Microwave ovens are all about convenience. Whether you want to reheat leftovers, make tea or coffee, cook a fresh meal or just make popcorn for a movie marathon, no other appliance makes it as easy as a microwave. To find the most suitable microwave, consider the types available and the capacity, before deciding on additional features.

Types of Microwave Ovens

Solo

A solo microwave oven is a basic or entry-level model. Solo microwave ovens are cheaper when compared to other microwave models, like grill or convection.

Grill microwave ovens

Grill microwave ovens are provided with additional grilling accessories. The microwave and grill functions can run simultaneously to make delicious grills in minutes. The grill microwave has heating coils that help in grilling, toasting or roasting.

Convection

A convection microwave has a fan that circulates heatwaves efficiently so that food can be cooked or baked faster and uniformly. Once the type of dish (code) is selected, along with its weight, the oven will automatically set the power and cooking time.

What should you look for when buying a Countertop Microwave Oven

Budget

Solo microwave ovens are cheaper when compared to other microwave models such as grill or convection. Solo microwave ovens are entry-level models for simple/limited cooking. Some countertop models are available with kits that give you a built-in look for less. Depending on your kitchen, you can choose from the countertop, over-the-range, and built-in microwaves that best suits your budget.

Space and location

To find the most suitable microwave, consider the types available and the capacity. The best large microwave we tested is 22 inches wide and 19 inches deep.

Type

Micro ovens are entry-level models for simple/limited cooking. Some countertop models are available with kits that give you a built-in look for less.

Auto cook menu

The Auto Cook Menu feature has preset programs to simplify the preparation of a variety of recipes. You can also program this mode manually by setting the power level and time.

Child lock

A convection microwave has a fan that circulates heatwaves efficiently. The oven will automatically set the power and cooking time.

Rotisserie

Typically, Microwave Ovens are provided with additional grilling accessories such as heating coils which help in grilling, toasting or roasting.

Defrost

Microwave Ovens have a fan that circulates heatwaves efficiently. It automatically set the power and cooking time allowing for the defrost function to unfreeze food quickly.

Timer

Microwave and grill functions can run simultaneously to make delicious grills in minutes. The Auto Cook Menu feature has preset programs to simplify the preparation of a variety of recipes.

Conclusion

Whether you want to warm leftovers, make soup, tea or coffee, make instant snacks like popcorn, or cook some kebabs or paneer tikka, no other appliance makes it as easy as a microwave. Think about the space and location where the microwave works best for you and about available space. Depending on your kitchen, you can choose from the countertop, over-the-range, and built-in microwaves.