If you mainly want to reheat ready meals, start by comparing solo microwaves. Look for a defrost function if you regularly use frozen portions. Check that the cavity and turntable can accommodate your usual containers. A model with a grill or fan oven function is worth considering if you plan to use those features. Whichever appliance you choose, follow the power and timing instructions for each packaged meal.
If you mainly use ready meals, consider whether there’s enough room for your plates and containers, how easy the controls are to use, and how accessible the cavity is for cleaning. Usable dimensions and turntable sizes vary between the models listed by Panasonic and Electrolux.
If you alternate between chilled and frozen meals, a clearly documented defrost function may matter more than a grill. The Panasonic NN-E48NBM has one; check the manual for the settings you’ll need for your requirements.
If you’re planning to use the grill or fan oven function, compare the features, accessories and overall size of a combination model. These options don’t remove the need to check the instructions for the selected mode and the container you’re using.
For everyday ready meals, start with your containers and defrosting habits before comparing extra features. A solo microwave may be all you need for reheating. A grill or fan oven function is for a different purpose, so weigh up whether it’s useful and whether you have the space.
| Criterion | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Room for your containers | Compare the size of your dishes with the internal dimensions and turntable diameter, not just the capacity in litres. Check the packaging instructions too. | I want to fit my usual portions inside without a dish that’s too wide getting in the way of the turntable; around 36% of consumers would prioritise this fit. |
| Defrosting | Look for a clearly specified function and check the manual: the settings required may vary by model. | When I often take portions out of the freezer, I want to know which settings to use before reheating; this would be the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Controls and cleaning | Check how easy it is to select power levels, the type of controls and how accessible the cavity is for cleaning. | For regular use, I prefer clear settings and an easy-to-reach cavity; around 21% of consumers would make this their main criterion. |
| Extra features | Check which grill or fan oven modes you’ll use, the accessories they require and the appliance’s external dimensions. | If I also want to brown or cook some foods, these modes matter enough for me to accept more settings; around 14% of consumers would put them first. |
Anses warns that using too high a power setting or heating food for too long can increase the risk of substances migrating from certain types of packaging into food.
For a packaged meal designed for microwave use, follow the power and timing instructions on the packaging. Check that the appliance’s settings allow you to do so.
The stated capacity doesn’t tell you whether a plate or tray will fit and rotate inside the cavity.
Measure the containers you use regularly and compare them with the internal dimensions and turntable diameter of the model you’re considering.
A grill or fan oven function adds extra modes and instructions, but offers no additional benefit if you only reheat ready meals.
Decide whether you’ll actually use the appliance to brown or cook food. If not, compare models designed for reheating and, if needed, defrosting first.
Whirlpool warns that blocked ventilation can cause overheating. The clearance required depends on the model and how it’s installed.
Before buying, check the appliance’s external dimensions against the space you have and consult the manual for installation and ventilation requirements.
These examples of ranges and models can help you compare specific features; they don’t mean that one brand will suit everyone.
Solo and multi-function models to compare, depending on whether you only want to reheat and defrost or also use other cooking modes.
A freestanding model to consider if overall size and access to programmes are among your priorities.
An option for people who prefer mechanical controls and want to compare the measurements of the internal space.
A range with standard models, models with a grill and combination models to choose from, depending on how you plan to use your microwave.
Combination models to consider if you have a use in mind for the grill and fan oven functions.
This selection includes solo microwaves and appliances with extra features. To choose between them, consider the size of your containers, how often you defrost food and whether you’ll really use a grill. Check the usable dimensions in the documentation for your chosen model.
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Worth considering if you reheat meals and also want to compare defrost settings. Its stated capacity is 25 L; check the internal dimensions and turntable diameter to make sure your containers will fit. If grill power matters to you, confirm it in the model documentation before choosing.
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Consider this model if you want to reheat portions and use the grill occasionally. The model title lists a 20 L capacity and 700 W; compare the size of your plates with the internal dimensions, and follow the cookware instructions for grill mode.
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Worth considering for reheating ready meals if you’re looking for a stated capacity of 25 L. The title lists 900 W; check the manual for the settings and modes of the exact model, and make sure there’s enough room for your containers.
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Compare this model if you defrost portions and want to check exactly how much room there is for your dishes. Its stated capacity is 25 L. Before buying, check the documentation to see which function the “1000 W” rating refers to and what instructions apply to the modes you’ll use.
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This solo model may suit people who reheat ready meals and also use frozen portions. The title lists a 23 L capacity and the Quick Defrost function; check the internal dimensions for your containers and consult the manual for defrost settings.
For a packaged meal designed for microwave use, follow the power and timing instructions on the packaging. Anses warns that heating food at too high a power or for too long can increase the risk of substances migrating from certain types of packaging into food.
Check the internal dimensions and turntable diameter against the dishes you usually use. Then compare the appliance’s external dimensions with the space you have. Capacity in litres alone won’t answer either question.
No. The appliance’s function doesn’t replace the instructions for the packaged meal. Follow the packaging and consult the microwave manual to find out how to use the defrost programme with other portions.
Choose a spot that meets the dimensions and clearance requirements set out in the model’s manual. Don’t block the ventilation openings: Whirlpool warns that restricted ventilation can cause overheating.