Microwaves have become an essential appliance in modern kitchens. They are convenient, efficient, and make cooking and heating food easy and fast. But with so many types of microwaves available in the market, choosing the right one for your needs can be overwhelming.
In this article, we will discuss 10 types of microwaves and their features to help you make an informed decision.
Countertop microwaves are the most common and widely used type of microwaves. They are compact, affordable, and easy to install. They come in different sizes, capacities, and power levels. They are perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. However, they take up valuable counter space and may not be suitable for large families or heavy use.
Over-the-range microwaves, also known as OTR microwaves, are designed to be installed over a range or cooktop. They are space-saving and provide ventilation for the cooktop. They also come with a built-in exhaust fan and light. They are available in different sizes, capacities, and power levels. However, they can be challenging to install, and their height may not be suitable for all users.
Built-in microwaves are designed to be integrated into your kitchen cabinetry. They offer a seamless look and save valuable counter space. They come in different sizes, capacities, and power levels. They can be combined with other built-in appliances, such as ovens, for a complete cooking solution. However, they are more expensive than countertop microwaves and may require professional installation.
Combination microwaves, also known as microwave convection ovens, are versatile appliances that combine the functions of a microwave and a convection oven. They can be used to microwave, bake, roast, or grill food. They come in different sizes, capacities, and power levels. They are perfect for cooking or baking in small kitchens, apartments, or RVs. However, they are more expensive than regular microwaves and may take up more space.
Drawer microwaves are unique appliances that are installed under the counter or in an island. They have a sliding drawer that opens horizontally to access the food. They are perfect for people with mobility issues or limited counter space. They come in different sizes, capacities, and power levels. However, they are more expensive than countertop microwaves and may require professional installation.
Commercial microwaves are built to withstand the demands of a busy kitchen. They are more powerful and have larger capacities than residential microwaves. They come with advanced features, such as programmable menus, multiple power levels, and stackable design. They are perfect for cooking, heating, and thawing large amounts of food quickly and efficiently. However, they are more expensive and may require professional installation.
Inverter microwaves are a new type of microwaves that use inverter technology to provide precise temperature control. They are designed to cook food evenly and avoid overcooking or undercooking. They come in different sizes, capacities, and power levels. They are perfect for cooking or reheating delicate foods, such as fish or vegetables. However, they are more expensive than regular microwaves.
Convection microwaves are a combination of microwave and convection oven. They use a fan and heating element to circulate hot air around the food, resulting in crispy and golden-brown textures. They come in different sizes, capacities, and power levels. They are perfect for baking, roasting, or grilling food in a small kitchen or apartment. However, they are more expensive than regular microwaves.
Smart microwaves are the latest trend in kitchen appliances. They are connected to the internet and can be controlled by a smartphone app or voice assistant. They come with advanced features, such as pre-programmed recipes, voice commands, and remote monitoring. They are perfect for tech-savvy users who want to streamline their cooking experience. However, they are more expensive than regular microwaves and may require a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Portable microwaves are small, lightweight, and battery-operated. They are perfect for camping, RVs, or outdoor activities. They come in different sizes and power levels. They are easy to use and convenient to carry. However, they have limited capacity and may not be suitable for cooking large meals.
When it comes to selecting a microwave for your home, several factors must be taken into consideration. The perfect microwave should fit your family's budget, cooking habits, kitchen layout, and preferred aesthetic. Here are some considerations to help you decide which type of microwave best suits your cooking needs:
Although all microwave types come in different sizes and capacities, you should consider the available space in your kitchen and how you want to streamline your cooking process. If your kitchen has limited counter space, built-in models that tuck the microwave away could be beneficial. Conversely, if you have limited or low-hanging cabinetry, a countertop model may be the best fit.
Your kitchen's existing design can be a great guide for choosing the right microwave for your home. Models come with white, black, or stainless steel exteriors and modern or more traditional design elements.
Features such as pre-programmed settings, defrost settings, sensor cooking, and more can make cooking more convenient and eliminate guesswork. However, you must ensure that the features offered support your family's cooking routines. Consider how often your family may use a particular model's feature set to avoid paying extra for unused features.
The right microwave for your kitchen may depend on what kind of installation process you're willing to undertake. If convenience and portability are essential, a model with a simple setup may be the best option. Keep in mind that some microwave types may require professional installation assistance, especially if ductwork is required.
Microwaves with higher wattages cook food faster than those with lower wattages. If you often prepare meals and snacks that could benefit from faster and more even cooking, it may be worth investing in a microwave with the power to handle your family's favourite dishes.
If you're on a tight budget, it may be best to avoid higher-priced configurations like wall oven and microwave combination units or under-cabinet models. Fortunately, most microwave types come in less expensive standard models and pricier, more premium models.
Choosing the right type of microwave depends on your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Countertop microwaves are affordable and versatile, while built-in and OTR microwaves offer a seamless look. Combination microwaves are perfect for small kitchens, and commercial microwaves are built to handle high-volume use.
Inverter and convection microwaves offer advanced features, while smart microwaves are the latest trend. Portable microwaves are perfect for outdoor use. With this comprehensive guide, we hope you can make an informed decision.
A microwave uses electromagnetic waves to heat food, while a convection oven uses hot air to cook food. A microwave is faster and more efficient for reheating or defrosting food, while a convection oven is better for baking, roasting, or grilling food. Convection microwaves combine both technologies, making them more versatile.
It depends on your skills and experience. Installing an OTR microwave involves mounting it on the wall and connecting it to a power source and vent. If you have basic handyman skills and follow the instructions carefully, you can install it yourself. However, if you are not confident, it's best to hire a professional to avoid any safety hazards.
It depends on your cooking preferences. Inverter microwaves offer more precise temperature control and avoid overcooking or undercooking food. They are ideal for cooking delicate foods, such as fish or vegetables. However, they are more expensive than regular microwaves, and if you don't use them frequently or don't cook delicate foods often, they may not be worth the extra cost.
Yes, you can use a commercial microwave at home, but you need to consider the size, power, and cost. Commercial microwaves are larger, more powerful, and more expensive than residential microwaves. They are designed for high-volume use and may require professional installation. If you have a large family or frequently cook for many people, a commercial microwave may be a good investment.
Portable microwaves work similarly to regular microwaves, but they have some limitations. They are smaller and less powerful than regular microwaves, which means they take longer to cook or heat food. They are also battery-operated, which means they have a limited runtime and need frequent recharging. They are perfect for outdoor use or travel, but they may not be suitable for everyday use in a home kitchen.