Is an OTG better than a convection microwave?

Choosing between an OTG (Oven Toaster Grill) and a microwave convection depends on your specific cooking needs. An OTG is ideal for baking, grilling, and toasting, offering better browning and crispiness. On the other hand, a microwave convection combines microwave and convection capabilities, allowing for baking, grilling, reheating, and defrosting. It offers faster cooking with even heating. Convection microwaves are versatile and efficient, while OTGs consume less energy. Consider your cooking preferences and the types of dishes that you make frequently before deciding which appliance suits you the best. Both options have their advantages, so choose based on your requirements.

Can a convection microwave work as an OTG?

Yes, a convection microwave can function as an OTG as well. Convection microwaves come equipped with both microwave and convection heating capabilities, making them versatile appliances for various cooking needs.

Can I use an OTG to reheat food?

Yes, you can use an OTG to reheat food. While it is primarily designed for baking, toasting, and grilling, an OTG can also be used to reheat leftovers or dishes.

Which consumes more electricity, an OTG or a microwave?

OTG ovens generally consume more electricity than microwave ovens because they require longer cooking times and higher power settings for baking and grilling. While microwaves typically operate around 800 to 1200 watts, OTGs can consume up to 2000 watts or more for prolonged periods.

Which oven uses less electricity: OTG or Convection Microwave Oven?

Convection microwave ovens use less electricity than OTG ovens. They cook food faster and more efficiently by combining microwave and convection heat, typically operating at 800 to 1400 watts. In contrast, OTG ovens, which rely solely on electrical resistance, often consume around 1500 to 2000 watts or more.

What is the maximum power of a microwave oven?

The maximum power of a microwave oven can reach up to 1800 watts, but most household models range between 800 and 1200 watts. High-power microwaves, often found in commercial settings, are capable of faster cooking times and more even heating, ideal for larger food volumes and demanding usage.

Can I use an OTG for toasting bread?

Yes, you can use an OTG for toasting bread. It provides even heat distribution, allowing for perfectly toasted slices. Most OTGs come with a dedicated heating element for toasting, making them ideal for achieving the desired crispiness while retaining moisture in the bread.

How do cooking times compare between OTG and microwave?

Cooking times vary significantly between OTGs and microwaves. Microwaves typically cook food faster due to their direct heating method. In contrast, OTGs take longer, as they rely on convection heat, which is more suited for baking and roasting rather than rapid heating.

Is there a significant price difference between OTGs and microwaves?

Yes, there is usually a price difference between OTGs and microwaves. OTGs tend to be more affordable, especially basic models, while microwaves, particularly those with advanced features, can be more expensive. However, prices can vary based on brand, capacity, and additional functionalities.

Which appliance is better for making cakes?

OTGs are generally better for making cakes due to their consistent heating and baking capabilities. They provide a perfect environment for even rising and browning, essential for baking. Microwaves can cook cakes quickly, but they may not yield the same texture and flavour as an OTG.

Can I defrost food in an OTG?

While you can technically defrost food in an OTG, it’s not the most efficient method. OTGs operate using dry heat, which may unevenly thaw food. Microwaves are better suited for defrosting as they can quickly and evenly thaw food without cooking it.

Microwave vs Oven - Choosing the Right Appliance for your Cooking Needs

2 min read

25 May 2021

What is an OTG oven

An OTG oven, short for ‘Oven, Toaster, and Griller’, is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a traditional oven, a toaster, and a grill. It is designed for baking, toasting, grilling, and reheating food. OTG ovens are compact and user-friendly, making them ideal for small kitchens or anyone looking for a multi-purpose cooking solution.

What is a convection microwave

A convection microwave is more sophisticated than a regular microwave and has many additional features apart from reheating and boiling. It uses both microwave technology and hot air circulation (convection) to cook food quickly and evenly. This enables users not only to reheat or defrost but also bake, roast, and grill, making it a versatile choice for efficient and convenient cooking.

Comparing the capacities of convection microwave ovens and OTG ovens

Convection microwave ovens and OTG (Oven, Toaster, Griller) ovens differ significantly in capacity. Convection microwave ovens typically have a capacity ranging from 20 to 32 liters, suitable for small to medium families and quicker cooking. In contrast, OTG ovens often come with larger capacities, ranging from 15 to 60 liters, making them ideal for baking, grilling, and toasting in larger quantities. OTGs are preferred for tasks requiring more cooking space and varied temperature controls.

Also check: Microwave ovens under Rs. 5,000

Difference between a microwave and an OTG oven

Whether heating your food or baking cookies and cakes, a microwave oven and an OTG are both very helpful. However, based upon your usage, you can easily understand the difference between an OTG and a microwave oven. By knowing these differences, you can make the right decision to buy either of the two appliances for your kitchen.

Compare	OTG oven	Microwave oven
Heating method	Electric coils	Electromagnetic waves that cause food particles to oscillate
Heat distribution	Less even	More even
Heating time	Relatively slow - 15 minutes approximately	Quick - 5 minutes approximately
Power usage	Low	High
Auto-cook functionality	Not available	Available
Price	More economical	More expensive
Container options	Glass, metal, silicone, or ceramic	Glass, silicone, and ceramic but not metal
Weight	Light - Easy to move around	Heavy - difficult to shift often
Best for	Baking, toasting, grilling	Simple baking and defrosting

Price list of mircrowave ovens under budget

Model	Price (Approx.)
Bajaj 1701 MT 17 L Built-In Microwave Oven	Rs. 6,199
IFB 23SC3 23 L Convection Microwave Oven	Rs. 11,690
LG MS2043DB 20 L Solo Microwave Oven	Rs. 7,850
IFB 30FRC2 30 L Convection Microwave Oven	Rs. 6,290
LG MC3286BLT 32 L Convection Microwave Oven	Rs. 12,690
LG MC2846BV 28 L Convection Microwave Oven	Rs. 10,790

Price List of OTG Ovens in India

Model	Price (Rs.)
Borosil DigiPro 38 L Digital OTG Oven	8,990
Crompton Tandoori Magic 25 L OTG Oven	5,898
Philips HD6975/00 25 L Digital OTG Oven	7,990
Inalsa Air Fryer Oven Aero Smart-15 L	6,499
IFB Quartz Oven 28 Litre 28QOLCD1	9,999

Some popular brands that offer microwave ovens

Faber Microwave Oven: Known for its sleek design and advanced features, Faber microwave ovens offer efficient cooking with a focus on convenience and energy savings.
Whirlpool Microwave Oven: Renowned for innovative technology, Whirlpool microwaves provide uniform heating and versatile cooking options, making them a popular choice for households.
Haier Microwave Oven: Haier offers durable and budget-friendly microwave ovens, combining user-friendly features with reliable performance for everyday cooking needs.

Popular oven toaster griller - Best brands in India

When considering kitchen appliances, the debate between microwave ovens and oven toaster grillers (OTGs) often arises. Both serve unique functions: microwaves are great for quick heating and cooking, while OTGs excel in baking, grilling, and toasting. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best appliance for your cooking needs.

Inalsa OTG: The Inalsa OTG is a versatile kitchen appliance, ideal for baking, toasting, and grilling. With its multiple cooking functions, it offers convenience and efficiency for various dishes. When deciding between a microwave and an OTG, consider the Inalsa OTG for its superior baking capabilities, making it a great choice for culinary enthusiasts.
Morphy Richards OTG: The Morphy Richards OTG stands out with its stylish design and robust functionality. Equipped with features like adjustable temperature control and a timer, it allows for precise cooking. If you’re torn between a microwave and an OTG, the Morphy Richards OTG offers excellent grilling and baking options, catering to diverse cooking preferences.
Reconnect OTG: The Reconnect OTG is designed for modern kitchens, combining efficiency and style. With its spacious interior and multiple heating elements, it ensures even cooking and browning. When comparing microwave ovens and OTGs, the Reconnect OTG shines in baking and roasting, making it a fantastic option for those who love to experiment in the kitchen.

Can a microwave be used as an oven

The simple answer is yes. You can use your microwave as an oven, but it has to be a convection microwave. A microwave with a convection mode functions like any regular oven and can be used to bake bread, cakes, cookies, or anything else you would want to bake.

Factors to consider before a purchase

Before you shop for either an OTG or a microwave, consider these six aspects to decide what is best suited for your cooking needs:

Science behind cooking

When cooking with an OTG, the heat is radiated by the coils and absorbed by the food. A fan is present to distribute the heat, but most of the heat is dispensed directly below the coils. On the other hand, convection microwaves heat the water molecules present in food, thereby cooking it. A rotating plate and the microwaves ensure that the food is cooked evenly.

What to cook

An OTG is best used for baking, toasting, and grilling. For example, you can bake cakes, grill meat, and toast bread with ease. A convection microwave can perform all these functions and reheat, cook, and de-freeze as well, which an OTG cannot.

Capacity

An OTG’s capacity may reach up to 60 litres, whereas convection microwaves reach a capacity of just 32 litres. So, for large batches of food, an OTG might be a better option. Additionally, the rotating surface in a microwave is relatively small, making it a problem to put large dishes on it. Moreover, though OTGs have larger capacities, they are much easier to handle owing to their lightweight.

Temperature range

The temperature range of both a convection oven and an OTG is almost the same, but the preheat time varies. While an OTG can take up to 20 minutes to preheat, the convection oven only takes 5 minutes. This can considerably decrease the cooking time.

Ease of use

Convection microwaves have a digital display, which allows you to keep track of the temperature and time easily compared to the knobs on an OTG.

Cost

The upfront cost of buying an OTG is around Rs. 10,000 for 42 litres, whereas a convection microwave costs around Rs. 16,000 for 30 litres. Although an OTG seems to be a cheaper option as it uses 20% less energy than a microwave oven, saving money in the long run.

Now that you know the difference between a microwave and an OTG oven, pick the right one for yourself. Then, make a smart choice by breaking the cost of your microwave or OTG into easy instalments with Bajaj Finserv’s financing options.

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