For reheating and defrosting in a small home, start by comparing solo microwaves. According to UFC-Que Choisir’s buying guide, a grill is useful for browning and crisping dishes, while a combination microwave adds convection cooking. Choose one if you really plan to use it for dishes you would normally cook in an oven. In every case, check the external dimensions and installation instructions against the space available.
If you mainly reheat individual portions and defrost food, a solo microwave covers these needs without adding a grill or convection cooking function. Even so, check that your plates fit inside and that there is enough space to install the appliance in accordance with its instructions.
Your choice depends on what other appliances are available. A solo model handles reheating and defrosting; a combination microwave makes sense if you also plan to use it for dishes usually cooked in an oven.
If you want to brown a dish now and then, look at models with a grill. If you also want to cook dishes using convection, look for this function on a combination microwave: a ‘grill’ label alone does not guarantee it.
Start with the dishes you actually prepare, then check that they are compatible with the appliance and the space you have available.
| Criterion | What to check | My needs |
|---|---|---|
| Reheating and defrosting | Compare the functions and power settings listed for the exact model. Check that the turntable and cavity can accommodate your usual plates. | I mainly prepare quick meals and don’t need the microwave to replace an oven. A solo model is the first type of appliance to consider. |
| Grill or convection | According to UFC-Que Choisir, a microwave with a grill can brown and crisp food, while a combination microwave adds oven-style cooking functions, including convection. Check the modes and accessories included with the model you choose. | I want to brown some dishes: a grill could meet this need. If I also plan to cook dishes using convection, I need to check that a combination microwave offers this mode. |
| Size and installation | Measure the available width, height and depth, and don’t forget the door opening. Compare these with the external dimensions and clearance requirements in the instructions. | My worktop is small, so the capacity in litres alone won’t tell me whether the appliance will fit. |
| Containers and instructions | Check that containers are food-safe and follow their instructions for use. For cling film and bags, the DGCCRF advises checking that they are intended for microwave use; follow the stated time and power settings too. | I sometimes reheat food in its packaging, so I need to follow the container’s instructions rather than assume it is suitable for microwave use. |
A combination microwave adds useful cooking modes if you use them, but its size may take up more valuable space on a small worktop. According to Whirlpool France, the 25 L Whirlpool MCP349WH measures 52 × 30,1 × 49,4 cm. This model shows why it’s worth looking beyond the internal capacity.
Make a note of the dishes you plan to oven-cook. If you mainly intend to reheat and defrost, look at solo models first; choose a grill or convection function to suit specific needs.
According to Whirlpool France, the 20 L MWP201SB measures 45,2 × 26,2 × 35 cm, compared with 52 × 30,1 × 49,4 cm for the 25 L MCP349WH combination microwave. These dimensions relate to two specific models: similar capacities don’t necessarily mean similar external depths.
Measure the space in width, height and depth, then check the instructions for your chosen model to confirm the door opening and clearance needed for installation.
The DGCCRF advises following the instructions for food containers and not reusing single-use packaging. The Anses says that excessive heating can increase the migration of substances from some packaging into food.
Check that the packaging is microwave-safe and follow the stated time and power settings. For cling film or a bag without a clear statement that it is suitable for microwave use, follow the DGCCRF’s advice and don’t use it in the appliance.
These examples showcase different types of freestanding microwave; the features mentioned apply to the named models, not every product from each brand.
Whirlpool France’s product pages for the MWP201SB and MCP349WH let you compare a 20 L solo microwave with a 25 L combination microwave featuring fan-assisted cooking.
Samsung Professionnels France describes the Samsung MG23K3513AW/EF as a 23 L microwave with a grill.
Panasonic France’s product page describes the NN-CT57RM as a 27 L combination microwave with microwave, quartz grill and convection functions adjustable from 30 to 220 °C.
These models are suited to reheating and defrosting in a small home, and include solo options and a model with a grill. Compare the listed functions, then check the space needed to install each model.
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Worth considering if you want to reheat meals and have a grill for adding a finishing touch to some dishes. Measure the space and check the ventilation clearances specified in the instructions before installing it.
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A solo option to compare, designed for tasks such as reheating and defrosting. The model name indicates six power levels and a 30-minute timer; check the instructions for installation requirements before deciding where to put it.
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A freestanding model to compare against your reheating needs. If you also want to brown and crisp food, check the cooking modes listed for this specific model; also check its dimensions and installation clearances before choosing a spot for it.
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Its 25 L capacity is worth comparing with the size of your dishes, as well as the space you actually have available. Check the external dimensions and installation clearances in the instructions; if you want to brown and crisp food, check separately which modes this model offers.
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A digital microwave to compare for reheating and defrosting. Its name indicates six pre-set menus and eleven power levels; check the instructions for the clearance needed around the appliance before installing it.
Use a container intended for contact with food and follow its instructions for use. The DGCCRF points out that being food-safe doesn’t automatically mean a container is suitable for microwave use. For cling film and bags, don’t use any that aren’t clearly labelled as suitable.
Instead, follow the power and heating time shown on the packaging, provided it is suitable for microwave use. The Anses says that excessive heating can increase the risk of substances migrating from some packaging into food.
Don’t assume a freestanding model uses less energy just because it’s described as a ‘combination’ microwave. The study by the Institut national de la consommation and ADEME covers built-in ovens, so it can’t be used to draw conclusions about a specific freestanding microwave. First choose the cooking modes you need, then check the specifications of the model you’re considering.
Yes, when a professional sells a microwave to an individual in France. According to information published by economie.gouv.fr in September 2026, this mandatory guarantee applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods: the seller must supply a product that conforms to the contract. Keep the model description and proof of purchase in case its features don’t match what was agreed.