A student who mainly reheats meals
If you mainly defrost and reheat portions, a solo model will do the job. Check that it fits on your worktop rather than relying on its capacity in litres alone.
Which option is right for you?
Someone with a small kitchen and no separate oven
A combination microwave is worth considering if you’ll actually use its grill and convection functions for cooking. Measure its depth and check that your dishes fit inside before deciding where to put it.
Someone who occasionally browns or crisps dishes
If you reheat meals but also want to brown or crisp some dishes, a microwave with a grill is a good middle ground. However, a grill alone won’t meet your needs if you regularly cook using convection.
What should you check before choosing?
Start with the dishes you actually make, then check that the functions you need will fit the space available.
Solo microwave
Choose this: for reheating and defrosting, particularly if you have another way to cook dishes in the oven.
Downside: it doesn’t have a dedicated function for browning or crisping dishes.
Microwave with grill
Choose this: if you also want to brown or crisp some dishes.
Downside: having a grill doesn’t mean the appliance also has a convection function.
Combination microwave
Choose this: if you want one appliance that can also cook using convection.
Downside: UFC-Que Choisir describes combination models as more expensive; check how much space they take up, too.
Oven or another cooking appliance
Consider this: if your dishes or regular cooking needs go beyond what the combination microwave you’re considering can handle.
Consideration: you’ll need separate space for this option if you’re also keeping a microwave.
| Priority | What to check | What suits my needs? |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking functions | Check the functions listed for the exact model: microwave, grill and convection. According to UFC-Que Choisir, the grill is used in particular for browning and crisping, while combination models also offer convection cooking. | Do I mainly reheat meals, or do I also need to brown dishes and cook as I would in an oven? |
| Space and usable capacity | Compare the external height, width and depth with the space available. Separately check the internal capacity, the dimensions of your dishes and how far the door opens. | My appliance needs to fit on a small worktop, but my usual plates also need to fit inside it. |
| Installation and use | Check the manual for the clearances and ventilation requirements for your model. Compare the controls and the defrost or cooking settings you’ll use; UFC-Que Choisir’s testing protocol assesses these uses separately. | I want to install the appliance without blocking its ventilation and easily use the functions that matter for my meals. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying on the litre capacity without measuring the appliance
The cavity capacity doesn’t tell you how much room the appliance takes up on the outside. According to their French product specifications, the Bosch FFL020MS2 and FEL023MS2 each have a capacity of 20 L and measure 260 × 442 × 345 mm, while the Whirlpool MWF259SG combination model has a capacity of 25 L and measures 490 × 325 × 468 mm.
Measure the available height, width and depth, then check the space needed for the door, cable and ventilation of the model you choose.
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Choosing a combination model just for reheating
Grill and convection functions won’t add much value if you don’t plan to use them. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes these uses from those of a solo microwave and describes combination models as more expensive.
Make a note of the dishes you usually prepare: reheated meals, browned or crisped dishes, or oven cooking. Choose the functions you need based on what you cook, rather than the number of programmes.
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Overlooking ventilation on a freestanding model
Whirlpool says that blocked ventilation openings can cause the appliance to overheat.
Place it on a flat surface, keep the vents clear and follow the clearance requirements in the manual for the model you buy.
A few models from well-known brands
These examples are here to help you compare specific configurations; the features of one model don’t apply to an entire brand.
Bosch
The freestanding FFL020MS2 solo model and FEL023MS2 grill model let you compare two sets of functions, each with a stated capacity of 20 L.
- According to Bosch France product specifications, both measure 260 × 442 × 345 mm.
- Check the exact model number: the shared capacity and dimensions of these two models don’t apply to the whole range.
Whirlpool
The MWP203SB is a 20 L grill model, while the MWF259SG is a 25 L combination model without a turntable, according to Whirlpool France product specifications.
- These two models offer a useful comparison between a grill function and a combination appliance.
- The MWF259SG measures 490 × 325 × 468 mm, so check its depth carefully if your kitchen is short on space.
Panasonic
The NN-CD88 is worth considering if you’re looking for a combination model with a grill and convection mode.
- Panasonic France product specifications list a capacity of 34 L and a 1 300 W grill for this model.
- Check its external dimensions and the space needed for installation before choosing it for a small kitchen.
Microwaves available on Joybuy
These solo or grill models may suit your reheating needs and, for models with a grill, help you brown or crisp dishes. Compare their functions and dimensions with your kitchen; this list doesn’t include combination models with convection.
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Heinrich's Solo Microwave, 20 L
A good choice for reheating and defrosting in a studio flat if you don’t need a grill. The product title lists 700 W, six power levels and a 30-minute timer. Measure the space available and check the manual for ventilation and electrical connection requirements.
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Beko MGC20100B1 with grill, 20 L
Worth considering if you sometimes want to brown or crisp dishes as well as reheat food. The title lists 700 W but doesn’t specify which mode this figure applies to. The model description calls for at least 10 cm of clearance at the sides and rear; check the manual and the space available, too.
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Hisense H25MOBS7H solo microwave, 25 L
This model is listed as a 25 L solo microwave with a power rating of 900 W. If browning or crisping dishes matters to you, check the functions in the product specifications and manual for this exact model before choosing. The installation guidance calls for at least 20 cm of clearance at the sides and 30 cm at the rear.
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LG Electronics MH 6535 gih with grill, 25 L
Worth a look if you reheat meals and would also like to use a grill. The title mentions 1 000 W but doesn’t clearly identify the mode it applies to, so check this if it matters to you. Also consult the manual for installation and electrical connection requirements.
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Samsung MS23K3513 solo microwave, 23 L
Compare it with other solo models if you mainly want to reheat and defrost food. The title lists the Quick Defrost function and a power rating of 1 150 W, but doesn’t specify which mode the figure applies to. Check the ventilation clearances in the manual before deciding where to put it.
Frequently asked questions
What should you measure before buying a freestanding microwave?
Measure the height, width and depth of the space, then compare them with the external dimensions of the model you’re considering. Allow room for the door to open and the cable to reach, as well as for your dishes and the clearances specified in the manual. Whirlpool also reminds users that the vents on a freestanding model must not be blocked.
Can a microwave with a grill replace an oven?
A grill can brown or crisp dishes, but its presence doesn’t mean the appliance has a convection function. If you also want to cook dishes as you would in an oven, check that the model you’re considering explicitly includes a convection mode, and make sure there’s enough room for your dishes.
What statutory guarantee applies to a microwave bought in France?
In France, the statutory guarantee of conformity covers new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a professional trader, according to the DGCCRF in its information dated 9 September 2026. This is separate from a commercial warranty: check what the latter covers in addition and what specific terms apply.
What should you do with an old microwave in France?
Old microwaves come under the waste electrical and electronic equipment scheme described by the ministry responsible for ecological transition. Depending on its condition, look into repair or reuse, or find a suitable collection point. ADEME offers guidance to help you decide what to do.