The best steamers among budget, mid-price range and premium class

Steamers have become very popular among people who try to watch their diet.
It is also an indispensable assistant for a caring mother who does not want to feed her baby canned puree.

There are a lot of models of these devices in 2021, so it’s important not to make a mistake with your choice.

We studied the main selection criteria and also compiled a rating of the most reliable and useful steamers that will serve you for many years.

Rating of the TOP 20 best steamers of 2021

One or two tiers

Rating of the TOP 4 steamers with one or two tiers in terms of price-quality ratio.

Such devices are ideal for preparing one or two dishes at the same time and can easily fit even in a small kitchen. This is a good choice for a small family.

Braun FS 3000

The Braun FS3000 model is a universal steam device for preparing delicious food while preserving the maximum amount of beneficial microelements.

The steamer is equipped with a timer with auto shut-off, a water amount indicator, drip trays, and a special container for coloring products.

The total volume of 4 liters allows you to prepare several servings at the same time. The body is made of high quality plastic. The components can be washed in the dishwasher.

Specifications:

• number of tiers - 2;
• mechanical control;
• power consumption (max) - 0.85 kW;
• case material - plastic;
• volume of each tier - 2 l;
• functionality - water level indication, “Quick steam” option, timer, power indicator;
• additionally - interchangeable baskets, rice bowl, egg trays, compact storage.

Advantages

• ease of use;
• high-quality plastic housing;
• modern design;
• two tiers;
• a number of useful little things, for example, fixing the rice bowl.

Flaws

• The top cover does not fit tightly;
• The water container is difficult to clean.

Tefal VC1451

The Tefal VC1451 model with a heavy-duty stainless steel body will be of interest to people who want to eat healthy and healthy diet meals.

The device is quite compact and does not take up much space.

A 60-minute mechanical timer allows you to use the steamer without having to worry about keeping track of time. The device automatically turns off when the dish is ready and notifies the user about this with a sound signal.

An indicator window allows you to monitor the water level. All removable elements can be washed in the dishwasher. The set includes an additional container for cooking rice and legumes.

Specifications:

• number of tiers - 2;
• mechanical control;
• power consumption (max) - 0.9 kW;
• case material - plastic;
• volume of each tier - 2 l;
• functionality - timer, water level indication;
• additionally - interchangeable baskets, a rice bowl, compact storage, adding water during cooking.

Advantages

• ease of maintenance;
• stylish design;
• high power;
• useful function of adding water;
• the condensate tray is removable and deep;
• large bowl for water.

Flaws

• silent signal for the end of cooking;
• the holes in the bowls are very large;
• small container for cereals;
• There is no mode to maintain temperature after cooking.

Braun FS 5100

The mechanically controlled Braun FS5100 expands the horizons of healthy eating by making delicious, healthy meals quick and easy to prepare.

The body of the device is made using high-quality plastic, which eliminates all kinds of mechanical damage.

The device has two steam baskets, the total volume of which is 6.2 liters. A separate rice bowl holds 1 kg of product.

The steamer has a compartment for boiling eggs, and there is also a special container for coloring products. The removable parts of the device can be washed in the dishwasher.

Specifications:

• number of tiers - 2;
• mechanical control;
• power consumption (max) - 0.85 kW;
• case material - plastic;
• volume of each tier - 3.1 l;
• functionality - “Quick steam” option, timer, power indicator, water level indication;
• additionally - interchangeable baskets, rice bowl, egg trays, compact storage.

Advantages

• ease of use;
• functionality;
• pallet under each tier;
• tiers can be easily disassembled for washing;
• affordable price.

Flaws

• only one mode;
• unreliable timer adjustment knob;
• no adding water during cooking.

ENDEVER Vita 160/161

Compact analogue steamers Endever Vita 160/161 are maximum convenience and safety in all respects when preparing a variety of dietary dishes.

The body and trays of this device are made of special heat-resistant plastic. This material is durable and absolutely safe.

The total capacity of the steamer is 4 liters.

A double overheating protection system is responsible for safety. The unit is controlled mechanically. Removable components are dishwasher safe.

Specifications:

• number of tiers - 2;
• mechanical control;
• power consumption (max) - 0.8 kW;
• case material - plastic;
• volume of each tier - 2 l;
• functionality - timer, power indicator;
• additionally - defrosting, disinfecting dishes.

Advantages

• high-quality materials of the body and bowls, odorless;
• reliable mechanical timer for 60 minutes;
• emergency shutdown;
• reasonable price.

Flaws

• there is no tray for collecting condensate and grease;
• unreliable fixation system for trays and lids;
• long heating.

How to choose a double boiler in terms of price/quality ratio?

In 2021, the following characteristics are considered the main selection criteria:

1. Power . Allows you to determine how quickly dishes will be cooked. For a single-tier device, a power of 400 W is enough, for two – at least 600-700 W, and a three-tier steamer will require at least 800 W.
2. Volume . Based on how often you will use the device and how many servings you will prepare lunch for. For a large family, a built-in device would be a good option.
3. Management . Here, as usual: mechanics are simple, but approximately, electronics are a little more complicated, but with the ability to set the parameters as accurately as possible.
4. Basket material . Plastic is cheaper and makes it easier to track the cooking process. Stainless steel will last a long time, but there will be no visibility, and this affects the weight of the device. Glass is both durable and transparent, but can break if dropped.
5. Equipment . Significantly expands the functionality of the device. It may include various accessories in the form of a rice bowl, molds for muffins or boiling eggs, a recipe book, spoons, containers for spices.
6. Additional functions . It is useful to be able to add liquid so as not to turn off the device in the middle of cooking. By the way, it is better to choose a model with protection against low water levels, otherwise you will have to stand over the steamer until cooking is complete. The quick steam function reduces operating time by half, while maintaining maximum vitamins and taste.

Three-tier models

Rating of TOP 4 steamers with three tiers based on customer reviews.

Three-tier steamers allow you to cook several dishes or a number of components for complex multi-component culinary masterpieces at the same time. They are quite large and cost more than single- and two-tier devices.

Tefal VC 1006 Ultra Compact

The stylish Tefal VC 1006 Ultra Compact steamer is, without exaggeration, an ideal device for steaming various dishes in a short period of time.

With three spacious containers with a total volume of 9 liters, you can cook different foods at the same time.

Removable micro-perforated grates will be convenient for preparing large portions. The transparent walls of the baskets will provide visual control over the process.

Using a mechanical timer with a sound signal, you can set the desired operating time of the device before it automatically turns off.

Specifications:

• mechanical control;
• power consumption (max) - 0.9 kW;
• body material - stainless steel steel;
• volume of each tier - 3 l;
• functionality - timer, power indicator, water level indication;
• additionally - a bowl for rice, trays for eggs, removable grates, compact storage, adding water during cooking.

Advantages

• large volume;
• simple controls;
• compact dimensions;
• presence of a timer;
• stable rubber feet;
• There is a tray for condensation and fat.

Flaws

• short power cord;
• food particles that are difficult to remove accumulate in the holes of the tiers;
• high price.

GFgril GFS-5MPP

The GFgril GFS-5MPP is mainly aimed at preparing healthy and tasty steamed dishes, but it is also suitable for boiling eggs and side dishes.

This three-tier model has a total capacity of 9 liters. It uses a special protective technology that, in auto mode, blocks the operation of the device if there is a lack of liquid.

The corresponding indicator is responsible for visual control of the water level. Using the timer, you can set the required moment to turn off the device.

Specifications:

• mechanical control;
• power consumption (max) - 0.8 kW;
• case material - plastic;
• volume of each tier - 3 l;
• functionality - timer, power indicator, water level indication;
• additionally - a rice bowl, egg trays, compact storage.

Advantages

• convenient storage;
• capacity;
• quiet operation;
• the ability to use all three tiers simultaneously;
• Convenient option for adding water during cooking.

Flaws

• no sound signal at the end of cooking;
• short power cord;
• small condensate tray.

ENDEVER Vita 170/171

The manufacturer positions analogue steamers Endever Vita 170/171 as two of the most successful models of the Swedish company in the segment of devices for preparing tasty and healthy food.

High power and an impressive volume of 11 liters allow you to quickly prepare large quantities of several dishes at once.

Using an external water level indicator, the user can check whether there is enough liquid in the steamer without removing the baskets.

Among the pleasant bonuses are high-quality and safe material of the components, reliable design, the presence of a timer and the possibility of washing in the dishwasher.

Specifications:

• mechanical control;
• power consumption (max) - 1 kW;
• case material - plastic;
• volume of each tier - 3 l;
• functionality - timer, power indicator, water level indication;
• Additionally, add water during cooking.

Advantages

• light weight;
• compactness;
• there is a need to add water as cooking progresses;
• presence of handles on bowls;
• Beautiful design;
• capacity.

Flaws

• there is no sound notification about the readiness of the dish;
• the scale on the timer is erased quite quickly;
• It is inconvenient to remove the bowl to drain the water.

Centek CT-1457

The Centek CT-1457 model will be a real find for supporters of proper nutrition or for young mothers preparing healthy meals for their children.

The total working capacity of this device is 9 liters. The body of the device is made of high-quality stainless steel, the steam baskets are made of plastic.

The model operates through mechanical control. The gratings in the tiers are removable. Additionally, the device is equipped with automatic shutdown when the water runs out, a “Quick steam” function and a 60-minute timer.

Specifications:

• mechanical control;
• power consumption (max) - 0.8 kW;
• body material - stainless steel steel;
• volume of each tier - 3 l;
• functionality - timer, power indicator, water level indication, "Quick steam" option;
• additionally - a bowl for rice, trays for eggs.

Advantages

• low price;
• the presence of recesses for eggs on each tier;
• there is compact storage of bowls;
• Volumetric water tank with the ability to top up during cooking.

Flaws

• bowls cannot be swapped;
• The timer cannot be turned off manually;
• It is difficult to wash the tiers due to the many small depressions.

Is a steamer really necessary and how does it work?

Previously, steamed dishes were most often prepared for those who needed it, for example, due to a diet prescribed for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Today, there is a certain “fashion” for steamed dishes, and this is quite good - they are no less tasty, but much healthier, since they retain nutrients and vitamins. In addition, cooking in a double boiler is also very convenient and fast - just load all the ingredients, leave for a while (from 15 to 40 minutes, as a rule), and then just enjoy the finished dish.

A steamer will be indispensable for families with small children. Store-bought baby food will no longer be a necessity - you can make it yourself, and you will definitely be sure that there is nothing dangerous in the composition for the baby.

The steamer will become an indispensable assistant for those who adhere to the principles of healthy eating.

The operating principle of steamers is quite simple: food is cooked in a water bath. At the base of the device there is a container that is filled with water, from where it quickly evaporates after plugging the device into a power outlet. Steam is evenly supplied to the baskets with food, and thanks to this, the food is cooked. You can cook without oil, any fats and other additives that are not particularly beneficial for the body.

You might be interested in learning how to choose a multicooker.

What to look for when choosing a steamer

Modern steamers are different, their main differences are:

• Control method , which can be mechanical or electronic. In both cases, set the cooking mode, time, and temperature manually. However, in the first case, you will need to twist/twist the round switches, and in the second, you will need to press the buttons. Mechanical models are more affordable (budget models), electronic ones are more convenient and accurate.
• The volume of the container and bowls, as well as their number. According to this criterion, a steamer should be selected depending on the number of people for whom steamed dishes will be prepared.
• Options . The richer the equipment, the more functional and expensive the steamer.
• Manufacturer's brand or trade mark. Note that steamers of almost all brands are produced in the Middle Kingdom; they are somewhat cheaper than similar devices produced by one or another European or American famous brand.
• Power . The higher the power, the faster you can cook a dish. In a number of cases, high power and fast cooking allows you to save money on electricity bills.
• The materials from which the steamer is made. Almost all materials are resistant to high temperatures, including plastic. For the production of steamer bowls, heat-resistant polymers are usually used.
• Number of additional functions . We are talking about delayed start, the possibility of heating, the thermos effect, remote start, sound signals, lights, and so on. The more such functions, the more convenient and expensive the steamer.

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Tefal VC 1301 Minicompact

Main characteristics:

• Power - 650 W
• Material of manufacture: plastic
• Number of tiers - 3
• Volume of containers (total) - 7 l

Design features. Compact but roomy model is suitable for preparing several dishes at the same time. The device has three baskets made of transparent plastic, which allows you to monitor the cooking process. The containers fold up conveniently and do not take up much space when stored. A separate container is provided for porridge lovers.

Transparent container allows you to track food preparation.

Compact storage.

Management and use. A special signal notifies you of the end of the cooking process. The power of 650 W is enough to process products on all three tiers.

Pros of Tefal VC 1301 Minicompact

1. Capacity.
2. Low cost.
3. Convenient to operate.
4. Rice bowl.

Cons of Tefal VC 1301 Minicompact

1. There is no timer or power button.

Conclusion. The device will perfectly cope with preparing several dishes for a large family, saving the housewife’s time.

No. 3 – Philips AVENT SCF870

Price: 11,100 rubles

Philips AVENT SCF870 is an interesting blender steamer that will be an excellent option for families with newborns. By turning the device over and pressing just one button, you can instantly mix the prepared ingredients into a consistency suitable for the child. The device informs you about the end of work via a sound signal, so you can do your business at the same time.

As an ordinary steamer for a family, the model has not proven itself so well - the volume of the steam basket is only 0.8 l, the water tank is even more modest - only 0.2 l. Despite this, experts agree that this is enough for a baby to prepare porridge, so young parents should pay attention to this unit.

Philips AVENT SCF870

No. 4 – Braun FS 5100

Price: 5,100 rubles

One of the best solutions of the brand stopped one step away from bronze. Its main feature is a steam accelerator. Thanks to the element, the water in the steamer boils in less than a minute. The bowls are made very conveniently, even if you don’t take their total capacity of 6.3 liters. Because they are transparent, you can simultaneously monitor the cooking process and easily clean them from foods such as beets, pumpkin or spinach.

The model is universal - it is great for preparing porridges, casseroles and eggs, for the latter there is a special compartment. Young parents should also take a closer look at it - the sterilization mode allows you to process bottles for feeding your baby. The only downside is the cost.

Braun FS 5100

Types of steamers

They differ according to two criteria:

1. Control type;
2. Installation method.

By type of control

Modern devices are divided into 2 types of control - mechanical and electronic.

Electronic

Difficulties may arise, but only at first. The user works with a touch screen and additional buttons.

Electronic steamer

The parameters are set on the panel:

• timer;
• temperature regime;
• water level in the container;
• other.

Mechanical

With this type of adjustment, the owner sets the characteristics by turning the switch. The shutdown is automatic. The mechanical control option is one of the simplest and is available in budget options.

Steamer with mechanical control

By installation type

Any kitchen appliance, including a steamer, is divided into built-in type and free-standing type.

Built-in

The technique is relevant for cooks who often cook with steam. The external features and dimensions are identical to ovens. The installation principle is similar - it is built into a specially designated niche or pencil case.

Note: economical built-in versions are equipped with three programs: defrosting, heating, cooking. Advanced representatives have advanced functionality of 5-15 programs.

Advantages:

1. Capacity;
2. Simultaneous creation of several dishes without mixing or releasing juice;
3. Easy operation;
4. Easy care;
5. Automated work.

The built-in steamer is very spacious

Flaws:

1. Large dimensions;
2. The price segment belongs to the premium class.

Autonomous

The devices are easy to install, i.e., you just need to decide on a suitable location and connect the device to the network. The disadvantages of this type of installation are the risk of damage, as well as limited functionality.

Principle of operation

A distinctive feature of an electric steamer from its predecessor (a multi-level pan on a stove) is a fully debugged automatic cooking process. At the same time, you can set different modes, delay the start and control the cooling of products.

The electric cooker device includes:

• housing, with heating element
• water collector
• several bowls for food (usually 1-3 pcs)
• lid

The operating principle is very simple:

1. install a water container on the body;
2. place containers with products one by one;
3. close the lid;
4. pour water;
5. select a program.

Main selection criteria

Families who value a varied menu need only choose the regular model, which comes with three baskets and additional bowls for cereals. This set allows you to cook large meat chops, as well as fish. How to choose a steamer? Experts recommend giving preference to electronic representatives. However, if you need an economical option, then you should choose mechanics.

Advice! Select devices with a power of 1 kW and always with a deep tray.

Power

The devices have a power of 600-2000 W. The speed of cooking directly depends on the choice of this parameter. However, this factor is influenced by additional characteristics:

• design features;
• depth, volume of baskets;
• number of bowls;
• other.

Cooking speed depends on power

Important information! In most models, power is an indicator that the user has the right to adjust. However, when purchasing a device, you should understand that at a setting below 650 W, food cooks very slowly.

People who eat a healthy lifestyle system will need a unit with high power - 1800-2000 W. At the same time, the equipment must be spacious in volume. As a rule, these types are presented in the line of built-in equipment. An important condition is sufficient space in the kitchen.

Women on a diet are advised to purchase a blender:

1. Power 400-600 W;
2. The volume of the bowl is at least liter;
3. “Warm food support” function;
4. Additionally, purchase a “plate” for preparing cereals.

Number of operating modes

Operating modes often become a fundamental point when considering the topic of how to choose a double boiler for your home. In ordinary devices there are 2-3 such modes, in representatives of the premium line - 3-5. The standard is:

• steam cooking;
• sterilization;
• heating;
• steam boost.

The steamer can have different operating modes

Note: the temperature effect at the lower level is always higher. In view of this, if you load foods that take a long time to cook, and put instant food on top, the result will be simultaneous cooking. For example, put a steak on the bottom and vegetables on top, so a hearty family lunch will be ready in 40-50 minutes.

Number and shape of steam baskets

The standard set of baskets is 2-3 pieces, but some manufacturers complete equipment with up to 7 pieces.

Supplied in quantities:

• 0.8-1 liters;
• 1-4.5 liters.

Steam baskets are mainly 2-3 pcs.

By choosing the first option, the user receives interchangeable forms for preparing food. The second case involves compact storage.

As a rule, containers (standard set of 1 piece) have different bottom diameters, which saves space because they are inserted into each other. However, small sizes are not always convenient - during cooking it will not be possible to change the position when it turns out that the food at the bottom is only half ready at the top.

Material of baskets and bowls

Bowls are made from two materials:

• heat-resistant plastic;
• stainless steel

Heat-resistant plastic Stainless steel

Walls made of stainless metal have increased reliability, hygiene, and a long service life. The transparent vessel allows you to monitor the progress of food preparation.

Important information! Small blenders are made of high-strength glass. The material allows you to create healthy, safe dishes. However, a damaged bowl cannot be replaced.

Pallet depth

When choosing a device, it is recommended to obtain information about the number of pallets. As a rule, it comes with one piece, but some representatives do not have this element.

The purpose of the tray is to collect condensation that drains during cooking in two bowls. Therefore, food from the lower level is saturated with juice from the upper food. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage.

It is recommended to select deep containers, since you will not have to turn off the device to drain the accumulated liquid. Trays with a height of 15 mm are spacious, but experts recommend a range of 20-25 mm - this allows you to avoid worrying about overflowing water, since the maximum cooking time is 1 hour.

Water indicator and top-up option

Almost every type of device is equipped with a liquid level indicator. Therefore, there is no need to remove the “plates” to find out how much water is left. Moreover, many types have a topping function.

Which one to choose is the best?

When assessing the technical characteristics of a steamer, it is necessary to build on personal preferences and technical requirements.

1. Electronic control and advanced equipment increase the cost of the device . Decide in advance on the purpose of the device so as not to overpay for unnecessary functions.
2. Choose the total volume of the bowl based on the number of family members . For 3-4 people, 6 liters will be enough.
3. Bowls are made of plastic and stainless steel . There are no particular differences between them. The plastic in steamers is strong, durable and heat resistant.
4. The power rating varies between 800 and 2000 W. This does not affect the quality of the food in any way, only the speed of preparation.

No. 5 – Kitfort KT-2035

Price: 4,900 rubles

While trying to determine which steamer is the best on the market in 2020, we came across the Kitfort KT-2035 with many rave reviews from customers. The solution is equipped with a quick heating function, which will be useful for those who plan to use it in the morning to prepare porridge or another hearty breakfast. It is extremely easy to use, so even a representative of the older generation will quickly master the model.

The steamer has five tiers, so you can cook several dishes at the same time. Additionally, there are recesses for boiling eggs, which the previous representatives of the selection cannot boast of. There is an informative display that displays data about the current operating mode of the device. The disadvantages owners in the reviews include is that the cord is extremely short.

Kitfort KT-2035