Microwave Oven Types Comparison

Before purchasing a microwave oven, it is important to consider the size, design, and installation method that best suits your needs.

There are a variety of microwave ovens available, and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. With the right type of microwave oven, you can enjoy the convenience of quickly heating up food in your kitchen.

Microwave Oven Types by Design/Installation Methods

Microwave ovens are a common kitchen appliance that can be found in many homes. They are a convenient way to quickly heat up food, and they come in a variety of designs and installation methods. Here is a breakdown of the different types of microwave ovens and how they are installed.

Built-In Microwaves

Built-In Microwaves

Built-in microwaves are designed to be installed in a cabinet or wall space. They are typically installed in a kitchen island or wall cabinet and require professional installation. These microwaves are usually larger than countertop models and are designed to match the other appliances in the kitchen.

Countertop Microwaves

Countertop Microwaves

Countertop microwaves are the most common type of microwave oven. They are designed to sit on a countertop or other flat surface and are easy to install. Countertop microwaves come in a variety of sizes and styles, and they are usually the least expensive type of microwave oven.

Over-the-Range Microwaves

Over-the-Range Microwaves

Over-the-range microwaves are designed to be installed above the stove. They are typically larger than countertop models and are designed to match the other appliances in the kitchen. Over-the-range microwaves require professional installation and may need to be vented to the outside.

Drawer Microwaves

Drawer Microwaves

Drawer microwaves are designed to be installed in a cabinet or wall space. They are typically installed in a kitchen island or wall cabinet and require professional installation. Drawer microwaves are usually larger than countertop models and are designed to match the other appliances in the kitchen.

Microwave Oven Types by Additional Functions and Cooking Methods

Looking for a microwave oven? Here are some of the most popular types, with added functions that make them even better.

Convection Microwave Ovens

If you need something to cook food quickly and evenly, try convection microwave ovens. They come with a fan that circulates hot air around the food for faster, more even cooking. Plus, there’s a rotisserie feature for roasting meats or vegetables.

Grill Microwave Ovens

Grill microwave ovens are ideal for those who like their food with a bit of a crunch. As well as a heating element to create a grilling effect, they come with a rotisserie setting to roast meats and vegetables.

Combination Microwave Ovens

For the convenience of both a microwave and an oven, check out combination microwave ovens. Not only do they give you the option of both, but they also come with a rotisserie feature for roasting.

Inverter Microwave Ovens

Inverter microwaves offer even better features. An inverter regulates the power output, cooking the food faster and more evenly. There’s also a rotisserie option for roasting.

Convection Microwave Oven Review

Convection microwave ovens are a great way to cook food quickly and efficiently. They offer a variety of features that make them a great choice for busy households. However, there are also some drawbacks to consider before making a purchase. Here are the pros and cons of convection microwave ovens.

Convection Microwave

Pros

  • Speed: Convection microwave ovens are much faster than traditional ovens. They can cook food in a fraction of the time, making them perfect for busy households.
  • Versatility: Convection microwave ovens can be used for a variety of tasks, from baking to roasting to grilling. This makes them a great choice for those who want to cook a variety of dishes.
  • Energy Efficiency: Convection microwave ovens are more energy efficient than traditional ovens. This means that you can save money on your energy bills.

Cons

  • Cost: Convection microwave ovens can be expensive. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider other options.
  • Size: Convection microwave ovens are typically larger than traditional ovens. This means that they may not fit in smaller kitchens.
  • Maintenance: Convection microwave ovens require more maintenance than traditional ovens. This means that you may need to clean them more often.

Overall, convection microwave ovens offer a great way to cook food quickly and efficiently. However, there are some drawbacks to consider before making a purchase. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Grill Microwave Oven Review

Grill microwave ovens are a great way to cook food quickly and conveniently. They offer a variety of features that make them a great choice for busy households. However, there are some drawbacks to consider before investing in one. Here are the pros and cons of grill microwave ovens.

Grill Microwave

Pros

  • Speed: Grill microwave ovens are incredibly fast. They can cook food in a fraction of the time it would take to cook it in a traditional oven. This makes them great for busy households that need to get dinner on the table quickly.
  • Versatility: Grill microwave ovens can be used for a variety of tasks. They can be used to bake, roast, grill, and even steam food. This makes them a great choice for those who want to experiment with different cooking techniques.
  • Easy to Clean: Grill microwave ovens are easy to clean. Most models have removable trays and racks that can be washed in the dishwasher. This makes them much easier to keep clean than traditional ovens.

Cons

  • Limited Capacity: Grill microwave ovens are usually smaller than traditional ovens. This means they can only cook a limited amount of food at once. This can be a problem for larger households or for those who like to entertain.
  • Limited Features: Grill microwave ovens usually don’t have as many features as traditional ovens. This can be a problem for those who want to experiment with different cooking techniques.
  • Expensive: Grill microwave ovens can be quite expensive. This can be a problem for those on a tight budget.

Overall, grill microwave ovens are a great choice for busy households that need to cook food quickly and conveniently. However, there are some drawbacks to consider before investing in one. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Combo Microwave Oven Review

Combo microwave ovens are a great choice for those who want to save space and money. However, they may not be the best choice for those who need a high-performance oven or who have limited kitchen space.

Combo Microwave

Pros

  • Versatility: Combo microwave ovens are incredibly versatile, allowing you to bake, roast, and even grill food. This makes them a great choice for those who want to cook a variety of dishes without having to buy multiple appliances.
  • Space-Saving: Combo microwave ovens are designed to save space, making them ideal for small kitchens. They are also great for those who don’t have a lot of counter space.
  • Cost-Effective: Combo microwave ovens are usually more cost-effective than buying separate ovens and microwaves. This makes them a great choice for those who are on a budget.

Cons

  • Size: Combo microwave ovens are usually larger than traditional microwaves, so they may not fit in some kitchens.
  • Performance: Combo microwave ovens may not perform as well as separate ovens and microwaves. This is especially true when it comes to baking and roasting.
  • Maintenance: Combo microwave ovens require more maintenance than traditional microwaves. This includes cleaning the interior and exterior of the oven, as well as replacing parts when necessary.

Inverter Microwave Oven Review

Inverter microwave ovens are becoming increasingly popular in households around the world. They offer a number of advantages over traditional microwave ovens, but there are also some drawbacks to consider. In this article, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of inverter microwave ovens.

Inverter Microwave

Pros

  • More Efficient: Inverter microwave ovens are more efficient than traditional microwave ovens. They use less energy and can cook food faster. This makes them ideal for busy households.
  • More Versatile: Inverter microwave ovens are more versatile than traditional microwave ovens. They can be used to cook a variety of foods, including frozen foods, and can even be used to bake cakes and other desserts.
  • More Affordable: Inverter microwave ovens are more affordable than traditional microwave ovens. They are often cheaper to purchase and can save you money in the long run.

Cons

  • More Expensive: Inverter microwave ovens are more expensive than traditional microwave ovens. This can be a major drawback for those on a budget.
  • More Complicated: Inverter microwave ovens are more complicated than traditional microwave ovens. They require more knowledge and skill to operate, which can be a challenge for those who are not familiar with them.
  • More Fragile: Inverter microwave ovens are more fragile than traditional microwave ovens. They can be easily damaged if not handled properly.

Inverter microwave ovens offer a number of advantages over traditional microwave ovens, but there are also some drawbacks to consider. They are more efficient, more versatile, and more affordable, but they are also more expensive, more complicated, and more fragile. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if an inverter microwave oven is right for you.

Most Popular Microwave Brands

When it comes to microwave ovens, there are a variety of brands to choose from. To help you make the best decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most popular microwave oven brands in the USA.

  1. Panasonic is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of microwave ovens. They are known for their high quality and reliability.
  2. Samsung is another popular brand that offers a wide range of microwaves. They are known for their stylish designs and advanced features.
  3. LG is a trusted brand that offers a variety of microwaves. They are known for their energy efficiency and modern designs.
  4. Whirlpool is a reliable brand that offers a wide range of microwaves. They are known for their affordability and durability.
  5. GE is a trusted brand that offers a wide range of microwaves. They are known for their innovative features and modern designs.
  6. Sharp is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of microwaves. They are known for their high quality and advanced features.
  7. Frigidaire is a reliable brand that offers a wide range of microwaves. They are known for their affordability and energy efficiency.
  8. Bosch is a trusted brand that offers a wide range of microwaves. They are known for their modern designs and innovative features.
  9. Maytag is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of microwaves. They are known for their reliability and affordability.
  10. Kenmore is a trusted brand that offers a wide range of microwaves. They are known for their energy efficiency and modern designs.

No matter which brand you choose, you can be sure that you’ll be getting a quality product. We hope this list of the top 10 most popular microwave oven brands in the USA helps you make the best decision for your needs.