A microwave cooks food using electromagnetic waves that make water molecules in food vibrate, creating heat from within. Most Indian households use it for reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen items, and preparing simple dishes such as popcorn or instant noodles. Many modern microwaves also include grill or convection functions, expanding what you can cook. Its compact size, usually 45 cm to 60 cm wide, makes it a practical fit for small kitchens.
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In summary
A microwave cooks food using electromagnetic waves that heat water molecules quickly, making it ideal for reheating and defrosting. An OTG oven uses heating rods at the top and bottom to bake, roast, and grill, giving food a golden, crisp finish.
Here is a quick look at the key differences:
- Microwaves cost between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 20,000, while OTG ovens cost between Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 50,000 or more.
- A microwave cooks food in minutes, while an OTG oven typically takes 10 to 60 minutes.
- A microwave cannot brown or crisp food, while an OTG oven creates browning and crisping.
- A microwave is compact and fits on most countertops, while an OTG oven needs more dedicated space.
You can buy either appliance using the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card and repay across 3 to 60 months. Check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online before you shop.
What is a microwave?
What is an OTG oven?
An OTG oven, or Oven Toaster Griller, is used for baking, roasting, and grilling through heating rods positioned at the top and bottom of the oven. These rods heat the air inside the cavity, and that hot air cooks the food. Unlike a convection oven, a standard OTG oven does not use a fan, so you may need to rotate trays occasionally for even browning. It is a popular, affordable choice for Indian households that bake regularly.
What can I cook in a microwave?
A microwave handles a range of everyday cooking tasks well, especially when speed matters more than browning or crisping. Here is what you can prepare:
- Reheat leftovers, such as dal or rice, in one to two minutes without drying them out.
- Defrost frozen vegetables or meat quickly without cooking them through.
- Heat water for tea or milk for coffee in under a minute.
- Steam vegetables, such as broccoli, peas, or carrots, while retaining nutrients.
- Cook ready-to-eat meals, instant noodles, or microwave popcorn.
- Prepare simple desserts, such as mug cakes or puddings, in minutes.
What are the benefits of cooking with a microwave?
A microwave offers speed, energy efficiency, and simplicity, making it a practical choice for busy Indian households. Its straightforward controls make it easy for every family member to use.
- Size: A microwave is compact and fits comfortably on most kitchen countertops, typically measuring 45 cm to 60 cm in width and 30 cm to 45 cm in height. Some models mount under cabinets, saving even more counter space.
- Speed of cooking: A microwave cooks food remarkably fast because it heats food molecules directly rather than the surrounding air. For example, potatoes that take 30 minutes in a conventional oven can cook in five to eight minutes in a microwave.
- Price: A microwave is generally more affordable than an OTG oven, with basic models starting from Rs. 5,000 and feature-rich options going up to Rs. 20,000 or more. You can spread this cost using the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card and a repayment tenure across 3 to 60 months.
- Method of cooking: A microwave uses electromagnetic radiation that targets water molecules in food, causing them to vibrate and generate heat from within. This method reheats food without drying it out, though it cannot brown or crisp food surfaces.
- Effects on food: Microwave cooking often preserves more nutrients in vegetables because of shorter cooking times and minimal water use. However, food retains moisture but lacks the browning and crisping that many dishes need for full flavour.
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What can I cook in an OTG oven?
An OTG oven suits several traditional and everyday baking tasks that need consistent, radiant heat. Here is what you can prepare:
- Bake breads and cakes, including naan or celebration cakes, with a golden crust.
- Roast meats, such as chicken, mutton, or fish, for a browned, flavourful exterior.
- Prepare tandoori-style dishes that need steady, direct heat.
- Bake cookies and biscuits, ideally one tray at a time for even results.
- Cook casseroles and layered dishes that benefit from top and bottom heat.
- Roast vegetables to achieve caramelised, crisp edges.
What are the benefits of cooking with an OTG oven?
An OTG oven offers strong results for baking and grilling, and its simple design makes it easier to maintain than more complex ovens. It remains a popular choice for households that bake often.
- Size: An OTG oven is larger than a microwave, typically measuring 60 cm to 75 cm in width and around 60 cm in height for standard models. This size accommodates bigger dishes and multiple trays, which suits family meals and festive cooking.
- Speed of cooking: An OTG oven cooks slower than a microwave since it heats the air inside the cavity rather than the food directly. A cake that takes 30 minutes in a microwave with convection may take closer to 40 minutes in an OTG oven, though results are often more evenly baked.
- Price: An OTG oven is a bigger investment than a microwave, with entry-level models starting around Rs. 10,000 and premium versions exceeding Rs. 50,000. The Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card lets you convert this cost into Easy EMIs across a flexible repayment tenure.
- Method of cooking: An OTG oven uses heating rods at the top and bottom to warm the air inside the cavity, cooking food through radiant heat. Since most OTG ovens lack a fan, heat distribution can be uneven, so rotating the tray helps achieve consistent browning.
- Effects on food: Food cooked in an OTG oven develops a crisp, golden exterior and rich flavour from direct heat exposure. Baked goods rise well and develop a proper crust, though you may need to monitor cooking closely to avoid uneven results.
What is the difference between a microwave and an OTG oven?
Before choosing an appliance for your kitchen, it helps to compare how a microwave and an OTG oven differ across cooking method, speed, and price. The table below breaks down these differences.
| Feature | Microwave | OTG oven |
| Cooking method | Uses electromagnetic waves that heat water molecules in food | Uses heating rods at the top and bottom, without a fan |
| Cooking time | Minutes | 10 to 60 minutes |
| Food results | Heats quickly but cannot brown or crisp food | Creates browning, crisping, and caramelisation |
| Price range | Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 20,000 | Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000 and above |
| Best uses | Reheating, defrosting, simple cooking | Baking, roasting, grilling, toasting |
| Maintenance | Easier to clean, fewer components | More components, needs occasional tray rotation |
What is the price of popular microwaves and OTG ovens in India?
Actual prices vary by capacity, brand, and features, so it helps to see real models side by side. Here is a sample price list for both appliance types.
Microwave oven price list
| Model | Capacity | Price |
| Panasonic Solo Microwave | 20 L | Rs. 5,999 onwards |
| LG Convection Microwave (MC2886BRUM) | 28 L | Rs. 11,000 onwards |
| IFB Convection Microwave (30BRC2) | 30 L | Rs. 14,000 onwards |
OTG oven price list
| Model | Capacity | Price |
| iBELL OTG | 25 L | Rs. 4,475 onwards |
| Glen Multi-Function OTG (SA5035BLRC) | 35 L | Rs. 6,699 onwards |
| Morphy Richards Digital Air Fryer OTG (40RCAD) | 40 L | Rs. 25,195 onwards |
Disclaimer: Product features, availability, and prices may differ based on location and time. For the latest and most accurate details, visit the official brand website or a partner store.
You can use the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card to split any of these prices into Easy EMIs, so a higher-capacity model does not need to strain your monthly budget.
Can I use a microwave as an oven?
A standard microwave cannot fully replace an OTG oven, since it lacks the heating rods needed for proper baking and roasting. However, combination microwave-convection models can handle some oven-style tasks, such as light baking or grilling. These hybrid appliances cost more but suit kitchens with limited space that still want some baking flexibility.
Microwave vs OTG oven: Which one should I choose?
Your choice depends on how you cook most often and how much kitchen space you have. Both appliances can be bought using the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card for easier payment.
- Choose a microwave if you mainly reheat, defrost, or cook simple meals quickly. It is compact, affordable, and ideal for small kitchens or daily convenience.
- Choose an OTG oven if you bake, roast, or grill regularly and want a golden, crisp finish on your dishes. It suits larger kitchens and households that cook for guests or festivals.
- Either way, apply for the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card and choose a repayment tenure across 3 to 60 months to bring your new appliance home without paying the full amount upfront.
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What are my financing options to buy a microwave or OTG oven in India?
The Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card gives you a straightforward way to buy a microwave or OTG oven without paying the full amount upfront. Here is what the card offers:
- A card loan offer of up to Rs. 3 lakh, which you can use across multiple purchases.
- Easy EMIs across a flexible tenure of 3 to 60 months, letting you choose a plan that suits your monthly budget.
- Acceptance at 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities, including Croma, Reliance Digital, and Vijay Sales, as well as online at Amazon and Flipkart.
- Zero down payment on select products and during festive season offers, reducing the amount you pay at checkout.
What is a Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card?
The Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card is a pre-qualified card loan that lets you shop for electronics, appliances, and more, and repay the amount in Easy EMIs. It works at 1.5 lakh partner stores and online platforms, and you can activate it without submitting physical documents.
Check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online using your mobile number and OTP. If eligible, you can apply instantly and start shopping for your preferred microwave or OTG oven easily and affordably.
How do I apply for a Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card?
Applying for the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card is a quick, fully online process that takes only a few minutes. Follow these steps to get started:
- Enter your 10-digit mobile number and click on 'CHECK OFFER' on this page.
- Enter the OTP and submit.
- Enter your full name and click on 'Yes, Auto-Fetch Details'.
- Verify your pre-filled personal details and click on 'CONTINUE'.
- Check your pre-qualified card loan offer amount and click on 'CONTINUE'.
- Review your wallet setup details and verify the OTP.
- Complete your identity verification by confirming your current residential address.
- Post successful identity verification, pay a one-time joining fee of Rs. 530 (inclusive of applicable taxes).
- After successful payment, view your card details on the Bajaj Finance app.
Note: The online process may differ slightly based on whether you are a new customer or have an existing relationship with us.
Also read: How to apply for the Insta EMI Card
How do I use the Insta EMI Card?
At a partner store
Using the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card at any of 1.5 lakh partner stores, such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or Reliance Digital, is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Select the microwave or OTG oven you want to buy.
- Tell the store executive you want to pay using the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card.
- Share your registered mobile number and card details with the executive.
- Choose a repayment tenure across 3 to 60 months that fits your monthly budget.
- Authenticate the transaction using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Your purchase is approved instantly, so you can take your appliance home the same day.
For online purchases
You can also use the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card to shop on partner platforms including Amazon and Flipkart. Follow these steps:
- Browse for microwaves or OTG ovens and add your preferred appliance to the cart.
- At checkout, select the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card as your payment option.
- Enter your card details and registered mobile number.
- Choose a repayment tenure across 3 to 60 months that fits your monthly budget.
- Confirm the transaction using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Your order is confirmed, and your Easy EMIs begin from the next billing cycle.
You can also check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online in advance by entering your mobile number and OTP, helping you plan your purchase better.
Benefits of using the Insta EMI Card
The Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card offers several advantages beyond just splitting payments. From flexible tenures to wide acceptance, here are the key benefits that make this card a practical choice for everyday purchases.
| Feature | Details |
| Easy EMIs | Split the cost of your purchase into affordable monthly instalments with minimal interest, making it budget-friendly. |
| High pre-qualified limit | Get up to Rs. 3 lakh card loan offer amount to buy multiple products without upfront stress. |
| Wide acceptance network | Accepted at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities and major e-commerce platforms. |
| Flexible repayment tenure | Choose a repayment period from 3 to 60 months based on your financial comfort. |
| Zero down payment offers | Avail deals with no upfront payment requirement on select models. |
| Credit score benefit | Timely EMI payments may help strengthen your credit profile and financial health. |
Also read: Features and benefits of the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card
What is the eligibility criteria for the Insta EMI Card?
Before you apply, it helps to check whether you meet the basic eligibility requirements. The Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card is open to most working Indians, and the criteria are simple to understand at a glance.
- Nationality: Indian Citizen.
- Age: 21 years to 65 years.
- Credit score: A healthy credit score per Bajaj Finance policies.
- Income: A steady, regular source of income.
- Documents:No physical documentation required when applying online. Only the following details are required: PAN and Aadhaar number.
- Form 60: In case of non-availability of PAN, Form 60 is required.
Also read: Eligibility criteria for the Insta EMI Card
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Frequently asked questions
Microwaves vs OTG ovens
Insta EMI Card
Which is better for baking, a microwave or an OTG oven?
An OTG oven is generally better for baking, since its heating rods create the browning and crisping that baked goods need. A microwave can reheat or lightly cook batters, but it will not give you the golden crust an OTG oven produces. Before you buy either appliance, check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online to know your card loan offer in advance.
Can I use a microwave for grilling like an OTG oven?
A basic microwave cannot grill food the way an OTG oven does, since it lacks heating rods for direct, radiant heat. Some microwaves include a grill function that mimics limited grilling, but results will not match an OTG oven's browning and crispness on meats or vegetables.
Does an OTG oven use more electricity than a microwave?
An OTG oven often uses more electricity overall, since it cooks food more slowly than a microwave and needs longer heating rod use. A microwave heats food directly and finishes faster, making it more energy-efficient for short, everyday cooking tasks such as reheating or defrosting.
Should I check my Insta EMI Card eligibility before buying a microwave or OTG oven?
Yes, checking your eligibility first helps you understand your card loan offer before you shop for a microwave or OTG oven. You only need your mobile number and OTP to check. This way, you know your budget in advance and can check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online within minutes.
Can I buy a microwave or OTG oven on EMI using the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card?
Yes, you can use the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card to buy a microwave or OTG oven at partner stores, such as Croma and Reliance Digital, or online through Amazon and Flipkart. You choose a repayment tenure across 3 to 60 months and pay in Easy EMIs that suit your monthly budget.
What documents do I need to apply for the Insta EMI Card?
You need your PAN card and Aadhaar card for KYC verification, along with your registered mobile number, to apply for the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card. The entire process is completed online, so you do not need to submit any physical documents. Approval and activation usually happen within minutes.
Bajaj Finance app for all your financial needs and goals
Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finance App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.
You can use the Bajaj Finance App to:
- Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
- Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
- Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
- Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
- Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
- Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
- Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
- Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.
Download the Bajaj Finance App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.
Disclaimer
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