Oven or mini oven - which is better? Comparative review

Mini oven or oven

Compared to a standard size oven, a miniature tabletop electric oven has the following advantages, regardless of brand:

energy consumption is less by 20-30%;
small size, own weight and interesting design;
the desktop 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 - the presence of convection, grill, programmable cooking of various baking recipes;
electric ovens may have a pancake compartment under the top lid.

In terms of fire safety, the desktop version of miniature electric stoves is much better than gas stoves. Although many users will object that shorting the wires also threatens to cause a fire.

When compared with a standard oven, there are clear advantages:

Miniature dimensions - the desktop oven takes up very little space, which cannot be said about the 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 the standard oven has almost the same appearance.
Less price.

Which mini oven is better to buy?

If you first open the catalog of mini-ovens, you will be confused by their diversity and resemblance. To get started, decide if you are looking for an alternative exclusively to an oven or a stove with an oven. In the latter case, it makes sense to take a mini-oven with burners. This will be the best option for a summer residence, a small kitchen or a rented apartment where there is no stove.

I needed a worthy replacement for the oven, so I considered models without additional burners

If you cook in the oven more than once a year, but like to bake a lot and often, pay attention to mini convection ovens. In fact, this is a fan built into the device to evenly distribute heat.

You will be surprised how well even the most capricious pastries like eclairs bake well. The cost of convection ovens is not much different from conventional ones.

When you clearly decide what you need a mini-oven for and how often you plan to use it, you can begin to study the main characteristics, which we will talk about next.

Functionality

Let's start with the fact that a mini-oven can have one or more heating elements. In the latter case, you will have more options, because. The oven can operate in several modes:

• Electric oven - both heating elements are involved. The mode is used when baking meat, fish and vegetables.
• Delicate mode - only the bottom element. It is used in the preparation of confectionery, as well as chicken legs and wings.
• Grill - top only. It is necessary for the preparation of dough products: biscuits, pizza, etc.

In addition to heating modes, there are additional modes:

• Defrosting (normal/deep). This function is specific to the microwave, so its presence automatically puts the mini-oven on a higher level.
• Heating. Again, the function of the microwave.
• Auto power off. A useful function that turns on if the temperature in the oven has reached its maximum. This helps to avoid overcooking and burning the dish.

The more operating modes in your device, the wider the possibilities, as well as the higher the cost. But does it make sense to overpay for additional heating and defrosting functions, do you already have a microwave?

Control type

As in any other devices, there are two types of control: electronic and mechanical. The most common option is mechanical, when you manually turn the toggle switch. Of course, in the age of high technology, such a stove will look ancient against the background of those equipped with touch panels, but such a device costs less and breaks less often.

An electronically controlled mini oven costs a little more, is easy to use and looks much more aesthetically pleasing. If you decide to purchase just such, choose only proven brands that give a guarantee.If the electronic panel breaks, then its repair will be indecently expensive.

Internal volume

The main difference between a mini-stove and all other cooking appliances is precisely the volume. When selected, this parameter must be key.

For a family of two, a 10-liter stove is enough. This is not much, it is not designed for a baking sheet, there is a timer limit of 15 minutes. The best option for those who do not bake.

For a family of three or four people, it is better to look for an option with a volume of 12-20 liters, and for a large family - from 25 and above. Particularly functional are models that fit two baking sheets at the same time, as in a conventional oven. So you can cook several dishes at once.

Internal coating

The duration and ease of operation of the device depends on the internal coating. Be sure to look in the instructions for information about the Durastone coating: it is it that is resistant to scratches, high temperatures and aggressive detergents.

Power

Devices with high power cope with the task of heating and cooking food faster, but also consume more electricity. Typically, stoves with a power of up to 1500 W are used (usually these are models with a volume of up to 25 liters). Keep in mind that not every wiring will withstand a large load, so it is better to take devices whose power is less than 1400 watts.

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.

Capabilities

One of the main differences between the two units is their functionality. The functionality of the 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:

1. baking;
2. Grill;
3. Toaster.

Dimensions

The mini-oven has compact dimensions, thanks to which it is easy to place it in a small apartment, it does not take up much space. Plus, you can take it with you when you travel. On the other hand, small sizes lead to a small capacity of the unit, which is why it will not work to cook a lot of food at a time.

The oven has large dimensions, which allows you to cook several dishes at once in large volumes. This is very convenient if the family has more than three people. At the same time, you need to think over in advance the place for installing the device so that it fits harmoniously into the room.

temperature hold

The small size of the tabletop oven gives it several other useful advantages:

• the device warms up very quickly and holds the temperature longer;
• food cooks much faster;
• electricity is used more economically.

In this parameter, the stationary oven is much inferior to its compact competitor.

Food

The mini-oven, like the electric oven, works by connecting to the mains. Due 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 run on gas. They are cheap, 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.

Heating element

In devices powered by electricity, two heating elements - one is located below, the second - on top.Thanks to this design, different heating modes can be used to obtain different results. If you turn off the upper heater, cooking takes place in a gentle mode. To get a crispy golden crust, it must be turned on.

Gas specimens are deprived of this possibility - they have only one heater located below. From it, the air heats up and begins to circulate in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe cabinet, penetrating into the baked dish.

Timer

The function is equipped only with mini-ovens and electric ovens. The display shows the remaining cooking time. This facilitates the cooking process and saves the hostess time.

Important! Even with a timer, you should not leave the switched on unit unattended for a long time!

Safety

The design features and additional features of the models affect the safety of using the device:

1. High thermal insulation will not allow the device to heat up from the outside, which minimizes the risk of burns;
2. Locking the doors of the included equipment will also help prevent injuries;
3. Only suitable utensils must be used to prevent damage.

Options	gas oven	Electric oven	mini oven
Capabilities	baking	Bake, grill, toaster	Bake, grill, toaster
Dimensions	Large	Large	small
temperature hold	Not	Not	There is
Food	Gas	Electricity	Electricity
Heating element	One is below	Two - below and above	Two - below and above
Timer	Not	There is	There is
Safety	Not	High thermal insulation, lockable door opening	Door opening lock, the ability to use a variety of dishes

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 will not be possible to exclude heat transfer from the process. True, it is not carried out quickly enough and depends on numerous factors. As a result, the dishes are baked unevenly. This leads to the fact that in one place the food can burn, and in another - remain damp. But even if such problems can be avoided, then improper heat transfer can ruin an excellent recipe, because the same biscuit can fall because of this. Therefore, to solve the problem, manufacturers make convection in mini-ovens forced by adding fans to the design.

1. Kitfort KT-1708

A beautiful and compact mini-oven, comparable in size to a conventional 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 is turned off manually.

The door of the Kitfort mini-oven has double glazing and almost does not heat up. The presence of the spit function in the device allows you to cook various products with an appetizing crust. I was pleased with the budget mini-oven with convection also with its assembly. Other advantages of the KT-1708 are high-quality lighting and a comfortable handle that does not heat up.

Advantages:

• excellent build;
• good functionality;
• low cost;
• enough operating modes.

Flaws:

network cable only 95 cm.

2. Gemlux GL-OR-1538LUX

Gemlux is next on the list of the best mini convection ovens. 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 democratic, 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 observed furnace are 30 and 230 degrees, respectively. We were also very pleased that separate power can be set for the upper and lower heating elements.

Pros:

• sound indication of heating;
• separate temperature control;
• the minimum temperature level makes it easy to defrost food;
• use of automatic recipes;
• convenient timer up to 120 minutes.

Minuses:

during the cooking process, the body heats up noticeably.

3. REDMOND RO-5701

One of the most interesting options for your money. First of all, REDMOND RO-5701 has an excellent design and high-quality assembly, which is typical for all Russian-made equipment. We are also pleased with the ease of operation, represented immediately by 4 rotary switches. Three of them are traditionally responsible for temperature, time, top / bottom heating. The latter activates additional functions like convection and spit. Inside the chamber with a volume of 33 liters, the manufacturer placed a bright backlight, which allows you to control the readiness of the dish. It turns on automatically as soon as the user turns the timer knob.

Advantages:

• retractable crumb tray;
• good delivery set;
• competent placement of heating elements;
• quality grill;
• branded recipe book.

Flaws:

• when used at maximum temperature, the case is very hot;
• noise from the timer during operation.

4. Steba KB 27 U.3

The top of the ovens is completed by the unit manufactured by Steba.The device has a volume of 20 liters and allows you to set the operating temperature up to 250 degrees. Of the modes in KB 27 U.3, upper and lower heating are provided, which can be turned on simultaneously, as well as grill and convection. There are no extra functions here, so the cost of the mini-oven turned out to be as democratic as possible - from 6,500 rubles. The length of the network cable in the Steba KB 27 U.3 is 140 cm, which is enough for easy connection to a power outlet.

Advantages:

• favorable cost;
• uniform heating;
• volume for 1-2 people;
• grill and convection;
• good assembly.

How to choose?

Seeing all the variety of mini-ovens, it is not so easy to decide on the necessary model. After all, among them there are a lot of good specimens, which are distinguished by their low price and decent quality. At the same time, someone wants to purchase an oven primarily for baking, while someone is interested in the dimensions of the device. However, there are a number of criteria by which, as a rule, the choice is made.

One of the main parameters is the amount of internal space. Of course, the large capacity of the oven will allow you to cook dishes for more people.

However, if it will be used infrequently for this, then it is better to pay attention to more compact models. In addition, a small volume will save on electricity.

Typically, the stove is chosen based on the fact that two people have enough capacity of 10 liters, and four - 20 liters. For those who like to often arrange large-scale holidays, ovens up to 45 liters are perfect. When everything becomes clear with the volume, you should proceed to the operating modes of the furnace. It is desirable that the upper and lower heaters can be switched on both together and separately. This allows for more even baking.It is convenient when power can be added to the upper heater in order to make the crust more beautiful. But for frying it is better when you can separately turn on only the lower heating element.

Additional features may vary by model

The presence of forced air rotation is very important. This allows the oven to heat up more evenly.

The fan is responsible for this function. Convection ovens can cook dishes much faster, which saves time. Defrosting also reduces the cooking time.

If the oven has a thermostat, the temperature can be controlled. This function is not available in the simplest appliances that are suitable for cooking a limited number of dishes. However, over time, an increasing number of manufacturers are introducing this option into devices. It is worth overestimating the requirements for the inner surface, as it must be resistant to mechanical stress, high temperatures and easy to clean. Modern ovens tend to live up to all of this and last for many years.

The power depends on the size of the oven and it is quite normal that the larger it is, the higher the electricity consumption will be. Medium models often consume from 1 to 1.5 kW. It is also worth considering that high power allows you to reduce cooking time. Existence of additional baking sheets and pallets does work with an oven more convenient. There are models that notify with a sound that the dish is ready.

It is important to pay attention to the control, which can be mechanical or electronic. In the first case, you have to independently set the temperature and control the preparation.As a result, you have to constantly be near the stove, which is not always convenient.

The electronic control system frees you from all this. However, when such a control fails, it will be more difficult to fix it.

As a result, you have to constantly be near the stove, which is not always convenient. The electronic control system frees you from all this. However, when such a control fails, it will be more difficult to fix it.

Safety when working with an oven is very important, so it is worth checking how hot the body of the oven is. It is optimal if the temperature of the outer surface does not exceed 60 degrees. Price is another important parameter. For some, a certain stove model will seem too expensive, while others will find that the price-quality ratio is optimal and ideal for the kitchen.

Everything here is very individual, but it is worth familiarizing yourself with the models you like in advance to make sure that you do not have to overpay. It would be useful to read real customer reviews before choosing in order to better understand how this or that oven corresponds to the declared advantages.

For an overview of electric mini-ovens, see the following video.

Rating

In order to get the most complete picture of ovens, check out the rating of built-in independent appliances that earned positive customer reviews in 2018. Take a look at these two models first. They are expensive, but perhaps the best quality.

Electrolux EOB53450AX

The increased volume of the chamber (72 l) and a powerful convection fan allow cooking several dishes at the same time. The electronic programmer will allow you to fine-tune any of the 8 cooking modes.

Caring for the oven is easy thanks to the fine-pored enamel inside, the steam cleaning system and the protective coating on the outer panel. Telescopic guides of the chamber can be rearranged in height, and the door has a closer for smooth closing.

You will have to pay for the oven of this brand - 36,000 rubles.

Siemens HM633GNS1

High-tech cabinet with many useful bells and whistles: 10 modes, 14 automatic programs, convection, timer, pause, microwave function.

Precise and convenient adjustment of the work can be carried out thanks to the touch control. There is child protection and automatic shutdown in case of overheating. The catalytic cleaning system allows you to effortlessly keep the chamber clean.

All these pleasures will cost a tidy sum - 119,000 rubles.

Now I will offer you to look at collections of goods of different brands. Next to the brand I give the number of models in the range.

1. Bosch - 89.
2. Maunfeld - 69.
3. Electrolux - 60.
4. Gorenie - 57.
5. Candy - 33.

Control system

Experts distinguish two types that can be used at home:

1. Mechanical view - performed using rotary switches, the simplest and most reliable control, because in the event of a breakdown it is easy to repair or replace.
2. An 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 work to repair such a panel in the workshop, it is cheaper to replace it.

The first option enjoys well-deserved popularity among users: they are inexpensive, quite reliable and maintainable in all respects.

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 in which they rarely bake anything or do it in small volumes.

Panasonic NU-SC101

5

★★★★★
editorial score

97%
buyers recommend this product

Panasonic's state-of-the-art mini oven has all the features you need to cook a variety of meals. It is equipped with heating elements, a convection and grill function, as well as a steam cooking option with adjustable steam intensity. The roaster has 13 automatic programs, and also allows you to manually adjust the operating mode.

The model is characterized by a quick start: steam begins to form within 20 seconds after switching on, and the minimum temperature of 100 ° C is reached in just 3 minutes. The furnace is equipped with a wide digital display and has an electronic control system. The internal volume of the model is 15 liters, while 2 baking sheets are placed here at the same time.

Advantages:

• 13 automatic programs;
• Steam cooking;
• Electronic control with display;
• Steam power adjustment;
• Quick exit to the specified mode.

Flaws:

High price.

Despite its compactness, Panasonic's NU-SC101 mini oven is multifunctional and practical. It will be good for quick cooking of pastries, roasts and diet dishes.

Redmond SkyOven 5727S

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

92%
buyers recommend this product

The multifunctional mini-oven with a volume of 20 l has touch and remote control: you can set up modes, turn on auto-heating and activate delayed start from your smartphone. There are 20 automatic programs in the memory of the roaster and there is a manual setting.

The model is equipped with two heating elements and a grill, it is completed with a baking sheet, a baking dish, a grill and a handle for removing hot containers.The thermostat allows you to adjust the heating temperature from 40 to 230 degrees, which means that the stove can be used for heating, defrosting and fermenting products.

Advantages:

• Smartphone control;
• 20 automatic modes;
• Wide temperature range;
• Touch control panel;
• Timer for 10 hours.

Flaws:

Lack of convection.

The SkyOven 5727S mini oven from Redmond opens up unlimited possibilities for cooking various dishes - just in small quantities. A great option for a rented apartment or for a young family.

De'Longhi EO 12562

4.7

★★★★★
editorial score

86%
buyers recommend this product

The compact mini-oven has an internal chamber volume of only 12 liters. It holds two baking sheets, which can be used for cooking with top or bottom heating elements, combination heaters, grill and convection. Convenient storage of the oven is ensured not only by compact dimensions, but also by a cord compartment.

The model has a simple mechanical control, but it is equipped with a sound timer for 120 minutes, 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 De'Longhi EO 12562 mini oven is a compact and reliable kitchen helper that can handle most standard roaster tasks. Mechanical control, although it does not allow you to expand the functionality of the equipment, is the most reliable and simple option. This technique can be safely given to elderly relatives.

Rommelsbacher BG 950

4.5

★★★★★
editorial score

82%
buyers recommend this product

The Rommelsbacher BG 950 mini-oven is one of the most compact in the segment, with an internal volume of just 10 liters. The model is energy efficient, has a simple mechanical control, is equipped with a baking sheet and a wire rack.

The convenience of using a mini-oven is provided 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 control.

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.

The best mini ovens with a hob

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 score

95%
buyers recommend this product

A capacious 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 carcasses on a spit.

The roster 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 burners;
• capacity;
• Grill with spit;
• Convection mode;
• Easy cleaning.

Flaws:

There is no steam mode.

The Leran mini-oven with a hob is the most modern and economical among analogues. And its rather large volume allows us to recommend the model instead of a full-size stove to large families.

Galaxy GL2622

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

88%
buyers recommend this product

The Galaxy 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, bake a large bird (goose or even a 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 control of the model is mechanical, intuitive. The equipment is equipped with a baking sheet, a grid and a handle for hot containers. The thermostat provides convenience of use.

Advantages:

• Maximum capacity;
• Timer for 2 hours;
• Thermostat;
• Simple control;
• Internal illumination.

Flaws:

Without grill and convection.

Due to its impressive volume, the Galaxy GL2622 mini oven is quite capable of replacing a standard stove.

Gefest PG 100

4.7

★★★★★
editorial score

86%
buyers recommend this product

The mini-oven from Gefest is equipment with a gas oven and burners. It is available in white and brown colors, complete with a baking sheet and a figured grid for 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 plate more convenient. The oven with an internal volume of 19 l is equipped with a temperature indicator and an upper grill. The burners have a minimum fire setting.

Advantages:

• Two body colors to choose from;
• Gas control;
• Fixing the minimum fire;
• Electric grill;
• Cover available.

Flaws:

Manual oven temperature control.

The PG 100 mini-oven from Gefest is one of the few such models that run on gas, therefore it is in demand for houses and apartments with gasification. However, in a country house or in the country, where there are frequent power outages, it will also come in handy.

GFgril GFBB-7

4.5

★★★★★
editorial score

83%
buyers recommend this product

The GFgril tabletop oven is a unique kitchen appliance 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-made meals, and cook hot sandwiches. It has a 30 minute timer and thermostat.

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 coated with a non-stick layer.

Advantages:

• Multifunctionality;
• There is a timer and thermostat;
• Removable design is easy to clean;
• Low price.

Flaws:

• Small capacity;
• Without convection and grill.

The GFBB-7 mini-oven from GFgril will not replace a standard stove, but it is ideal for preparing breakfasts for 1-3 people, for example, in a country house, a hostel or a guest house.

Safety of use

No freshly baked pies or grilled chicken will be happy if you are constantly haunted by the thought of the potential danger of the unit with which you cooked them. Which oven is better - electric or gas - in terms of safety?

The word "gas" for many is strongly associated with the word "danger". Indeed, a gas leak can lead to such fatal consequences as poisoning people in the room or an explosion. To minimize the risk, all modern imported gas-fired ovens are necessarily equipped with a “gas control” function: if the flame accidentally goes out (caused by a strong air flow or spilled liquid), the gas supply will be automatically shut off.

In some models, when the fire goes out, the gas supply does not stop, but auto-ignition is triggered. The result of both variations is the same - the probability of gas leakage into the room is reduced to nothing. Safety depends not only on the design of the oven, but also on the correct connection to the gas main: only a specialist should perform this work.

We also recall that during the operation of a gas oven, combustion products are released, including carbon monoxide. So that it does not accumulate indoors in concentrations dangerous to human health, you should take care of good air circulation and, at the same time, purchase an extractor fan along with the oven.

On the other hand, electric ovens also carry a certain danger - this is the likelihood of fire due to overheating, and the risk of electric shock to the user. To prevent the risk of fire of furniture and other objects located in the immediate vicinity of the oven, temperature sensors are installed on its outer walls. When the walls are heated above a predetermined limit (usually 90 ° C), they turn off the power to the device. In addition to this, tangential cooling is used - blowing the outer walls of the oven with cold air.

A protective shutdown will help protect a person from electric shock: in the event of a malfunction, the electronics will de-energize the device. It should be remembered that the safety of using an electric oven depends not only on the manufacturer of the equipment, but also on the correct connection to the mains. If you do not know what power consumption, wire size, grounding, etc., then do not do this yourself, but seek help from a professional electrician.