How to choose a microwave oven How to choose the right microwave oven? Advantages and disadvantages of mechanical and sensory microwaves

A microwave or microwave oven has long been a part of the life of every family, saving time. Microwave waves do not destroy the structure of biological molecules and heat up any product very quickly. Microwave:

• quite compact
• easy to manage
• preserves the nutritional value of foods,
• cooks fast.

Microwaves can be used to heat, stew, bake and defrost food. Some models also allow you to cook fried foods.

Our tips will help you understand the intricacies of this device and familiarize yourself with the microwave rating 2019-2020.

By functionality, there are such microwaves:

1. Solo oven. It is not expensive, it performs a small range of programs. Basically, it is heating, baking, stewing and defrosting. The speed of this device is moderate, but sufficient for a small family.
2. Microwave plus grill. This miracle oven can cook grilled chicken and other such goodies.
3. Grill and air convection: A fan has been added to the grill to distribute hot air inside the chamber. Such a microwave oven perfectly stews meat and bakes excellent pies.
4. Inverter microwave oven. Such a device is equipped with an additional heating controller.

The microwave oven is controlled by:

• electromechanics;
• buttons;
• touch buttons with indicators.

A mechanical microwave does not have an electronic display and is controlled by handles. It saves money on the purchase, is quite reliable, but does not have the same accuracy as electronics.

Push-button control is connected with electronics, allows programming, makes the stove outwardly representative.

The touch microwave is the most modern and endowed with a beautiful design, but you need to be able to handle it. Such microwaves are more expensive, they are easier to clean. Today, most buyers prefer this particular type.

Manufacturers offer built-in and freestanding microwaves.

It is worth stopping at devices equipped with a grill. Modern models of microwave ovens are usually equipped with heating elements, quartz, ceramic grills.

• Quartz grill easy to clean and heats up quickly. Microwaves with such a grill consume relatively little electricity, since its power is not high.
• Heating element grill it is more difficult to clean, but it warms up the products more intensively. Often such a grill can be moved by changing its position in the cooking chamber. Sometimes there are two such grills in the microwave. A heating element grill cooks food faster than a quartz grill.
• Ceramic heating element- the most powerful of all named. Its work uses infrared radiation, so it cooks quickly. In addition, a microwave with a ceramic grill helps to retain moisture in food.

How to choose the right microwave?

The choice of a microwave oven should begin with the choice of its external size and volume.

First, think about where to put the purchase. And what size do you need?

• If you are buying a microwave for yourself and your cat, a model with a volume of up to 15 liters is quite suitable for you.
• Two people are usually satisfied with a microwave oven from 15 to 20 liters. It will fit a saucepan.
• A hostess cooking for four will be happy with a microwave from 20 to 30 liters.
• For huge families, manufacturers have a microwave oven with a volume of up to 40 liters!

Power is the second most important variable when choosing a microwave. Experts recommend stoves up to 600 watts. Such an oven does not overload the network and retains enough moisture in the products. However, it cooks more slowly than a more powerful appliance. The choice is yours. Of course, here you should pay attention to what volume of the chamber is affected by this power (W per volume in cubic meters).

Feature set of modern microwave ovens

It may happen that you spend money on a model with a grill, and you only use the microwave to reheat sandwiches. Or vice versa: the guests descended, but you can’t cook grilled chicken in this stove. Therefore, immediately decide what you will require from your furnace. A microwave oven with a grill plus a convection system will not only defrost the fish, but fry it. And also bake a ruddy pie.

The following equipment can be sold with a microwave oven:

• multi-level grill (allows you to cook two dishes at the same time);
• frying disc (a device that heats up to 200 degrees and works like a frying pan);
• skewer or grill;
• steam disc.

A timer with an audible alert and a child lock will also be useful.

When choosing a microwave oven model, pay attention to the material of the inner chamber. Coverage can be:

• stainless steel,
• ceramics / with enamel,
• bioceramics.

Stainless steel is simple and reliable. Ceramics - modern, but delicate when cleaning. Bioceramics - ceramics with an antibacterial coating.

We believe that you have already imagined your future microwave oven in your imagination, so please familiarize yourself with the best microwave ovens of 2019!

Microwave Rating 2019

5th place: GORENJE MO20MW (3849 rubles)

According to customer reviews, the GORENJE MO20MW microwave oven for 3849 rubles took the 5th place.

• The model is equipped with a backlight, a signal for the end of cooking and a timer.
• Chamber volume - 20 l,
• Microwave power - 700 W,
• The door opens with a button
• Chamber coating - enamel,
• Weight - 10.5 kg,
• Height - 26.2 cm,
• Width - 45.2 cm,
• Depth - 36.2 cm.

The advantages of the GORENJE MO20MW microwave oven buyers include:

• low cost,
• readiness signal,
• ease of management.

The disadvantages of the model are:

• overheat.

4th place: Electrolux EMM20000OK (9990 rubles)

The 4th place in the list of consumer preferences is occupied by the Electrolux EMM20000OK solo microwave oven model for 9990 rubles.

This stove has a beautiful Rococo design. Good with five power levels and convenient switches. The timer can be set for half an hour, and the degree of readiness can be checked using the camera lighting.

• Control type - mechanical,
• Chamber volume - 20 l,
• Microwave power - 700 W,
• The door is opened with a handle
• Chamber coating - enamel,
• Weight - 10.5 kg,
• Height - 26.2 cm,
• Width - 45.2 cm,
• Depth - 35.8 cm.

Advantages of the Electrolux EMM20000OK model:

• high quality cooking
• comfortable and washes well
• design,
• 5 work programs,
• compactness.

Cons of the model:

• No "keep warm" mode
• expensive, given the limited functionality,
• no recipe book.

3rd place: Samsung MC28H5013AK (9990 rubles)

This oven is equipped with a powerful grill with a grate, which greatly expands the range of dishes that can be cooked. The model also attracts with a fermentation mode for yoghurts and dough. 24 auto programs include traditional Russian dishes. The developers have equipped the chamber with a bioceramic coating that will help keep the device clean. The coating has low thermal conductivity and increases the speed of cooking. The timer is set up to 99 minutes.

• Control type - touch,
• Chamber volume - 28 l,
• Microwave power - 900 W,
• The door is opened with a handle
• Chamber coating - bioceramics,
• Weight - 17.5 kg,
• Height - 31 cm,
• Width - 52 cm,
• Depth - 48 cm,
• Odor removal mode
• Yogurt mode,
• Grill + convection mode,
• 6 defrost modes.

Advantages of the Samsung MC28H5013AK microwave oven:

• design,
• great set of features
• good build,
• ease of management
• even baking,
• work speed,
• a recipe book,
• odor removal,
• child protection.

Flaws:

• overpriced,
• sometimes in the “convection” mode, the grill automatically turns on, you need to set the time and power correctly.

2nd place: Panasonic NN-DS596M microwave oven (27,990 rubles)

This is a compact microwave with oven function. The high cost is due to the interesting cooking possibilities in this microwave oven: it uses grill, steam, microwaves, baking, and also combines the above tasks.

The dish can be steamed first and then fried. The inverter magnetron ensures uniform heating of any dish.

Among the "pluses" are also: high-quality defrosting and self-cleaning of the chamber with steam.

An informative display helps in choosing an auto program and monitoring the preparation of one of 27 dishes. To set the cooking program, enter the weight of the product or the number of servings, as convenient for the user. For defrosting - weight or time. A special container is provided for condensate. Pleasant bonuses: convenient baking sheet, non-stick coating of the chamber, child lock.

• Control type - electronic clock (push-button);
• Chamber volume - 27 l;
• Microwave power - 1000 W;
• Hinged type door, opens with a handle;
• Camera coating - non-stick;
• Weight - 16.4 kg;
• Height - 34.7 cm;
• Width - 51.2 cm;
• Depth - 40 cm;
• Odor removal mode;
• Autocook;
• 3 combined modes: grill + convection;
• microwaves + grill, microwaves + convection;
• Defrost mode.

Advantages of the Panasonic NN-DS596M model:

• high power;
• inverter;
• power control;
• functional;
• button control;
• non-stick coating of the chamber;
• the presence of a grill;
• many recipes;
• capacity;
• steam self-cleaning;
• cooks quickly;
• defrosts well;
• there is a child lock;
• Beautiful design;
• compactness;
• LED lightening;
• container for condensate.

Cons (according to user reviews):

• high price;
• grill only at the top;
• own recipes cannot be memorized;
• no glass tray
• poor coating of the baking sheet.

1st place: LG MW23R35GIH (from 9490 rubles)

The main advantage of the model is the Smart Inverter magnetron, which provides uniform heating and defrosting of products. The manufacturer claims that this part will stably last at least 10 years. The oven is endowed with many basic and additional modes, including frying, baking, making yogurt.

LG MW23R35GIH is easy to operate, has good backlight, sound notification and child lock. The easy-to-clean EasyClean coating prevents scratches and grease from sticking to the chamber walls, and also has antibacterial properties.

• Type of control - electronic, touch,
• Chamber - 23 l,
• Microwave power - 1000 W,
• The door is opened with a handle
• Chamber coating - LG EasyClean bioceramic enamel,
• Weight - 9.4 kg,
• Height - 27.2 cm,
• Width - 47.6 cm,
• Depth - 34.6 cm,
• Sound signal,
• Backlight.

Advantages of LG MW23R35GIH microwave oven:

• number of modes;
• powerful;
• convenient touch control;
• high quality defrosting;
• does not overheat;
• uniform heating;
• good camera depth;
• light;
• design;
• a memo about the modes on the case;
• key lock;
• cleans well.

Buyers note the following disadvantages of this model:

• price;
• no convection;
• no grill;
• low information content of the display;
• the sound cannot be turned off.

Microwave oven Samsung GE88SUB (8160 rub.)

The novelty of 2019, released by one of the market leaders, Samsung, has a power of 800 W with an optimal chamber size of 23 liters.

As befits the brainchild of such an eminent manufacturer, the oven has electronic control and a number of nice additions to the main functionality. For example, the upper grill expands the capabilities of the oven and allows you to evenly distribute microwaves, the chamber lighting helps to control the readiness of dishes, a sound signal notifies the hostess about the completion of cooking.

Button control is rather a plus of this model, as some users of other similar devices complain about touch control.

In this model, you may be surprised by the ease of cleaning the chamber and the deodorizing mode.

Specifications:

• Type of control - electronic;
• Chamber - 23 l;
• Microwave power - 800 W (6 levels);
• The door opens with a button;
• Chamber coating - bioceramic enamel;
• Weight - 12 kg;
• Height - 27.5 cm;
• Width - 49 cm;
• Depth - 34.4 cm;
• Sound signal;
• Backlight.

Clear advantages:

• decent power;
• volume chamber;
• there is an upper grill;
• uniform heating;
• odor removal;
• easy-to-clean inner coating;
• pushbutton switches.

Notable disadvantages:

• high price;
• no convection.

Summing up

For a family living in a modern urban rhythm, a microwave oven is a good help. And in the country, this smart device will not hurt. According to user reviews, the main thing for most of them is that the microwave oven heats up food quickly and efficiently. When buying a microwave, most users pay attention to the price. However, a very expensive model with a large set of functions comes in second place in the ranking. Touch models with a high degree of automation are gaining popularity and becoming the favorites of buyers.

But for cooking, modern housewives are increasingly choosing not a traditional stove - but convenient and often automatic, and. A high degree of automation, on the one hand, does not allow to interfere in the process, and on the other hand, it does not allow spoiling the result. But there is one unwritten rule for any cooking: not only food, but also water should be of high quality: ordinary tap water is usually not clean enough for us, it is recommended.

Updated July 2019

Microwave ovens have long and firmly entered the life of modern man. Without them, the home kitchen seems not quite complete, and at work, a lunch break is rarely complete without a “pilgrimage” to the microwave. The device is useful, convenient and practical. However, there are many varieties both in external data and in characteristics. When choosing the best microwave oven, certain difficulties can arise, but they can be easily avoided if the process is approached competently and competently. One of the most rational ways of self-preparation is to familiarize yourself with our current rating.

What is the best microwave to buy?

Before choosing the best microwave oven models, decide what features the microwave oven you need should have. So, there are microwave ovens that use:

• only microwave waves (they are also called solo)
• Microwaves plus grill function (there are heating elements and quartz grills)
• Microwaves plus grill and convection functions

Furnaces in which only high frequency waves good for reheating food and defrosting food. To heat up a dish in a plate, you do not need to add oil, as when using a frying pan. Electromagnetic waves penetrate the product to a depth of 2.5 cm, causing the movement of polar molecules (for example, water), and when the movement of the molecules is accelerated, the temperature rises. A heated dish becomes as fragrant as a freshly cooked one, and a defrosted product remains fresh in appearance.

Microwaves equipped with grill function, you can fry meat, fish, chicken, cook pizza and a whole range of other dishes, getting the crust so loved by many, inaccessible using only microwaves.

Furnaces with built-in both grill and convection functions suitable for baking. The even distribution of hot air inside the chamber allows you to achieve results that can be compared in quality to baked goods cooked in the oven.

Therefore, before buying, think about what you need a microwave oven for. If you plan to only reheat and defrost food in it, then why pay more and purchase an oven with a large set of functions? And vice versa, microwave ovens with a grill and convection are the best option for those who plan to cook a variety of dishes often and at the same time want to save kitchen space as much as possible: a lot of useful devices in one! The difference between the cost of ovens with only microwaves, microwaves with waves and a grill and appliances with waves, a grill and convection is noticeable at first glance: the more functions, the higher the price.

It would seem that everyone knows everything about the "microwave". The device has long settled in our kitchens. It's kind of awkward without it. It is inconvenient to quickly warm up, defrost food. Some even cook delicious meals in the microwave. However, no matter how familiar a microwave oven may seem to us, when choosing it in a store, you should take into account a few points, 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 already difficult to imagine our life. It seems that its importance in everyday life is not too great. It's not a washing machine, not a refrigerator. But remember that you need to heat up the soup without a “microwave” in a saucepan, and not immediately in a plate. The fact that meat without a microwave oven is defrosted for half a day. 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 considered when buying a "microwave".

Brief historical background

The first mass-produced microwave oven appeared in 1947 in the USA. It was produced by Raytheon by order of the US Department of Defense - for quick defrosting of food in soldiers' canteens. The same company originally developed it. The "father" of the microwave oven is the engineer of this company, Percy Lebaron Spencer. The stove cost about $3,000 (very expensive in those days), weighed 340 kg, was as tall as a man, and had a power of up to 3 kW. A few years later, the first desktop microwave oven was released in the United States, which cost about $ 500. Also, since 1952, microwave ovens have been manufactured in Japan (a patent was bought in the USA). In the USSR, the 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 in our country only devices were assembled from Japanese components.

How it works

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 using microwaves. The radiation source is a high-voltage vacuum device - a magnetron. A high voltage must be applied to the magnetron filament - 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 power of the magnetron is approximately 700-1000 watts. To cool the magnetron, there is a fan next to it that continuously blows air over it. The fan provides forced convection of air in the cavity of the oven with its simultaneous heating (from the magnetron), which contributes to the uniformity of heating (cooking, baking) products.

The microwaves produced by the magnetron enter the oven - to the products - through the waveguide. This is a channel with metal walls that reflect microwave radiation. The door of the "microwave oven" has a complex design. It should provide the user with a view (of what is happening inside the oven) and exclude microwaves from escaping to the 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 furnace cavity, small perforations (less than 3 mm) do not transmit microwave radiation. A seal made of dielectric material is mounted along the perimeter of the door.

How food is heated

To heat food using microwaves, it is necessary to have dipole molecules in it, that is, those that have a positive electric 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 an electric field, they line up strictly in the direction of the field lines of force, "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, the molecules turn at a frantic frequency and “rub” against each other. The heat released in this process is what causes the food to heat up. Heating of products occurs due to heating of the surface layer by microwaves and further penetration of heat into the depth of the food due to thermal conductivity. Boiling water in a "microwave" is not the same as in a kettle, where heat is supplied to the water only from below. Microwave heating comes from all directions. In the "microwave" water will reach the boiling point, but there will be no bubbles.

Is microwave radiation dangerous?

It has been proven that microwaves (microwave radiation) do not have any radioactive effect on biological tissues and food. Cooking with microwaves requires very little fat, so food cooked with microwaves is healthier and does not pose any danger to humans. The design of modern furnaces provides for stringent measures to prevent radiation from escaping to the outside. Direct exposure to microwaves (eg on human skin) may cause burns. But such risks are completely absent with the correct operation of a serviceable microwave oven. Microwaves decay very quickly in the atmosphere. And already at a distance of half a meter from the "microwave" radiation becomes 100 times weaker. It is enough to move away from the furnace at arm's length, and you can feel completely safe (although there is no danger near a serviceable furnace).

Furnace types

Modern microwave ovens come in monofunctional (solo models) - only with the microwave function. They are useful for those who rarely eat at home, suitable for office kitchens. They can be used to reheat and defrost any food, to cook simple meals.

Microwave ovens with a grill are also sold in stores (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 (a metal tube, a spiral, with a heating element inside) or a quartz one (tightly twisted wire made of a heat-resistant alloy of nickel and chromium, which is placed in a quartz glass tube). Grill-TEN is located in the upper part of the working chamber of the "microwave oven", under the "ceiling".

There are models of ovens in which the grill is movable. It can go down, move to the back wall. If the grill is movable, it is easy to evenly fry the product, it is easier to keep the upper part of the oven working chamber clean.

A quartz grill is usually stationary. It is located not under, but in the "ceiling" of the working chamber, which serves to save 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, quartz is on top, and on the bottom or on the side of the heating element.

There are also multifunctional (or combined) microwave ovens on sale. In addition to microwaves and grill, there is a convection mode, as well as combined modes. Behind the wall of the inner chamber of such a microwave oven is a fan. It pumps hot air and the dish, blown with heat from all sides, is evenly baked, covered with a golden crust, as if cooked on a spit. In an oven with this function, you can bake everything that is in the oven - up to puff pastries. There are also ovens with a microwave function, with a grill, with convection and with steam food processing (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 oven”. If you are going to mainly warm up and defrost - take a solo model. Do you sometimes like to have hot sandwiches for breakfast? Then buy an oven with a grill. If you are going to cook various dishes in the oven, take a combination oven with convection.

The volume of the working chamber

Also, before buying, you should definitely consider how much microwave you need. This refers to the volume (capacity) of the working chamber of the device. This figure can vary from 13 to 42 liters. In the smallest stoves - up to 20 liters - there is enough space for a small chicken or a plate of food. For a bachelor or a family of 2, this is enough. If there are more eaters or friends often come to the fire, 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 up a large amount of food at a time 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 is still possible to break it with careless handling), it is mounted on a special rotating rod and “lays down” 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 the diameter of the turntable. Meet in sales and models without a turntable (but quite rare).

Power level

The power of a microwave oven is an important performance characteristic of the appliance. It depends on the power level, in many respects, how quickly the oven can cook a dish, heat up the product. The larger the volume of the working chamber, the greater, as a rule, the power of the microwave oven. In modern models, the power can be adjusted. Set the minimum value, average, maximum (can be up to 10 levels, depending on the model). Microwave power in most modern household microwave ovens is 700-1000 watts. Grill and convection have their own power levels (here, with rare exceptions, power level correction is not available).

Uniform microwave distribution system

In order for the microwaves to be evenly distributed in the working chamber, and not concentrated only on one part of the dish, many modern “microwave ovens” have several (two or three) sources of microwave radiation. They emit beams of waves in different directions, which, being repeatedly reflected from the walls, are evenly distributed throughout the entire internal space of the furnace.

Inverter microwave ovens

Stores now sell inverter microwave ovens. In such furnaces, the power of the magnetron decreases and increases smoothly. The magnetron does not turn off (and in “ordinary” furnaces, the scheme of its operation is discrete - it works intermittently and, when turned on, always “gives out” the full power set by the user). The continuous "soft" penetration of microwave energy into the product in such an oven helps to preserve its texture and nutritional properties, such ovens are more economical and durable.

Software

A few words about the main cooking programs implemented in modern "microwaves". Automatic cooking is the recipes for cooking various dishes stored in the oven's memory. These are oven operation algorithms that are relevant for cooking 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 through the control system, enter the weight of the product, leave the rest to the oven. The number of automatic cooking modes in different models may vary. 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 is convenient not to guess how long it will take to defrost a particular product. Just select the type of product, enter its weight, put the product into 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, at what power the defrosting will take place.

Defrost can be "normal" - not automatic. In this case, you set the defrost time yourself. In principle, you can defrost food in any “microwave oven”, even in one where the “Defrost” program is not provided 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-defrost. 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 much time it will take to heat up, for example, a bowl of soup, at what power to produce it. There can be several auto-heating programs - for different products.

Microwave + Grill mode. In this combined mode, the dishes are evenly baked and with a golden crust. "Microwaves + Convection" - food is cooked faster, retains the natural taste and appearance of products to a greater extent, more vitamins are stored in them. It is especially good to cook dough products with a large amount of liquid, wet ingredients in this mode (patties with vegetable, fruit or berry filling). "Grill + Convection" - a mode for cooking crispy and fried dishes. Good also for baking.

Steam oven cleaning. The program is relevant only for "microwave ovens" 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 dirt. To start the program, you just need to pour water into a special container provided by the design of the stove, add detergent and activate the process by pressing a button. It usually takes 10-15 minutes to clean up.

Microwave control

In modern microwave ovens, electromechanical, push-button and touch control are distinguished. Electromechanics are two rotary regulators. One sets the power and mode of operation. Others - the time of the furnace. Most often, this control is used in solo ovens and grill ovens. Electromechanical control - simple, clear, convenient.

Push-button control allows you to more finely program the operation of the furnace. Usually, the power level, mode, cooking time are set by one or more clicks on one or another button. All settings, as a rule, are reflected on the display (most modern microwave ovens, except ovens with electromechanical control, have it). The only negative is that dirt can clog under the buttons over time - it can be difficult to wash it out from there.

Touch electronic control. In fact, these are the same buttons, only "recessed" in the case. There are many such models in stores - this is now the most popular type of microwave oven control. It is understandable, because the touch control is very convenient - all settings are carried out with light touches of the fingers on the sensors. There are no problems when cleaning, because the touch control panel is a flat surface. There are furnaces with a combined control system (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 one or two rotary programmers are also present (often they are recessed), but the result of the manipulation (rotation of the programmer) is displayed. 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 the microwave oven can be with enameled walls - the cheapest option. Enamel is good because it is easy to wash and clean. But prolonged high temperatures of such a surface are contraindicated. Therefore, this coating is used in inexpensive ovens (usually only solo models). Stainless steel (another option for the inner walls) withstands the “hottest” conditions provided for in a microwave oven. But it's harder to keep clean. To bring shine to the "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 a ceramic or bioceramic coating. It is durable, smooth (and therefore easy to clean), resistant to scratches and deposits.

Microwave equipment

In addition to the device itself and the instruction manual, the package of delivery of any modern microwave oven includes additional accessories. These are, for example, high and low grills for frying (relevant for ovens with a grill and multifunctional ones, both can be included in the kit, or maybe one, usually high). Also, the delivery set may include various pallets, dishes, a skewer, a stand for baby bottles. If you choose a microwave oven with a large chamber, it is not bad if it comes with a "multi-story" plate rack to heat food for several people at once. There are ovens with containers for baking bread, with a set of dishes for steaming dishes. It is better to stock up in advance with special utensils for cooking in a microwave oven. Under microwave radiation, you can put any dishes, even paper cups. The main thing - no metal! Under the action of microwaves, even the golden rims on cups and plates begin to sparkle.

Main manufacturers

Microwave ovens are now produced by many well-known and not so famous companies. However, perhaps not all can be attributed to the main manufacturers, but those who have long and well established themselves in this segment. In stores, pay attention to ovens from 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, digital electronics. Here you can get acquainted with the main performance characteristics of the devices, find out the opinion of other users about them or leave your own review. You can also compare prices for the equipment you need in various Russian online stores. Choose, buy, use!

Currently, it is by no means a rarity and not a shortage. These smart devices are in many families. That is why the answer to the question of how to choose a microwave oven is not particularly difficult. In this case, you only need to decide what you want from this household appliance, how much money you have.

Perhaps, by purchasing a microwave, you will completely stop using a gas stove? After all, all the smells from cooking will not go beyond this kitchen assistant. In addition, foods that have been cooked in a microwave oven retain more vitamins than when boiled or fried on a conventional stove. In this case, the dishes are prepared much faster.

It’s a completely different matter if you will be heating, cooking and defrosting food both in the microwave and on the stove. In this case, you can purchase a conventional microwave oven.

What are microwave ovens?

Modern household stoves are divided into three categories. The first of these includes devices in which only microwaves are used to heat food. These include microwave ovens "solo". In the second type of devices, a grill is provided. They are also heated by microwaves. In the third category, there is a combination of grilling, microwaves, and also convection. There is another special kind of kitchen appliances. These are developed by Panasonic. Before deciding which microwave to choose, you need to familiarize yourself in detail with the existing types of kitchen assistants.

microwave device

Microwave ovens "solo" are the most simple. That is why they belong to products of a low price category. Such ovens are equipped only with microwaves. This makes it possible to use them exclusively for heating and defrosting food. The dishes that you can cook using this device will be an amateur. In fact, the products are boiled in this oven in their own juice.

It is impossible to bake them in such a device. If you need a microwave only for warming up, defrosting, and also for preparing the most simple dishes (for example, boiled potatoes), then the “solo” option will suit you. It does not make sense to overpay for additional features (grill and convection) if these functions are not used.

Microwaves combined with a grill

The second category includes devices equipped with additional functions. This is, for example, a microwave oven with a grill. Customer reviews testify to the great capabilities of the device. In such an oven, you can bake meat, as well as poultry, make toast sandwiches and much more. The grill, which is an additional function in such devices, is produced in two types. The first of them is a heating element, and the second is a quartz one. Each type has its own advantages. Each of them also has disadvantages.

Many microwave ovens are equipped with a heating element grill. It is a tube with a heating element inside. It is located in the working chamber, or rather, in its upper part. There are movable heating elements grills. They move easily. At the same time, they can be installed either obliquely or vertically. This is especially convenient when preparing various dishes in the grill mode. A chamber with a movable heating element is much easier to clean. Models of microwave ovens have been developed, where, in addition to the upper grill, there is also a lower one.

Reviews of microwave ovens equipped with a quartz lamp indicate the compactness of the placement of the heating device.

Such a grill is located on the upper wall of the appliance. This allows you to increase the usable space of the inner chamber. A quartz grill is more economical and can quickly gain operating power. At the same time, the effect of cooking in such a microwave oven resembles the effect of an open fire.

Appliances with convection, microwaves and grill

This is a cooking technique that belongs to the third category. A convection microwave oven is the choice of those buyers who want to get a wide range of possibilities from the appliance. Such models are equipped with a grill and a built-in fan. There is also an annular type heating element in the devices. When you turn on the microwave, the fan starts to work. Its functions include uniform distribution of heated air inside the chamber. Thanks to this action, the products are fried and baked. If you do not know how to choose a microwave oven, then look at the reviews of customers who have already purchased these models. Consumers highly appreciated the wide opportunities that their use provides. In the device, which combines microwave, convection and grill modes, you can not only stew meat and bake chicken with high quality, but also fry pies.

And this is not a complete list of the dishes that such a microwave oven can cook. Manufacturers indicate the possibility of these models to become an equal replacement for the oven.

Inverter household ovens

Panasonic uses advanced technologies that have found their application in the creation of equipment. One of them is inverter. The principle of this technology lies in the installation of a certain mechanism that allows a gradual increase or decrease in the output power of the furnace. In other types of microwaves, this process controls the pulse mode.

Cooking in inverter ovens takes less time. At the same time, the products warm up more naturally and retain their texture and nutritional characteristics as much as possible. This is made possible by the gentle penetration of microwave energy. Inverter ovens also have a large chamber volume, as they are equipped with compact parts.

microwave control type

Models of microwave ovens currently produced can be equipped with mechanical or sensor systems. The type of control depends on the complexity of the model. How to choose a microwave oven? What type of management is preferred? Each of them has its own specific advantages and disadvantages. Thus, mechanical control involves the use of only mechanics. The stove is only equipped with rotary knobs. With their help, a specific grill mode, power level is selected, and the time on the timer is set. This system is more reliable in operation. At the same time, its disadvantage is manual control and independent selection of the necessary parameters.

The instruction manual for a microwave oven equipped with a touch display indicates the presence of great opportunities and functions in cooking. It is no coincidence that such models of kitchen appliances are very popular among consumers today. A microwave oven equipped with a touch control panel has a more attractive appearance. Its main advantage is the ability to accurately set the required time and parameters for preparing a variety of dishes. However, mechanical control is considered more reliable in operation.

Recently, the most modern models of microwaves have been produced. They are equipped not only with electronic control, but also with the possibility of dialogue with the owner. The main advantages of these developments are a minimum of buttons with a large number of operating modes.

Microwave volume

Before answering the question of how to choose a microwave oven, you need to decide on the basic parameters of the device. One of them is the useful volume of the chamber. There are various models on the market. Their volumes can range from thirteen to forty-two liters. There is a certain pattern between this parameter and the type of microwave oven. Microwaves of the "solo" category are usually small in size. Their volumes, as a rule, are not more than twenty-five liters. Microwaves equipped with convection and grill have larger dimensions. Their volume usually exceeds twenty-eight liters.

How to choose a microwave oven? Reviews of Russian consumers speak of the greatest popularity of devices with a volume of twenty-seven liters. When buying an oven, you should also pay attention to the diameter of the existing pallet. It contains dishes. The larger the pallet, the more products can fit on it.

Power consumption of the microwave oven

Generally, all types of microwave ovens consume a very large amount of electricity. The leaders in this matter are models equipped with convection and grill. When using all these functions, the summation of power occurs at the same time. In this regard, when deciding how to choose a household microwave oven, it is necessary to take into account its energy intensity. You need to check the wiring in the house. A three-functional device will need at least ten amperes.

Internal coating

A special material must be applied to the surface of the wall in the working chamber. Most often, enamel is used to cover microwave ovens. It is strong and smooth. At the same time, such material is easy to clean.

Currently, special coatings that are more resistant to thermal effects and damage are being developed. They are more convenient to clean. So, LG has specially developed an antibacterial coating for microwave ovens. Samsung also presents new technologies in its models. She developed a bioceramic coating.

In premium microwave ovens, the walls of the chamber are made of stainless steel. This material is the most resistant to damage and high temperatures. That is why such a coating is more durable and reliable.

Additional functions and modes of operation

The choice of a kitchen helper model should be based on many parameters. You should pay attention to additional functions and modes of operation of the device. Many models of microwaves are equipped with automatic heating programs. Moreover, they are designed for certain types of products. The same functions exist for automatic defrosting and cooking. They are designed for the set of products that is most commonly encountered.

Some models of microwaves have the ability to create their own programs. Subsequently, they can be entered into the memory of the device. This is convenient if the standard programs do not meet your culinary needs.

An additional function of almost all microwave ovens is a sound signal. It indicates the end of the device. In some models, the signal is continuous. Some types of ovens are equipped with short repetitive bells.

The choice of microwave may also depend on the presence of an audio timer in it. It is not related to the operation of the device, but helps the user to detect the time required for culinary activities.

Some companies (for example, LG) complete their microwave ovens with steamers. This appliance has a stainless steel lid that prevents microwaves from penetrating the food. The main function of the device is to heat the water in the lower compartment and turn it into steam. Samsung appliance models make it possible to cook simultaneously on two levels. Equipped with a steam dish function, the LG microwave oven has a special feature - even eggs can be cooked in it.

The manufacturer can equip the device with a multi-level grill for plates. This device will allow you to heat up more dishes. The plates will then be stacked one on top of the other.

Embedded appliances

Most people associate microwave ovens with appliances that take up a lot of space on the table. However, many manufacturers began to produce devices in a different design. does not reduce the working space of the kitchen. It is located, as a rule, in kitchen furniture. At the same time, much-needed space is saved on the table. In addition, if the oven is placed at eye level, it will greatly facilitate the loading and removal of products from it.

The main thing that built-in microwave ovens need is to provide enough airflow to remove heat. Otherwise, the device may overheat and fail.

Always equipped with a cooling fan. And for the operation of the device to be as efficient as possible, you should leave a gap between the microwave and the back wall. Such a space is necessary for the unhindered inflow of cold and outflow of heated air.

Placement can be done in a variety of ways. Sometimes the appliance is suspended above the desktop, and sometimes it forms a column with the oven. The microwave can be built in among the drawers of kitchen furniture. In any case, the location of the device is a matter of taste of the owners.

Many models of free-standing microwave ovens can be built into kitchen furniture. For this, special frames are made. They are available in a variety of colors to match your kitchen design.

Microwave ovens

Currently, Daewoo is the undisputed leader among manufacturers of household appliances. At the same time, the company's products have a number of distinctive features. So, Daewoo microwave ovens combine low price and decent performance. Among the models there are devices "solo", as well as more versatile equipment.

All Daewoo microwave ovens have a stylish design. Consumers like their ease of operation and high power. The company has developed a wide range of devices. At the same time, all types of furnaces can be seen on sale - from “solo” to combined ones. Some buyers note a small number of additional features. However, in this matter, you should rely on your own needs. At the same time, it is worth remembering that the microwave ovens of this company are distinguished by high build quality.

The Daewoo company offers its customers interesting models. So, some types of microwaves are equipped with pizza cooking functions. There are models that allow you to bake pancakes.

For cooking homemade pizza or heating frozen food in such ovens, a special compartment is provided. In this regard, several dishes can be placed in such devices at once. This saves a lot of time and energy.

Daewoo has developed a universal heating system. It's called 3D Power. Such ovens are equipped with not two, but three heating elements. They are located above, below and on the sides of the working chamber.

Models are produced in which forced convection is carried out. This allows air to circulate evenly in the working chamber. Grill-equipped models will help you cook food with a crispy crust. The company also offers solo ovens. The choice of such devices is recommended to those consumers who see the main purpose of the equipment in heating and defrosting food.

One of the most popular models is KOR-6L05. The device has a chamber volume of twenty liters. It is free standing but doesn't take up much space. Such a microwave oven will serve as a wonderful helper for a young family. The power consumption of the device is small. It is 700 watts. In such ovens there is no grill and convection, but five recipes are stored in memory. This model has a child lock. The cooking process allows you to control the illumination of the chamber.

LG microwave ovens

Household appliances of this company are represented by a wide range of models. It includes over sixty different options. Among them are compact devices "solo" and ovens with convection and grill. All LG models are popular among modern housewives, as they are convenient, reliable and economical. At the same time, they allow you to cook high-quality and tasty dishes.

The LG microwave oven is a truly versatile appliance. With it, you can cook, defrost and fry food, while getting the most delicious food.

Some models of microwave ovens are equipped with programs called "Kitchens of the World". Their use allows the hostess to cook dishes of any country. The popularity of LG stoves lies in their belonging to the middle price category. This allows them to become a desirable purchase for many.

Convection ovens are a functional development. In them, heat is evenly distributed over the entire surface of the working chamber. This creates the necessary conditions for the preparation of only high-quality dishes.

Worthy of attention are microwave ovens of the company, in which all three functions are present - microwaves, convection and grill. Such devices are universal. They will not only help you cook a variety of dishes, but also bake delicious confectionery.

Microwave devices "Supra"

Supra microwave ovens are made in Japan. They are to the liking of our consumers, who appreciate the convenient operation, high functionality and reasonable price of the device.

Equipped with Supra ovens with touch buttons. In this case, all processes occurring in the working chamber are reflected on the display. In order to provide visual control of cooking, the models are equipped with backlight. An audible signal notifies the hostess of the end of the process. In the event that there is no possibility to control the cooking time, care is entrusted to the timer. It can be set for one hundred minutes. Children can play with the microwave oven. To prevent this, there is a special blocking function. The advantage of the Supra microwave oven is its careful attitude to the aroma and appearance of the dish. At the same time, the device allows you to quickly and efficiently prepare even delicious delicacies.

Utensils for microwave devices

Kitchenware stores offer a wide range of special containers that can be used to heat food. The plate for the microwave oven is made of glass, ceramics. It can be made of special plastic. If the house has porcelain or faience plates, you can use them as well. The only utensils that should not be put in the microwave are metal.

Some nuances are also important. It is necessary that there are no silver or gold patterns on the dishes, since the paints with which they are drawn contain metal.