Steam Ovens vs. Microwaves: Which is Better?
Can a steam oven replace a microwave?
Highlights
A steam oven costs $300 to $700 on average, with better models easily going over $1,700.
Most microwaves cost less than $400, with older models well below $200.
Microwaves heat food from the inside out using electromagnetic waves.
Steam ovens can take hours to heat up food, whereas microwaves only take minutes.
Steam ovens can retain nutrients and flavors when heating or reheating ingredients.
While steam ovens have quickly become one of the most popular reheating methods and simple cooking appliances in the kitchen, many wonder if they can compete against a microwave’s simplicity and convenience. Knowing the differences between steam ovens and microwaves can help you make informed decisions about which appliance is most suitable for your kitchen.
What’s the Difference Between Steam Ovens and Microwaves?
Is a steam oven a better option than your microwaves? For decades, people concerned with microwave radiation have tirelessly searched for a healthier alternative. However, if you’re thinking about replacing your microwave with a steam oven, know the two remain fundamentally different.
Below is a quick summary of the core differences between the two quick-heating kitchen appliances.
| Steam Ovens | Microwaves | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Method | Hot steam; heats food from outside to inside | Electromagnetic waves; heats food from the inside out |
| Life Span | 13-15 years | 8-10 years, but 3-4 years on average with regular use |
| Cost | $300-$2,000 | $60-$400 |
| Taste and Nutrition | Lock in nutrients and flavor | Lose nutrients and flavor |
| Cons | Energy efficient | Use more electricity |
| Maintenance | Hard to clean | Easy to clean |
| Simplicity | Has a learning curve | Easy to use |
| Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Size | Even the compact model can be bulky | Small and space-efficient |
Steam Ovens: Pros, Cons, & Cost
Steam ovens are more often used in commercial kitchens, but they’ve made their way into residential homes in recent years. They come in full standalone models and countertop compact options. These appliances use hot steam to heat food, but some may use a combination of steam and conventional radiant heat.
Pros of a Steam Oven
If you’re tired of eating flavorless microwaved food, steam ovens are here to your rescue. Steam ovens retain flavor and nutrients when they reheat your plates, which is one of the biggest advantages they have over microwaves. The steam also prevents food from drying out, ensuring a supple, fresh taste no matter how many times you reheat your food.
Hot steam also heats food evenly. With a steam oven, you’ll never have to worry about cold or undercooked spots. It is also more energy efficient than microwaves. You don’t need to thaw frozen ingredients before placing them in a steam oven.
Cons of a Steam Oven
One of the most intimidating things about steam ovens is the high up front investment. An average countertop compact steam oven costs between $250 and $700, whereas a wall oven would cost over $1,500, with high-end models costing over $3,000.
Another concern is time. While steam ovens cook faster than conventional ovens, they are still no match for a microwave’s swiftness. If time consumption is high on your priority list, a steam oven might not be your most suitable heating option.
Finally, steam ovens can be bulky. Even the countertop compact options can take up quite some space, let alone the standalone wall ovens.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Steam ovens always leave a bit of moisture after each heating cycle. Therefore, wiping off the insides with a damp cloth or paper towel is recommended. A thorough cleaning is recommended at least once a month to keep your oven tidy and fresh. With proper maintenance, a steam oven can last 13 to 15 years. So, building a cleaning routine is essential if you want to opt for a steam oven in your kitchen.
Microwaves: Pros, Cons, & Cost
Microwaves are loved by busy parents and office workers. Their quick, simple heating serves its purpose when you need a fast solution. Many microwaveable meals are also available from grocery stores. However, microwaves are essentially a convenient alternative to proper cooking.
Pros of a Microwave
Affordability and convenience are two of microwaves' biggest advantages. A basic microwave costs under $100, while most standard models cost a few hundred dollars. Only new, advanced models may cost over $1,000.
Microwaves can heat food within minutes. Most microwaves nowadays also have a handful of convenient presets for different types of food. A trip to the grocery store will stock you up with plenty of quick meals with microwave heating instructions. Hence, it’s the perfect appliance for fast cooking and simple meals.
Microwaves are compact. Some can be installed over the head, making them highly space-efficient and more suitable for a smaller kitchen.
Cons of a Microwave
The biggest concern with microwaves is they cannot retain any nutrients or flavors. Therefore, they’re not the best options for making elaborate meals or heating delicate ingredients such as fresh vegetables.
Also, since microwaves heat food from the inside out, it’s rather common for the heating to be uneven. Unthawed ingredients may still be partially frozen or undercooked, and leftovers from a fridge can have cold spots. It may take multiple runs for the food to be fully heated.
Microwaves also require microwave-safe containers. Anything made with metal or low-heat-enduring plastic is not safe in a microwave.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Thanks to their small and simple structures, microwaves are easy to clean. A quick weekly wipe is more than sufficient. However, microwaves aren’t meant to last long. If you use them regularly, expect an average life span of 3 to 4 years. Better-built microwaves can last up to 8 years with proper maintenance.
Upgrading to a Steam Oven: is it Worth it?
Is it worth upgrading to a steam oven? Adding a steam oven to your kitchen can increase your property’s value. It’s also a good investment if you care about nutrition and healthy living. A steam oven does cook faster than a traditional oven. Plus, a steam oven also reduces your microwave usage frequency, reserving it to quick heating only, which then extends your microwave’s life span as well.
If you choose to upgrade to a wall oven, hire a licensed professional to properly install your new appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you use your microwave as your quick reheating solution, replacing it with a steam oven won’t be your best choice. Steam ovens take a long time to heat things up. Sometimes, it can be an hour or more before your food is ready. Meanwhile, a microwave heats up food in minutes with many quick-heat presets, making it the perfect option for those on a tight schedule.
Practically, everything. However, steam ovens work best with delicate ingredients with high moisture levels, such as vegetables, eggs, porridge, and oatmeal. As long as your oven is big enough, you can also use steam ovens to cook meat, fish, pasta, and even pizzas. They are also a great option for reheating leftovers since they can retain the flavors.