Modern microwave ovens now combine speed and smarts as manufacturers try to produce appliances that offer utmost versatility. Microwaves today serve as secondary ovens and automatic cooking implements for more than just a bag of popcorn. Some include convection and slow cooking options for home cooks who want the added capability without the need for a space-consuming and expensive to maintain wall or a double oven.
Microwaves nowadays can take on a growing number of tasks, from speed cooking to browning to other premium perks that busy families demand for. There are numerous types and sizes of microwave ovens available in the market. Countertop models often cost the least but often take the most space, while compact models offer the space advantage at the cost of some cooking capacities. Midsize to large models seem to be the best choice if you want the best features and the added capacity.
When shopping for a 220 volt microwave oven, be realistic about features and extras you wish to purchase with the machine. Decide whether or not you truly need grilling, browning, convection, and slow cook features. You don’t want to pay extra for features and functions that you won’t use anyway. Additionally, you can’t expect these add-ons to replace the cooking capabilities of your actual grill or range boiler, even though they do work for fast-break cooking. Think twice about investing in features, shortcuts, and conveniences that you may not use in the long run.
Power rating is another thing to consider, especially if you are conscious about energy consumption. Midsize to large ovens typically use 850 to 1200 watts of energy, while compact units are rated at 600 to 800 watts. More watts usually mean more cooking power, although it should be noted that a 100 watt-difference does not matter much.
