Who this choice matters to

Small-worktop dessert reheaters

If you mainly warm custard or other small servings, check the appliance dimensions and whether your usual bowl can turn freely. Extra cooking functions may matter less than a workable fit.

People who prefer simple controls

Physical dials let you set time and power directly. They are worth considering if you prefer that approach, provided the microwave and your preferred bowl fit the space.

Small-kitchen cooks who also want a grill

A compact grill microwave is relevant if you expect to grill or toast food as well as reheat custard. Its separate grill function is not needed for the custard itself.

What to check before buying

Start with the space available for the appliance and its required operating clearance, then check dish fit and how you will follow your custard pack’s heating instructions.

Compact 20L solo microwave

Consider it when: Custard and other reheating tasks are the main uses, and a model’s measured exterior and turntable fit your space and dishes.

Trade-off: A solo microwave does not add a grill; its exterior dimensions alone do not establish the clearance needed for installation.

17L manual solo microwave

Consider it when: Direct dial controls matter to you and you have checked that the serving dish fits the turntable.

Trade-off: The cited 17L Russell Hobbs RHM1731B is wider and deeper than the cited 20L Panasonic NN-ST21QWBPQ, so its lower capacity does not save worktop space in that comparison.

Compact microwave with grill

Consider it when: Grilling or toasting is a separate use you expect to make of the appliance.

Trade-off: The grill does not replace the container, covering and stirring steps used to reheat custard.

Concern What to check Who this matters to
Worktop and dish fit Measure the available width and depth, check the model’s placement instructions, and confirm your microwave-safe bowl can turn freely. If counter space is tight, I need both the appliance and my usual serving bowl to fit; around 46% of consumers put worktop and dish fit first.
Custard reheating Compare the microwave’s stated wattage with your custard pack’s instructions, and check how to set its power and heating time. When warming a carton of custard, I want to follow its staged heating and stirring directions without assuming the time suits every oven; roughly 36% of consumers prioritise reheating control.
Controls or extra functions Decide whether direct dials meet your needs or whether you will use a separate grill function. If I mainly reheat food, simple time and power settings may be enough; if I also grill or toast, that function matters. About 18% of consumers make controls or extra cooking functions their primary concern.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Assuming fewer litres means a smaller footprint

    Panasonic states that its 20L NN-ST21QWBPQ measures 440 × 324mm across width and depth. Russell Hobbs states that its 17L RHM1731B measures 45.2 × 35.5cm across the same dimensions. In this model-specific comparison, the lower-capacity microwave takes more worktop width and depth.

    Measure the intended position, compare each model’s external dimensions and check its installation instructions for required clearance.

  • Copying 800W pack timings onto a 700W model

    Ambrosia’s instructions for its 500g custard carton specify an 800W microwave and say timings should be amended because ovens vary. Russell Hobbs rates the RHM1731B at 700W.

    Use the directions for your custard and oven as the starting point. Heat in stages, stir and check the result before heating further rather than copying an 800W time unchanged.

  • Leaving custard in unsuitable packaging

    Ambrosia instructs consumers to transfer its carton custard to a microwaveable container. Metal components and containers not designed for microwave use can also create hazards.

    Use a clearly microwave-safe bowl or jug, remove metal or foil components, and follow the food pack’s covering instructions.

  • Planning around an extension lead

    Electrical Safety First warns that using a countertop microwave on an extension lead with other high-power appliances may overload it and create a fire risk.

    Choose a position with a suitable wall socket and follow the exact model’s installation instructions.

Relevant brands to compare

Panasonic

Panasonic’s NN-ST21QWBPQ is a 20L, 800W solo model positioned by Panasonic for compact kitchens.

  • For this model, Panasonic states dimensions of 440 × 324 × 258mm and a 255mm turntable, giving you figures to compare with your worktop and bowl.
  • It has no grill function. Check the model’s required placement clearance as well as its exterior dimensions.

Sharp

Sharp offers the cited 20L manual solo YC-MS01U-B and a separate compact grill model, the YC-MG01U-S.

  • Sharp states that the YC-MS01U-B has an 800W microwave, five power levels and manual controls; the YC-MG01U-S adds a 1000W grill.
  • Choose between these specific models by whether you will use the grill, then check the exact model’s dimensions and dish fit.

Russell Hobbs

The RHM1731B is a 17L manual solo model for consumers who prefer physical dials.

  • Russell Hobbs states 700W output, five power levels, a 30-minute timer and a 24.5cm turntable for this model.
  • Its stated 45.2 × 35.5 × 26.2cm exterior needs checking against your available space; 17L alone does not establish a smaller footprint.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Common questions

What microwave power do I need for a 500g carton of custard?

Check the directions on your carton rather than treating one wattage as a requirement for all custard. Ambrosia’s 500g carton gives an 800W microwave method: transfer the custard to a microwave-safe container, cover and heat for one minute, stir, then re-cover and heat for a further minute. Ambrosia says to amend timings because ovens vary.

Do I need a grill microwave to reheat custard?

No, a solo microwave is sufficient for the custard reheating described here. Consider a grill model, such as the Sharp YC-MG01U-S, if you also intend to use its separate grilling function.

How can I heat custard more evenly?

Follow the custard pack’s staged heating directions and stir between stages. For its 500g carton, Ambrosia instructs you to use a microwaveable container, cover it, heat, stir and re-cover before heating again; adjust the timing for your oven.

Can I microwave custard in its original packaging?

Follow the instructions for the specific pack. Ambrosia directs consumers to transfer its carton custard to a microwaveable container, while Electrical Safety First advises using microwave-safe items and keeping metal objects out of the microwave.

What electrical checks matter for a countertop microwave?

For UK countertop use, check that the appliance is supplied with a fused UK three-pin plug and that you can position it near a suitable wall socket. Electrical Safety First advises against relying on an extension lead for a microwave; follow the chosen model’s installation instructions for placement and use.