Heating up meals for one
For a kitchenette where the microwave is mainly used for reheating and defrosting, simple controls can make everyday use easier. Que Choisir Ensemble distinguishes solo models from versions with a grill or oven functions.
Who is this guide for?
Grilling small dishes
If you want to brown or grill food without adding a separate oven, a model with a grill could be a good fit. Check which modes are available and which accessories are approved in the appliance manual.
Cooking without an oven
A combination microwave can bring together reheating and oven cooking modes in one appliance. Consider this option if you’ll genuinely use those functions and have a suitable place to put it.
What to check before you buy
Solo microwave
Choose this if: you mainly reheat and defrost, and don’t need browning or fan-assisted cooking.
Limitation: this category doesn’t offer the grill or oven functions found on a combination model.
Microwave with grill
Choose this if: you’d also like to brown or grill food, while keeping reheating among your main uses.
Limitation: a grill doesn’t necessarily mean the appliance also has a fan-assisted cooking mode.
Combination microwave with fan-assisted cooking
Choose this if: you don’t have a usable oven and plan to use the oven cooking functions as well as the microwave.
Limitation: modes, installation requirements and accessories vary by model, so check the manual for the one you’re considering.
| What matters | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Useful functions | Check which modes are explicitly listed: reheating, defrosting, grill or fan-assisted cooking. | If I only want to reheat and defrost, I’d rather not pay for functions I won’t use. Around 25% of consumers prioritise features suited to the meals they make. |
| Space and ventilation | Measure the available space and check the clearance specified in the manual for the exact model. | In a small kitchenette or on a shelf, I need to make sure the appliance can be installed with enough space around it. Around 25% of consumers prioritise finding a suitable place for their appliance. |
| Dish size | Compare the turntable diameter and cavity dimensions with the plates and dishes you usually use. | If I often use the same plates or containers, I want to make sure they fit and can turn properly. Around 25% of consumers put the size of their dishes first. |
| Controls and cleaning | See how to set the power and cooking time, then follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. | For quick meals, I want controls I can use easily and cleaning requirements that work for me. Around 25% of consumers put ease of use and cleaning first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Confusing appliance dimensions with installation space
The microwave’s width, depth and height don’t include any clearance that may be needed around the appliance.
Measure the space, then follow the manual for the exact model. Samsung’s general guidance explains that clearance requirements vary by model; it doesn’t replace the manual for another manufacturer’s appliance.
If the space isn’t suitable, you may need to move the appliance or rethink your layout.
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Choosing based on capacity alone
The stated capacity doesn’t guarantee that your plates or dishes will fit on the turntable or inside the cavity.
Compare the turntable and interior dimensions with the dishes you usually use, taking their shape and the space needed for them to turn into account.
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Buying an appliance without checking what your accommodation already has
For a furnished property that is your main residence and is covered by a residential tenancy agreement, the minimum required equipment includes a hob and an oven or microwave. An oven may therefore already meet this requirement.
Before choosing the functions you need, check the inventory and what’s already provided. This rule doesn’t automatically apply to a second home. Service Public and the French decree on furniture for furnished accommodation set out the requirements.
Brands to consider
Panasonic
The French models mentioned include a solo microwave, a grill model and a combination model with convection.
- Panasonic France’s product pages make it easy to compare the dial controls on the NN-E20JW, the grill on the NN-GT21Q and the cooking modes on the NN-CD58RS.
- These details describe the functions listed for these models; they don’t prove that one performs better than another. Check the manual for the exact model to confirm its installation requirements.
Samsung
A 23 L grill model, MG23K3515AK/EF, is listed in Samsung France’s support section.
- The French support page provides resources for this specific model.
- Samsung says clearance requirements vary by model. Its general guidance shouldn’t be applied to an appliance from another brand.
Sharp
The YC-MS01ES is a model with mechanical controls, listed among 20 L appliances.
- The manufacturer’s description published by Amazon France lists 800 W of power, five power levels and a defrost function.
- These specifications don’t measure how evenly food is reheated or compare its performance with other brands.
Microwaves available on Joybuy
This selection features solo and grill microwaves for reheating, defrosting and preparing simple meals in a studio flat.
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Heinrich's, 20 L solo microwave
Worth considering for reheating and defrosting, with mechanical controls.
20 L, 700 W, six power levels and a 30-minute mechanical timer. The description specifies freestanding installation; installation in a cabinet is only suitable if the cabinet has been tested.
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LG Electronics MH 6535 gih, white, 25 L
Worth considering if you want to combine microwave, defrost and grill functions.
The description lists a 25 L capacity, 1,000 W of power, a digital display, automatic programmes with weight control and freestanding installation.
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LG MH6535GIS, black, 25 L
Worth considering if you want a freestanding appliance that combines reheating, defrosting and grilling.
The title lists a 25 L capacity and 1,000 W of power. The description mentions touch controls and a child lock.
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Beko MGC20100B1, 20 L microwave with grill
Worth considering if you want to reheat and defrost, with the option of using a grill.
20 L, 700 W, nine power levels and a 245 mm turntable. The description says to leave at least 10 cm at the sides and rear for ventilation; the appliance is listed as freestanding.
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COMFEE CMO-MP012OC(BK), 19 L, black
Worth considering for reheating and defrosting, with a timer and adjustable power settings.
The title lists 700 W, five power levels, a 30-minute timer and a 245 mm turntable. The description specifies freestanding installation; installation in a cabinet is only suitable if the cabinet has been tested.
Frequently asked questions
Do a brand’s ventilation guidelines apply to all microwaves?
No. Clearance requirements depend on the model. Samsung says its requirements can vary by model, so check your appliance manual to find out how it should be installed.
Does a furnished studio flat have to come with a microwave?
For a furnished property that is your main residence and is covered by a residential tenancy agreement, the minimum required equipment includes a hob and an oven or microwave. A microwave doesn’t have to be provided in addition to an oven. This rule doesn’t automatically extend to a second home; Service Public and the French decree on furniture for furnished accommodation set out the applicable conditions.
Can you use a microwave if its door seals are damaged?
The Panasonic NN-E20JWM manual says not to use the appliance if the door seals or the areas around them are damaged, until it has been repaired by a manufacturer-trained technician. This instruction applies to the model named; follow the manual for your own appliance.
Does the legal guarantee of conformity cover a microwave bought from a retailer?
Yes. It applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a trader to a private customer. Service-Public.fr says the relevant faults must appear within two years of the goods being delivered, and that you should contact the seller.
Can all the accessories for a combination microwave go in the dishwasher?
Don’t assume so. For the Panasonic NN-CD58RS, Panasonic says the air fryer basket and enamel tray can go in the dishwasher. Check the manual for other accessories and other models.