How to choose the right microwave oven. How to choose a microwave oven
It would seem that everyone knows everything about the “microwave”. The device has been in our kitchens for a long time. It’s already somehow inconvenient without him. It is inconvenient to quickly reheat and defrost food. Some even cook with microwave oven delicious dishes. However, no matter how familiar a microwave oven may seem to us, when choosing it in a store you should take into account several points and be aware of some subtleties. ZOOM.CNews updates recommendations for choosing microwave ovens - so that when our readers come to the store, they buy exactly what they really need.
A microwave oven is a device without which it is difficult to imagine our lives. It seems that its importance in everyday life is not too great. It's not washing machine, not a refrigerator. But remember that you need to heat soup without a microwave in a saucepan, and not immediately in a plate. About the fact that meat takes half a day to defrost without a microwave oven. The fact that hot sandwiches without this oven will have to be cooked in the oven. In general, without a microwave oven, the “kitchen happiness” of most of us would be incomplete. This material covers all the main points that should be taken into account when buying a microwave.
Modern kitchen It’s hard to imagine without a microwave oven... The table below shows the main pros and cons of microwave ovensBrief historical background
The first commercial microwave oven appeared in 1947 in the USA. It was produced by Raytheon by order of the US Department of Defense - for quickly defrosting food in soldiers' canteens. The same company originally developed it. The “father” of the microwave oven is considered to be the engineer of this company, Percy Lebaron Spencer. The stove cost approximately $3,000 (very expensive at that time), weighed 340 kg, was as tall as a person, and had a power of up to 3 kW. A few years later, the first tabletop microwave oven was released in the United States, which cost about $500. Also, since 1952, microwave ovens have been produced in Japan (a patent was purchased in the USA). In the USSR, development of industrial microwave installations was also carried out. Household microwave ovens were produced in our country in the eighties of the twentieth century, and only the assembly of devices from Japanese components was carried out on the territory of our country.
How does it work
Household microwave ovens use microwaves with a frequency of 2450 MHz. This frequency is established for microwave ovens by special international agreements so as not to interfere with the operation of radars and other devices that use microwaves. The radiation source is a high-voltage vacuum device - a magnetron. The magnetron filament must be supplied high voltage- about 3–4 kV. The mains supply voltage (220 V) is not enough for the magnetron, and it is powered through a special high-voltage transformer. The magnetron power is approximately 700-1000 W. To cool the magnetron, there is a fan next to it that continuously blows air over it. The fan provides forced convection air in the oven cavity with its simultaneous heating (from the magnetron), which promotes uniform heating (cooking, baking) of products.
The microwaves generated by the magnetron enter the oven - to the products - through a waveguide. This is a channel with metal walls that reflect microwave radiation. Complex design has a “microwave” door. It should provide the user with an overview (of what is happening inside the oven) and prevent microwaves from escaping outside. This is a multilayer “pie” made of glass or plastic plates. Between the plates there must be a mesh of perforated metal sheet. The metal reflects microwaves back into the oven cavity; small perforation holes (less than 3 mm) do not allow microwave radiation to pass through. A seal made of dielectric material is mounted around the perimeter of the door.
How food is heated
To heat food using microwaves, it must contain dipole molecules, that is, molecules that have a positive electrical charge at one end and a negative one at the other. There are many such molecules in food - these are molecules of fats, sugars and water. IN electric field they line up strictly in the direction power lines fields, “plus” in one direction, “minus” in the other. As soon as the field changes direction to the opposite, the molecules immediately turn over 180°. The wave field in which these molecules are located changes polarity several billion times per second!
Under the influence of microwave radiation, molecules rotate at a frantic frequency and “rub” one another. The heat released during this process is what causes the food to warm up. Heating of products occurs due to the heating of the surface layer by microwaves and further penetration of heat into the depths of the food due to thermal conductivity. Boiling water in a microwave does not happen the same way as in a kettle, where heat is supplied to the water only from below. Microwave heating comes from all sides. In the microwave, the water will reach boiling temperature, but there will be no bubbles.
Is microwave radiation dangerous?
It has been proven that microwaves (microwave radiation) do not have any radioactive effects on biological tissues and food. Cooking food using microwaves requires very little fat, so food cooked using microwaves is healthier and does not pose any danger to humans. Design modern stoves Strict measures are in place to prevent radiation from escaping. Direct exposure to microwaves (eg on human skin) may cause burns. But such risks correct operation A working microwave oven is completely missing. Microwaves “fade out” very quickly in the atmosphere. And already at a distance of half a meter from the microwave, the radiation becomes 100 times weaker. It is enough to move away from the stove at arm's length, and you can feel completely safe (although there is no danger near a working stove).
Types of ovens
Modern microwave ovens come in monofunctional (solo models) - only with a microwave function. They will be useful for those who rarely eat at home and are suitable for an office kitchen. You can heat and defrost any food in them and cook simple dishes.
Stores also sell microwave ovens with grills (the grill can be used separately or in symbiosis with microwaves). These are suitable not only for heating or defrosting food, but also for preparing various dishes (for example, grilled chicken, hot sandwiches, etc.). The grill can be a heating element (metal tube, spiral, with a heating element inside) or quartz (tightly twisted wire made of a heat-resistant alloy of nickel and chromium, which is placed in a quartz glass tube). The grill heating element is located in the upper part of the microwave working chamber, under the “ceiling”.
There are oven models in which the grill is movable. It can lower and move towards the back wall. If the grill is movable, it is easy to fry the product evenly, and it is easier to keep the upper part of the oven chamber clean.
The quartz grill is usually stationary. It is located not under, but in the “ceiling” of the working chamber, which saves space in the working chamber. It heats up faster than a heating element, is more economical, and is usually easier to clean. There are models with two grills. Most often there is a quartz on top, and a heating element on the bottom or side.
There are also multifunctional (or combination) microwave ovens on sale. In addition to microwaves and grill, there is a convection mode, as well as combined modes. There is a fan behind the wall of the inner chamber of such a microwave oven. It blows hot air and the dish, blown with heat from all sides, is evenly baked and covered with a golden crust, as if it were being cooked on a spit. In an oven with this function, you can bake everything that can be baked in an oven – even puff pastries. There are also ovens with a microwave function, with a grill, with convection and with steam processing of food (there is a steam generator).
Before buying a microwave oven, you should decide - to understand why, to a greater extent, you are buying a “microwave”. If you are going to mainly heat and defrost, take a solo model. Do you sometimes like to have hot sandwiches for breakfast? Then buy a stove with grill. If you are going to cook various dishes in the oven, take a combined oven with convection.
Working chamber volume
Also, before purchasing, you should definitely consider what size microwave oven you need. This refers to the volume (capacity) of the working chamber of the device. This figure can vary from 13 to 42 liters. The smallest ovens - up to 20 liters - have enough space for a small chicken or a plate of food. This is enough for a bachelor or a family of 2 people. If there are more eaters or friends often come over for a light, you should take a closer look at stoves with a chamber volume of 23 to 32 liters. And if you have a large family, it is better to choose a “microwave” with a chamber volume of about 40 or even more liters in order to heat it up at a time a large number of food or, on occasion, bake a goose.
Rotary table
Most modern microwave ovens are equipped with a rotating round table- it rotates so that the microwaves are evenly distributed over the product. The turntable is usually made of durable glass (but it can still be broken if handled carelessly), attached to a special rotating rod and “placed” on a stand equipped with small wheels. The diameter of the turntable depends on the volume of the working chamber - the larger it is, the larger diameter turntable. There are also models without a rotary table on sale (but quite rarely).
Power level
The power of a microwave oven is an important operating characteristic of the appliance. The power level largely determines how quickly the oven can cook a dish and heat the product. The larger the volume of the working chamber, the greater, as a rule, the power of the microwave oven. IN modern models power can be adjusted. Set minimum value, average, maximum (can be up to 10 levels, depending on the model). The microwave power in most modern household microwave ovens is 700-1000 W. Grill and convection have their own power levels (here, with rare exceptions, power level adjustment is not available).
Microwave Uniform Distribution System
To ensure that microwaves are distributed evenly in the working chamber and not concentrated on only one part of the dish, many modern “microwaves” have several (two or three) sources of microwave radiation. They emit wave beams in different directions, which, repeatedly reflected from the walls, are evenly distributed throughout the entire interior of the furnace.
Inverter microwave ovens
Inverter microwave ovens are now sold in stores. In such furnaces, the magnetron power decreases and increases smoothly. The magnetron does not turn off (and in “ordinary” furnaces, its operation circuit is discrete - it works intermittently and when turned on, it always “produces” the full power set by the user). Continuous “soft” penetration of microwave energy into the product in such an oven helps preserve its texture and nutritional properties; such ovens are more economical and durable.
Software
A few words about the basic cooking programs implemented in modern microwave ovens. Automatic cooking means recipes for preparing various dishes stored in the oven’s memory. These are algorithms for the operation of the oven, relevant for the preparation of certain products, dishes (their “list” and quantity depends on the brand and model of the oven) - power level, time, combination of modes (for example, first cooking in the “Microwave” mode, and then turning on grill). It is enough to select the type of product or a specific dish using the control system, enter the weight of the product, and leave everything else to the oven. The number of automatic cooking modes may vary between models. There are also “microwaves” with the ability to program auto-cooking by the user (the oven “remembers” the cooking algorithm entered by the user).
Automatic defrosting. It’s convenient to avoid guessing how long it will take to defrost a particular product. Simply select the type of product, enter its weight, place the product in the working chamber and press the “Start” button. The oven itself “knows” how long it will take to defrost your meat, fish, chicken, vegetables or bread, and at what power the defrosting will take place.
Defrosting can also be “normal” - not automatic. In this case, you set the defrosting time yourself. In principle, you can defrost food in any microwave, even one that does not have a “Defrost” program at all (by setting the minimum microwave power). However, a special mode allows you to do this faster and more efficiently.
Automatic heating. Almost the same as auto defrosting. The algorithm is the same. You choose the type of product, its weight or volume and turn on the stove, which will independently “decide” how long it will take to heat up, for example, a bowl of soup, and at what power to produce it. There can be several auto-heating programs for different products.
Microwave+Grill mode. In that combined mode The dishes turn out evenly baked and with a golden brown crust. “Microwaves + Convection” - food cooks faster, preserves the natural taste and appearance of products to a greater extent, and more vitamins are retained in them. It is especially good to cook dough products with a large amount of liquid and wet ingredients in this mode (pies with vegetable, fruit or berry filling). “Grill + Convection” - mode for preparing crispy and crispy dishes. Good, including for baking.
Cleaning the stove with steam. The program is only relevant for microwaves with a steam generator. Allows the microwave oven to carry out almost independent cleaning of the internal volume. The process uses steam energy to dissolve grease and contaminants. To start the program, you simply need to pour water into a special container provided by the stove design, add detergent and activate the process by pressing a button. Cleaning usually takes 10-15 minutes.
Microwave oven control
Modern microwave ovens have electromechanical, push-button and touch controls. Electromechanics are two rotary controls. One sets the power and operating mode. Another is the operating time of the oven. Most often, such control is used in solo stoves and stoves with grill. Electro mechanical control– simple, understandable, convenient.
Push-button control allows for more precise programming of the furnace operation. Typically, the power level, mode, and cooking time are set by one or several presses of one or another button. All settings, as a rule, are reflected on the display (most modern microwave ovens, except ovens with electromechanical control, have one). The only negative is that over time, dirt can get clogged under the buttons - it can be difficult to wash it out.
Touch electronic control. Essentially, these are the same buttons, only “recessed” into the body. There are many such models in stores - this is now the most popular type of microwave oven control. This is understandable, because touch control is very convenient - all settings are made with light touches of your fingers to the sensors. There are no problems when cleaning, because the touch control panel is a flat surface. There are stoves with combined system controls (buttons and sensors).
The three types of control described above are the main ones. But there is also a fourth type. It is less common. We are talking about the so-called “tactile” electronic control. Usually in this case there are also one or two rotary programmer (often they are recessed), but the result of the manipulation (rotation of the programmer) is displayed on the display. Many modern microwave ovens have an interactive mode, when the display shows recommendations to the user.
Internal coating of the working chamber
The working chamber of a microwave oven can have enameled walls - the most cheap option. Enamel is good because it is easy to wash and clean. But long-term high temperatures such surfaces are contraindicated. Therefore, this coating is used in inexpensive stoves (usually only solo models). Stainless steel (another option for internal walls) can withstand the “hottest” modes provided in a microwave oven. But it is more difficult to keep clean. To bring shine to “stainless steel”, you will sometimes have to clean it with a sponge or brush, but not too hard, so as not to scratch the walls. Another option is ceramic or bioceramic coating. It is durable, smooth (and therefore easy to clean), resistant to scratches and carbon deposits.
Microwave oven accessories
The delivery package of any modern microwave oven, in addition to the device itself and the instruction manual, includes additional accessories. These are, for example, high and low grills for frying (relevant for ovens with grills and multifunctional ones; the set may include both, or there may be one, usually high). The delivery set may also include various trays, dishes, a spit, and a stand for baby bottles. If you choose a microwave oven with a large chamber, it would be nice if it comes with a “multi-story” plate stand to heat food for several people at once. There are stoves with containers for baking bread and a set of utensils for steaming dishes. It is better to stock up in advance with special utensils for cooking in a microwave oven. You can place any dishes, even paper cups, under microwave radiation. The main thing is no metal! Even the gold edges on cups and plates begin to sparkle under the influence of microwaves.
Main manufacturers
Microwave ovens are now produced by many well-known and not so well-known companies. However, perhaps not all of them can be considered the main manufacturers, but those who have long proven themselves in this segment. In stores, pay attention to stoves from the brands Bosch, Daewoo Electronics, Hansa, LG, Moulinex, Tefal, Samsung, Electrolux, Gorenje, Sharp, Panasonic, Whirlpool...
In the ZOOM.CNews product catalog you will always find the microwave oven you need, other kitchen and household appliances, photographic equipment, and digital electronics. Here you can get acquainted with the main operating characteristics of the devices, find out the opinions of other users about them, or leave your review. You can also compare prices for the necessary equipment in different Russian online stores. Choose, buy, use!
Microwave radiation is used to heat up, cook food and maintain a certain temperature in it. In addition, it is also used for defrosting. All these actions are carried out within a fairly short period.
Quick cooking and defrosting allow you to preserve the gastronomic, taste and nutritional properties of products. These advantages are the main reason for the active production and sale of microwave ovens. The range of these devices presented today is truly wide. Models differ in design, power, number of options and, of course, cost. How not to make a mistake with your choice? Next, we’ll look at how to choose a microwave oven.
general information
The microwave oven is designed in such a way that the product in it is heated due to electromagnetic vibrations of ultra-high frequency water molecules. This radiation is created by a magnetron. It penetrates approximately 2.5-5 cm into the product. As a result of vibrations, water molecules are excited. The amount of heating in radiation is limited.
The limit is the boiling point of water (one hundred degrees). This is an important circumstance for preparing dietary food. The dishes used in microwave ovens must, of course, allow radiation to pass freely. Heating of the plate or bowl comes from the product. In microwave radiation, dishes can be heated even on napkins and paper dishes (soup, for example, in a glass, milk in a bag that does not contain foil).
Classification
Exist Various types microwave ovens. Models differ in heating method. For example, simple devices("Solo" type) are equipped with the option of microwave radiation only. Multifunctional appliances use combined heating. In high-end devices functionality are as close as possible to advanced electric ovens and often surpass them in speed of cooking.
To obtain a fried crust, the product should be heated to a temperature of more than 100 degrees. For these purposes, the microwave oven is equipped with a grill function. In such a device, food can be cooked in the same way as in an electric oven. The grill creates conditions similar to charcoal grilling. For baking, preparing cakes and pastries in microwave ovens, conditions are created for forced air circulation using a fan (convection). In combination with the grill, this function allows you to achieve a crispy crust and even browning of the product.
Range
Today on the market there are completely different models. However, they are all designed to maximize comfort, convenience and safety during use. A wide range of design solutions allows you to choose a device in accordance with your own artistic taste and organically fit it into almost any interior.
Many people decide to purchase a built-in microwave oven. Such models fit most harmoniously into the interior of the kitchen. Before choosing a built-in microwave oven, you should decide on the location where it will be located. In addition, the design of the device should be combined with the surrounding decor. Concerning technical characteristics appliance, both simple and multifunctional microwave ovens are available on the market. Which one to choose depends on the tasks that the device will perform.
Simple and complex designs
In order for the temperature of the product to rise evenly, the devices emit radiation from all sides. How to choose a microwave oven for heating? It should be said that more simple models equipped with a fixed tray. A magnetic field rotates around it.
In more complex models, the radiation is stationary directed at the product. During heating, the tray rotates. This ensures a uniform increase in the temperature of the product. Many people do not know how to choose a microwave oven. Consumer reviews in this case speak in favor of those devices in which the product rotates. Today such models are the most popular.
Electric heating elements
In conditions modern life There is not much time left for cooking. This is why many people strive to purchase multifunctional devices. The “grill” option allows you to prepare a dish of excellent taste in a short period of time. In addition, an optional forced air circulation function can be integrated.
Speaking about how to choose a microwave oven with a grill, it should be said that the device can be equipped with either one or two heating elements. There is a fan behind the chamber wall that creates convection. The grill can have tubular (heating elements - spirals inside metal tubes) or quartz (spiral in transparent quartz glass tubes) heating elements.
The latter is always located on top and is rigidly fixed. Quartz elements take up much less space. Heating of the product occurs due to the release of heat. At the same time, the chamber itself becomes less dirty. But quartz elements are more expensive. Some manufacturers produce models with double grills. In such designs, both heating elements and quartz elements are used.
Basic moments
For steaming food, many models are equipped with special utensils. All devices have backlighting. With its help you can observe the process. Although multifunctional appliances can easily replace a traditional stove and oven, the appliances are usually purchased as an add-on. Before choosing a microwave oven, you should first determine the capabilities and needs.
When deciding to purchase a device, you need to understand what tasks the device will perform. Many consumers buy a microwave oven solely for heating purposes. Simple ones are suitable for this, inexpensive models. As a rule, their design is made in classic style. In this case, preference is given to products from LG or Samsung.
Typically, consumers do not have any difficulties when deciding how to choose a microwave oven for heating. Other buyers prefer multifunctional models, since they also involve cooking. Both buyers invariably have a question: how to choose a microwave oven? Microwave radiation without additional options is used to defrost and give the product the required temperature. Devices equipped only with this option will be an excellent addition to your existing kitchen equipment. Such models are inexpensive.
Cooking food
Which brand of microwave oven should you choose? The number of dishes and products that can be prepared at a time will depend on the design and size of the product. How to choose a microwave oven for a small family with an average budget? In this case, medium-sized devices are suitable. According to consumers themselves, the best option would be a not very large microwave with a grill.
In this case, you can not only give the products the required temperature, but also prepare some simple dish quite quickly. Such products are very popular among buyers. As for the manufacturer, preference is mainly given to Whirlpool. For families of three to five people and for those who receive guests quite often, multifunctional devices are more suitable. As a rule, such ovens have larger size than those described above.
Except heating elements, the structures are equipped with forced blowing of hot air. As consumers themselves say, such models completely replace a conventional oven. More complex dishes can be prepared in such microwave ovens. In this case, Sharp products are popular among buyers. Some models are equipped additional programs containing recipes. In this case, you can automatically set the execution of a certain option. But such models are correspondingly more expensive. In general, large multifunctional devices are less in demand compared to medium and small ones. This is due to the high cost of the former.
Chamber volume
Before choosing a microwave oven, you should decide on the number of products that it is supposed to hold. On Russian market Models with chamber volumes from 16 to 41 liters are presented. Which is the best microwave oven to choose? A chamber of up to 19 liters can accommodate one whole chicken.
This volume is quite enough to cook food for 1-2 people. For families of 3-4 members, larger units are recommended. The optimal chamber volume in this case is 23 liters. The largest models are suitable for families of 5-6 people and for those who often receive guests. As a rule, such consumers purchase products with a chamber volume from 23 to 41 liters. You can cook turkey, goose, or make a big pie for a holiday in them.
Cooking modes
These options are determined by the presence of additional devices in the device and various options heating Forced airflow ensures uniform temperature equalization inside the entire chamber in the range of 40-250 degrees. This prevents burning. Forced circulation, grill and microwave radiation in combination can significantly speed up cooking, while ensuring preservation useful substances And taste qualities products. Models differ in the number and purpose of modes. The devices use:
- Microwave radiation. It is designed to impart the required temperature to baby food, milk, and drinks in packages without foil. Radiation is used for defrosting and instant cooking simple dishes, dietary, including brewing coffee or tea, boiling water.
- Grill. This option, as mentioned above, is used to create a crispy crust.
- Forced airflow. With its help, food is heated and baked using foil or metal utensils, and food is “steamed” in specially designed containers (not using microwave radiation).
- Microwave radiation and grilling. This mode is used for cooking meat dishes.
- Microwave, grill and forced air. This mode designed for preparing more complex and dietary dishes. It is also used for drying herbs. Using this mode, vegetables are also cooked in their own juice.
Depending on the tasks, you can choose any microwave oven.
Power
There are ten levels of microwave radiation. How to choose a microwave oven by power? Each level corresponds to the task:
- Minimum (low). This level is about 10% of the total (full) power. It is used to maintain a certain temperature in a dish and to heat food.
- "Below the average". This level will be about 25% of the total capacity. It is used for defrosting, heating and preparing simple dishes.
- Average. This level will be about half of the total power of the device. It is used in the preparation of meat or fish dishes, as well as soups.
- "Above average". This level will be about 70%. It is used when preparing and heating poultry dishes.
- "High". It is 100% power. This level is used when preparing drinks, sauces, fruits or vegetables.
Rated powers in W:
- When using a toaster - 850.
- For grill – 800-1515.
- For convection heating with a fan – 1350-2000.
- With microwave radiation – 750-1100.
It should be remembered that what more weight product, the more time it will take.
Hygienic qualities
Speaking about how to choose the right microwave oven, we should talk about the material of the internal coating in the chamber. It is this that influences the labor intensity of cleaning and the hygienic qualities of the product. As a rule, special enamel or powder coating is used as a material. Such materials are easy to clean. When it comes to choosing a microwave oven, consumer reviews are of no small importance.
Customers speak positively about ceramic coating. This material is easy to wash. The only drawback of the coating is its fragility - if mechanical damage occurs, it cracks. But, as practice shows, strikes are unlikely. Stainless steel has good strength. But according to consumers, this makes it difficult to maintain the shine in the camera, even though the material is easy to clean and can withstand a wide range of temperatures.
You can make it easier to remove fat using a “steam bath”. To do this you should put glass jar or a glass of water into the chamber and boil for five minutes. Under the influence of steam, the fat softens, after which the dirt is washed off much easier. It is recommended to keep a container of water in the chamber at all times to avoid overheating of the magnetron.
Accessories
When deciding how to choose the right microwave oven, Special attention should be given to the dishes. It affects not only the convenience, but also the complexity of the cooking process. For products that use microwave radiation, dishes made of dielectric materials are suitable. These, in particular, include ordinary ceramics and porcelain (without rims and patterns that are applied with paints containing metal), as well as heat-resistant glass.
The most convenient way, as consumers themselves say, is to purchase special sets of cookware. As a rule, they contain several items that allow you to prepare various dishes. All cookware must have a steam outlet. Do not use hermetically sealed items. There are also various accessories for microwave ovens. One of these are gratings. They are used in products equipped with a grill. It is convenient to use gratings of different heights. Multi-level shelves allow you to prepare or heat several dishes at once on different plates for guests or family members. In this case, food is served to everyone at once.
Control
When deciding how to choose a good microwave oven, you need to pay attention to the devices that the products are equipped with. As a rule, electronic systems with touch or push-button activation of modes are used. The structures are also equipped with digital displays. Some models use electromechanical control. It is cheap and reliable.
In addition, such systems are safer for children. For older people, ease of control is most attractive. The fewer buttons on the device, the easier it is to master the controls. A wider range of options is provided by the electronic system. It can be push-button or touch-sensitive. In the latter case, the sensors are triggered by a light touch. It should be noted that touch control is more sensitive to voltage changes.
Scoreboard
This element shows information about the processes that occur in the camera. Special indicators indicate operating modes and switching on. The moment of the beginning and end of the process is recorded by a time relay. It can be presented in the form of a digital electronic display or a regular clock mechanism. Some products have an interactive mode.
Noise
This indicator is influenced by several factors at once. The noise level is determined by the quality of the product, the design of the components, and the location of the device. It also depends on the fans and camera dimensions. Typically, the noise is a little louder than the refrigerator running, but is not a major problem since the oven only runs for a short period of time.
Microwave ovens have long been firmly established in the everyday life of modern people. Without them, a home kitchen seems incomplete, and at work, a lunch break is rarely complete without a “pilgrimage” to the microwave. The device is necessary, convenient and practical. However, there are many varieties, both in appearance and in characteristics. When choosing the best microwave oven, certain difficulties may arise, but they can be easily avoided if you approach the process competently and competently. One of the most rational ways to prepare yourself is to familiarize yourself with our current rating.
Which microwave is better to buy?
Before choosing the best microwave oven models, decide what functions the microwave oven you need should have. So, there are microwave ovens that use:
- only microwave waves (they are also called solo)
- Microwave waves plus grill function (there are heating elements and quartz grills)
- Microwaves plus grill and convection functions
Furnaces in which they are used only ultra high frequency waves, good for heating food and defrosting food. To heat food in a plate, you do not need to add oil, as when using a frying pan. Electromagnetic waves penetrate into the product to a depth of 2.5 cm, causing the movement of polar molecules (for example, water), and when the movement of molecules accelerates, the temperature increases. The heated dish becomes as fragrant as the one just prepared, and the defrosted product remains fresh in appearance.
In microwave ovens equipped grill function, you can fry meat, fish, chicken, cook pizza and a whole range of other dishes, getting the crust so beloved by many, which is inaccessible when using only microwaves.
Ovens with built-in functions of both grill and convection, suitable for baking. The uniform distribution of hot air inside the chamber allows you to achieve results that can be compared in quality to baked goods prepared in the oven.
Therefore, before purchasing, think about why you need a microwave oven. If you only plan to heat and defrost food in it, then why pay more and buy an oven with a larger set of functions? And vice versa, microwave ovens with grill and convection - best option for those who plan to cook a variety of dishes frequently and at the same time want to save as much useful kitchen space as possible: plenty useful devices in one! The difference between the cost of ovens with only microwave waves, microwave ovens with waves and grill, and appliances with waves, grill and convection is noticeable at first glance: what more features, the higher the price.
The world has changed a lot over the past decades. This is noticeable in many industries, including the world of household appliances. One of the most popular household inventions was the creation of microwave ovens. We should thank Percy Spencer for this miracle, who officially registered his invention in 1945 (for more details, see the article). Today we will look at how to choose a microwave for your home, based on its cost, power, size and other parameters.
The first microwave ovens were nothing like today's miniature ovens. 70 years ago, these devices looked more like a cupboard than a means of warming food.
Currently, microwaves are an integral attribute comfortable life. But the market is so crowded with products that choosing a microwave oven turns into a whole science.
Before going on sale, any equipment undergoes thorough testing. One of the first check points is the safety of the product. Evidence that all microwaves are safe for consumers is provided by the following characteristics:
- The door of each microwave oven is equipped with a special mesh to protect against microwaves.
- Any microwave has a built-in specialized trap that prevents electromagnetic pulses from leaking through.
- Specialists especially monitor the quality of the door mechanism.
- All microwaves undergo specialized inspection, which shows the level of radiation.
You can perform a radiation test and independently. To do this, you will need a microwave that is not plugged in and cellular telephone. Place your mobile phone in the microwave and close the door. Now try to make a call. If you succeed, then the microwave is not fully protected, but if the signal does not pass through, it means that the equipment’s protection is working.
Microwaves are one of the bright examples technical progress. But how to choose a microwave for your home among the variety of products that are on the market?
Let's talk about price
All microwave ovens can be divided into three price segments. Depending on their cost, the set of functions, power level and quality of the product will change.
- Microwave up to 3000 RUR. Such microwave ovens are the simplest representatives of the technology market. Their main task is to heat pre-prepared dishes ().
- Microwave up to 8000 rub. These microwave ovens are noticeably different from their predecessors. The new models are more powerful and equipped with a number of interesting features.
- In microwave functions from 8000 R. diversity is growing noticeably. It is true, as research shows, most of owners do not use many of them.
Size matters
When we choose a microwave oven, it is important to focus not only on functionality, but also for dimensions technology. A correctly selected microwave volume will help you not only save money, but also space in the kitchen:
Power
Most people who ask the question of how to choose a microwave oven hear a completely incomprehensible answer: . But what should a person who knows nothing about microwaves understand? Standard stoves are available with a power of 450 – 1680 watts. Depending on the indicated number, your microwave will be capable of the following actions:
- At 150 watts The device is able to keep food warm.
- In the range from 160 to 300 watts food is defrosted.
- At power in 40 – 500 watts You can quickly defrost a small dish.
- Working for 560 – 700 watts The stove is capable of preparing a simple dish. True, this process will take a lot of time.
- Beginning from 800 watts, The microwave begins to quickly heat and cook food.
- Power at 1200 watts indicates the presence of a grill in your equipment.
- A microwave from 1350 watts work in a conventional mode.
When choosing a microwave, you should pay attention to the fact that the larger its size, the more powerful the model should be.
Coating
For those who don’t know how to choose the right microwave, it doesn’t mean much. However, this important factor, which must be taken into account when making a purchase. There are three types of microwave coatings on the market:
- Heat-resistant enamel coating. This surface is very practical as it is easy to care for. True, it is easy to scratch, even using powder cleaning products. Maximum term operation of such models is up to 7 years.
- Coating from of stainless steel
. This stove, on the contrary, will serve you long years, however, caring for such models is an extremely labor-intensive process. Any product residues are very difficult to wash off from such a surface.
- Bioceramic coating. This surface has absorbed all the best. It is easy to clean and difficult to damage, which means that a microwave with such a coating will serve you for many years. True, the cost of such models is somewhat beyond the budget.
Control Panel
Understand the controls modern technology perhaps without even resorting to instructions. All symbols are clearly visible on the control panel, which allows you to find the desired mode in a few seconds. You can control the microwave in two ways:
Microwave functionality
The first microwave ovens were very simple, and besides expensive devices. Today everything has changed a lot. Microwaves began to play the role of a stove, oven, frying pan and many other kitchen appliances. Its functionality is so wide that the average consumer cannot understand which microwave oven he should choose. Furnaces can have the following programs:
- Function defrosting products. In some models it is installed manually, in others it is fully automatic.
- The main function that a microwave oven performs is warming up ready food. This process can also be done in two ways, automatic program selection or manual parameter setting.
- Many modern microwave ovens are equipped with programs - recipes. By clicking on one of them, you can easily prepare a simple dish.
A new product in the world of microwave ovens is the microwave oven, which ensures uniform heating. The mode is based on the movement of hot air currents, which creates the effect of an oven.
- at home, today you won’t surprise anyone. But it is quite possible to diversify the lunch menu.
- Many expensive models have the ability bake bread. Of course, you won’t be able to use it for complex dishes, but baking buns won’t be difficult.
- Modern microwave ovens can easily be replaced, giving their owners the opportunity to eat tasty and healthy food.
- Well, the most important bonus that modern microwave manufacturers have prepared is the opportunity steam cleaning and function odor removal. Now taking care of your equipment will be a real pleasure.
When choosing a microwave, do not forget to analyze its future location. If you have limited desk space, you can purchase a built-in model.
Manufacturers
If you can’t decide which brand of microwave you should buy, then you should give preference trusted brands. The most the best companies, engaged in the production and development of microwaves, can be considered:
Unless your stove comes with newfangled cleaning features, be sure to clean it regularly. It is also not recommended to force it with bulky objects or place heavy objects on it. , you will extend its service life.
Conclusion
In order to choose a microwave oven, you need to clearly define its purpose. Do you need a compact model for heating food or serious equipment for cooking for a large number of people? The cost, volume, and set of built-in functions of the microwave oven will depend on this answer.
The popularity of using microwave ovens has not required special confirmation for a long time. This is facilitated by the small dimensions of the unit, its simplicity, convenience and functionality. Every year, or rather even monthly, more and more new models from various manufacturers enter the market. To understand this diversity, we bring to your attention the best microwave ovens according to user ratings in 2017-2018. Every self-respecting manufacturer tries to introduce units to the market with a diverse set of functions in different price ranges. Therefore, for convenience, we will try to divide our rating of microwave ovens into three parts.
Before you start choosing a microwave oven, you should decide exactly what set of functions the kitchen assistant should have. Microwave oven can be of three types:
- Solo. That is, one in which only microwave waves are present;
- Microwave + grill. In addition to waves, it also has a heating element or quartz element, which allows you to fry the product until golden brown.
- Microwave + grill + convection. Here, in addition to the above-mentioned elements, forced blowing of the product with hot air is added. That is, a microwave can work like an oven.
The first option is suitable for those who intend to use the unit only for heating or defrosting food. If desired, you can also boil or stew something in it. These are the simplest and most inexpensive microwave ovens.
If you like fried chicken, it is better to choose models with a grill. This function will allow you to fry fish, meat, cook pizza and other “goodies” as quickly and easily as possible.
Interesting fact. In 2018, the manufacturer of robotic vacuum cleaners Okami Group released 3 successful models at once, one of which topped the overall rating of robotic vacuum cleaners. The best choice in the segment up to 500 USD (30,000 rubles).
The third type of microwave oven additionally has the function of forced heat distribution inside the chamber. This is the best option for those who plan to use the unit for making pies and buns, or baking bread.
As you can see, it all depends on what you want to get in the end. Therefore, when thinking about which microwave oven is worth spending money on, you should first of all decide on priority direction its use.
TOP 5 among SOLO
First, let's determine which microwave oven to choose for your home with a minimum set of functions. The rating is based on reviews from users who have already assessed the advantages and disadvantages of a particular model.
This model has a classic, sleek design and is equipped with rotary switches. She “knows how” to reheat or defrost a dish. But when it comes to cooking, she can only use the simplest recipes: stew, boil.
- simple and reliable;
- has backlight and sound notification about the end of the process;
- inexpensive, about $60;
- quite powerful - 700 W;
- roomy - volume about 17 liters;
- works quickly.
- not too much large diameter rotating plate.
If you want to get a reliable, durable assistant at a low cost, it is best to choose this model.
LG MS-2336GIH
This 1000 W microwave oven has a slightly larger chamber volume of 23 liters. Control is carried out using the touch panel. On the one hand, it is much more beautiful and modern than “mechanics”. On the other hand, in the event of a breakdown, you will have to change the entire control unit; replacing just one button will not work.
- 8 recipes with auto mode;
- four defrost program options;
- enameled inner surface - easy to remove dirt;
- protection from child interference;
- small overall dimensions;
- simple controls.
- rather short power cord;
- the door slams loudly when closing;
- the door is not equipped with a handle, which creates additional inconvenience during operation.
Panasonic NN-ST342M
Based on customer reviews, this model can take an honorable third place. The same set of standard functions is presented here, but the stove has established itself as a completely reliable and easy-to-use model.
- internal chamber illumination;
- a sound signal notifying the end of the process;
- simplicity and efficiency.
- Noise level during operation;
- The door closes loudly;
- The door is very tight - when you open it, the microwave reaches behind the door and therefore you need to hold it with your other hand.
By the way, the latter is inexplicable. Despite the fact that this model does not have any additional advantages, its price is 10–15 dollars higher than similar models of other brands. This is probably due to its exceptional reliability.
Samsung ME81KRW-1
The cost of this model can reach 80 conventional units and can be called the best in terms of price-quality ratio. It is quite powerful (800 W) and attractive, and has mechanical controls. Equipped with a 30 minute timer.
Advantages:
- equipped with the necessary and sufficient set of functions;
- can “boast” of high-quality assembly;
- quite voluminous - 23 l;
- works quite quietly;
- It has an internal ceramic coating and is easy to clean.
Flaws:
- dim interior lighting.
Midea MM720CMF
Based on customer reviews, this microwave oven model can take an honorable first place in the 2018 rating. It is affordable (about $65) and has five power levels, the maximum of which is 700 W. Stylish and modern design immediately attracts the buyer's attention. The set of functions is standard: heat, defrost, cook.
- cooking speed;
- stylish design;
- ease of operation.
- the glossy surface of the door gets dirty easily;
- slippery control knobs.
5 best SOLO + grill models
Now let's talk about which model of microwave oven can claim the title of “best microwave with grill.” Let's make a small TOP of five positions.
BBK 23MWG-923M/BX
If you carefully study consumer reviews, you can note that this particular model occupies a leading position. With a fairly average volume of 23 liters, it has good power - 900 W. For a model with a grill, its price is quite affordable - about $120.
Advantages:
- stylish design;
- reasonable price;
- high power;
- internal enamel coating;
- mechanical control;
- silent;
- five power control modes.
Flaws:
- quite heavy, weighs 14.1 kg;
- not a very well known manufacturer.
Bosch HMT84G461
This model is distinguished by an electronic control unit, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage of this unit. There are 11 automatic programs, 4 cooking modes and 3 defrosts. The model has proven itself quite well in the microwave market.
Advantages:
- rather large chamber volume -025 l;
- power of the oven itself - 900 W, grill - 1200 W;
- 5 power levels;
- blocking from curious kids;
- the inner surface is made of enamel.
Flaws:
- weight about 17 kg;
- price from $145.
LG MB-65W95DIS
This, unlike the previous model, has slightly lower power - 900 W in the chamber and 1000 W on the grill. But it is equipped with a quartz grill. Equipped with I-wave technology, thanks to which the waves inside the chamber propagate in a spiral. This movement ensures more even cooking.
Pros:
- roomy, volume 25 l;
- has an enamel inner surface;
- weighs only 9.9 kg;
- equipped with child protection.
Minuses:
- even after the end of the cooking process, it periodically beeps.
Panasonic NN-GD39HS
Despite the fact that we have placed this model one step lower, its quality is not much inferior to the previous one.
Advantages:
- almost silent operation;
- bright backlight;
- stylish interesting design;
- quartz grill;
- compactness.
Flaws:
- the power cord is not too long, about a meter;
- when closing the door makes a rather noisy click;
Whirlpool AMW 730WH
Compact model with an internal chamber volume of 31 liters. At the same time, the quartz grill and wave distribution system make it quite attractive to the buyer.
Pros:
- very large volume, probably the largest for these dimensions;
- interesting design;
- multifunctional microwave, with many possibilities.
Minuses:
- the control interface is not very convenient;
- there are no recipes, or very few;
- considerable cost - from 350 US dollars.
Solo + grill + convection: top five
If you like to cook a lot and often using a microwave oven, then for you best microwave ovens- these are those that have the largest number of functions. What advantages and disadvantages do they have? We have also compiled a kind of TOP 5 for them.
Samsung MC28H5013AW
This model has 60 home menu recipes and 15 recipes useful menu, preheat, weight management and +30 sec mode. All of them are described in detail in the instructions. The oven is quite spacious (28 l) and powerful (900 W), equipped with a very powerful grill (1400 W) and convection (1250 W).
Advantages:
- bioceramic surface;
- “ventilation” mode;
- large set of functions;
- good build quality;
- uniform distribution of microwaves.
Flaws:
- quite heavy weight - 18 kg;
- in the “convection” mode, cooking is delayed;
- not very convenient to open;
Panasonic NN-CS894B
Particularly popular among convection microwave ovens is the NN-CS894B model from Panasonic. Like others, she has both weaknesses and strengths.
Advantages:
- capacity about 27 liters;
- fashionable design;
- Possibility of steam cleaning;
- heating program without the participation of a rotating mechanism;
- steam humidification;
- non-trivial opening of the door from top to bottom;
- odor elimination mode.
Flaws:
- heavy weight and quite impressive dimensions;
- During operation, the case gets quite hot;
- high price;
- automatic cooking programs do not require weight correction;
- Baking in silicone molds does not bake well enough.
Sharp R-8496ST
Pros:
- design;
- quick heating in microwave mode;
- appearance;
- It has compact dimensions, but at the same time it is spacious - 26 liters;
- the turntable is metal - it definitely won’t break;
- ergonomic control panel.
Minuses:
- rattling of the top panel when closing the door;
- The housing gets very hot when the heating element is operating, it is impossible to touch it with your hand.
Gorenje BM251S7XG
Pros:
- built-in;
- 15 programs, 8 autocooking modes and 4 for defrosting food;
- compact dimensions with a fairly large capacity - 25 l;
- not too heavy - about 20.2 kg.
- Timer for 95 minutes.
Minuses:
- Inner chamber made of stainless steel
- There is no possibility of storing your own recipes.
Körting KMI 925 CX
Pros:
- has all the necessary functions of a modern microwave oven;
- good quality, interesting design.
Minuses:
- quite difficult to manage;
- costs quite a lot, the average price is about $430.