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Microwave Buying Guide
Microwave Buying Guide
A microwave is an essential part of any modern kitchen, allowing quick, easy and convenient cooking. Whether it's a conventional or convection microwave, this Microwave Buying Guide outlines everything you need to know buy the best microwave for your home.
1. Microwave Types
Conventional Microwaves
Converts energy into microwaves that heat the food.
Fast and efficient.
Comes with pre-set menu functions for ease of use when you are in a hurry.
Convection Microwaves
Similar to a conventional microwave, but also has a heating element and fan to circulate the air around the food.
Provides more variety in cooking, allowing for browning, crisping, baking and broiling.
Microwaves can be built into the kitchen cabinets, stand alone on your kitchen bench, or fit into a specific spot, to match your existing décor. Microwave ovens also come in stainless steel, white, silver, black and an increasing array of colour options, to suit your personal style.
2. How much power do you need?
A microwave's power is measured in wattage, with typical models ranging from around 800W to 1,500W. Bigger may be better in this instance, but consider these factors before taking the plunge. Higher wattage means faster cooking food, however if you're only using it for the occasional ready meal, this may not be very important. On the other hand, a more powerful microwave may be a good idea if you're knocking up big meals for the whole family.
3. How much capacity do you need?
When deciding on which microwave to buy, you’ll need to consider the size of the product. Microwaves can range from roughly 20 litres up to 44 litres and which one you choose will depend on a variety of factors, including:
Purpose – will it be used mostly to reheat or defrost your food, or to cook larger family meals on a regular basis?
Available space in the kitchen
How much you intend to use it
Where will it be housed - on the benchtop, in a cavity?
4. Setting and Functions
If you buy a conventional microwave, chances are it will have limited functions such as heating and defrosting food. However, more advanced models may have baking, roasting and grilling options, as well as one-touch pre-programmed settings that mean you don't have to guess how long to cook your food for. Make sure to investigate the available settings and controls to gauge how easy they are to navigate, as well as the likelihood you will use them.
