Reheating without an oven
If you live alone or with one other person and mainly want to reheat portions and defrost food, a solo microwave is a good place to start. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes this from grilling or combination cooking.
What will you use it for?
Browning dishes from time to time
If you sometimes want to finish a meal with a golden-brown top, look at models with a grill. This feature doesn’t mean the appliance also has fan-assisted cooking.
Cooking without a conventional oven
If you also want your microwave to cook quiches, gratins or small dishes, check the combination model’s cooking modes, usable cavity size and countertop footprint. For larger dishes, keep a mini conventional oven in the running too.
Which features matter most?
Start with the meals you make most often, then check that you can install your chosen appliance in line with its instructions.
| Priority | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Reheating and defrosting | Check that your plates fit inside the cavity and that your containers are suitable for microwave use. | Most of my meals just need reheating or defrosting, so I don’t need extra cooking modes I won’t use. Around 39 % of consumers put this need first. |
| Occasional browning | Check that it has a grill, find out which accessories are included and read the instructions about hot surfaces. | I sometimes want to brown an individual gratin, but oven cooking isn’t my main use. Around 15 % of consumers put this need first. |
| Cooking small dishes | Check for convection or fan-assisted cooking, the temperature range and the usable dimensions. | Without a conventional oven, I want an appliance that can also cook small dishes, while accepting the limitations of its cavity. Around 31 % of consumers prioritise this use. |
| Available space | Measure the appliance and check the ventilation clearances required in the instructions for the exact model. | My countertop is narrow, so I need to be able to open the door and leave the required space around the appliance. For around 15 % of consumers, fitting it into their space is the top priority. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Choosing a combination model just for reheating
UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes solo appliances from combination models by their extra cooking modes. If you don’t brown or oven-cook dishes, these features won’t serve your main needs.
Make a note of the meals you usually prepare, then start by comparing appliances that genuinely suit those uses.
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Measuring only the width
A freestanding appliance also needs the clearances specified in its instructions. Bosch instructions also state that the model in question isn’t designed to be built in.
Measure the depth, available height and door clearance, then check the distances required for the model you choose.
If you don’t have enough room for these clearances, you’ll need to choose a different spot or appliance.
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Using a metal dish in microwave mode
Bosch instructions warn that metal containers, or those with metallic decoration, can spark when using microwave mode on its own. A dish fitting inside the cavity doesn’t necessarily mean it’s suitable.
Use a container that’s suitable for the selected mode, and only use metal accessories where the instructions specifically allow them.
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Assuming a combination model replaces every oven
A combination model may offer grill and convection modes, but the features, accessories and usable dimensions vary by model. This is especially important if you cook large dishes or prepare several things at once.
Compare the recipes you make regularly with the cavity size and modes actually listed for the appliance. If cooking larger quantities is a priority, look at a mini conventional oven too.
Brands to consider, depending on the model
Whirlpool
The MCP349WH is an example of the brand’s freestanding combination microwaves.
- Whirlpool France lists a 25 L cavity, a grill and a fan-assisted function for this model.
- Its stated dimensions of 52 × 30,1 × 49,4 cm mean you’ll want to check the available depth in particular.
Panasonic
The range includes combination models with several cooking modes; features vary by model.
- Panasonic France says the NN-CD87K combines microwave, grill and convection functions.
- Before choosing a combination model, check the features and space requirements for the exact reference you’re interested in.
LG
The NeoChef MJ3965ACW is an example of a high-capacity combination model.
- LG France lists a capacity of 39 L for this model.
- Its stated external dimensions of 54,4 × 32,7 × 52,5 cm need careful checking if you have a narrow countertop.
Bosch
Bosch instructions offer useful checks for the models they apply to.
- One set of instructions explicitly distinguishes a freestanding model from an appliance designed for built-in installation.
- Check the installation rules and container compatibility in the instructions for your chosen model; don’t assume they apply to the whole range.
Solo microwaves on Joybuy
These models are best suited to reheating meals in a small home. If browning or oven-style cooking is a priority, compare the features of a grill or combination model before you choose.
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Heinrich's, 20 L solo microwave, 700 W
For reheating and defrosting portions in a studio flat, without the need for a grill function. The product name lists a 20 L capacity, six power levels, a defrost function and a 30-minute timer. Check the instructions to see how much space to leave around the appliance.
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Cecotec Ready2Clean, 20 L microwave, 700 W
An option to consider for everyday reheating on your countertop. The product name lists six power levels and a Ready2Clean interior coating. Before setting aside space for it in a small kitchen, check its external dimensions and the clearances specified in the instructions.
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Galanz P4, compact square 20 L microwave
Worth considering if you mainly want to reheat meals in student accommodation or a small flat. The product name lists a 20 L capacity. Check its dimensions before deciding where to put it, as well as the defrost function and plug type if these are important to you.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install a freestanding microwave inside a closed cupboard?
Only do so if the instructions for your model explicitly allow it. Bosch instructions state that one of its freestanding models isn’t designed for use in a built-in cupboard. Also check the ventilation clearances required for your appliance.
Which containers should you use for microwave reheating?
Choose containers that are suitable for microwave use. Bosch instructions warn that metal and metallic decorations can spark when using microwave mode on its own. Anses also recommends following the preparation instructions on food and packaging intended for this use.
Does a fan that keeps running after cooking mean there’s a fault?
Not necessarily. Whirlpool says the fan may continue running after the appliance has been switched off to cool certain components and reduce condensation. Check the instructions for your model if its operation seems unusual or continues for a long time.
What should you do if the microwave you receive doesn’t match its description?
In France, consumers who buy new, second-hand or refurbished goods from a trader are covered by the legal guarantee of conformity, as the Ministry of the Economy explains. If the appliance you receive differs from the seller’s description, contact them, explain what doesn’t match and ask to make a claim under this guarantee.
Can you keep using a microwave if its cavity is damaged?
Whirlpool recommends stopping use if the cavity is damaged and contacting the retailer or its customer service team. If the door or its seal is faulty, stop using the appliance as well and have it checked in line with the instructions.