Microwave Oven vs. Microwave Oven Convection: Buying Guide

Here’s the modern kitchen dilemma we've all faced at some point: choosing between a microwave oven and its expensive cousin, the microwave oven convection.

Can a microwave oven convection do wonders in the kitchen, or is a traditional microwave oven all you need? Spoiler alert: It's not a one-size-fits-all answer.

Let's see what we can scrape-off from the microwave vs oven battle.

Understanding the differences between the two is crucial, especially if you’re someone who takes your cooking needs seriously. Do you need to warm up leftovers, or are you planning to dabble in culinary magic? Either way, the stakes are high, and your choices could spell the difference between mealtime bliss and dinnertime distress.

That is why we’ve curated this buying guide. We’ll talk about the features, crunch the numbers on pricing, and serve up some real talk on utility. Because, let's face it, an informed decision here could be the secret ingredient to culinary success. 

What is a Microwave Oven and Microwave Oven Convection?

Microwave Oven

A microwave oven uses electromagnetic waves to heat food. These microwaves activate the water molecules in your food, essentially steaming it from the inside out. You can defrost that chicken you forgot to take out earlier, melt butter for your baking adventures, or even "bake" a potato. 

But here's the real kicker: "microwave oven convection means" more than just heating things; it also implies a combination of microwave and convection cooking—more on that later.

Common uses? Beyond reheating food and defrosting last week’s freezer finds, microwaves can be your best friend for quick-steamed veggies, melting chocolate, or even making a mug cake when the midnight cravings hit.

Key features to look out for include power settings, turntables for even cooking (no one likes a hot spot, right?), and quick-touch controls for those who could be more patient. Some even come with preset cooking modes like 'popcorn', 'pizza', and 'beverage'.

Microwave Oven Convection 

So, how does this appliance differ from a regular microwave? Imagine tasting a microwave's fast-cooking goodness and marrying it with the crispy, brown deliciousness that only an oven can deliver. Well, that’s precisely what a convection microwave does. 

It's a microwave oven convection combo. We're talking fan-assisted heating that circulates air around your food, giving it that divine, oven-cooked texture minus the wait time. That's right, this advanced cooking marvel can roast, bake, and brown. 

Unique features? Some models come with a grill function. So not only can you reheat last night’s pasta, but you can also grill some succulent chicken or crispy bacon. Other bonus features may include smart sensor cooking, a ceramic enamel interior, or a deodorisation setting. Because no one likes a microwave that smells like yesterday’s fish dinner, am I right?

As for the types of cooking it’s best for, this versatile appliance can handle anything from baking cookies to cooking a whole chicken. It's your go-to for one-appliance meals. Imagine this: roasting vegetables while you microwave the rest of dinner. Yep, it’s kitchen multitasking at its finest.

Price Comparison 

An introductory microwave oven price starts from as low as $50.  But as you climb the feature ladder, you can easily venture into the $200 to $300 range. 

Now, the convection type? You usually look at a $200 minimum; the sky's the limit, with some premium models touching a grand. 

But here’s the scoop. 

What looks like an investment upfront could turn into the most cost-effective decision you've made for your kitchen. The extra bucks you drop on a convection microwave could save you time, effort, and even electricity bills in the long run.

Now, what factors affect the price? We're talking about brand names, power output, smart features, and sometimes colour. Yes, that sleek stainless steel look or the retro vibe can cost you extra. But, if you're going for long-term value over short-term savings, don’t skimp on features you'll use.

Features Face-Off 

Here are the epic features face-off between the traditional microwave oven and the microwave oven convection: 

Element	Microwave Oven	Microwave Oven Convection
Basic Functionality	Heating and defrosting	Heating, defrosting, grilling, baking, roasting
User-Friendly	Yes	Yes, but with more features
Special Features	Grill with rotisserie option	Built-in fan for convection mode
Cooking Modes	Basic cooking and reheating	Advanced cooking with convection mode, combo cooking
Heat Distribution	Turntables and mode stirrers	Fan-assisted for even cooking
Time Efficiency	Quick for simple tasks	Time-saving when using combo modes
Versatility	Limited but reliable	Highly versatile for various cooking needs
Price Point	Generally more budget-friendly	Higher initial cost, but offers more features
Best For	Everyday cooking, reheating, defrosting	Gourmet dishes, multi-functional cooking, meal prep
Culinary Wow Factor	Grill options add some flair	Oven-baked finish, tantalizingly mouth-watering benefits

Making The Decision: What's Right For You?

The Ultimate Checklist

Here comes your ultimate checklist for making this important lifestyle choice.

 

Budget: How much are you willing to spend? Solo microwaves are generally cheaper, but a convection microwave could offer better value long-term.

Cooking Habits: Are you an “instant noodles and leftovers” person, or do you have culinary aspirations to be the next Ina Garten?

Space: Convection microwaves are usually larger. Do you have enough kitchen counter?

Features: Need a grill? Rotisserie? Or are you okay with just reheating and defrosting?

Utility: Daily usage vs. special occasions—what ticks your box?

Time: Are you always racing against the clock, or do you enjoy taking your time in the kitchen?

Tech-savvy: Some convection models come with all the bells and whistles, like touch panels and preset menus. Do you need them, or is a simple knob good enough?

Your Quick Hit Guide:

We all know the kitchen is the heart of the home. Why not give it the love it deserves with an appliance that will make your life easier? From budget-friendly solo microwaves to sophisticated convection models, Megafurniture has an array of options just a click away. 

 

 

Recommended Readings:

"Interior Design Singapore: Best Firms for Your Next Home Renovation."

 "Your Ultimate Cheat Sheet to Renovation in Singapore: HDB Guidelines, Procedures & Tips,"

 

 

Bonus Treat: The Ultimate Comfort Food: Singaporean Chicken Curry Puffs Made Easy with Your Microwave Oven Convection

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Yields: 10-12 curry puffs

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

200g chicken breast, diced

1 large potato, peeled and diced

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon curry powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Pastry:

2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Tools:

Microwave-safe bowl

Microwave oven convection

Cooking brush

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine diced chicken, potato, and onion.
• Add the curry powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Drizzle the vegetable oil over the mixture and stir until all ingredients are coated.
• Microwave on high for 4 minutes, stirring halfway through. This will partially cook the filling.

2. Preheat Your Microwave Oven Convection:

• Preheat your microwave oven convection to 180°C (350°F).

3. Assemble the Curry Puffs:

• Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
• Cut out circles from the pastry sheets using a round cookie cutter or a glass rim.
• Place a tablespoon of the filling in the centre of each circle.
• Fold the pastry over the filling to form a half-circle.
• Crimp the edges with a fork to seal the puff.

4. Get Them Ready to Bake:

• Place the assembled curry puffs on a microwave-safe tray, leaving some space between each puff.
• Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

 

5. Bake to Perfection:

• In the preheated microwave oven convection, place the tray in the preheated microwave oven.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and the filling is fully cooked.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Allow the curry puffs to cool for a few minutes before serving.