Everyday reheating and defrosting
If you mainly prepare individual portions, reheat leftovers and defrost food, a solo model will do the job without adding cooking functions you won’t use.
Which model suits each use?
Small dishes to brown or crisp
If you want to reheat and defrost as usual, but also brown or crisp a dish from time to time, consider a model with a grill.
Extra cooking space without a separate oven
If you plan to cook oven-style dishes in a small space, a combination microwave is worth considering. Just check it will fit on your worktop and that the specific model’s cooking modes suit your needs.
Which features should you prioritise?
To choose between a solo, grill or combination model, start with the function that’s driving your purchase. Then check the dimensions, the clearance needed around the appliance and the installation instructions.
| Feature | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Reheating and defrosting | Defrost function, interior capacity and turntable size to suit your dishes. | If I mainly reheat leftovers and defrost portions, I don’t need oven functions for this. Around 45% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Occasional browning or crisping | Whether the model has a grill mode and which accessories are included. | For the occasional browned or crisped dish, I’m looking for a grill without necessarily needing fan-assisted cooking. This would be the priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Oven-style cooking | Available cooking modes, the size of compatible dishes and the external dimensions. | If I also plan to cook dishes in this small kitchen, the combination microwave’s functions need to suit what I make. Around 22% of consumers would prioritise this use. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Relying on capacity in litres alone
The cavity capacity doesn’t tell you how much worktop space the appliance will take up, or whether your dishes will fit inside.
Measure the available width, depth and height, then compare them with the external dimensions and interior size of the model you’re considering.
-
Blocking the vents to save space
Whirlpool warns that blocked ventilation can cause overheating. The required clearances vary from one appliance to another.
Keep the ventilation openings clear and follow the positioning instructions in the manual for your chosen model.
-
Choosing a combination model just for reheating
Extra functions are only useful if you actually plan to brown or crisp dishes, or cook in an oven-style way. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes these uses from simple reheating.
Make a note of what you want to prepare with the appliance, then choose the category that covers those needs without adding functions you won’t use.
-
Confusing a commercial extended warranty with the legal guarantee
In France, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to goods sold by a business to a consumer; a commercial extended warranty is a separate commitment.
Before taking out an extended warranty, check its terms and what it offers beyond the legal protection.
Brands to consider for these uses
Electrolux
The freestanding EMZ421MMK is an example of a microwave with a grill, for a space you’ll need to measure carefully.
- According to the Electrolux France product page, this model measures 442 × 345 × 262 mm, with a stated microwave power of 800 W and grill power of 1 000 W.
- These specifications apply to the EMZ421MMK. Check the details for any other model before planning where to place it or how to connect it.
Samsung
Samsung France offers solo, grill and combination microwaves; the MC28M6035CK/EF is one example of a freestanding combination model.
- The Samsung France product page lists a capacity of 28 L and a microwave output power of 900 W for the MC28M6035CK/EF.
- If you’re considering this combination model, check its exact dimensions and functions against the space available and the dishes you plan to cook.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool’s freestanding range includes models with grills and combination models. The MWF255B is described as a 25 L model with no turntable.
- A model without a turntable may be worth considering if you use dishes in different shapes. Check their dimensions against the cavity.
- The interior layout doesn’t remove the need to check the external dimensions, included functions and ventilation instructions.
Microwaves to consider on Joybuy
These models are suited to reheating and defrosting, with some featuring a grill for occasional browning or crisping. Start by choosing the function you’ll use, then check the space available and the appliance manual.
Image unavailable
Heinrich's solo microwave, 20 L
Worth considering if you mainly want to reheat and defrost portions, without a grill.
The product name lists 700 W, six power levels, a defrost function and a 30 min timer. Measure the space and check the ventilation and electrical requirements.
Image unavailable
Beko MGC20100B1 with grill, 20 L
Worth considering if you want to reheat and defrost, as well as brown or crisp dishes from time to time.
The product name lists 700 W. Check the manual for the clearances required around the appliance when installing it.
Image unavailable
COMFEE CMO‑MP012OC(BK), 19 L
This solo microwave is a good fit if you’re looking for a model focused on reheating and defrosting.
The product name lists 700 W, five power levels, a 245 mm turntable and a 30 min timer. Check the ventilation instructions before placing it near a wall.
Image unavailable
LG MH6535GIS with grill, 25 L
Worth considering if browning or crisping is one of your intended uses, alongside reheating and defrosting.
This model has a grill, but shouldn’t be confused with a fan-assisted oven. Compare its dimensions and ventilation instructions with the space available.
Image unavailable
Samsung MS23K3513, 23 L
This solo model is designed for reheating and defrosting rather than browning or crisping.
The product name mentions a quick defrost function. Check its external dimensions and the clearances required in the manual, regardless of its 23 L capacity.
Frequently asked questions
What should you measure before buying a freestanding microwave?
Measure the width, depth and height of the space, then compare them with the model’s external dimensions. Separately check that your plates and dishes will fit inside the cavity: capacity in litres alone won’t answer either question.
Can you put a freestanding microwave in an alcove?
Only if the model’s manual allows it and its ventilation requirements can be met. A Siemens manual says that one of its freestanding appliances isn’t intended for use in a built-in unit; Whirlpool says not to block the vents on its appliances.
What should you check for the electrical connection?
Check the voltage, amperage and total power specified for the exact model, along with the instructions for the plug socket. For example, for the EMZ421MMK, Electrolux France lists 230 V, 10 A and a total power of 1 270 W.
Does an extended warranty replace the legal guarantee in France?
No. According to the French Ministry of the Economy, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business to a consumer. A commercial extended warranty is separate, so read its terms to find out what extra cover it provides.