1 / 7Philips PerfectCare Compact Steam Generator Iron, 400g Boost
Philips PerfectCare Compact is a steam generator iron advertised with 120g/min continuous steam, a 400g boost and no manual temperature adjustment. Its 1.5L tank and compact design suit routine ironing, though customer feedback is mixed on steam reliability and durability.
At a glance
- Continuous steam and a 400g boost are specified for everyday creases and thicker fabrics.
- OptimalTEMP is described as removing the need to change temperature settings between ironable fabrics.
- The transparent 1.5L tank has a large refill opening, according to the listing.
- Built-in descaling and a carry lock are described in the manufacturer information.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- No manual temperature setting is needed, which may simplify switching between fabrics.
- The larger water tank reduces the need for frequent refills during longer ironing sessions.
- A compact base and carry lock are intended to make storage and moving the unit around the home easier.
Cons
- The steam generator base and iron together are listed at 3.3 Kilograms, so buyers prioritising a very light appliance should note the stated weight.
- Customer feedback includes reports of steam stopping and breakdowns within the first six months, making reliability a reported concern.
Technical specifications
19 specifications| Brand | PHILIPS |
|---|---|
| Model | PerfectCare Compact Steam generator iron |
| Model number | GC7842/46 |
| Model year | 2022 |
| Product type | Steam Generator Iron |
| Continuous steam | 120g/min |
|---|---|
| Steam boost | 400g |
| Special feature | Auto Shutoff |
| Water tank capacity | 1.5L |
| Claimed ironing duration | up to 1.5 hours |
| Descaling | Built-in descaling and cleaning system |
| Wattage | 2400 watts |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
| Soleplate material | Stainless Steel |
| Colour | Burgundy/White |
| Dimensions listed | 19.3L x 37.3W centimetres |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 3.3 Kilograms |
| Warranty listed | 2 years. |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | China |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
Listing details are inconsistent about tank duration: one feature says up to 1.5 hours, while manufacturer copy says more than 1.5 hours. The description also gives differing information about the soleplate, calling it stainless steel in the details and SteamGlide with a multi-layer coating elsewhere. Confirm these specifics for the selected listing. The no-burn wording is a manufacturer claim, not a guarantee established here.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Households that iron a mix of everyday and thicker garments and want a steam boost.
- Buyers who prefer automatic temperature control over adjusting settings for different fabrics.
- People looking for a steam generator with a refillable 1.5L tank and built-in descaling.
Less suited to
- Buyers who need independently confirmed long-term reliability, given the durability concerns in customer feedback.
- Anyone seeking a clearly established tank-use duration or soleplate construction without resolving the listing inconsistencies.

Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
61% 61% - 4 stars
16% 16% - 3 stars
8% 8% - 2 stars
3% 3% - 1 star
12% 12%
Customer feedback describes the iron as easy to use and appreciates its lightweight feel, while reports on steam performance, temperature control and value are mixed. The feedback also raises durability concerns, including reports of the iron stopping or breaking down within six months. These experiences matter for a model promoted around sustained steam output and automatic temperature control, but they do not establish how any individual unit will perform.
Positive themes
- Customer feedback highlights ease of use and a lightweight feel.
Negative themes
- Feedback includes reports of steam stopping and breakdowns within the first six months.
Mixed feedback
- Steam performance, temperature control and value receive mixed feedback.
Frequently asked questions
Does this iron require manual temperature adjustment?
The listing describes OptimalTEMP automatic control and says temperature settings are not needed. Customer feedback is mixed, with some appreciating the adjustment and others saying temperatures are not high enough.
How much water does the tank hold?
The stated tank capacity is 1.5L. The claimed ironing duration is inconsistent across the listing, which says both up to 1.5 hours and more than 1.5 hours.
What steam output is specified?
The listing gives 120g/min continuous steam and a 400g steam boost. These are listing claims rather than independently verified measurements.
Does it include a descaling system?
Manufacturer information describes a built-in descaling and cleaning system, with an alert when cleaning is due.

Alternative options

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Philips PerfectCare 6000 Series Steam Generator Iron, 2400W, 500g Boost | No burns guaranteed on ironable fabrics, 6.5 bar pressure, 1.8L tank, Auto cleaning, Superior Glide (PSG6026/20)
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Philips PerfectCare 4000 Compact Steam Generator Iron, 450g/min Boost | No burns guaranteed OptimalTEMP – SteamGlide Plus soleplate, 1.7L tank, easy Smart Calc descaling (PSG4020/20)
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Morphy Richards SpeedSteam Steam Generator Iron, Non Stick Ceramic Soleplate, 240g Boost, 140g Output, 5.5 Bar Pressure, Detachable 1.7L Water Tank, 3000W, White and Purple, 333202
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Morphy Richards EasySteam Steam Generator Iron, 120g Boost, 70g Output, 6 Bar Pressure, ECO Mode, Detachable 1.8L Water Tank, Calc Clean Anti Scale, Auto Shut Off, 2400W, Black and Grey, 333030
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Morphy Richards Power Steam Elite + Steam Generator Iron, Ceramic Non-stick Soleplate, 310g Steam Boost, 200g Steam Output, 6 Bar, Auto Clean, 1.3L Water Tank, 1.8m Cord, 2400W, Black/Red, 332013
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Philips Azur 8000 Series Steam Iron, 3000W, 240g Boost, No Burns Guaranteed | No burns, auto temp – SteamGlide Elite iron, 55g/min continuous, 240g boost, Hassle-free, Calc-clean function(DST8020/26)
£79.00

Philips PerfectCare Elite Plus Steam Generator Iron, 600g Boost, No Burns | 2700W, ultra light – steam generator iron, 1.8L tank, self-cleaning, superior glide (GC9682/86)
£409.00

Russell Hobbs Steam Generator Iron, 2400W, Black and White, 24420 | 90g Steam Output for Easier Ironing, Non-Stick Ceramic Soleplate, Removable 1.3L Water Tank, Ready to Use in 60 Seconds
£89.98

Philips PerfectCare 7000 Series Steam Generator Iron, 8.5 bar, 600g Boost | 3120W Turbopower – steam generator iron, 1.5L tank, ultimate glide, self-cleaning (PSG7200/60)
£349.99

Morphy Richards Power Steam Elite Steam Generator Iron, Ceramic Non-stick Soleplate, Auto Clean, 170g Steam Output, 4.5 Bar, Detachable 1.35L Water Tank, 1.8m Cord, 2400W, White/Green, 332014
£125.00

Beldray BEL01137TT Titanium Steam Surge Pro Iron – Steam Station with XL 1.2L Water Tank, Steam Iron with Ceramic Soleplate, Variable Temperature Control, Locking System, Anti-Calc Function, 2400 W
£47.99

