dimensions of 36.5 × 26 × 22 cm. The product details list a wire rack and removable tray.
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LG MH6535GIS, microwave with grill, 25 L
For combining reheating with a grill function, without assuming that it also has fan-assisted cooking.
The product details list microwave, grill and defrost functions, as well as automatic programmes with weight control.
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Beko MGC20100B1, microwave with grill, 20 L
For reheating and defrosting with a grill function; check the space available and that your containers are suitable for this function.
The product details list 700 W power, nine power levels, a 245 mm turntable and dimensions of 45.2 × 35.3 × 26.2 cm. At least 10 cm of space is required at the sides and rear for ventilation.
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Candy Essenza CMCA29EDLB/ST, combination microwave, 29 L
Worth comparing if you want several cooking modes in a freestanding appliance; check the dimensions before choosing it for a small kitchen.
The product details list microwave, grill and steam cooking functions, a 31.5 cm turntable and dimensions of 52.3 × 44.9 × 30 cm.
Frequently asked questions
Is the capacity in litres enough to choose the right size?
No. Also compare the external dimensions, cavity or turntable, then measure your usual dish and the space where you plan to put the appliance. As examples specific to the models mentioned, LG lists a 292 mm turntable for the MH6336GIB, while Whirlpool lists an external depth of 49.4 cm for the MCP349WH combination model.
What should I check before installing a freestanding model?
Measure the space and check the instructions for your chosen model to find out its installation requirements. Don’t work out how much space you need from the external width alone. For cleaning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the cavity and accessories too.
Can all food containers go in the microwave?
No. DGCCRF advises following the stated conditions of use for containers; being suitable for food contact doesn’t automatically mean a container is microwave-safe. Anses also recommends following the reheating instructions on food packaging.
Does a furnished rental property have to include a microwave?
No, not specifically. For a property covered by the minimum furniture list set out in the decree on furnished rentals, the legislation specifies an “oven or microwave”, as well as a hob. Check what equipment is provided; this rule doesn’t mean that an unfurnished rental property must include either appliance.
If I don’t have a conventional oven, should I choose a combination microwave?
Not necessarily: choose according to the types of cooking you have in mind. A grill is useful for browning food, while a fan-assisted model or small oven is worth comparing if you want to cook dishes in the oven. Check the exact settings for the model and make sure you have enough space.