Today, the average Russian family consists of three people, so there is a need for miniature household appliances, but so that they functionally differ little from standard ones. An excellent option is to choose a mini-oven instead of an oven that takes up a lot of space; they have the same set of basic functions, but the miniature device takes up half the space, is very easy to operate and consumes less energy resources.
To find out all the technical parameters and how to choose from a large assortment exactly the device that is ideal for your family, you only need to carefully read this article.
What is a mini oven
Tabletop electric ovens are quite versatile, and most importantly, miniature kitchen devices that are not inferior to standard analogues in popularity and functionality. It is necessary to choose an electric oven in accordance with the needs of the whole family, so you need to know the basic technical parameters and nuances of use in advance, and then go shopping.
The availability of functions does not depend on the internal volume of the oven: baking homemade pies, cakes and grilling meat delicacies on the grill requires good power, and whether the oven volume is 10 or 40 liters, there is no difference. The main thing is that the interior has a non-stick coating, so as not to spend a lot of effort cleaning the oven after each use.
Miniature analogues, when used correctly at home, can work wonders and completely replace a microwave oven, because manufacturers have taken into account all the nuances of operation and such household appliances are produced with the function of heating previously prepared food, as well as defrosting food. Safety doors are equipped
double glass, and all models are childproof.
The best electric mini convection ovens
To be meticulous, you need to divide convection into natural and forced. The first is typical for any oven, since it is impossible to eliminate heat exchange from the process. True, it is not carried out quickly enough and depends on numerous factors. As a result, food is cooked unevenly. This leads to the fact that food can burn in one place and remain damp in another. But even if such problems can be avoided, improper heat exchange can ruin an excellent recipe, because the same sponge cake can fall off because of this. Therefore, to solve the problem, manufacturers force convection in mini-ovens by adding fans to the design.
Kitfort KT-1708
A beautiful and compact mini-oven, comparable in size to a regular microwave. The device is equipped with two powerful heaters, has 5 cooking modes and allows you to set a timer up to 120 minutes. If you need to cook longer, then you can activate the “endless” program, which can be turned off manually.
The door of the Kitfort mini-oven has double glazing and hardly heats up. The presence of a spit function in the device allows you to cook various products with an appetizing crust. The budget mini-oven with convection was also pleased with its assembly. Other advantages of the KT-1708 are high-quality lighting and a comfortable handle that does not heat up.
Advantages:
- excellent assembly;
- good functionality;
- low cost;
- enough operating modes.
Flaws:
network cable is only 95 cm.
Gemlux GL-OR-1538LUX
Next on the list of the best mini ovens with convection function is Gemlux. This is a fairly young, but very successful manufacturer, whose products are manufactured in factories in Italy, Taiwan, South Korea, Russia and other countries. The cost of Gemlux equipment is very affordable, and the model we have chosen can be purchased for only 8-9 thousand rubles.
Thanks to electronic displays near the rotary controls, users can set the temperature in one-degree increments. The maximum and minimum for the oven under review are 30 and 230 degrees, respectively. We were also very pleased that the upper and lower heating elements can be set to separate power levels.
Pros:
- sound indication of heating;
- separate temperature control;
- the minimum temperature level allows you to easily defrost food;
- use of automatic recipes;
- convenient timer up to 120 minutes.
Minuses:
During the cooking process, the housing becomes noticeably hot.
REDMOND RO-5701
One of the most interesting options for your money. First of all, REDMOND RO-5701 can be distinguished by its excellent design and high-quality assembly, which is typical for all equipment of the Russian manufacturer. We are also pleased with the ease of control, represented by 4 rotary switches. Three of them are traditionally responsible for temperature, time, upper/lower heating. The latter activates additional functions such as convection and rotisserie. Inside the chamber with a volume of 33 liters, the manufacturer placed a bright light, which allows you to control the readiness of the dish. It turns on automatically as soon as the user turns the timer knob.
Advantages:
- pull-out crumb tray;
- good delivery set;
- proper placement of heating elements;
- quality grill;
- branded recipe book.
Flaws:
- when used at maximum temperature, the case becomes very hot;
- noise from the timer during operation.
Steba KB 27 U.3
The TOP stoves are completed by a unit produced by Steba. The device has a volume of 20 liters and allows you to set the operating temperature up to 250 degrees. Among the modes, the KB 27 U.3 provides upper and lower heating, which can be turned on simultaneously, as well as grill and convection. There are no unnecessary functions here, which is why the cost of the mini-oven turned out to be as affordable as possible - from 6,500 rubles. The length of the network cable in Steba KB 27 U.3 is 140 cm, which is enough for convenient connection to a power outlet.
Advantages:
- favorable price;
- uniform heating;
- volume for 1-2 people;
- grill and convection;
- good build.
Main settings
The volume of ovens is usually divided into three main types:
- 10-15 l is the normal size for a family that already has a stationary stove for the kitchen;
- 25 l is the average value;
- above is a professional oven.
Many users are mistaken, assuming that by choosing the maximum oven volume for their home, they will immediately solve all problems.
Firstly, the chosen option may not fit into the previously prepared place, since the dimensions will be much larger. Secondly, a large volume also means greater power, and this is a sure step towards high energy costs. Taking into account the dimensions of the oven, manufacturers install appropriate heating elements, for example, 10 l - 0.8 kW, and up to 25 l - no less than 1.5 kW.
Smooth temperature control, as well as turning the heating element on and off, will allow you to implement bold culinary decisions correctly and with high quality. Some manufacturers install an electronic panel, but such models are much more expensive, the accuracy of this type is excellent, but the reliability is average: all it takes is one controller to break down, and you will have to replace the entire system.
A package of additional options is considered an important characteristic, because it includes heating ready-made dishes, boiling milk, or the system automatically defrosts the necessary products, like a quick defrost option on a microwave. After the process is completed, the sound timer will notify you with a signal. Some models have two cast iron burners on top with a power of 0.6 and 0.8 kW - this allows you to cook several dishes at the same time: two on the burners and, for example, grilled chicken in the oven.
What is an oven?
An oven or oven is a familiar device for many for preparing pastries, baked meats and all kinds of casseroles. Very often combined with a hob - stove.
The oven can run on natural gas or electricity. This is a universal technique designed for preparing main dishes.
In fact, a gas or electric stove is sufficient to meet the needs of a large family. It allows you to cook in large portions, boil and fry if you want, or bake in the oven if you want. In addition, for many, the oven is indispensable for sterilizing jars. If desired, it can replace a fruit dryer, multicooker and other cooking equipment.
We recommend: Electric or gas oven: which is better to buy for a new apartment
Advantages and disadvantages
Progress does not stand still, and ovens keep up with the times. Yes, they are bulky, but they are also reliable and can be quite functional.
Pros:
- Large selection of gas and electric ovens.
- Good capacity, allowing you to cook several dishes at the same time.
- Reliability – the equipment lasts for many years.
- Safety. As a rule, ovens are equipped with thick glass and walls that remain at a comfortable temperature during cooking.
Minuses:
- Not every oven bakes well. Problems are especially often found in gas ovens - the bottom of the baked goods burns, the biscuit does not rise, and in general the dishes do not turn out as tasty as we would like.
- Impressive dimensions. Before buying an oven, you need to think about where and how to place it. Many people integrate technology. But in any case, it takes up a lot of space and can be inconvenient in a small kitchen.
- High fees for additional features. Ovens with advanced convection, timer, grill and defrost are several times more expensive than simple stoves.
- Difficult installation. Only specialists should install gas ovens. And electrical appliances as powerful as an oven can hardly be installed independently. According to the rules, it must have a separate power line from the electrical panel and a power outlet.
Control system
Experts distinguish two types that can be used at home:
- Mechanical type - performed using rotary type switches, the simplest and most reliable control, because in case of breakdown it is easy to repair or replace.
- Electronic version with touch buttons on the display: this type is much more convenient to use, but the cost of the model increases, and it will not be possible to repair such a panel in a workshop; it is cheaper to replace it.
The first option is well-deservedly popular among users: they are inexpensive, quite reliable and repairable in all respects.
Control type
Mechanical - the device is adjusted using round rotary switches. This is the most common control option. Such ovens are cheaper and easier to use.
Electronic (touch) – adjustment is carried out by touching a finger. The touchpad is easy to clean. Naturally, such models are more expensive than the previous version.
Sometimes there are mini-ovens with clock control, reminiscent of mechanical control. In such roasters, functions are set using a wheel/wheels.
Additional equipment
The equipment of a miniature product is a very important factor when purchasing:
- Telescopic guides will protect users from possible burns, allowing you to easily remove the baking sheet or grill.
- The presence of a grill allows you to bake food in a special way, giving it an exceptional aroma and unforgettable taste.
- The rotating spit allows you to roast large pieces of meat or whole poultry while preserving the juices.
- Timer - such a device adds convenience, because it will notify you of the end of the process with a sound signal or automatically turn off the product.
- The backlight allows you to visually observe the cooking process without opening the door, which sharply lowers the temperature inside the oven.
- The type of door opening plays a big role: when the product is installed high, the best option is a side opening.
Many models support the standard method of cleaning the interior with steam: pour water onto a baking sheet, then turn on the maximum temperature for a few minutes. After this, the internal volume must be wiped with a napkin or a clean cloth.
The best mini ovens up to 20 l
Roasters with an internal volume of less than 20 liters are optimal for cottages, guest houses and boarding houses. They are also suitable for small families who rarely bake anything or do it in small quantities.
Panasonic NU-SC101
5
★★★★★ editorial assessment
97% of buyers recommend this product
Panasonic's ultra-modern mini oven has all the necessary functions to cook a variety of dishes. It is equipped with heating elements, convection and grill functions, as well as a steam cooking option with adjustable steam intensity. The roaster has 13 automatic programs, and also allows you to manually configure the operating mode.
The model is characterized by a quick start: steam begins to form within 20 seconds after switching on, and a minimum temperature of 100° C is reached in just 3 minutes. The oven is equipped with a wide digital display and has an electronic control system. The internal volume of the model is 15 liters, and 2 baking sheets can be placed here at the same time.
Advantages:
- 13 automatic programs;
- Steaming;
- Electronic control with display;
- Steam power adjustment;
- Quick access to the specified mode.
Flaws:
High price.
Despite its compact size, the NU-SC101 mini oven from Panasonic is multifunctional and practical. It will be good for quick preparation of baked goods, roasts and dietary dishes.
Redmond SkyOven 5727S
4.8
★★★★★ editorial assessment
92% of buyers recommend this product
The multifunctional mini-oven with a volume of 20 liters has touch and remote control: you can set modes, turn on auto-heating and activate delayed start from your smartphone. The roaster’s memory contains 20 automatic programs and there is a manual setting.
The model is equipped with two heating elements and a grill, and comes with a baking sheet, a baking dish, a grate and a handle for removing hot containers. The thermostat allows you to adjust the heating temperature from 40 to 230 degrees, which means the oven can be used for heating, defrosting and fermenting foods.
Advantages:
- Control from a smartphone;
- 20 automatic modes;
- Wide temperature range;
- Touch control panel;
- Timer for 10 hours.
Flaws:
Convection mode is missing.
The SkyOven 5727S mini-oven from Redmond opens up unlimited possibilities for preparing various dishes - just in small quantities. An excellent option for a rented apartment or for a young family.
De'Longhi EO 12562
4.7
★★★★★ editorial assessment
86% of buyers recommend this product
The compact mini-oven has an internal chamber volume of only 12 liters. It holds two baking sheets on which you can cook with an upper or lower heating element, a combination of heaters, as well as in grill and convection mode. Convenient storage of the stove is provided not only by its compact dimensions, but also by a compartment for the cord.
The model has simple mechanical controls, but is equipped with a 120-minute sound timer, which will not let you miss the end of cooking. The built-in thermostat allows you to regulate and maintain the temperature within 60-220 degrees.
Advantages:
- There is convection and grill;
- Thermostat;
- Cord compartment;
- Sound timer (albeit without auto-off).
Flaws:
No digital display.
The EO 12562 mini-oven from De'Longhi is a compact and reliable kitchen assistant that can cope with most standard roaster tasks. Mechanical control, although it does not allow expanding the functionality of the equipment, is the most reliable and simplest option. You can safely give such equipment to elderly relatives.
Rommelsbacher BG 950
4.5
★★★★★ editorial assessment
82% of buyers recommend this product
The BG 950 mini-oven from Rommelsbacher is one of the most compact in the segment - its internal volume is only 10 liters. The model is energy efficient, has simple mechanical controls, and is equipped with a baking tray and grid.
The convenience of using the mini-oven is ensured by a timer with sound notification and a thermostat that maintains the set temperature. The minimum and maximum heating of the oven is 80 and 230° C, respectively.
Advantages:
- Super compact;
- Economical energy consumption;
- Sound timer;
- Thermostat;
- Simple controls.
Flaws:
The timer is only 30 minutes.
The mini-oven BG 950 from Rommelsbacher is designed for the smallest kitchens. It can also be recommended for students and those who often move from place to place.
Oven or mini oven
Compared to a stove equipped with a standard-sized oven, a miniature model has the following advantages, regardless of the brand:
- energy consumption is 20-30% less;
- small size, own weight and interesting design;
- the tabletop option costs much less than a standard stove;
- there are options for specific models - for an apartment, office, cottage, and so on;
- connection options - gas or electricity;
- great functionality;
- Electric ovens may have a pancake compartment under the top lid.
In terms of fire safety, the tabletop version of miniature electric stoves is much better than gas stoves, although many users will argue that shorting the wires also poses a fire risk.
When compared with a standard oven, clear advantages are visible:
- Miniature dimensions - a tabletop oven takes up very little space, which cannot be said about its standard counterpart.
- With similar functionality, the energy consumption of the desktop version is much less.
- The choice of design and range of models is much larger, and a standard oven has almost the same appearance.
The choice is always up to the user; we only state the real facts.
Oven
A more familiar device for many, which is combined with a stove - floor or wall. Can run on natural gas or electricity. The wide range of available models often leads to difficulties when purchasing, since it is easy to make mistakes and purchase low-quality products. The main difference from a mini-oven is the much larger volume of the cabinet; on the other hand, its capabilities are very limited.
Advantages
Speaking about the advantages of ovens, it is worth highlighting modern models that differ from their predecessors:
- there are specimens that run on natural gas or from the mains;
- use energy sparingly;
- They are compact in size, but at the same time have good capacity, which allows you to cook several dishes at once;
- a wide range will make it easy to choose the right product, taking into account the size and interior of the room;
- improved units are made with triple glass and door opening blocking, which prevents the possibility of injuries and burns;
- additional options - timer, auto shut-off, alarm notification - make using the device more comfortable and safe.
Healthy! Certain advantages are inherent in specific types of ovens - electric or gas, tabletop or floor-standing. You should choose the appropriate type based on your own preferences and wishes. It should also be taken into account that the cost of different devices will vary greatly.
Flaws
Among the disadvantages of the technology are the following:
- the need to allocate a separate place for installation in the kitchen interior;
- You will need special utensils for use - not all materials are suitable;
- A function such as a grill is found only in expensive units.
Dependent oven
Independent oven
Advantages and disadvantages
Let's start with the positive qualities:
- compactness, allowing you to easily place it anywhere in the kitchen, modern office or in the country;
- simple and intuitive control: just set the temperature, select a cooking mode and start the timer - the product will automatically carry out the cooking process and notify you of successful completion;
- operation from an ordinary home network without separate power supply;
- Models with top burners are available; this option is acceptable for a summer house or a small hostel.
There are disadvantages, like all household appliances, but they are minor:
- Some models have a very hot case;
- declared power does not always coincide with real power;
- some Asian manufacturers use thin wire for the grille, as a result it becomes deformed after the first use;
- short length of the power cord.
Many manufacturers do not pay enough attention to translating the operating instructions into Russian.
The best mini ovens with hobs
Combined mini-ovens, which together with a small oven have a hob, are truly multifunctional equipment. Roasters of this type allow you to save on the purchase of an oven and stove, while maintaining their compactness.
Leran TO 5085 GC
4.9
★★★★★ editorial assessment
95% of buyers recommend this product
The spacious mini-oven with an internal volume of 50 liters is equipped with two glass-ceramic burners. The oven has grill and convection modes, and two heating elements allow you to cook a wide variety of dishes in it, including whole poultry on a spit.
The roaster is easy to operate. There are 4 rotary controls on the body: two for the oven (time and mode) and one for each burner. The inner surface of the oven is covered with easy-to-clean enamel.
Advantages:
- Glass ceramic hobs;
- Capacity;
- Grill with spit;
- Convection mode;
- Easy cleaning.
Flaws:
There is no steam cooking mode.
The Leran mini-oven with a hob is the most modern and economical among its analogues. And its rather large volume allows us to recommend the model instead of a full-size stove for large families.
Galaxy GL2622
4.8
★★★★★ editorial assessment
88% of buyers recommend this product
Galaxy's GL2622 mini oven is one of the largest roasters on the market. The internal volume of the oven is 100 liters, which allows you to bake several dishes at once, or bake a large bird (goose or even turkey) whole.
The oven is equipped with two electric pancake burners with the same power. The equipment has a timer with a maximum setting time of 120 minutes. The model's controls are mechanical and intuitive. The appliance is equipped with a baking tray, a wire rack and a handle for hot containers. The thermostat provides ease of use.
Advantages:
- Maximum capacity;
- Timer for 2 hours;
- Thermostat;
- Simple controls;
- Internal lighting.
Flaws:
No grill or convection.
The GL2622 mini-oven from Galaxy, due to its impressive volume, is quite capable of replacing a standard kitchen stove.
Gefest PG 100
4.7
★★★★★ editorial assessment
86% of buyers recommend this product
A Gefest mini-oven is equipment with a gas oven and burners. It is available in white and brown colors, equipped with a baking sheet and a shaped grate for the burners. The housing has a heat-resistant coating that is resistant to damage and easy to clean.
The tabletop oven is safe to use, as it has gas control of the oven and burners. It is equipped with a metal cover that protects the wall from dirt and makes transportation and storage of the stove more convenient. The oven with an internal volume of 19 liters is equipped with a temperature indicator and an upper grill. The burners have a minimum heat setting.
Advantages:
- Two body colors to choose from;
- Gas control;
- Minimum fire fixation;
- Electric grill;
- Availability of a cover.
Flaws:
Manual oven temperature control.
The PG 100 mini-oven from Gefest is one of the few similar models that runs on gas, and therefore is in demand for houses and apartments with gasification. However, in a country house or dacha, where there are frequent power outages, it will also come in handy.
GFgril GFBB-7
4.5
★★★★★ editorial assessment
83% of buyers recommend this product
The GFgril tabletop oven is a unique kitchen equipment that consists of a compact oven with an internal volume of 7 liters, a grill pan and a coffee maker.
In the oven you can bake small pies, reheat ready meals, and prepare hot sandwiches. It has a 30 minute timer and thermostat.
The built-in drip coffee maker allows you to enjoy freshly brewed coffee. The volume of its flask is 600 ml, which is enough for 3-4 servings of the drink.
A frying pan with a lid is suitable for cooking scrambled eggs, meat and vegetable dishes. To simplify cleaning, the manufacturer made it removable. The bottom of the grill is covered with a non-stick layer.
Advantages:
- Multifunctionality;
- There is a timer and thermostat;
- Removable design is easy to clean;
- Low price.
Flaws:
- Small capacity;
- No convection or grill.
The GFBB-7 mini-oven from GFgril will not replace a standard kitchen stove, but it is ideal for preparing breakfast for 1-3 people, for example, in a country house, in a hostel or guest house.
How to choose
Every housewife understands perfectly well that a mini-oven is 3in1, or even more, so you need to choose according to your preferences. First, you need to decide for what specific purposes you want to purchase a new device: cook food constantly, reheat pre-prepared dishes, or use it for home baking or preparing grilled chicken.
Many experienced housewives choose mini-ovens with a slightly larger volume, because the space helps the dough rise better, and this improves the quality of the pies.
The internal coating is considered the second most important indicator of product quality, because the metal must be heat-resistant, resistant to mechanical stress and not susceptible to chemical detergents. The high quality coating is accompanied by the obligatory Durastone inscription.
To control the process, you need high-quality internal lighting that brightly illuminates the entire space.
Pay special attention to the fact that some manufacturers add a lot of unnecessary options that you may only use once, and you pay extra for each one. Design is of great importance, because a nice option looks great and does not overload the kitchen interior.
Convection ensures fast cooking: according to experts, the process is reduced by 30 and sometimes 50%, which has a positive effect on energy consumption. Baked crispy crust is not a fad, but a requirement of modern technologies for baking poultry carcasses, as well as hot sandwiches. Even toast looks more appetizing when it's well-done.
Table with characteristics for comparison
Many mini-ovens are as efficient as full-size ovens. At the same time, they consume significantly less electricity.
To prepare meals for 1-3 people, it is more profitable to buy small stoves. When baking 1 kg of hot wings in a large cabinet, a significant portion of the electricity is wasted simply to heat the air.
Comparison of mini-oven and oven in the table:
Mini oven | Oven | |
Nutrition | Electricity | Electricity, gas |
Temperature Range | From 65 to 220 degrees, less often from 30 to 320 degrees | 140-270 degrees for gas, 50-280 for electric |
Volume | From 8 to 40 liters | 50-70 liters |
Power | 1000-1500 W | 2.5-4 kW |
Hob | — | + |
Energy Saving | + | — |
Easy installation | + | — |
Space saving | + | — |
Capacity | — | + |
Life time | 3-7 years | 10-15 years |
Additional features | Defrosting, timer, sound notification, auto shut-off, convection. For an additional fee - grill | Electric ovens have convection. For an additional fee - timer, sound notification, auto shut-off, grill |
average price | 5000-8000 rubles | 15000-25000 rubles |
Good to know. Mini ovens come with burners. Example – Ariete Bon Cuisine 600, Rolsen KW-2626HP. They can completely replace an electric stove. You can bake inside the cabinet, and stew, boil and fry your favorite dishes on top.
Rating of the best models
Rather, this is a regular review or top imported mini-stoves from different manufacturers.
Steba KB 23 Eco
pros
- compact model, many functions
- easy and intuitive controls
- You can bake pies and prepare delicacies in the oven
Minuses
- not found
From 8412 ₽
Scarlett SC-EO96O99
pros
- miniature, convenient, functional
- ideal for a summer residence
Minuses
- The temperature on the burners can only be adjusted overall
From 5850 ₽
Smile TKO 2401
pros
- great option for a small kitchen
- several heating modes, minimum maintenance
Minuses
- not found
From 1790 ₽
Gemlux GL-OR-1838
pros
- stylish design, convenient to use
- separate adjustment of each heating element
- convection, timer
Minuses
- no on/off button
From 8990 ₽
MAUNFELD CEMOB.363.W
pros
- fits harmoniously into the interior
- cooks well and quickly
- easy to use, minimal maintenance
Minuses
- not found
From 6690 ₽
Tesler EOG-1800
pros
- modern design, clear glass
- convenient rotary switches
- spit with top and bottom heating
Minuses
- not found
From 2290 ₽
Galaxy Gl 2615
pros
- excellent price-quality ratio
- bakes well, never burns anything
- There is a child control lock
Minuses
- not found
From 2288 ₽
Delta D-023
WITH
KITFORT KT-1701
pros
- high quality, light and compact
- great for a garden
Minuses
- not found
From 5290 ₽
NORD EO 40 W DTC
Comparison of mini-oven and oven parameters
Familiarization with the main characteristics and capabilities of the devices will help you make the right choice of a suitable kitchen assistant.
Possibilities
One of the main differences between the two units is their functionality. The functionality of a gas oven is the most limited - it can only bake. Certain types of electric ovens are capable of performing the same options as a mini-oven:
- Baking;
- Grill;
- Toaster.
Dimensions
The mini-oven has compact dimensions, making it easy to place in a small apartment and does not take up much space. Plus, you can take it with you on a trip. On the other hand, the small size leads to a small capacity of the unit, which is why it will not be possible to cook a lot of food at one time.
The oven has large dimensions, which allows you to cook several dishes at once in large quantities. This is very convenient if there are more than three people living in a family. At the same time, you need to think in advance about where to install the device so that it fits harmoniously into the room.
The oven is more spacious
The mini-oven has compact dimensions
Temperature Hold
The small size of the countertop oven gives it several more useful advantages:
- the device warms up very quickly and maintains the temperature longer;
- food cooks much faster;
- Electricity is consumed more economically.
In this parameter, the stationary oven is much inferior to its compact competitor.
Nutrition
A mini-oven, like an electric oven, works from a connection to the mains. Thanks to this, such a device can be used in houses where there is no gas pipeline. In operation, such units are safer than gas ones. On the other hand, if there is no electricity in the room, it will not be possible to cook food.
Only ovens operate on gas. They are cheap and do not depend on the location of the outlet and the availability of electricity in the house. They have one significant drawback - less safety than electrical products.
A heating element
In devices powered by electricity, there are two heating elements - one located at the bottom, the second at the top. Thanks to this design, you can use different heating modes to achieve different results. If you turn off the top heater, cooking occurs in gentle mode. To get a crispy golden brown crust, it must be turned on.
Gas versions do not have this opportunity - they have only one heater located at the bottom. It heats up the air and begins to circulate in the cabinet area, penetrating into the baked dish.
Timer
Only mini-ovens and electric ovens are equipped with this function. The display shows the remaining cooking time. This makes the cooking process easier and saves the housewife time.
Important! Even if you have a timer, you should not leave the unit turned on unattended for a long time!
Safety
The safety of using the device is influenced by the design features and additional capabilities of the models:
- High thermal insulation will prevent the device from heating up from the outside, which minimizes the risk of burns;
- Locking the doors of switched on equipment will also help prevent injuries;
- Only use suitable utensils to avoid damage.
Options | Gas oven | Electric oven | Mini oven |
Possibilities | Baking | Baking, grilling, toaster | Baking, grilling, toaster |
Dimensions | Large | Large | Little ones |
Temperature Hold | No | No | Eat |
Nutrition | Gas | Electricity | Electricity |
A heating element | One - from below | Two - below and above | Two - below and above |
Timer | No | Eat | Eat |
Safety | No | High thermal insulation, door opening lock | Door opening lock, ability to use a variety of dishes |
How the device works
The operation of an electric oven is based on the effect of infrared radiation on products placed in the chamber. The emitter is the top or bottom panels of the camera, and in some cases, the side walls. They are heated by heating elements built inside.
In modern models, you can regulate the current flowing through each heating element, thereby controlling the uniformity of baking.
Even if there are TENs located in pairs on opposite panels, it will not eliminate the uneven exposure to IR radiation. Regulation may not be as effective, and it will take up all your free time. Forced convection will help establish the same temperature in the chamber. It is carried out using a fan, which forces air to circulate, evenly distributing heat inside the chamber.
Dishes from an Italian small oven
This effect has several advantages. The uniform effect of heat allows you to cook the most complex dishes that do not tolerate burning. Due to the fact that heat does not accumulate in the upper part of the chamber, it “works” most efficiently, which means cooking time is reduced.
Good to know: The once forgotten electric miracle oven is back in service
More specifically about the modes
The most popular mode not only in mini stoves, but in all existing types of stoves is the top one, also known as grill.
A crispy top crust is a necessary technological requirement for making dough products (from pies to pizza), baking chicken and any other poultry, you name it - and regular breakfast toast looks much more appetizing if it's properly toasted.
The heat concentrated on the upper heating element will provide the dish with a crust that is truly considered exemplary: golden, not brown, crispy, but not too dry.
Delicate frying, the same bottom heat mode, provides high-quality heat treatment of the product from below. Excellent for baking thin confectionery products (cookies), small pieces of meat, individual elements of a poultry carcass (legs, wings).
Simultaneous heating, in common parlance – heat from all sides. This mode is necessary when preparing fish, vegetables, meat and cottage cheese casseroles. Achieved as a result of the coordinated operation of the upper and lower heating elements.
Various models of mini ovens can have four or more operating modes designed to prepare a specific dish: this is only baking or exclusively heating, toaster mode, defrosting mode.