The study of the frequency-dependent response of a biological cell and its organelles to an intense electric field is of growing interest in the bioelectromagnetic area. The possibility offered by continuous waves to uncouple the effects of the electric field during electroporation is employed in this work using a numerical model including the realistic shape of cell and endoplasmic reticulum membranes. The higher efficiency of the microwave signals in electroporating the subcellular structures, in comparison with the radiofrequency signals, is highlighted. © 2019 European Microwave Association (EuMA).