People who reheat and defrost food every day
If you mostly use your microwave for leftovers, ready meals and defrosting, a solo model covers your main needs without trying to replace an oven.
Who is this guide for?
People living in a studio flat or small kitchen without a practical oven
If you also want to grill, bake or roast, a combination microwave with convection is worth considering. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes these functions from those of a solo microwave.
People using a second home
For a property you only use occasionally, the right choice depends on what you want to cook there. A microwave designed for reheating may be enough for some stays, while a combination model can handle more tasks without adding extra appliances.
What should you look for?
The real difference comes down to what you expect from your cooking. Another compact appliance might handle a specific task, but check whether you would still need a microwave for reheating and defrosting.
Solo microwave
Choose this if: reheating and defrosting are still your main uses.
Bear in mind: this option doesn’t offer grilling or convection cooking.
Microwave with grill
Choose this if: you’d also like to brown or crisp food now and then.
Bear in mind: a grill alone isn’t the same as convection cooking.
Combination microwave with convection
Choose this if: you also want the appliance to handle some of the cooking you’d usually do in an oven.
Bear in mind: some models take up more space, and their functions and accessories vary.
| What to consider | What to check | Who might prioritise it? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and installation | Measure the appliance and the space needed for ventilation. The capacity in litres doesn’t tell you its external dimensions. | In a kitchen where I also use the worktop to prepare meals, I need to be able to fit the appliance without taking up that space. Around 42% of consumers would prioritise its footprint. |
| Reheating and defrosting | Check that it has a defrost function and controls that suit your everyday needs. | If I mostly reheat leftovers and defrost food, extra cooking functions don’t influence my choice. Around 25% of consumers would put simplicity first. |
| Cooking beyond microwave functions | Know the difference between a grill and convection, then check that the modes and accessories you need for your recipes are included. | Without a practical oven at home, I also want to be able to brown, bake or roast with my chosen appliance. Around 33% of consumers would prioritise the ability to cook this way. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying on the litre capacity without measuring the appliance
The capacity of the cavity doesn’t tell you how much depth the appliance takes up or how easy it is to move. Panasonic lists dimensions of 443 × 330 × 258 mm for its 20 L solo NN-E20JW model; Whirlpool lists dimensions of 520 × 494 × 301 mm and a weight of 18,6 kg for its 25 L MCP349WH combination model. These dimensions apply to these models only.
Measure the space, the door opening and access to the socket, then allow for the clearances specified in the manual for the model you’re considering.
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Assuming a grill means convection
A grill lets you brown or crisp food, but having one doesn’t mean the appliance can cook like an oven. UFC-Que Choisir describes those functions as features of combination models with convection.
If you plan to bake or roast, look specifically for convection and check the temperatures, modes and accessories available with your chosen model.
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Placing the microwave in an enclosed space
Whirlpool advises that the ventilation grilles must not be blocked. An appliance that fits inside a cupboard may not have the ventilation it needs there.
Check the manual for your model before choosing where to place it, and keep its vents clear.
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Confusing a commercial warranty extension with your legal rights
In France, the Ministry of the Economy explains that the legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business to a private individual. A commercial warranty extension is a separate offer.
Before paying for an extension, read what it covers, its exclusions and how to make a claim. It doesn’t replace your legal rights.
Brands to consider
Panasonic
The range includes solo models and combination microwaves, with functions varying by model.
- Panasonic lists a capacity of 20 L and dimensions of 443 × 330 × 258 mm for the NN-E20JW; the NN-CD88 is an example of a model with convection.
- Don’t assume a combination model’s functions are available on a solo model. Compare the exact model and its accessories.
Whirlpool
The brand offers, among other options, microwaves with grills and combination models.
- Whirlpool describes the 25 L MCP349WH as having forced-air cooking, a feature to look for if cooking matters as much as reheating.
- Check the dimensions and ventilation instructions for each model before deciding where to put it.
Samsung
The range includes solo appliances and combination models with several cooking modes.
- Samsung describes the MC32DG7646CKE1 as a combination model that includes microwave, grill and oven cooking functions.
- Using the connected features on this model requires a Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account, so check whether you’ll find them useful.
Bosch
Bosch offers both freestanding models and built-in combination microwaves for different types of installation.
- Bosch lists a grill for the freestanding FEL023MS2 and hot-air cooking for the built-in combination CMA485GB2.
- A built-in model needs a suitable housing unit and must be installed as described in its manual; it can’t simply be placed on a worktop.
Microwaves available on Joybuy
These solo and grill models are mainly suited to reheating and defrosting, with the grill model also allowing you to brown or crisp food occasionally. If you want to bake or roast without a separate oven, look for a model with convection.
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Beko MGC20100B1 with grill, 20 L, black
For reheating and defrosting, with the option to brown or crisp food now and then.
Stated microwave power: 700 W. A grill isn’t the same as convection; also check the ventilation clearance required in the manual.
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COMFEE CM-E202CC(BK), 20 L, black
For everyday reheating and defrosting when you prefer digital controls.
The model name lists 700 W, six pre-set menus and eleven power levels. Before installing it, check the socket, required voltage and ventilation clearances.
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Heinrich's solo microwave, 20 L
For reheating and defrosting in a home where simple controls matter more than extra cooking modes.
The product name lists 700 W, six power levels, a defrost function and a 30-minute timer. Check the required voltage and ventilation before choosing a place for it.
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Whirlpool MWP 101 W, 20 L
For everyday reheating and defrosting rather than browning food or cooking like an oven.
Stated power: 700 W. Measure the space and check the manual for the ventilation clearances required.
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Samsung MS23K3513, 23 L
For reheating and defrosting, with the Quick Defrost function listed in the model name.
This 23 L solo model has an integrated display. Compare its dimensions and the clearances specified in the manual with the space you have available.
Frequently asked questions
Is a solo microwave enough for reheating and defrosting?
Yes, if you don’t need to brown or crisp food or cook it as you would in an oven. Then compare the external dimensions, usable cavity space and defrost function. The capacity in litres alone won’t tell you which dishes will fit inside.
Can a microwave with a grill replace an oven?
A grill alone won’t cover everything you can do with an oven; it’s mainly used to brown or crisp food. For baking or roasting, look for a combination model with convection, then check its modes, temperatures and accessories. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes this type from models with a grill.
What should you check before putting a microwave in a small kitchen?
Check its external dimensions, access to the socket and the ventilation clearances required in the manual. Whirlpool advises that the ventilation grilles must not be blocked. Also check that the electrical specifications of your chosen model are suitable for your home.
Does the legal guarantee also cover a second-hand or refurbished microwave?
Yes. In France, according to the Ministry of the Economy, the legal guarantee of conformity also covers second-hand or refurbished goods sold by a business to a private individual. If you’re offered a commercial warranty extension, read its terms and what it covers separately.