Convection ovens - compact helpers in your kitchen

Modern convection ovens are gaining increasing popularity among Russian consumers thanks to revolutionary technologies. Perhaps a mini-oven with convection will displace microwave analogues from the kitchen in the near future.

At the same time, cooking time is significantly saved, and heat transfer occurs through the movement of hot air, so the products are evenly processed on all sides.

To find out all the advantages of new compact equipment, learn the methods of its proper use, as well as the criteria for choosing such household appliances, you need to carefully read this article.

What are these units for?

A convection oven with steam humidification is used by professional chefs; mainly similar equipment is installed in bakeries and confectionery shops where mass baking occurs. To prevent the finished dough from drying out when processed at high temperatures, a certain amount of steam is added to the process.

Compact convection devices are designed for cooking at home. In addition to baking, they cook meat, fish and poultry, but it is better to use a special food sleeve to avoid spattering the internal panels with grease, because some manufacturers use porous metal for finishing, which is much cheaper than stainless steel.

The difference between the finished product is its aromatic crispy crust, and under it you will find an incredibly tasty and aromatic dish, made with your own hands with the active help of a mini-helper. A survey of real users showed that such ovens are compact and easy to use, and there is no better alternative for baking homemade pies and cakes.

A universal tabletop oven is used for the following purposes:

1. Preparation of frozen semi-finished products.
2. Reheating previously cooked food.
3. Baking pies, pies, homemade muffins and cakes.
4. Cooking dishes from meat, fish, stewing vegetables.

An electric convection oven allows you to increase the speed of food processing many times over, allowing you to save on energy bills. This happens due to the fact that its heating speed is many times faster - in this it is superior to any electric oven in its class, while the food retains all the vitamins and original beneficial properties of the products. Due to its compactness, a small tabletop convection oven fits harmoniously into the interior of any kitchen.

The best mini convection ovens

Simfer M4558

The mini-oven of this model with a capacity of 45 liters allows you to prepare dishes for any number of people . This model is highly reliable for 2021.

Size is 59/47/33cm and weight 11kg. Includes 6 operating methods - lower, upper and both at the same time, with convection, grill, grill + convection.

Embossed guides allow you to place a baking sheet or wire rack at the required level.

The device comes with one deep and one round baking tray with smooth edges, and a chrome grid.

In addition, the door consists of double glass, and inside there is halogen lighting, which does not use much electricity, but illuminates a large area.

The legs are equipped with silicone inserts that prevent slipping and leaving scratches on the furniture.

Specifications:

• Temperature range from 40°C to 250°C;
• Power cord 1.1 m long;
• Power 1400 W;
• Timer for 90 min.

pros

• Easy care;
• Economical in energy consumption;
• The coating is easy to clean;
• Double glass on the door prevents the outer glass from heating up.

Minuses

• Noisy fan in convection mode during first use;
• During operation, you cannot add time to the timer.

Kitfort KT-1703

The volume of the model is designed for 30 liters, and the dimensions are 45 × 39 × 37 cm and weight 7 kg . Equipped with 4

operating modes – convection, grill, baking, defrosting.

An individual feature is the location of two burners at the top, which allows you to cook dishes as on a regular electric stove.

The package includes a baking tray, wire rack, handle holders and a spit on which you can cook up to 2.5 kg of food.

The door handles and control knobs are made of heat-insulating material, which prevents burns.

Specifications:

• Temperature up to 230°C;
• 2 burners;
• Cable length 85 cm;
• Power 1600 W;
• Timer for 120 min. with a sound signal.

pros

• Rotating spit;
• Availability of burners;
• Convenient thermostat and timer control.

Minuses

• Cooking in the oven or on burners is not possible at the same time;
• The burners take a long time to heat up and have low efficiency.

De'Longhi EO 12562

The device has a volume of 12.5 liters, but heats up quickly and due to the operation of two heating elements, cooking does not take much time.

Overall dimensions are 23/46/34 cm, weight – 8 kg.

There are 5 operating modes - standard (upper and lower), grill, convection, heating, defrosting.

The oven comes with a baking tray, a crumb tray, a pizza pan and 2 chrome grids..

After completion of work, additional protection is triggered - the equipment is turned off.

Specifications:

• Temperature range from 60°C to 220°C;
• Power cord 1.4m long;
• Power 1400 W;
• Timer for 120 min.

pros

• Non-stick coating makes it easy to clean;
• Fast heating;
• Quiet operation in convection mode;
• Compact dimensions.

Minuses

• Cooking is designed for 2-3 people;
• The distance from the stove should be 15-20 cm.

Moulinex Optimo OX464E32

The mini-oven with a volume of 33 liters, dimensions 43 x 59.5 x 40 cm and a weight of 7.1 kg is spacious and easy to operate.

6 operating modes are allowed - top and bottom heating, separately and together, convection, defrosting, heating + convection.

The set includes a baking sheet, a grid and an electromechanical spit.

The timer runs automatically and turns off the device when completed.

Specifications:

• Temperature up to 240°C;
• Power cord 0.94 m long;
• Power 1600 W;
• Timer for 120 min.

pros

• The grid can be used on both sides;
• Fast heating;
• Easy control and change of operating modes.

Minuses

• The door must be supported when opening

Panasonic NU-SC101

The volume is 15 liters, dimensions 35x45x35 cm and weight 10.8 kg . The presence of a tray releasing steam,

thanks to which the temperature reaches 100°C within three minutes.

Electronic control, 3 steam modes and 4 convection functions.

The package includes 2 baking sheets, 2 grids, a condensate tray, a water container.

The oven is convenient for steaming dishes and replaces both an oven and a microwave.

Specifications:

• Temperature up to 230°C;
• Power cord 1.2 m long;
• Power 1230 W;

pros

• Quick start;
• Hot air circulation;
• Sterilization of objects with high temperature steam;
• Built-in cooking recipes.

Minuses

• Due to the volume it is designed for 2-3 people.

Kinds

Such equipment is divided into several types according to certain parameters, which significantly affect the final price. According to the humidification system, they are divided into 2 types:

• with steam humidification;
• without humidification system.

A steam oven is used for baking baked goods in confectionery shops and bakeries, as it prevents the finished product from becoming overdried. The dough rises quite quickly, and the products become airier, this is especially necessary when baking glazed buns; moistening is done at the very beginning of the baking process.

According to the method of steam generation, such devices are also divided into two types:

• boiler rooms;
• injection.

In the second option, steam is created by direct injection of water onto the heating element, and the first option is the most popular because of its accuracy and simplicity - there is no need to calculate the amount of water for injection. The disadvantage of boiler furnaces is their high cost, so injection devices were developed.

In addition, products are divided by capacity and control, since compact ovens for home baking do not vary much in volume, so we are primarily interested in the control method. It comes in two types: mechanical and electronic; in the first case, all parameters are set using rotary controls; such ovens are more reliable in use. Electronically controlled ovens make the work of chefs in large restaurants and cafes much easier.

The best professional convection ovens

Large, powerful and functional convection ovens are purchased for bars, cafes, restaurants and bakeries. As a rule, they have many additional options and are also characterized by fast baking of large quantities of dishes.

Unox XEBC-16EU-EPR

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

The professional convection oven has high performance and can accommodate up to 16 baking trays measuring 600x400 mm. It bakes in different modes, combining convection and steam at different temperatures. In addition, you can create your own oven operating modes (recipes) and even load photos of ready-made dishes into the memory - the memory is enough for 256 of your own settings.

The model is equipped with a product temperature sensor and can be combined with other ovens into a column with a single control. Unox has the highest degree of thermal protection, optimal energy consumption and is fireproof. The self-cleaning system using detergents deserves special attention.

Advantages:

• Large capacity;
• Self-cleaning;
• Safety;
• Creation of automatic programs;
• Thermal probe.

Flaws:

• Large dimensions.

The Unox XEBC convection oven with steam generator can be used in large bakeries, restaurants and other commercial catering establishments.

Rational CM 61 Plus

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

93%

buyers recommend this product

The Rational CM 61 Plus is essentially a combi oven. It bakes foods with steam, hot air (convection) and a combination of these modes. At the same time, the heating temperature can be adjusted within 30-300 degrees, and steam - from 30 to 130 °C. The combi oven holds 6 1/1 GN containers (530x325 mm).

The Cool-Down option allows you to cool down the oven in a matter of minutes. The oven has an internal cleaning shower, self-diagnosis of faults and a descaling system.

The model is equipped with a thermal probe for measuring the temperature of products and a fat separation function. A modern USB interface allows you to create up to 100 automatic baking programs, loading a photo for each recipe into the menu.

Advantages:

• Cleaning system;
• Self-diagnosis of breakdowns;
• Powerful steam generator;
• Thermal probe;
• Possibility of creating your own recipes.

Flaws:

• No grill.

The Rational Plus Convection Oven has everything you need to bake like a pro.

MAG-CO08D

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

The convection oven MAG-CO08D can accommodate up to 8 baking trays 400x600 mm (not included). It is equipped with a steam generator and has high productivity - up to 32 kg of products per hour. Additionally, the model can be equipped with a proofing cabinet.

The model is equipped with a 60-minute timer. You can adjust the baking temperature in the range of 30-300 degrees, which will allow you to bake yeast and yeast-free dough, meat, fish, vegetables and any other dishes.

The oven body has excellent thermal insulation, its doors are made of impact-resistant heat-resistant glass. This allows you to better maintain the temperature inside and protects against burns and overheating of surfaces outside. The oven has a built-in micro-switch that pauses the equipment when the door is open.

Advantages:

• Spaciousness and high performance;
• Steam generator;
• High degree of thermal protection;
• Temporary shutdown when the door is open.

Flaws:

• There is no temperature probe to check the readiness of food.

The MAG-CO08D convection oven is suitable for catering establishments with a large flow of visitors and a standard menu.

Functionality

On the domestic Russian market you can find similar ovens with automatic programs that simplify the process of preparing food:

1. Automatic start.
2. Temperature probes.
3. Sleep mode.
4. Ability to program cooking modes.
5. Camera cooling function.
6. Extraction of moisture and air.
7. Built-in interior lighting.

Standard baking sheets are used; each product fits four baking sheets or racks.

Rating of the TOP 10 best mini-ovens with convection 2020-2021

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of convection ovens is their simple operation. Experts highlight the following advantages:

• quite compact dimensions;
• democratic prices, which guarantees accessibility for all segments of the population;
• uniformity of baking;
• special taste qualities of prepared dishes;
• reduction of cooking process time;
• very high performance.

Quick warming up before starting work allows users to significantly save energy resources. There are also minor disadvantages: the big disadvantage is that convection products cannot cook food in different ways. A small volume of prepared product at a time is also considered a disadvantage; if you load the chamber completely, it will take more time and energy consumption will increase noticeably.

How to choose

To choose the best convection oven for your family, you need to consider the following criteria:

1. Dimensions. Some steam models will be 1.5 times larger than a standard microwave, while others will be almost the same size or slightly smaller.
2. Power. The speed of cooking food directly depends on this parameter, so it is better to buy an oven of at least 1.3 kW.
3. Temperature: it should vary between 100-250°C.
4. The steam function makes all cooked foods more tender.
5. Programming. The required process is ensured by selecting the appropriate program, but such models are much more expensive than those with simple mechanical control. This function is used by professional chefs when working in large kitchens of elite restaurants.
6. The product should fit organically into the interior of your kitchen, so pay special attention to the design.
7. There are many manufacturers, and everyone tries to install a control panel that is understandable to consumers, but some make it a little more complicated, so choose an informative option that is clear at first glance.
8. Pay special attention to the quality certificate, which indicates what material the device is made of; if it is plastic, then only food grade, which does not release toxic substances when heated.
9. The model you choose should be easy to use and require minimal maintenance time.

Remember that additional features that manufacturers often offer increase the cost of the model.

Many models bear the inscription Made in China; do not be afraid that this is a low-quality product - many manufacturers known throughout the world, for example, Tefal, Philips, as well as domestic Polaris, REDMOND, have been producing small kitchen appliances in China for a long time. Production is much cheaper, but company representatives check the quality of the assembled models. Many Chinese companies have greatly improved the quality of their products, which are almost in no way inferior to European assembly.

How to choose and what to pay attention to?

The choice of a mini-oven should be approached responsibly. The main thing is to decide for what purpose and preparation of what products the equipment is purchased, since the selection of the device will depend on this.

Attention should be paid to such characteristics:

• Volume . Standard parameters start from 8.5 and up to 40 l. To fully prepare dishes, you will need an oven with a volume of over 12.5 liters;
• Power . The parameter depends on the size and properties of the furnace. The greater the power, the faster the cooking, the more electricity is consumed and the higher the cost of the item. The indicator varies from 650 to 2200W;
• Internal coating . There are three types - stainless, heat-resistant and non-stick. The quality of the coating determines the use and durability of the device;
• Work organization . In electric oven mode, two heating elements work simultaneously, the grill uses top heat, and delicate only bottom heat.

The remaining parameters are not so important:

• Control type (mechanical, electronic);
• Opening the door;
• Additional functions;
• Equipment.

An important factor remains the purchase of goods from reputable manufacturers with a guarantee and mandatory testing of functionality before purchase.
There are a large number of mini-ovens on the market, let’s look at the best of them.

Rating or top 5 models

Energy EN-1003

pros

• simple operation, easy care
• excellent quality-cost ratio
• bakes perfectly in all modes

Minuses

• no backlight

From 2460 ₽

Centek CT-1530-36 Convection

pros

• compact, convenient, reliable
• good equipment, including grill
• bakes pies quickly

Minuses

• short power cord
• The case gets very hot

From 3425 ₽

Energy En-1002

pros

• bakes well with a golden crust
• you can cook any food, but only in your sleeve

Minuses

• It is difficult to wash off grease from internal panels
• very short cord

From 2184 ₽

Kraft KF-MO3804KR

pros

• bakes perfectly on all modes
• meat skewer plus convention is class
• excellent equipment

Minuses

• not found

From 3690 ₽

AVEX TR 300 BCL

pros

• good equipment
• excellent build quality
• I was pleased with the presence of a timer and spit

Minuses

• not found

From 3238 ₽

The best mini ovens with convection and grill

BBK OE5562MC

The oven has a volume of 55 liters, which is very suitable for a large family or company.

The dimensions are 36x57x47cm, the built-in fan prevents the appearance of unnecessary odors, and the lighting inside the device helps control the cooking process.

There is a thermostat and automatic shutdown after finishing work.

The oven has 4 modes - top and bottom heating, grill and convection.

The set includes a wire rack, an enamel baking sheet and a spit with handles. The double glass door provides additional protection.

Specifications:

• Temperature range from 100°C to 250°C;
• Power 2200 W;
• Timer for 120 min. (maximum).

pros

• Enabling the grill function autonomously from others;
• Separate control.

Minuses

• Impractical baking tray included.

GALAXY GL2623

The oven volume is 28 liters and the dimensions are 53.3x37.2x35.8 cm, which allows the device to be compactly installed in any room and the cooking process is suitable for several people . The model does not lose its relevance in 2021.

The control panel is touch-sensitive, with its help you can adjust the temperature, timer and select one of 7 operating modes.

The set consists of a grill grate, a baking sheet and holders for them.

The door glass is made of heat-resistant material, which helps withstand high temperatures.

Specifications:

• Temperature range from 100°C to 250°C;
• Power cord length 0.9 m;
• Power 1600 W;
• Timer for 60 min. (maximum).

pros

• Constant circulation of hot air;
• Delay cooking up to 24 hours;
• Selection of operating modes.

Minuses

• The program can only be changed after the previous one has ended;
• Convection is not turned on in all modes.

Scarlett SC - EO93O21

The mini-oven has a volume of 20 liters, dimensions are 28x40x34 cm, and at maximum heating fully corresponds to a standard oven, only in compact dimensions.

Basically, the operating mode is a grill, but also includes upper and lower heating.

The set includes a set of enamel baking sheets, wire racks and holders for them..

The door is equipped with impact-resistant glass and closers.

Specifications:

• Temperature range from 100°C to 250°C;
• Power 1400 W;
• Timer for 60 min. (maximum).

pros

• 3 heating elements ensure uniform baking;
• Ability to stop the timer;
• No fever.

Minuses

• Insufficient lighting.

Gemlux GL-OR-2265LUX

The chamber volume is 65 liters and has a rotary grill, which brings the mini-oven closer to a full-fledged oven.

Dimensions 637x443x391 mm and weight 14 kg.

There are 9 operating modes - upper and lower heating, fermentation, defrosting, custom program, and separately cooking chicken, pizza and toast.

The set includes a grill, a drain pan, a baking tray with holders and a spit with clamps. Adjustment occurs using 4 knobs.

Specifications:

• Temperature range from 30°C to 230°C;
• Power cord 0.94 m long;
• Power 2200 W;
• Timer for 120 min. (maximum).

pros

• Large selection of modes;
• Quiet operation;
• Original design.

Minuses

• Large dimensions.

Gemlux GL-OR-1538LUX

The device's volume of 38 liters allows you to prepare full meals . Dimensions are

504x350x410 mm and weight 11 kg.

There are 9 operating modes: upper and lower heating, fermentation, defrosting, memory mode, and separate programs for chicken, pizza and toast.

Hot surface warning labels on the door and top panel.

Thanks to silicone feet, the stove does not slip and does not leave scratches.

The set includes everything you need: a baking sheet and a handle for removing, a grill, a skewer with a handle, a drip tray.

Specifications:

• Temperature range from 30°C to 230°C;
• Power cord 0.94 m long;
• Power 1800 W;
• Timer for 120 min. (maximum), up to 12 hours at low temperatures.

pros

• Automatic programs;
• Availability of low temperature conditions;
• Self-set temperature.

Minuses

• External components become very hot.

Conclusion

Mini-ovens are mainly produced by the People's Republic of China, since many brands have given Chinese specialists the prerogative of production due to the low cost of labor. The quality of workmanship is at the level of world standards, but sometimes there are technical defects from which no one is immune.

In general, the products are quite reliable in operation: they are spacious, work well and quickly, only their energy saving class is quite low, but due to their high power, convection ovens reduce cooking time and, as a result, save energy consumption.