Start by choosing an appliance to suit the meals you cook and the space you have available. A portable hob is for cooking in a saucepan or frying pan; a mini oven is for dishes that need baking; a combination microwave can reheat food and cook in other ways; and a multicooker is for dishes made in its cooking pot. Combining several functions in one appliance can save space, but you’ll still need to check its dimensions, power supply and what it can actually cook.
If you need to put the appliance away after every meal, measure its width and depth, as well as the space you’ll need to use it. A single-ring portable hob is worth considering if you mainly cook with compatible pans; a combination appliance may need more permanent space.
A combination microwave brings together useful functions for reheating and oven cooking, while a multicooker is designed for dishes made in its cooking pot. The right choice depends on the recipes you want to make, as these functions aren’t interchangeable.
For pasta, soups, slow-cooked dishes, gratins or baking, start with the cooking methods you need rather than the number of programmes advertised. Then check the space available, the power supply and how much cleaning regular use will involve.
To equip a small kitchen, think about the meals you usually make, then rule out appliances that won’t fit in the space or offer the cooking methods you need. An induction hob requires compatible cookware; a mini oven is for dishes that need baking; and a combination microwave and a multicooker each bring together different functions.
| Consideration | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and storage | Measure the external dimensions, the space needed to open the door or lid, and the clearances specified in the instruction manual. | If I need to clear the worktop after every meal, I’ll prioritise an appliance that’s easy to set up and put away; around 33% of consumers would put this first. |
| Meals and cooking methods | Compare the meals you usually prepare with the functions actually available: hob, oven, grill, steam or pressure cooking. | To prepare a variety of meals without adding more appliances, I need functions that suit my recipes; this would be the priority for around 27% of consumers. |
| Power supply | Check the appliance’s power rating, the guidance in its instruction manual and what other appliances are using the same power supply. | In a home with limited kitchen equipment, I want to cook without overloading a socket or extension lead; around 20% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Cleaning and frequent use | Check which parts can be removed and how they should be cleaned; also check whether the functions you want require any accessories. | If I cook almost every day, the time needed to clean the cooking pot, oven cavity or accessories will factor into my choice; around 20% of consumers would put this first. |
The internal capacity doesn’t tell you how much space an appliance will take up. For example, according to Severin, the Severin MW 7775 combination microwave measures 33 × 52.5 × 51 cm.
Measure the space and check the instruction manual for door clearance and ventilation requirements before comparing functions.
A multicooker designed for dishes made in its cooking pot won’t suit the same recipes as a mini oven or a hob. A long list of functions doesn’t guarantee that one appliance can make all the meals you usually cook.
Make a note of the dishes you prepare regularly and check that the model you’re considering offers the cooking methods you need.
Some uses may also require a separate accessory: for example, Moulinex sells the Extra Crisp accessory separately for the relevant Cookeo model.
According to Promotelec, an extension lead distributes the available power but doesn’t increase it. Overloading it can cause overheating and create a fire risk.
Follow the plug-in instructions in the manuals, check the extension lead’s rated capacity and don’t connect extension leads together. If you’re unsure about your electrical installation, consult a qualified professional.
In France, the Ministry of the Economy explains that the statutory guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a trader to a consumer. A commercial warranty is a separate offer.
Before buying an extended warranty, compare what it covers, how long it lasts and any exclusions against your applicable statutory rights. Keep your proof of purchase.
Tefal’s range of portable induction hobs is designed for cooking on a single ring, with the hob easy to put away between uses.
The brand offers two different formats to consider here: the TO 2056 mini oven and the MW 7775 combination microwave.
The Cookeo Wi-Fi 8-in-1 is designed to guide you through cooking dishes in its pot, including steaming, slow cooking and pressure cooking.
These appliances offer four ways to equip a small kitchen: a portable hob for pans, multicookers for dishes made in a cooking pot, a microwave with a grill, and mini ovens for dishes that need baking. Start with the cooking method you need, then check the space and installation requirements for the model you’re considering.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you cook in a saucepan and want to put the hob away after use. The model is listed at 2 000 W, with eight power levels and a temperature range of 60 to 270 °C. Check that your cookware is compatible and that you have enough space for its width and depth.
Image unavailable
Designed for dishes made in its cooking pot, including slow-cooked and steamed meals. The model name lists a capacity of 5.7 L and four customisable programmes. Check how much space it takes up and follow the filling and steam-release instructions before pressure cooking.
Image unavailable
For reheating meals, with the added option of grilling. This Inverter model has a capacity of 25 L and a microwave power rating of 900 W. If you want to cook with fan-assisted heat, check that the model you’re considering has this function. Remember to allow for the specified ventilation clearances too.
Image unavailable
Consider this for dishes that need to be cooked in an oven rather than on a hob. Check the external dimensions and the clearances specified in the instruction manual before choosing a spot for it on your worktop. Use suitable protection when handling hot dishes.
Image unavailable
Another option for cooking oven dishes in a kitchen without a built-in oven. Measure the surface where you plan to place it and check the instruction manual for ventilation clearances. Wait until the oven has cooled completely before cleaning the cavity.
It depends on the appliance’s instructions, the extension lead and your electrical installation. Don’t assume an extension lead increases the power available. Promotelec explains that it only distributes that power. Check the guidance for each item of equipment, avoid connecting extension leads together and ask a qualified professional for advice if you have any doubts about your installation.
No, you’ll need induction-compatible cookware. Check your saucepans and frying pans before buying. A single-ring portable hob can only heat one pan at a time.
It can for some recipes, if the model has the cooking modes you need, but not necessarily for every dish you’d make in a mini oven. Compare the functions, internal dimensions and types of dish you can use. The Electrolux microwave with grill shown here shouldn’t be confused with the Severin MW 7775, which also has fan-assisted cooking, according to Severin.
The statutory guarantee of conformity applies in France to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a trader to a consumer, as the Ministry of the Economy explains. Any commercial warranty is separate: read its terms and don’t confuse it with your statutory rights if the goods don’t conform to the contract.