If you mainly reheat and defrost portions in a small kitchen, start by comparing freestanding solo microwaves. Their external dimensions and the clearances specified in the manual matter just as much as their capacity. A grill is useful if you want to brown food; consider a combination microwave if you really intend to use its additional cooking functions. If the accommodation’s oven or hob already meets your needs, first check whether you would benefit from another appliance.
In a studio flat or shared kitchen, compare the appliance’s external dimensions with the space available, and remember to allow room for ventilation. Whirlpool France advises that the ventilation grilles must not be blocked.
If you mainly want to reheat leftovers or defrost portions, a solo microwave is suited to these tasks, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. Check the controls and functions of the model you are considering before adding a grill to your list of requirements.
If there is no shared oven or it is difficult to access, distinguish between browning food under a grill and the additional cooking functions offered by a combination microwave. UFC-Que Choisir describes these as different modes, which you should check for on each model.
In a small home, start with the meals you prepare and the space you actually have. Choosing a cooking mode does not remove the need to check the installation requirements.
Consider it: for reheating and defrosting when you do not need to brown food.
Limit: it does not offer a grill or convection cooking; installation must follow the instructions in the manual.
Consider it: if you want to brown some dishes as well as reheat them.
Limit: having a grill does not mean the appliance has a convection function.
Consider it: if you plan to use additional cooking modes because a conventional oven is not a practical option.
Limit: check the available modes and which containers can be used with the model you choose.
Consider it: if this equipment is accessible and already suits the way you cook.
Limit: this option does not give you a dedicated appliance for reheating and defrosting food by microwave.
| Factor | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Space and ventilation | Measure the space, then compare it with the external dimensions and clearances specified in the manual for the exact model. | When worktop space is limited, I want the appliance to fit where I plan to put it without blocking the ventilation. Around 31% of consumers put this requirement first. |
| Reheating and defrosting | Check for a defrost function and the available settings; also compare the turntable size with the containers you normally use. | For everyday meals, I mainly want to reheat and defrost portions without unnecessary cooking functions. This is the top priority for around 31% of consumers. |
| Browning and cooking | Know the difference between a grill and a combination microwave; check that it has a convection function if you need one. | Without a practical oven, I want to be able to brown dishes or do more than just reheat food. Around 23% of consumers prioritise this versatility. |
| Shared use | Check the manual for the available modes and suitable containers; agree rules for use and cleaning with the other people in the household. | In a shared kitchen, I want everyone to know which mode to select and which containers to use. For around 15% of consumers, having straightforward rules comes first. |
Capacity does not tell you whether the microwave will fit on your worktop. For example, the Panasonic NN-E20JW has a stated capacity of 20 L and external dimensions of 443 × 330 × 258 mm, according to Panasonic France.
Measure the available width, depth and height, then check that the door can open and allow for the clearances specified in the manual.
A grill is for browning food, while oven-style cooking depends on additional modes found on some combination microwaves, as UFC-Que Choisir explains.
Check the list of modes for the exact model and choose one with functions you will use for your meals.
Requirements vary depending on the mode. UFC-Que Choisir specifies that the plastic mentioned in its advice is for microwave use only, not for the grill or convection function. A sealed container can also create a risk of pressure building up.
In a shared kitchen, check the manual and the markings on containers, then make sure everyone can easily find these instructions.
If you are replacing a microwave, arranging for the old one to be taken away may require you to make a request when buying the new one. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition describes a ‘one-for-one’ take-back scheme for products of the same type.
Ask the retailer how to arrange this before you place your order.
Panasonic France offers solo microwaves, models with a grill and combination microwaves. Its solo NN-E20JW has a stated capacity of 20 L, a power rating of 800 W and external dimensions of 443 × 330 × 258 mm.
Samsung France offers a range that includes freestanding solo microwaves and models with a grill. The solo MS23K3614AW/EF has a stated capacity of 23 L and microwave power of 800 W.
Whirlpool France’s freestanding range includes solo microwaves, models with a grill and combination microwaves.
These models include one with a grill and several solo microwaves for reheating meals in a small home. First, choose one that suits the way you plan to use it, then check the available space and the manual for your chosen model.
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Worth considering if you want to brown some dishes as well as reheat them.
The product title gives a capacity of 20 L and microwave power of 700 W. A grill does not mean the model offers convection cooking; also check the installation clearances in the manual.
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Worth considering if reheating and defrosting matter more to you than browning food.
The title lists six power levels, a defrost function and a 30-minute timer. Check the manual for the clearances and connection requirements for your chosen location.
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Worth considering if you want digital settings for reheating or defrosting portions.
The title lists 11 power levels, six pre-set menus and a defrost function. Compare its dimensions and the clearances specified in the manual with the space you have available.
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Worth considering if you are looking for a 23 L solo microwave for reheating and defrosting.
The title mentions quick defrost and an LED display. Before setting aside a space for it, check the manual for the order of the external dimensions and the required clearances.
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Worth considering if your main priority is reheating portions in a solo microwave.
The title gives a capacity of 20 L and a power rating of 700 W. If you need a defrost function, check that it is included in the manual; also check the installation clearances.
It can handle some oven-style cooking if the model has the necessary modes, including convection. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes these functions from those of a solo microwave or one with a grill. Before relying on a combination microwave for your meals, check its modes, dimensions and the instructions in the manual.
Only if the location meets the installation requirements for the exact model. Whirlpool France advises that the ventilation grilles must not be blocked and that nothing should be placed on top of the appliance. Check the manual for the clearances required.
No. Do not assume a container is suitable for every mode. UFC-Que Choisir says that the plastic mentioned in its advice is for microwave use only, not for the grill or convection function, and advises against using sealed containers because pressure can build up. Check the manual and the markings on the container.
Ask the retailer about taking back your old appliance before you buy. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition describes a ‘one-for-one’ take-back scheme when buying a product of the same type; ask what practical steps you need to take for your order.