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When it comes to ovens, there are two main types: microwave ovens and OTGs. Both have their pros and cons, so it is essential to know the difference before purchasing.
In this blog post, we will compare microwave ovens and OTGs so that you can make the best decision for your needs.
What is the difference between a microwave oven and an OTG? A microwave oven is a device that uses microwave radiation to heat food. An OTG (oven, toaster, and grill) is a smaller standard range version that cooks food using heated coils, making it easier to use than other stoves.
Microwave ovens are better for reheating and thawing food, while OTGs are better for baking and grilling. If you want to cook a meal from scratch, an OTG would be better. However, if you just need to reheat something, a microwave oven would be sufficient.
Quick Comparison Between Microwave Oven and OTG
| Issues | Microwave Oven | OTG |
| Heating Time | Faster (around 5 mins) | Slower (around 15 mins) |
| Food Health | A few nutrition molecules can decay | retain food nutrients |
| Cleaning | Need more cautions to clean | Easy to clean |
| Taste | May imbalance taste | Taste better than microwaves |
| Defrosting/Thawing | Unhealthy, germs may grow | Not Possible |
| Food to Cook | Ideal for cooking food that is covered or wrapped | Can cook more versatile foods |
| Cost | Costlier ($215 for 30 liters) | Cheaper ($134 for 42 liters) |
| Electricity Bill | $0.15 per hour | $0.27 per hour |
| Lifespan | 7 years | 5 years |
Microwave Oven Cooks Faster Than OTG
A microwave oven generates heat using electromagnetic radiation absorbed by the food inside. These electromagnetic waves have a frequency of between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz, between radio wave and infrared radiation spectrum.
Because it is electric, a microwave oven heats food rapidly because it can do so instantly.
The microwave oven does not include a pre-installed fan; the food readily absorbs heat. It consists of a turn-table that can equally heat the food from all sides.
The OTG oven uses a heating element to cook the food. This heating element is generally an electric coil, although gas can also be used. The heat from the component passes through the metal walls of the oven and cooks the food.
Because there is no microwave radiation involved, the time it takes to cook food is usually longer than in a microwave.
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Food Cooked in OTG Tastes Better; Microwave Oven Can Dry-out Food
OTG ovens are known to give a better food taste than microwave ovens. A microwave oven’s intense heat and radiation can often lead to a dried-out, rubbery texture in cooked foods.
The lack of radiation in an OTG allows the flavors to circulate the food more, leading to tastier results.
The heating coil and convection currents in an OTG oven cook food evenly on all sides. This prevents the formation of “hotspots” that can cook some areas of food more than others, leading to unevenly cooked or burnt dishes.
Additionally, the fan in an OTG oven circulates air around the cooking food. This prevents the build-up of steam and keeps the food from drying out. The circulating air also helps to distribute the heat more evenly, leading to more consistent results.
The microwave oven heats food by causing the water molecules in the food to vibrate. These can cause food to become dry and rubbery. The radiation can quickly evaporate the water in the food, leading to a tough texture.
Microwave ovens can also cause something called “arcing.” This is when sparks from inside the stove, usually near metal objects. These sparks can cause a burning smell and can even start a fire.
LEARN MORE: What Can You Cook In A Microwave?
Maintenance of OTG Oven Is Easier Than Microwave Oven
The maintenance of an OTG oven is much easier than a microwave. All you need to do is clean the crumbs and grease on the cooking area with a wet cloth, while in the microwave, you have to take out parts and wash them carefully.
Additionally, an OTG oven has only one heating element instead of the multiple parts in a microwave. This makes it much easier to replace if it breaks down.
The microwave oven is more difficult to maintain than an OTG. You have to take apart parts and wash them carefully to clean them. Food can become lodged in the crevices and be hard to remove if not done correctly.
The outside of the microwave can be cleaned with a wet cloth, while the inside should never be soggy. The turntable and glass tray should be washed in hot soapy water and dried thoroughly.
The microwave filters should also be cleaned regularly using warm water and soap. A solution of vinegar and water should be used to clean the microwave keypad. Please do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners to harm the microwave oven.
LEARN MORE: Can You Put Paper Plates In The Microwave?
Food to Cook in OTG Oven and Microwave Oven
You can cook various foods in an OTG oven, such as cakes, pastries, pizzas, tandoori chicken, and naan.
The microwave is limited to cooking only food that can be microwaved without drying out or becoming rubbery. These include mainly reheating leftovers or pre-packaged foods.
Some foods should not be microwave-cooked. These include eggs, chili peppers, fruits, breast milk, processed meals, leafy greens, and olive oil and peanuts.
It’s also a bad idea to cook rice in the microwave because only bacteria are destroyed during the cooking process when it’s done on the stove.
The microwave heating process destroys the immunological characteristics of breast milk. However, cow’s milk and baby bottles can be safely cooked in a microwave-safe pot.
If you’re looking for a versatile oven that can cook various foods, then the OTG is the best option for you. If you’re only looking to reheat food or cook pre-packaged meals, then the microwave is the better choice.
LEARN MORE: Over The Range vs Countertop Microwave
Prices and Running Costs of OTG and Microwave Oven
The initial cost of acquiring an OTG is about $134 for 42 liters, whereas a convection microwave oven costs around $215 for 30 liters. Although the upfront expenditure of an OTG is lower, the energy efficiency of a microwave oven is superior.
The microwave oven uses less energy than the OTG and is more affordable to operate in the long run. The microwave oven costs around $0.15 per hour, while an OTG costs around $0.27 per hour.
The microwave oven is cheaper to maintain in the long run. The only thing you will need to replace is the filter every six months, which costs $15. The OTG requires more frequent cleaning, and you will also need to replace the heating element every few years.
A microwave oven will generally last around seven years, while an OTG will last five to six years.
The main reason an OTG lasts only five to six years is because of the heating element. The heating element in an OTG is exposed, making it more susceptible to damage.
Additionally, the door seal on an OTG wears out faster than a microwave oven, leading to heat loss and decreased efficiency.
LEARN MORE: Can You Put Tupperware in the Microwave?
Conclusion: What Is the Difference Between a Microwave Oven and an OTG?
The microwave oven is the better choice if you’re looking for an appliance that is cheaper to maintain and more energy-efficient. The OTG outperforms microwave ovens when cooking a variety of foods.
Which oven do you think is best for you? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family!
