If you’re shopping for the best microwave oven, you need to know what cooking process will get your food hot. Knowing what is the difference between convection and inverter microwave models is critical to the entire cooking process. Compared to conventional microwave, convection and inverter technology offer additional power levels and more energy-efficient cooking time. So, read on to learn how convection microwaves vs inverter microwaves stack up.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Inverter microwaves use an energy-efficient power supply to target the exact voltage required to cook your food.
- Convection microwave ovens use built-in fans to surround your food with hot air, giving your meal a baked exterior.
- Inverter microwaves offer a more energy-efficient appliance, but they are more expensive than regular and convection microwave ovens.
What is the Difference Between an Inverter Microwave and a Convection Microwave?
Compared to a regular oven, convection and inverter models offer a steady stream of heat and additional power levels for your food. Paired with standard microwave oven technology, inverter and converter microwave ovens are great for making an entire meal. So, what is the key difference between convection and inverter microwave ovens?
Insider Tip
Do not cover your food in a convection oven because heating and airflow will not adequately bake your meal.
Inverter microwave ovens use an efficient power supply with consistent power output. Compared to other types of microwaves that use power surges through a transformer, an inverter microwave oven is more energy efficient. The inverter’s constant power level provides the exact voltage required to the cooking chamber to make your food warm. This precision cooking provides a meal free from hot and cold spots found in some microwaved foods.
Convection microwave ovens utilize fans to circulate air around food to give a baked texture to your meal. In addition, convection models combine standard microwave oven features with hot air for faster cooking. If you’re leaning toward a convection microwave, read this guide to see if a convection oven or regular microwave is better for your kitchen.
Keep reading to learn what is the difference between convection and inverter microwave ovens. That said, if you invest in a powerful microwave, you should know when to repair or replace your microwave oven.
Cooking Speed
A convection microwave oven will cook your food faster than an inverter model due to the hot air pushed around your meal. In addition, while inverter microwave ovens provide precise temperature control, convection lets you make baked goods. That said, inverter microwaves offer a better humidity level and energy efficiency that the transformer in a convection model cannot match.
Flavor
Unfortunately, the heating speed of convection makes it easy to make meals with overcooked edges. Inverter microwave ovens deliver hot meals similar to a traditional microwave, but the entire food item is evenly heated.
Maintenance Cost
The special features of an inverter microwave make it more complicated to service. That said, both convection and inverter models have additional parts that aren’t present in regular microwaves. In addition, both kitchen appliances are an expensive investment, so expect to spend more to fix any possible issues.
Warning
Do not use metal utensils while in microwave mode on your convection microwave. The metal can spark and damage your appliance.
F.A.Q.S
Which brands offer inverter microwaves?
The Panasonic inverter microwave was the first flatbed microwave on the market. Today, brands like Sharp, LG, and GE offer inverter ovens.
Is it possible to have a convection oven without a fan?
Yes, you can use convection heating methods without a fan. That said, your convection feature will not have the same heating power without air circulation. Some delicate foods might benefit from turning the fan off, and you will evaporate less of the water molecules.
Is microwave oven bad for health?
Microwave ovens are not bad for health, and they preserve nutrients in food over slow cooking in a normal oven. In addition, you can buy a multifunctional microwave oven that also bakes like a conventional oven.
STAT: The US Bureau of Labor Statistics found that 76% of microwaves on the market are countertop models. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.bls.gov/cpi/quality-adjustment/microwave-ovens.htm
- https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/microwaves_and_safe_food
- https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/cooking-microwave-ovensr
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJnMQq5A9Cg
- https://www.osti.gov/servlets/purl/1172657/
