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Microwave Oven

Best Microwave Ovens in India - Reviews and Comparison 2022

We picked the top 7 best microwave ovens in 2022 for your budget and use cases.

We have to agree that microwave ovens have eased our lives more than we can imagine, from heating food in a jiffy to making time-consuming food items seeming like a cakewalk. Ovens are exciting and magical equipment in a kitchen, and as much as we could be proud of having this perfect kitchen companion, buying the same can be a herculean task to many. And well, it is.

But no worry, you have every reason to be delighted that you landed here! We bring an extensive and exciting guide that will help you have a deeper insight into your next microwave.

Oven Toaster Grills

Baking Oven

UPDATED

12/7/2023

Model

Our Rating

Rating

Volume

Auto Cook Modes

Pro's & Con's

Material

Special Features

Oven Cooking Mode

Voltage

Wattage

Size of the microwave (Outer)

Auto Cook Menu

Rotisserie

Defrosting

Pre-heat

Control Panel

Timer

Child Lock

Batteries Included

Batteries Required

Warranty

20 L Convection Microwave Oven

IFB

20 L Convection Microwave Oven

20SC2

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Our Rating

9.6 / 10

11/2020

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20 liters

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24

Ideal appliance for small families
Easy to use
Safe to use
Small size cavity
Baking is average
Stainless steel
Touch Panel
Convection
230 Volts
1200 W
45.2 cm
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âś…
âś…
âś…
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❌
❌
3 years

Godrej

19 L Convection Microwave Oven

GMX 519 CP1

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Our Rating

9.5 / 10

11/2020

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19 liters

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125

Easy to use
Compact design
Jog dial to set the timer
Fragile body
Not suitable for bigger families
Stainless steel
125 insta-cook menu options
Convection
230 Volts
2000 W
45 cm
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âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
❌
❌
5 years

Samsung

23 L Solo Microwave Oven

MS23J5133AG/TL

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Our Rating

9.5 / 10

11/2020

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23 liters

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16

Easy to use
Easy to use
Value for money
Not suited for baking and grilling
Stainless steel
Auto Cook, 16 Preset Cooking Modes, Poultry, Vegetable, Fish
Solo
230 Volts
1150 W
48.9 cm
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âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
❌
❌
5 years

IFB

17 L Solo Microwave Oven

17PM MEC 1

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Our Rating

9.4 / 10

11/2020

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17 liters

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3

Lightweight
3 year warranty on magnetron and cavity
No digital controls
Powder Coated
Mechanical Knob
Solo
230 Volts
1200 W
48.9 cm
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âś…
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âś…
âś…
âś…
❌
❌
1 year

IFB

20 L Grill Microwave Oven

20PG4S

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Our Rating

9.3 / 10

11/2020

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20 liters

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11

Easy to use
Starter kit available
Energy efficient
Great performance
No digital controls
Powder Coated
Touch Panel
Grill
230 Volts
1200 W
45.2 cm
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âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
❌
❌
1 year

Bajaj

20 L Grill Microwave Oven

490036

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Our Rating

9.3 / 10

11/2020

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20 liters

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9

Energy efficient
Safe to use
Ideal for small and mid-size families
No digital controls
Baking isn't possible
Powder Coated Iron
Tact Button/Jog Dial
Grill
230 Volts
800 W
43.99 cm
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âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
❌
❌
1 year

Panasonic

20L Grill Microwave Oven

NN-GT221WF

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Our Rating

9.2 / 10

11/2020

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20 liters

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38

Easy to use
Ideal for small and mid-size families
Multiple cooking options
Limited functionalities
Not mentioned
Touch Panel
Grill
230 Volts
1000 W
NA
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âś…
âś…
âś…
âś…
❌
❌
❌
1 year

IFB

20 L Convection Microwave Oven


1

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Our Rating

9.6 / 10

11/2020

Pro's & Con's

Ideal appliance for small families
Easy to use
Safe to use
Small size cavity
Baking is average

Features

Volume

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20 liters

Auto Cook Modes

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24

Material

Stainless steel

Special Features

Touch Panel

Oven Cooking Mode

Convection

Voltage

230 Volts

Wattage

1200 W

Size of the microwave (Outer)

45.2 cm

Auto Cook Menu

âś…

Rotisserie

âś…

Defrosting

âś…

Pre-heat

âś…

Control Panel

âś…

Timer

âś…

Child Lock

âś…

Batteries Included

❌

Batteries Required

❌

Warranty

3 years

Your guides

Chitransh Waghmare

Chitransh Waghmare

Buyer's Guide - Best Microwave Ovens in India

Know all about a microwave over to buy the best one for you and your family.

1

Features: Most important purchase criteria for microwave ovens

Here's a sneak peek into the most significant features to consider before buying a microwave oven.

2

Use Cases: The best microwave for you

Which type of microwave is best for your use cases?

3

FAQ: Learn more about the details

<p>Any questions left? Here they are, including answers.</p>

4

How-To: Usage hints and care instructions for microwave ovens

<p>Best practices for microwave ovens usage and care.</p>

6

Our Picks: How we picked the best microwave ovens in India

Find out how we selected and ranked the products.

1. Features: Most important purchase criteria for microwave ovens

1.1 Types

There are mainly two types of microwave ovens, the conventional mode and the convection mode. The conventional oven further splits into solo and grill ovens. This is an equally important thing to look for alongside other important features.

  • Solo Microwave Ovens

A solo microwave is a basic microwave oven that is used for uniform heating of food, reheating and defrosting.

  • Grill Microwave Ovens

A grill microwave oven, as the name suggests, can do everything similar to a solo microwave and also grill the delicacies for you. Grill microwaves use a special grill heater and other additional accessories to operate.

  • Convection Microwave Ovens

A convection microwave oven has a fan to circulate the hot air as well as it utilizes radio-frequency energy to cook the food inside out and retain the moisture which helps in having a much better flavour. The food can be heated and baked too.

There are mainly two types of microwave ovens, the conventional mode and the convection mode. The conventional oven further splits into solo and grill ovens. This is an equally important thing to look for alongside other important features.

  • Solo Microwave Ovens

A solo microwave is a basic microwave oven that is used for uniform heating of food, reheating and defrosting.

  • Grill Microwave Ovens

A grill microwave oven, as the name suggests, can do everything similar to a solo microwave and also grill the delicacies for you. Grill microwaves use a special grill heater and other additional accessories to operate.

  • Convection Microwave Ovens

A convection microwave oven has a fan to circulate the hot air as well as it utilizes radio-frequency energy to cook the food inside out and retain the moisture which helps in having a much better flavour. The food can be heated and baked too.

1.2 Style

There are 2 styles of microwave ovens that you'll usually see in the market. They are discussed as under.

  • Countertop Microwave Ovens

Countertop microwave ovens are portable ones. Which can be placed anywhere and cooking can be done inside them.

These ovens perform many functions such as thawing frozen food, reheating and cooking tasks.

Having a 1 cubic foot capacity, these ovens normally work on a power range of up to 500 to 1000 watts. Therefore, it's advisable to have a separate electricity outlet for these, preferably with a circuit breaker. The limitation with these ovens is that they occupy a lot of space.

  • Above-Range Microwave Ovens

The above-range microwave ovens are the ideal options if you are looking to save a considerable amount of kitchen space.

Relatively new to the Indian market, these ovens are placed above the cooking range in the kitchen. They feature multispeed fans that recirculate air with the help of charcoal filters. Also, external ventilation is also not needed. Many high-end models have automatic exhaust fans that are turned on when the microwave oven turns hot from the inside.
These ovens require to be installed by professionals and some adjustments may also have to be done before the installation.

There are 2 styles of microwave ovens that you'll usually see in the market. They are discussed as under.

  • Countertop Microwave Ovens

Countertop microwave ovens are portable ones. Which can be placed anywhere and cooking can be done inside them.

These ovens perform many functions such as thawing frozen food, reheating and cooking tasks.

Having a 1 cubic foot capacity, these ovens normally work on a power range of up to 500 to 1000 watts. Therefore, it's advisable to have a separate electricity outlet for these, preferably with a circuit breaker. The limitation with these ovens is that they occupy a lot of space.

  • Above-Range Microwave Ovens

The above-range microwave ovens are the ideal options if you are looking to save a considerable amount of kitchen space.

Relatively new to the Indian market, these ovens are placed above the cooking range in the kitchen. They feature multispeed fans that recirculate air with the help of charcoal filters. Also, external ventilation is also not needed. Many high-end models have automatic exhaust fans that are turned on when the microwave oven turns hot from the inside.
These ovens require to be installed by professionals and some adjustments may also have to be done before the installation.

1.3 Capacity

The capacity or content of a microwave oven is measured in litres. The larger the number of litres, the larger interior the microwave has. So, if you buy it for a large household, a 40-litre microwave will prove to be good.

If you have a small household, a combi microwave with a capacity of 21 litres will be good. Similarly, if you live alone, you don't need a very large one. However, the contents differ among small microwave ovens. They can be available in the capacity of 20 litres, but there can also be microwaves that can only have a maximum of 13 litres.

The capacity or content of a microwave oven is measured in litres. The larger the number of litres, the larger interior the microwave has. So, if you buy it for a large household, a 40-litre microwave will prove to be good.

If you have a small household, a combi microwave with a capacity of 21 litres will be good. Similarly, if you live alone, you don't need a very large one. However, the contents differ among small microwave ovens. They can be available in the capacity of 20 litres, but there can also be microwaves that can only have a maximum of 13 litres.

1.4 Functions

The solo microwave comes with just one function, i.e. reheating the food. However, other types of microwaves have a lot of features. They might have just a few settings or it can be a combination of features such as hot air function, grill, oven, crisp, steam.

Let’s know about a few of the special features in detail:

Crisp Function
This function lets you cook a crispy dish. The advantage of a crisp dish is that it heats up extra fast and is heated from the bottom. If this function is present, you can even bake crispy oven fries.

Steam Function
This function has become more and more popular over the last few years since it healthily prepares your food while retaining nutrients. The steam function makes your meals extra healthy and tasty. A microwave with this feature works with a steam tray with water. In contrast, some models require a separate steam reservoir with water.

Pizza Mode
Nowadays, many people use a microwave for baking a pizza. We suggest buying a microwave oven with a pizza setting as that will heat the pizza from the bottom side and gives you a crispy base. The hot air function will ensure that your pizza is baked thoroughly.

Grill

The grill function allows you to cook elaborate recipes. This feature helps you in setting up various recipes even faster and easier. Microwaves with a grill function have a slightly higher price than a solo microwave.

Here is a table to guide you on what features you actually need to perform certain functions.

Functions

Microwave Type

Reheat

Solo microwave

Defrost

Solo microwave

Cook

Microwave with grill function/Combi microwave

Roast

Microwave with grill function/Combi microwave

Gratin

Microwave with grill function/Combi microwave

Baking

 Combi microwave

The solo microwave comes with just one function, i.e. reheating the food. However, other types of microwaves have a lot of features. They might have just a few settings or it can be a combination of features such as hot air function, grill, oven, crisp, steam.

Let’s know about a few of the special features in detail:

Crisp Function
This function lets you cook a crispy dish. The advantage of a crisp dish is that it heats up extra fast and is heated from the bottom. If this function is present, you can even bake crispy oven fries.

Steam Function
This function has become more and more popular over the last few years since it healthily prepares your food while retaining nutrients. The steam function makes your meals extra healthy and tasty. A microwave with this feature works with a steam tray with water. In contrast, some models require a separate steam reservoir with water.

Pizza Mode
Nowadays, many people use a microwave for baking a pizza. We suggest buying a microwave oven with a pizza setting as that will heat the pizza from the bottom side and gives you a crispy base. The hot air function will ensure that your pizza is baked thoroughly.

Grill

The grill function allows you to cook elaborate recipes. This feature helps you in setting up various recipes even faster and easier. Microwaves with a grill function have a slightly higher price than a solo microwave.

Here is a table to guide you on what features you actually need to perform certain functions.

Functions

Microwave Type

Reheat

Solo microwave

Defrost

Solo microwave

Cook

Microwave with grill function/Combi microwave

Roast

Microwave with grill function/Combi microwave

Gratin

Microwave with grill function/Combi microwave

Baking

 Combi microwave

1.5 Power

The power consumption of a microwave is measured in watts (W). The more power a microwave has, the faster your food will be ready. Usually, microwaves have power between 700 W and 1000 W. In fact, there are microwaves where you can enter the power yourself. In other words, some microwaves allow you to choose the power level, which usually lies between 1 to 10 as per the food weight.

The power consumption of a microwave is measured in watts (W). The more power a microwave has, the faster your food will be ready. Usually, microwaves have power between 700 W and 1000 W. In fact, there are microwaves where you can enter the power yourself. In other words, some microwaves allow you to choose the power level, which usually lies between 1 to 10 as per the food weight.

1.6 Programs

In a grill and convection microwave, you get various automatic programs. You just have to choose the dish, press start and the rest is done automatically. It calculates the ideal cooking time and chooses which functions to use. For instance, if you want to defrost minced meat, then you indicate which meat it is, and you enter the weight. The microwave calculates how long it takes to defrost the minced meat.

Such microwave also uses a combination of different functions to get the desired result. For example, most microwaves first choose the microwave function for a lasagna, followed by the grill function to get a crispy layer. 

In a grill and convection microwave, you get various automatic programs. You just have to choose the dish, press start and the rest is done automatically. It calculates the ideal cooking time and chooses which functions to use. For instance, if you want to defrost minced meat, then you indicate which meat it is, and you enter the weight. The microwave calculates how long it takes to defrost the minced meat.

Such microwave also uses a combination of different functions to get the desired result. For example, most microwaves first choose the microwave function for a lasagna, followed by the grill function to get a crispy layer. 

1.7 Turntable

Some of the microwaves have a turntable ensuring that the food is heated evenly. This proves useful for a dish to be heated in a larger bowl as such a size bowl will be too big to turn around. So pay attention to this when you buy a microwave. 

Some of the microwaves have a turntable ensuring that the food is heated evenly. This proves useful for a dish to be heated in a larger bowl as such a size bowl will be too big to turn around. So pay attention to this when you buy a microwave. 

1.8 Child Lock

If you have children at home, then a child lock facility is the utmost feature to consider because not only does the oven have the risks associated with electricity, it also bears a significant amount of heat within itself. Therefore, a child lock must be put in place while a kid is around.

If you have children at home, then a child lock facility is the utmost feature to consider because not only does the oven have the risks associated with electricity, it also bears a significant amount of heat within itself. Therefore, a child lock must be put in place while a kid is around.

1.9 Rotisserie

The rotisserie brings an absolute delight to non-vegetarians. The rotisserie is a grille that can be used for barbecuing meat, poultry, paneer, and vegetables.

The rotisserie brings an absolute delight to non-vegetarians. The rotisserie is a grille that can be used for barbecuing meat, poultry, paneer, and vegetables.

1.10 Defrosting

The defrosting feature is the one that helps you to unfreeze food without thawing frozen food. This easy to use facility needs you put the food weight and the oven well handle the rest for you. The defrosting can be done manually depending if the need arises.

The food can then be consumed straight out of the oven while the taste and nutrition value is retained.

The defrosting feature is the one that helps you to unfreeze food without thawing frozen food. This easy to use facility needs you put the food weight and the oven well handle the rest for you. The defrosting can be done manually depending if the need arises.

The food can then be consumed straight out of the oven while the taste and nutrition value is retained.

1.11 Pre-heat

Certain food types such as baked food viz. cake and pastries take a lot more time to cook than the usual. Also, they require the oven to be pre-heated before baking can be done.

Certain food types such as baked food viz. cake and pastries take a lot more time to cook than the usual. Also, they require the oven to be pre-heated before baking can be done.

1.12 Timer

The timer is useful comfort functionality that allows you to heat/cook the food depending on the nature of the food. The timer can be set manually as well.

Setting the timer allows you to take care of the other tasks in the kitchen without being concerned about the food, as the system will automatically turn itself off after the expiry of the time set.

The timer is useful comfort functionality that allows you to heat/cook the food depending on the nature of the food. The timer can be set manually as well.

Setting the timer allows you to take care of the other tasks in the kitchen without being concerned about the food, as the system will automatically turn itself off after the expiry of the time set.

1.13 Control Panel

Some of the microwave ovens feature single touch control mechanical buttons. These controls help in adjusting the temperature set the time, and select any pre-set programs.

Some of the microwave ovens feature single touch control mechanical buttons. These controls help in adjusting the temperature set the time, and select any pre-set programs.

1.14 Sensor Functions

The sensor feature enables the microwave to analyse the time required for cooking and adjusting as per need.

The sensor feature enables the microwave to analyse the time required for cooking and adjusting as per need.

1.15 Infrared Check

Luxury microwaves even have an infrared function. With this feature, the microwave, fix the required time and measures at last if your dish is completely warm. So, your dish is always fully reheated, and you no more have to find out halfway through your lasagna that the centre is still frozen. 

Luxury microwaves even have an infrared function. With this feature, the microwave, fix the required time and measures at last if your dish is completely warm. So, your dish is always fully reheated, and you no more have to find out halfway through your lasagna that the centre is still frozen. 

1.16 Memory

As the name suggests, microwaves with memory functions remember the most used setting. They remember the time and power needed to prepare specific recipes.

As the name suggests, microwaves with memory functions remember the most used setting. They remember the time and power needed to prepare specific recipes.

1.17 Quick Start

The quick start function gives you the option to add 30 seconds/ 1 minute/10 minutes more to the cooking time whether the microwave is operating or to. So, you do not have to select each second/minute one by one, but you can choose a particular time straight away. In fact, there is a specific button with a specific time mentioned on it. It is very useful.

The quick start function gives you the option to add 30 seconds/ 1 minute/10 minutes more to the cooking time whether the microwave is operating or to. So, you do not have to select each second/minute one by one, but you can choose a particular time straight away. In fact, there is a specific button with a specific time mentioned on it. It is very useful.

1.18 Auto Cook Menu

The auto-cook menu has a defined set of programs that helps to simplify the preparation of recipes. You just have to select the type and weight of the dish and the oven automatically calculates the required time to cook the ingredients.

The auto-cook menu has a defined set of programs that helps to simplify the preparation of recipes. You just have to select the type and weight of the dish and the oven automatically calculates the required time to cook the ingredients.

1.19 Price

The prices of microwave ovens vary a lot, a basic model can be pretty cheap, but there are also many models with extended functionalities. A basic model is beneficial if you only want to heat food. There are also types with a built-in grill.

The prices of microwave ovens vary a lot, a basic model can be pretty cheap, but there are also many models with extended functionalities. A basic model is beneficial if you only want to heat food. There are also types with a built-in grill.

2. Use Cases: The best microwave for you

2.1 Which type of microwave is best for baking and roasting?

A combi microwave with a conventional setting is best for baking and roasting.

A combi microwave with a conventional setting is best for baking and roasting.

2.2 Which type of microwave is best for getting crispy brown crust?

Microwave with the grill function can give your food a crispy brown crust.

Microwave with the grill function can give your food a crispy brown crust.

2.3 Which type of microwave is best to ensure that the meal is cooked healthily?

Microwave with steam function is a great way to cook a healthy meal while retaining its taste.

Microwave with steam function is a great way to cook a healthy meal while retaining its taste.

3. FAQ: Learn more about the details

3.1 How is a traditional oven and a microwave oven different?

Traditional ovens primarily work through the conduction of heat principal. Heat goes from the outside to the centre of the food. In a microwave oven, the radio waves pass through the food and stimulate the water and fat molecules evenly, and hence the heating happens uniformly.

The food in the microwave oven is cooked faster, and it's less time consuming than the traditional oven.

Traditional ovens primarily work through the conduction of heat principal. Heat goes from the outside to the centre of the food. In a microwave oven, the radio waves pass through the food and stimulate the water and fat molecules evenly, and hence the heating happens uniformly.

The food in the microwave oven is cooked faster, and it's less time consuming than the traditional oven.

3.2 What are the differences between a solo microwave and a convection microwave?

A convection microwave oven performs the functions identical to a solo microwave, but it also has some additional features. Convection microwaves are such where the food can be grilled, baked, roasted etc. It offers much more than basic reheating.

A convection microwave oven performs the functions identical to a solo microwave, but it also has some additional features. Convection microwaves are such where the food can be grilled, baked, roasted etc. It offers much more than basic reheating.

3.3 Can microwave ovens remove the bad/food odours by themselves?

The microwave ovens these days have deodorisers to get rid of the bad smell and germs inside.

The microwave ovens these days have deodorisers to get rid of the bad smell and germs inside.

3.4 Does microwave ovens have an impact on the nutrients present in the food?

Ovens do not eliminate the nutrients present in the food. Instead, they tend to retain the nutrient levels unless the temperature is wrongly set.

Ovens do not eliminate the nutrients present in the food. Instead, they tend to retain the nutrient levels unless the temperature is wrongly set.

3.5 How long does a microwave oven last?

The microwave oven has a lifespan of approximately 9-10 years with moderate usage.

The microwave oven has a lifespan of approximately 9-10 years with moderate usage.

3.6 How to clean the interiors of the microwave?

Check point 4.2 to know how to clean a microwave properly.

Check point 4.2 to know how to clean a microwave properly.

3.7 How safe are microwave ovens to cook food?

Microwave ovens are absolutely safe to use for cooking, and it even retains the nutrients of the food. However, the food may burn quickly from excess heat if not monitored closely.

Microwave ovens are absolutely safe to use for cooking, and it even retains the nutrients of the food. However, the food may burn quickly from excess heat if not monitored closely.

3.8 What type of cookware is the best for a convection microwave oven?

Usually, cookware made of food-grade plastic, ceramic glass, wax paper, and glass is used in ovens. The metal cookware is a big NO for microwaves as the microwaves cannot penetrate into the metal completely, and the food remains undercooked. 

Usually, cookware made of food-grade plastic, ceramic glass, wax paper, and glass is used in ovens. The metal cookware is a big NO for microwaves as the microwaves cannot penetrate into the metal completely, and the food remains undercooked. 

3.9 What is a warranty on magnetron?

The microwave radiation of microwave ovens is produced by a device called a magnetron. The warranty against this device is called a magnetron warranty.

The microwave radiation of microwave ovens is produced by a device called a magnetron. The warranty against this device is called a magnetron warranty.

Samsung, Godrej, IFB, Panasonic are some famous microwave brands in the Indian market.

Samsung, Godrej, IFB, Panasonic are some famous microwave brands in the Indian market.

3.11 Can a microwave calculate food calories?

Yes. There are smart microwaves in the market that can calculate the calories in food kept in it for reheating. It estimates how much sugar, fibre, protein, fat and water the food contains.

Smart microwaves even have an infrared camera, allowing you to see precisely whether your meal has been adequately warmed up inside. 

Yes. There are smart microwaves in the market that can calculate the calories in food kept in it for reheating. It estimates how much sugar, fibre, protein, fat and water the food contains.

Smart microwaves even have an infrared camera, allowing you to see precisely whether your meal has been adequately warmed up inside. 

3.12 Are microwaves safe to use?

Yes, microwaves are safe to use, and the following table will clear your doubts better.

Question/Doubt

Explanation

Do the waves escape out?

No, as the microwaves have a security system to prevent this.

Does the radiation change the food composition?

No, microwave radiation does not change the food composition.

Are all plastic packaging suitable for a microwave?

No, there are plastic packaging that cannot be used in a microwave.

Yes, microwaves are safe to use, and the following table will clear your doubts better.

Question/Doubt

Explanation

Do the waves escape out?

No, as the microwaves have a security system to prevent this.

Does the radiation change the food composition?

No, microwave radiation does not change the food composition.

Are all plastic packaging suitable for a microwave?

No, there are plastic packaging that cannot be used in a microwave.

3.13 What are the advantages of using a microwave?

The most significant advantage of using a microwave is it saves time. Another plus of using a microwave is that they are simple and fast to use.

The most significant advantage of using a microwave is it saves time. Another plus of using a microwave is that they are simple and fast to use.

4. How-To: Usage hints and care instructions for microwave ovens

4.1 How does a microwave works?

A microwave work by producing electromagnetic waves. There is a generator inside which converts the energy into waves. These waves are reflected by the walls and carried by means of a waveguide to the part where the food is placed. Since the food is on a turn plate, the waves hit the food from all sides, and you get an evenly cooked meal.

A microwave work by producing electromagnetic waves. There is a generator inside which converts the energy into waves. These waves are reflected by the walls and carried by means of a waveguide to the part where the food is placed. Since the food is on a turn plate, the waves hit the food from all sides, and you get an evenly cooked meal.

4.2 How to clean a microwave oven?

Cleaning a microwave is vital to get rid of the grease and dirt that’s stuck firmly to the walls. There are various ways to clean the combi microwave in practice.

  • Use a special cleaner for smooth parts, and a scouring sponge can be used to clean heavily soiled parts. As far as the glass plate is concerned, simply put it in the dishwasher. 

  • If you do not want to use chemical products, then place a bowl with water and lemon in the microwave. Next, heat it at full power while keeping the door closed, of course. This will not only clean the microwave oven but also make it smells a lot fresher.

Cleaning a microwave is vital to get rid of the grease and dirt that’s stuck firmly to the walls. There are various ways to clean the combi microwave in practice.

  • Use a special cleaner for smooth parts, and a scouring sponge can be used to clean heavily soiled parts. As far as the glass plate is concerned, simply put it in the dishwasher. 

  • If you do not want to use chemical products, then place a bowl with water and lemon in the microwave. Next, heat it at full power while keeping the door closed, of course. This will not only clean the microwave oven but also make it smells a lot fresher.

4.3 What are the best care practices for a microwave oven?

  • Always use oven friendly utensils for cooking food in the oven. The excess heat generated by the ovens may cause severe damage to the oven and the utensil itself.

    • Do not keep plastic utensils inside a microwave when you set it on medium or high power levels.

    • Cover the food with paper to retain its moisture and support even heat distribution.

    • The ideal temperature for cooking and reheating food items is 4Ëš-60ËšC. Try to operate the oven at this.

    • If you set the cooking mode to a high power level, you should set the timer for fewer minutes. Otherwise, the food gets spoiled easily.

    • Read the instructions, warning labels, safety tips and precautions carefully provided on the user-friendly manual before using and cleaning an oven.

    • Check for the leakage of food items from the microwave oven to ensure efficient functioning.

    • The packaged food should not be heated directly in the oven. Instead, it should be placed in a bowl before heating.

    • To address foul odours and fungal contamination, clean the oven regularly using a soft wet/dry cloth. Avoid using hard and abrasive cleaning items.

    • Always seek professional help to repair a microwave oven.

    • Never sterilise water bottles or other food utensils in the microwave.

  • Always use oven friendly utensils for cooking food in the oven. The excess heat generated by the ovens may cause severe damage to the oven and the utensil itself.

    • Do not keep plastic utensils inside a microwave when you set it on medium or high power levels.

    • Cover the food with paper to retain its moisture and support even heat distribution.

    • The ideal temperature for cooking and reheating food items is 4Ëš-60ËšC. Try to operate the oven at this.

    • If you set the cooking mode to a high power level, you should set the timer for fewer minutes. Otherwise, the food gets spoiled easily.

    • Read the instructions, warning labels, safety tips and precautions carefully provided on the user-friendly manual before using and cleaning an oven.

    • Check for the leakage of food items from the microwave oven to ensure efficient functioning.

    • The packaged food should not be heated directly in the oven. Instead, it should be placed in a bowl before heating.

    • To address foul odours and fungal contamination, clean the oven regularly using a soft wet/dry cloth. Avoid using hard and abrasive cleaning items.

    • Always seek professional help to repair a microwave oven.

    • Never sterilise water bottles or other food utensils in the microwave.

5. Fun Facts: Interesting facts, figures and things to know about microwave ovens

5.1 Inventor of the microwave oven is Percy Spenser. While working on an active radar set, he noticed that a bar of chocolate that he had in his pocket has started melting. 

5.2 The first commercially available microwave oven was 1.8 meters in height and weighed 340 kilograms. Also, it consumed thrice more electricity than a modern-day oven.

5.3 The heating effect of microwave radiation was accidentally discovered in 1945.

5.4 The first food to be cooked with a microwave was popcorn.

5.5 The industrial/commercial ovens usually use 915 megahertz, while the normal microwaves use 2.45 gigahertz.

5.6 The commonly used short, wide shape of a microwave oven was developed by Litton Industries in the 1960s.

5.7 Microwave ovens do not affect the nutrient content of foods any differently than conventional heating, several studies have shown. 

5.8 Microwave heating is the most efficient on the water and less efficient on sugar and fats.

5.9 Before they became known as microwave ovens, they were called electronic ovens. 

5.1 Inventor of the microwave oven is Percy Spenser. While working on an active radar set, he noticed that a bar of chocolate that he had in his pocket has started melting. 

5.2 The first commercially available microwave oven was 1.8 meters in height and weighed 340 kilograms. Also, it consumed thrice more electricity than a modern-day oven.

5.3 The heating effect of microwave radiation was accidentally discovered in 1945.

5.4 The first food to be cooked with a microwave was popcorn.

5.5 The industrial/commercial ovens usually use 915 megahertz, while the normal microwaves use 2.45 gigahertz.

5.6 The commonly used short, wide shape of a microwave oven was developed by Litton Industries in the 1960s.

5.7 Microwave ovens do not affect the nutrient content of foods any differently than conventional heating, several studies have shown. 

5.8 Microwave heating is the most efficient on the water and less efficient on sugar and fats.

5.9 Before they became known as microwave ovens, they were called electronic ovens. 

6. Our Picks: How we picked the best microwave ovens in India

6.1 IFB 20SC2 20-Litre Convection Microwave Oven

IFB is a household name in the segment of microwave ovens. Suiting all your baking, grilling, and heating needs, this powerhouse appliance makes it super easy to cook with 24 auto cooking modes.

This oven bears a capacity of 20 litres and consumes the power of 1200 W. With a wide range of easy access features such as grill, convection, defrost, micro and grilling, timer/clock, child lock, this is one of the most robust appliances on the list, and surprisingly, you get all of it at a very reasonable price.

Also, the oven comes with a variety of useful accessories and attachments such as:

  • Daffodil

  • Measuring tub

  • 2 idli stands

  • Roti crisper

  • Ladle

  • 1500ml bowl

With exceptional customer service suiting the reputation of the brand, the oven comes with a 1-year warranty on the product, a 3-year warranty on magnetron & cavity.

IFB is a household name in the segment of microwave ovens. Suiting all your baking, grilling, and heating needs, this powerhouse appliance makes it super easy to cook with 24 auto cooking modes.

This oven bears a capacity of 20 litres and consumes the power of 1200 W. With a wide range of easy access features such as grill, convection, defrost, micro and grilling, timer/clock, child lock, this is one of the most robust appliances on the list, and surprisingly, you get all of it at a very reasonable price.

Also, the oven comes with a variety of useful accessories and attachments such as:

  • Daffodil

  • Measuring tub

  • 2 idli stands

  • Roti crisper

  • Ladle

  • 1500ml bowl

With exceptional customer service suiting the reputation of the brand, the oven comes with a 1-year warranty on the product, a 3-year warranty on magnetron & cavity.

6.2 Godrej 19 L Convection Microwave Oven

Godrej has been a name that equals trust and durability in India. From electronics to kitchen appliances to furniture, Godrej has always delivered class apart from performance. This microwave oven is no exception and an excellent bearer of the Godrej legacy.

Talking of the specifics, the oven has a 19-litre capacity which makes it well suited for small families. It can be put to multiple uses such as baking along with grilling, reheating, defrosting and cooking. Having an amazing range of 125 insta-cook menu options, this appliance makes cooking a cakewalk for you. It comes with tactile buttons to set the temperature/timer and jog dials to control specific menus.

It features a child lock which makes it absolutely safe for homes with small children. One limiting factor with the oven is that it does not come with a starter kit, so it may be a bit challenging for those who are using it for the first time or who doesn't have any hands-on experience with microwave ovens.

The oven accessories and essentials include:

  • Glass turntable

  • Roller ring

  • Grill stand

  • User manual with warranty card

It bears a 1-year product warranty and a 5-year warranty on magnetron.

Godrej has been a name that equals trust and durability in India. From electronics to kitchen appliances to furniture, Godrej has always delivered class apart from performance. This microwave oven is no exception and an excellent bearer of the Godrej legacy.

Talking of the specifics, the oven has a 19-litre capacity which makes it well suited for small families. It can be put to multiple uses such as baking along with grilling, reheating, defrosting and cooking. Having an amazing range of 125 insta-cook menu options, this appliance makes cooking a cakewalk for you. It comes with tactile buttons to set the temperature/timer and jog dials to control specific menus.

It features a child lock which makes it absolutely safe for homes with small children. One limiting factor with the oven is that it does not come with a starter kit, so it may be a bit challenging for those who are using it for the first time or who doesn't have any hands-on experience with microwave ovens.

The oven accessories and essentials include:

  • Glass turntable

  • Roller ring

  • Grill stand

  • User manual with warranty card

It bears a 1-year product warranty and a 5-year warranty on magnetron.

6.3 Samsung 23 L Solo Microwave Oven

This solo microwave comes with a stunning blend of features and finish. Its body is made up of stainless steel and mirror frames. The built-in ceramic cavity provides sufficient reflection of the microwave to cook food evenly. They are easy to clean and scratch-resistant.

The food warming feature and 16 pre-programmed recipes in the autocook mode are possibly one of the most important comfort functionalities of the appliance. The combo of both makes cooking easy and efficient. Defrosting can also be done proficiently.

It features solo, tact, and dial control buttons and an LED display where all controls are placed, viz. power levels, timer etc.

This oven isn't pricey at all and is the very best solo microwave you can go for. It comes with a turntable and user manual. It holds a 1-year warranty on the product and 5 years of warranty on magnetron.

This solo microwave comes with a stunning blend of features and finish. Its body is made up of stainless steel and mirror frames. The built-in ceramic cavity provides sufficient reflection of the microwave to cook food evenly. They are easy to clean and scratch-resistant.

The food warming feature and 16 pre-programmed recipes in the autocook mode are possibly one of the most important comfort functionalities of the appliance. The combo of both makes cooking easy and efficient. Defrosting can also be done proficiently.

It features solo, tact, and dial control buttons and an LED display where all controls are placed, viz. power levels, timer etc.

This oven isn't pricey at all and is the very best solo microwave you can go for. It comes with a turntable and user manual. It holds a 1-year warranty on the product and 5 years of warranty on magnetron.

6.4 IFB 17 L Solo Microwave Oven

Here again, comes an IFB appliance in the solo microwave segment and we are not surprised. This microwave oven has practically all the features sought in a solo microwave. It can reheat, warm, defrost, and cook your food. However, it doesn't have baking and grilling features.

The oven features like auto cook setting and three standard cooking menus enable easy cooking. It also has manual controls in the form of jog dials and it also has a 30-minute timer which will tick off automatically preventing the peril of food being overcooked.

With a 1 year on product warranty and 3 years of magnetron and cavity warranty, this pocket-friendly appliance also has a warranty card, user manual included in the box.

Here again, comes an IFB appliance in the solo microwave segment and we are not surprised. This microwave oven has practically all the features sought in a solo microwave. It can reheat, warm, defrost, and cook your food. However, it doesn't have baking and grilling features.

The oven features like auto cook setting and three standard cooking menus enable easy cooking. It also has manual controls in the form of jog dials and it also has a 30-minute timer which will tick off automatically preventing the peril of food being overcooked.

With a 1 year on product warranty and 3 years of magnetron and cavity warranty, this pocket-friendly appliance also has a warranty card, user manual included in the box.

6.5 IFB 20 L Grill Microwave Oven

This is the third IFB oven and it proves the mettle of this brand in the market of microwaves. The volume of the microwave (20 litres) makes it an ideal choice for a mid-size family.

It has all the usual functions like defrosting, cooking, reheating, and warming, the grill. However, this is not the one meant for baking or roti making. The power grill and combi tech modes grill it well without the food being overheated and these types of ovens are the most ideal for reheating meals.

This oven comes with an auto cook setting and 41 standard menus. Moreover, it offers ten power levels to adjust the temperature of the food. The Steam Clean feature is available to clean and sanitize the internal cavity.

IFB offers a 1-year warranty on the product and a 3-year warranty on the magnetron.

This is the third IFB oven and it proves the mettle of this brand in the market of microwaves. The volume of the microwave (20 litres) makes it an ideal choice for a mid-size family.

It has all the usual functions like defrosting, cooking, reheating, and warming, the grill. However, this is not the one meant for baking or roti making. The power grill and combi tech modes grill it well without the food being overheated and these types of ovens are the most ideal for reheating meals.

This oven comes with an auto cook setting and 41 standard menus. Moreover, it offers ten power levels to adjust the temperature of the food. The Steam Clean feature is available to clean and sanitize the internal cavity.

IFB offers a 1-year warranty on the product and a 3-year warranty on the magnetron.

6.6 Bajaj 20 L Grill Microwave Oven

This bajaj microwave oven has a capacity of 20 litres and has nine preset auto-cook options. It perfectly suits the needs of a small size family or bachelor's living alone.

With dual defrosting options, it enables you to defrost by weight or by time. It also has a grill inside its cavity for preparing delicious barbecue meals.

It features five power levels and jogs dial controls to adjust settings as needed. This lightweight oven comes with a child lock and timer. It has a 1-year manufacture warranty.

This bajaj microwave oven has a capacity of 20 litres and has nine preset auto-cook options. It perfectly suits the needs of a small size family or bachelor's living alone.

With dual defrosting options, it enables you to defrost by weight or by time. It also has a grill inside its cavity for preparing delicious barbecue meals.

It features five power levels and jogs dial controls to adjust settings as needed. This lightweight oven comes with a child lock and timer. It has a 1-year manufacture warranty.

6.7 Panasonic 20L Grill Microwave Oven

Having the basic features of grilling and reheating, this 20 litres grill microwave is an ideal appliance for small and mid-size families.

26 of its 38 auto cook menus are dedicatedly crafted for Indian cuisine. It has a turntable embedded which ensures cooking of food from all sides evenly. It is one of the most budget-friendly and energy-efficient appliances on our list and comes with a wire rack and a started kit alongside.

Having the basic features of grilling and reheating, this 20 litres grill microwave is an ideal appliance for small and mid-size families.

26 of its 38 auto cook menus are dedicatedly crafted for Indian cuisine. It has a turntable embedded which ensures cooking of food from all sides evenly. It is one of the most budget-friendly and energy-efficient appliances on our list and comes with a wire rack and a started kit alongside.