For reheating and defrosting
If these are the main ways you use a microwave, a freestanding solo model lets you choose a straightforward option without paying for a grill function. Check its dimensions and the space needed for ventilation.
Which type suits the meals you make?
For browning food without an oven
If you’d also like to brown toast, pizzas or gratins, take a look at grill models. According to UFC-Que Choisir, the grill function can brown food, but it doesn’t offer all the capabilities of an oven.
For cooking a wider range of dishes without an oven
A combination microwave with convection can handle a wider range of cooking tasks if your accommodation doesn’t have an oven. Check its depth and weight, and make sure you have enough room for it before choosing this option.
What should you check before buying?
Start with the dishes you prepare, then make sure your chosen appliance can be installed and used in your studio.
| Feature | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking functions | A solo microwave is for reheating and defrosting; a grill model can also brown food. If you want to cook with convection, check that the combination model you choose has this function. | I mainly reheat portions, so a solo model may be enough. If I often brown dishes, a grill matters more; without an oven, I need to consider how much extra cooking capacity I really need. |
| Size | Compare the appliance’s external width, height and depth with the space you’ve measured. Allow for the clearances specified in the manual, and don’t block the vents. | I want to leave room to prepare meals, not just squeeze the appliance onto the worktop. |
| Cavity and turntable | Check the capacity, cavity dimensions and turntable diameter against the dishes you plan to use. | My usual containers need to fit inside the appliance; the capacity in litres alone won’t tell me that. |
| Installation and use | Check the model’s manual for ventilation requirements and compatible containers. If the appliance will sit on a narrow or lightweight unit, check its weight and depth too. | Before buying, I need to make sure I can install the appliance without blocking its vents and use suitable containers. |
What should you watch out for?
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Choosing by capacity alone
Capacity doesn’t tell you whether the appliance will fit on your worktop with enough space around it. According to Whirlpool France’s product specifications, the 20 L MWP201SB solo microwave is 35 cm deep, while the 33 L MWSC933SB combination model is 54 cm deep.
Measure the space in all three dimensions and follow the clearance requirements in the manual for the model you choose.
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Choosing a combination model when you only reheat food
Extra functions take up space, which can be an important consideration in a small studio. A combination model only makes sense if you plan to use its cooking modes too.
Think about the meals you usually make: reheating and defrosting point to a solo model, browning to a grill model, and convection cooking to a combination model with that feature.
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Assuming every container is suitable
A container’s material may make it unsuitable for microwave use, even if it’s the right size.
Check the container’s compatibility information and the instructions in the manual before putting it in the appliance. Never put a metal container inside.
Which brands should you compare?
These manufacturers’ models illustrate differences in functions and size; their inclusion here doesn’t mean they’re part of the Joybuy selection below.
Whirlpool
The Whirlpool France range lets you compare a freestanding solo model with a combination microwave, using their dimensions as a guide.
- According to Whirlpool France, the MWP201SB is a 20 L, 700 W solo microwave measuring 45,2 × 26,2 × 35 cm.
- The MWSC933SB combination model measures 49 × 37,3 × 54 cm and weighs 27,45 kg, according to Whirlpool France. Check you have enough room and a suitable surface to support it.
Samsung
Samsung France’s guidance is useful when planning where to install a freestanding model.
- Samsung France recommends allowing at least 10 cm behind and at the sides, and 20 cm above, as a general guide for air circulation.
- Clearance requirements vary by appliance, so always follow the manual for the exact model.
Panasonic
The Panasonic France NN-GD38 is an example of a microwave that combines microwave and grill functions.
- Panasonic France lists microwave and grill functions of 1 000 W each for the NN-GD38, along with three combination settings.
- Its stated external dimensions are 495 × 378 × 292 mm. Compare these with your available space and the model’s installation instructions.
LG
The LG France MH6336GIB is another grill microwave to consider, depending on how much space you have.
- LG France lists this model as having a 23 L capacity and dimensions of 476 × 272 × 388 mm.
- Its depth of 388 mm needs to be considered alongside the clearances required in the manual.
Microwaves available on Joybuy
This selection includes solo models and options to consider if you want a grill function. Compare their exact features and the space they need before choosing one for your studio.
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Beko MGC20100B1 grill microwave, 20 L, 700 W, black
Worth considering if you reheat meals and would also like a grill function to brown them. The model name indicates a capacity of 20 L and power of 700 W; check its dimensions and the required clearances for your chosen spot.
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Whirlpool MWP 101 W solo microwave, 20 L, 700 W
For reheating and defrosting without a grill function. The Joybuy France product listing for the MWP 101 W gives external dimensions of 452 × 362 × 262 mm. Allow for the specified clearances before deciding where to put it.
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Hisense H25MOBS7H, 25 L, 900 W, black
Worth considering if you want to reheat and defrost food in a 25 L appliance. Information about this model is inconsistent on whether it has a grill and combination modes, so check the manual before choosing it to brown dishes. Also check the space needed for installation.
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Samsung MS23K3513 solo microwave, 23 L, LED display
Worth considering for reheating and defrosting, with a display and quick defrost function. This model is described as a solo microwave, so look for a grill function if you want to brown dishes. Check the manual to find out how much clearance it needs.
Frequently asked questions
How much space should I leave around a freestanding microwave?
Allow for the clearances specified in the manual for your chosen model, in addition to its external dimensions. Samsung France gives a general guide of at least 10 cm at the back and sides, and 20 cm above, but notes that requirements vary by model.
Is a solo microwave enough for a studio without an oven?
It may be enough if you mainly reheat and defrost meals, but it won’t brown them. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a grill function can brown food, while a combination microwave with convection can handle some of the jobs you’d normally use an oven for. Make sure you’ll use these functions and that the appliance will fit in your studio.
How do I choose suitable containers?
Use containers explicitly labelled as microwave-safe and follow the appliance’s manual. Check plastic containers in particular, and remove any metal containers before reheating food.