First, choose a format that fits the space you have available. A freestanding microwave gives you more flexibility over where you install it, while a built-in model requires a suitable housing unit and installation in line with its instructions. If you mainly reheat and defrost food, the extra settings on a combination microwave are only useful if you’ll actually use the grill or convection function. UFC-Que Choisir says combination models are generally more expensive than standard microwaves.
If you mainly reheat and defrost food, a freestanding model can handle these tasks without adding lots of cooking modes. Compare its external dimensions with the space you have available and check the installation instructions for the model you choose.
If your kitchen has a dedicated space for a microwave, a built-in model gives you a seamless finish. Compatibility depends on the dimensions of the housing unit, the connection and the installation instructions for the exact model—not just its stated power.
If you’ll regularly use a grill or convection function, check the settings on a combination microwave and which cookware is suitable for them. UFC-Que Choisir says these appliances are generally more expensive than standard microwaves.
For quick meals at home, first check where the appliance can be installed. Then distinguish between the functions you’ll use regularly and those you’d only use occasionally. The cavity capacity and stated power are no substitute for checking the external dimensions, controls and cooking results of the model you’re considering.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Format and size | Measure the appliance and the space you have for it. For a built-in model, check the housing unit dimensions and the installation requirements in the instructions. | If worktop space is limited or there’s already a dedicated housing unit, I want to know where the appliance will actually fit. Around 31% of consumers prioritise a seamless fit and a compact design. |
| Reheating and defrosting | Check there’s room for the dishes you usually use, what settings are available and what comparative tests say about the models you’re considering. Don’t assume even heating based on wattage alone. | If I regularly need to reheat leftovers and defrost food, I prioritise results suited to these tasks. This is the main consideration for around 25% of consumers. |
| Extra cooking modes | Check which grill, convection and combination settings you’ll use, along with any accessories and cookware restrictions for each mode. | If I also plan to brown food or cook using convection, these modes matter more than reheating alone. Versatility comes first for around 19% of consumers. |
| Controls and cleaning | Check the controls, access to the cavity and cleaning instructions for the model. Check cookware labels before use. | For an appliance I use every day, I want straightforward settings and easy cleaning. Around 25% of consumers prioritise ease of use above all else. |
An appliance that appears to fit in the housing unit may not meet its installation and ventilation requirements.
Measure the housing unit and check the instructions for the exact model to confirm the required built-in dimensions, connection and installation guidance.
Rated power alone doesn’t tell you how evenly the appliance heats or defrosts food, or how easy it is to use.
To compare models, look at independent tests covering these results and check that the cavity can fit the dishes you usually use.
The grill and convection functions are for uses beyond simply reheating food. UFC-Que Choisir says combination models are generally more expensive than standard microwaves.
Before choosing these functions, consider whether you’ll actually use them to brown, roast or cook food with convection.
A dish’s appearance alone won’t tell you whether it’s suitable for microwave, grill or convection use.
Check its label and instructions, then follow the appliance instructions for any restrictions that apply to each mode.
A range to explore if your priority is a built-in fit and compatibility with an existing housing unit.
Freestanding models to compare if you’re deciding between a standard microwave and one with extra cooking functions.
A range to explore if you plan to use the convection and grill functions.
A range of solo, grill, combination and built-in models to compare according to your installation needs and preferred settings.
These models let you compare appliances for reheating and defrosting, a model with a grill and a combination microwave for a wider range of cooking uses. Before choosing, check the available space and the installation requirements in the instructions for each one.
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Worth considering for everyday reheating if you want digital controls and preset programmes.
Stated power of 700 W, 6 preset menus and 11 power levels.
Compare its dimensions with your available space and check the instructions for the required clearances and power supply.
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Worth comparing for everyday reheating and defrosting in a solo microwave.
The model description mentions a Quick Defrost function and an LED display.
Check the dimensions, installation clearances and reheating results that matter for your needs. Capacity alone won’t determine them.
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Worth considering if you want a grill as well as reheating and defrosting functions.
Stated microwave power of 700 W.
If convection is important to you, check the cooking modes listed for this model. Also follow the instructions on ventilation and cookware suitable for the grill.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for an appliance for everyday reheating and defrosting.
Stated power of 700 W.
Compare its dimensions with your available space and follow the ventilation instructions. The power rating doesn’t indicate how evenly it heats.
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Worth considering if you plan to use cooking modes beyond reheating.
The model description lists a capacity of 42 L and a 3-in-1 combination appliance.
Before choosing a spot for it, check the product details and instructions for the exact modes, defrosting function, power supply, dimensions and required clearances.
No. The housing unit must also meet the installation requirements for the exact model. Check its instructions for the built-in dimensions, connection, ventilation and installation guidance.
The extra settings on a combination microwave are mainly useful if you plan to use the grill or convection function. If you only need to reheat and defrost, compare standard models too. UFC-Que Choisir says combination models are generally more expensive.
Check its label and instructions rather than judging by its appearance. The DGCCRF mentions, in particular, the marking indicating that an item isn’t suitable for microwave use. For the grill or convection function, check the restrictions for both the dish and the appliance separately.
Check their controls, access to the cavity and care instructions, then look at detailed tests of the models you’re considering. UFC-Que Choisir includes ease of use in its microwave testing process. The number of programmes alone isn’t enough to judge this.