6 Best Microwave ovens in India (2021) Buyer’s Guide & Reviews!

 August 2, 2021 by Keshav singh

 

In Western countries, you would rarely find a kitchen without a microwave oven. The trend is gradually catching up in India as well with the modern day woman preferring to invest in a top microwave oven.

However, we wish to clear one misconception right at the beginning of the article itself. Many people have the belief that a microwave oven is beneficial for cooking non-vegetarian food alone. This article will prove them wrong.

Microwave ovens are fit for every kitchen. There are hundreds of vegetarian recipes you can prepare with a great degree of efficiency using this appliance.

Without any further ado, here is the a comparison table for best microwave ovens in 2021

Microwave Oven	Key Features
1. Samsung MC25H5025VP/TL	28L Capacity Convection Microwave Oven Baking, grilling, reheating, defrosting and cooking Wattage: 2100 Watts 101 Indian Menus 1 Year Complete Warranty
2. LG MC2886BPUM	28L Capacity Convection Microwave Oven Baking, grilling, reheating, defrosting and cooking Wattage: 1950 Watts 271 Auto Cook Menus 1 Year Warranty
3. IFB 30SC4	30 L Capacity Convection Microwave Oven Grill, convection, and microwave Wattage: 800 Watts 101 cooking menus 1 Year Warranty
4. Samsung CE1041DSB2	28L Capacity Convection Microwave Oven Baking, grilling, reheating, defrosting and cooking Wattage: 2100 Watts  pre-programmed recipes on the Samsung app 1 Year Warranty
5. Bajaj 1701 MT	17 Litres Capacity Solo Microwave Oven Reheating, defrosting and cooking  Wattage: 800 Watts 1 Year Warranty

 

Best Microwave Oven in India

1. Samsung 28L Convection Microwave Oven – MC25H5025VP/TL

French fries are tasty, but if you can cook them without oil, they become tastier and healthier. Your Samsung 28L convection microwave oven does this for you.

Besides frying your chips without using oil, this oven can bake, grill, reheat, defrost, and cook your food better than conventional cooking methods.

A large family has more requirements. Samsung convection microwave oven is equal to the task as this 28L model comes equipped with 101 preset Indian menus. A single touch of a button is sufficient to activate this option and prepare your favorite delicacies with utmost convenience.

People with non-vegetarian preferences will find the Power Defrost option to their liking as it allows them to defrost the frozen foods quickly and evenly.

At the same time, Tandoor technology allows you to make crispy rotis and naan as it supports temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius.

While the glass turntable allows you to cook your food uniformly, disabling the feature enables you to use every inch of interior space to prepare food in large quantities and satisfy your family’s requirements. The Triple Distribution feature ensures to cook your food uniformly from all angles.

Convection cooking uses hot air for cooking food. Hence, there are chances of food odor getting trapped inside the appliance. The deodorization option lets you force the interior air outside the appliance and dissipate the foul odor.  

Generally, convection microwave ovens consume more power than traditional ovens. However, this Samsung model is different as it features an Eco Mode that reduces power consumption to the minimum.

Samsung uses ceramic enamel interiors that allow better heat distribution.

Simultaneously, these interiors are easy to clean because they do not require any scrubbing. Besides, the colors do not fade away with time.

The touch keypad is one of the most convenient to operate. Anyone, including older adults in the home, can operate this Samsung 28L convection microwave with ease. While being sensitive to touch, the membrane is easy to clean.

Positives

·         It enables you to cook various Indian dishes with absolute ease.

·         You save on fuel costs, time, and labor.

·         The preset menus ensure that the food does not get overcooked and hence comes out delicious and tastier.

Negatives

·         The rotisserie option is not available on this convection microwave.

·         This Samsung model consumes more power than its LG counterpart, the 28L Charcoal Convection Microwave, MJ2886BWUM.

The 28L Samsung convection model should be ideal for large Indian families. However, if your requirements are less, you can opt for the Samsung 23L convection model with similar features.

 

2. LG 28L Convection Microwave Oven – MC2886BPUM

The Samsung 28L model discussed earlier had touchpad control options. However, if you find it challenging to operate touch screens, the LG 28L model, MC2886BPUM, is a better option with its tact dials. One advantage is that it is easy to use and lasts long, as well.

While the Samsung model came equipped with 101 preset Indian menus, this LG convection microwave goes one step further and offers 271 auto-cook menus, of which 175 pertain to Indian cuisines. Thus, you can cook for up to nine months without repeating a single dish.

Besides the usual baking, grilling, roasting, reheating, and defrosting options, the LG 28L model features a rotisserie. Therefore, you can have your barbecue parties right inside your homes without visiting the barbecue joints.

The Pasteurize Milk feature is an excellent option that lets you prepare healthy milk for your children without any fear of the milk boiling and spilling all over the place. In addition, the 12-minute ghee preparation option lets you prepare the healthiest ghee without any foul odor.

Generally, microwave ovens like the Samsung 28L model feature ceramic interiors. However, this LG microwave features a stainless-steel cavity that enables better reflection and uniform cooking.

LG 28L MC2886BPUM

The samosas prepared by the roadside vendors seem inviting but can be dangerous to your health as the streetside vendor uses the same oil repeatedly for frying them. This LG microwave oven uses minimum oil to prepare the same samosas, thereby providing you with a healthy option.

Suppose you love to have rotis for lunch. In that case, the LG 28L microwave should be the ideal option because you can prepare 12 different kinds of roti menus, like naan, Lachcha parathas, tandoori roti, Missi rotis, etc. In addition, the Keep Warm option is a useful one as it keeps the food warm for a maximum of 90 minutes.

Positives

·         While providing better options than its Samsung counterpart, this LG oven costs less.

·         The child lock feature is unique as it is not available in models like Samsung 28L CE1041DSB2 or the LG 28L MC2846SL.

·         This oven consumes 1950W of power compared to the Samsung 28L model that consumes 2100W.

Negatives

·         The stainless-steel interiors offer better heat reflection but are challenging to clean if there are food spillages.

·         Other brands offer glass bowls as additional accessories, whereas they are not available on this LG 28L microwave convection oven.

This LG 28L microwave convection oven comes at competitive pricing. There is another LG 28L model, MC2846SL, available at a lower price.

 

3. IFB 30L Convection Microwave Oven – 30SC4

Convection microwave ovens are excellent cooking options because they come with overheating protection features.

This IFB 30L convection microwave offers additional protection like sensor malfunction protection and child safety lock features. Hence, it qualifies as one of the safest convection microwave ovens available today.

This IFB convection model is different from the LG or the Samsung 28L convection microwave because it works on a unique Combi-technology featuring grill, convection, and microwave. Thus, it consumes power differently, with the microwave, convection, and grill options consuming 1400W, 2200W, and 1250W, respectively.

Like other products in its category, the IFB 30L 30SC4 offers facilities like Speed Defrost, Steam Clean, Express Cooking, Deodorizing, and Auto Reheating. Besides, it comes with 101 preset cooking menus to simplify your cooking sessions.

This IFB model is similar to the LG 28L MC2886BPUM as it features a stainless-steel cavity. The heat-reflecting qualities of stainless steel enable uniform cooking. However, the interiors can get hot and messy, especially if there are food spillages.

Pizza Made in IFB 30SC4

Cleaning the IFB 30L 30SC4 is easy as this oven uses a unique Steam Clean mechanism to free the microwave oven from grease within minutes. Besides, this option leaves a lemon-like fragrance after the cleaning job.

The Express Cooking feature sets this IFB 30L apart from other microwave ovens in its category. All you do is set the weight and use the preset options to fast-forward your cooking sessions. Defrosting your frozen foods does not take much time either.

Positives

·         This appliance is a multi-utility device as you can use it as a grill, convection, and microwave, depending on your needs.

·         The deodorizing feature ensures that the grill element and microwave are germ-free.

·         Features like digital clock prove helpful to inform you about cooking time, power levels, and time at every usage stage.

Negatives

·         The package does not come with additional cookware accessories.

·         This oven does not have rubber or silicone padding on its feet to protect from slippery conditions.

The IFB 30L 30SC4 is a good option because it gives you the benefit of the grill, microwave, and convection in a single appliance. Pricing-wise, it is better than its competitors like the LG 28L MC2886BFUM

 

4. Samsung 28L Convection Microwave Oven – CE1041DSB2/TL

While all convection microwave ovens come equipped with similar features, this Samsung 28L model, CE1041DSB2/TL, offers a unique Fermentation function to allow you to make curds or ferment idli batter. This feature employs advanced fermentation technology to set the ideal temperatures for perfect fermentation.

The Slim Fry option helps you prepare chips and French fries using as little oil as possible. This technology combines the grill with warm air circulation to ensure that the fried food maintains its crispy interiors without any oil or ghee.

This Samsung 28L microwave oven is similar to other Samsung models like 28L MC28H5025VP/TL or the 23L MS23F301TAK/TL in many ways. One similarity is the roti/naan preparing ability by maintaining the interior temperatures at 200 degrees Celsius.

Similarly, this Samsung model is an ideal oven for preparing Indian recipes as it offers a range of preset Indian menus. The Auto Cook menu is a valuable feature as it ensures the perfect temperature and timer settings for your recipes.

Compared to stainless-steel interiors found in models like LG 28L MC2846SL or the IFB 30L 30BRC2, this Samsung oven features ceramic interiors. They do not offer the same kind of reflecting abilities, but ceramic interiors are easier to maintain.

This Samsung model is different from its LG or IFB counterparts as it features a touch keypad, sensitive to touch and easy to clean. Moreover, the Child Lock feature ensures that no one tampers with your oven’s settings.

Positives

·         The 28L capacity should be ideal for large families. In addition, Samsung offers a range of 28L microwave ovens.

·         The ceramic interiors are easy to clean without using scrubbers or hard detergents.

·         The convection mode that uses warm air to cook your food ensures the retention of nutrients to make your foods delicious.

Negatives

·         This Samsung model consumes 2100W of power. In contrast, the LG 28L models like MC2846SL consume less.

·         This product does not come with a starter kit.

This Samsung 28L convection microwave oven has lower pricing than the Samsung model we have reviewed earlier. It is an ideal appliance for large families. If you have fewer requirements, the Samsung 21L CE73JDC/XTL should be perfect.

 

5. Bajaj 17L Solo Microwave Oven – 1701 MT

Solo microwave ovens are different from convection microwave cooking appliances because they cannot bake or grill. However, these devices help cook food. Therefore, if you have modest requirements, you can opt for a solo microwave oven like the Bajaj 17L 1701MT.

Operating this Bajaj solo microwave oven is easy because it comes with simple dial options. Any person, including children, can operate the oven comfortably. Besides cooking your food efficiently, this Bajaj 1701 MT can reheat and defrost. These options make this kitchen appliance handy.

Compared to convection microwave ovens like the Samsung and LG models, these solo microwaves consume less power. On the other hand, the Bajaj 1701 MT consumes 1200W to deliver a commendable performance. Besides, you can choose between five different power levels to cater to your varying cooking needs. Moreover, it enables you to control the temperature levels as required.

This Bajaj 1701 MT comes with a 17L capacity to suit the requirements of an average Indian family. The glass turntable allows it to provide a consistent cooking experience. You can remove the turntable and enhance the cooking space considerably.

This simple microwave oven does not come with a grilling facility. If you love to have grilled sandwiches, the Bajaj 1701 MT is not the ideal one.

The ‘cooking complete alarm’ is an exciting option as it alerts you when the cooking is over. Thus, you can set the timer and carry on with your other household chores while the Bajaj 1701 MT takes care of your food.

Positives

·         The 17L capacity is suitable for small families and bachelors. It is a good option for people who do not use the grilling and baking option frequently.

·         You end up saving considerable fuel as the Bajaj 1701 MT eliminates the use of LPG and other cooking fuels. Thus, it is an eco-friendly kitchen appliance.

·         The jog dials are convenient to use and last long.

Negatives

·         It is impossible to prepare grilled foods like sandwiches or tandoori items on this Bajaj 1701 MT model.

·         The opaque covering does not allow you to monitor your cooking sessions.

While 17L can prove inadequate for large families comprising more than three people, this Bajaj 1701 MT model is a valuable kitchen appliance. It is an affordable product that can deliver decent cooking performance.

 

6. Panasonic 20L Solo Microwave Oven – NN-SM25JBFDG

This Panasonic solo microwave oven is a compact appliance consuming minimum kitchen counter space like the Bajaj model.

It is a competitively priced product capable of providing a decent cooking experience. As this model is a solo microwave oven, it cannot bake or grill. However, it is handy for cooking your delicious food, reheating it, and defrosting your frozen foods.

The microwave function does not involve the circulation of warm air inside the machine. Instead, the machine cooks your food by exposing it to electromagnetic radiation.

Compared to the convection microwave ovens that come with unique fans to circulate warm, the solo microwave ovens are helpful for basic cooking and reheating purposes. However, the food does not turn out crispy from the exterior.

The Panasonic solo microwave oven features easy-to-use jog dial controls that allow you to choose the suitable options and set the timers accordingly.

This Panasonic solo microwave model consumes up to 800W of power. However, you can vary the power levels as it offers five options, depending on your needs. In addition, the timer can be set up to a maximum of 35 minutes.

The interiors feature a glass turntable that rotates slowly to ensure uniform cooking from all sides. You can remove the table and enhance the cooking space, if necessary. However, there will not be any rotation. Such an arrangement can be suitable for reheating purposes.

Positives

·         The five power levels let you choose the ideal option, depending on your requirements.

·         It is a simple, compact device with easy-to-use controlling options.

·         The timer function is helpful to set the ideal cooking times and prevent them from becoming overheated.

Negatives

·         Compared to the Panasonic 20L, NN-ST26JMFDG, which comes with 51 Auto menus, this model, NN-SM25JBFDG, does not have any.

Pricing-wise, the Panasonic 20L model is a good option. It can cater to the requirements of small families. However, if you have more requirements, the Samsung 23L solo microwave oven, MS23F301TAK/TL, can be a good alternative.   

 

Microwave oven – Myths and Facts

Myth 1: Cooling in Microwave ovens can make the food less nutritious.

In fact microwave ovens use less water for cooking food. Vegetable can lose their nutrients if you cook them in water anyway. As these ovens use less water, you can safely say that the ovens are better off compared to traditional cooking methods.

Myth 2: Microwaves cook food all the way through.

Microwaves can penetrate only up to 1.5 inches through your food according to research conducted in the US. Hence, it is not possible for microwave ovens to cook food all the way through. Therefore, you have to be careful with food like poultry and red meat. It is better to reheat such food in the microwave rather than cooking them here.

Fact 1: Microwaves are safe

Many people believed that the microwaves can cause cancer. The truth is that microwaves are very safe. Standing next to a microwave oven will not give you cancer.

Fact 2: Plastics can be dangerous to use inside a microwave oven

You should not use plastic containers inside microwave ovens because there are chances of the containers breaking down thereby releasing poisonous substances in your food. It is better to use glass or ceramic containers instead of plastic, even the high-grade BPA-free ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a table-top microwave as a built-in model and vice versa?

No, you cannot use a built-in microwave as a table-top device because the sides of the cabinet are exposed without panelling. Hence, you will find the sides getting unbearably hot when you use it as a table-top appliance. The same logic applies to the table-top oven, as it cannot be used as a built-in appliance. Both have different configurations.

2. Can you place oven dishes in a microwave cooking range?

It depends on the quality of the dish. Some oven-safe dishes are safe for use both in the microwave and conventional ovens. You should look at the specifications of the vessel that indicates whether it is safe for oven use or not.

3. Does the microwave oven destroy the nutritional value of food?

People believe that microwave destroys the nutrients because it involves radiation. Microwaving your vegetables and food does not destroy its nutrients. However, nutrients are heat-sensitive. Hence, any form of cooking can affect nutritional value. The more water you use while cooking, the more nutrients you lose.

4. What will happen if I put a non-safe bowl inside the oven?

Ceramic bowls come in two varieties, oven-safe and non-safe. If you place the non-safe bowl in your oven, it can shatter or crack as you remove them from the oven. Even certain types of glass can break when removed from the oven.

5. Will sitting in front of the microwave oven cause cancer?

Studies have proved that there is no conclusive evidence that radiation from microwave ovens cause cancer. One should know that the toaster can emit more radiation than a microwave.

6. How long can a microwave oven last?

Generally, microwave ovens last for up to seven years of regular usage. If you use it sparingly and take care of the appliance, it can last for even more than seven years. However, heavy usage can reduce the life expectancy of the microwave oven to around four to five years.

Final Thoughts

You have just gone through an exhaustive buying guide for microwave ovens. Having seen the features of different microwave ovens, you would have got a fair idea of what to expect in the market.