Buying Guide for the Best Lg Microwave Ovens
When choosing an LG microwave oven, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences to ensure you get the best fit for your kitchen and cooking habits. Microwaves come with a variety of features and specifications that can greatly impact their performance and convenience. Understanding these key specs will help you make an informed decision and select a microwave that meets your requirements.CapacityCapacity refers to the internal size of the microwave oven, usually measured in liters or cubic feet. This spec is important because it determines how much food you can cook or reheat at once. Smaller capacities (0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet) are suitable for individuals or small families who primarily use the microwave for reheating or cooking small portions. Medium capacities (1.1 to 1.5 cubic feet) are ideal for average-sized families and can handle larger dishes. Larger capacities (1.6 cubic feet and above) are best for big families or those who frequently cook large meals. Consider your typical usage and the size of your dishes when choosing the right capacity.
PowerPower is measured in watts and indicates how quickly and efficiently the microwave can cook or reheat food. Higher wattage means faster cooking times and more even heating. Microwaves typically range from 600 to 1200 watts. For basic reheating and simple cooking tasks, a microwave with 600-800 watts is sufficient. For more advanced cooking, such as defrosting or cooking larger meals, a microwave with 900-1200 watts is recommended. Think about the types of food you will be preparing and how quickly you need them cooked when selecting the power level.
Inverter TechnologyInverter technology allows the microwave to deliver consistent power levels, resulting in more even cooking and better texture for certain foods. This is important for tasks like defrosting, where traditional microwaves might cook the edges while leaving the center frozen. If you frequently cook delicate foods or need precise temperature control, a microwave with inverter technology can be a great choice. However, if your usage is mostly limited to reheating and basic cooking, this feature might not be as crucial.
Sensor CookingSensor cooking uses built-in sensors to detect the humidity and temperature of the food, automatically adjusting the cooking time and power level for optimal results. This feature is important for achieving perfectly cooked meals without the need for guesswork. If you value convenience and want to ensure your food is cooked evenly and thoroughly, look for a microwave with sensor cooking capabilities. This is especially useful for busy individuals or families who want to simplify meal preparation.
Pre-programmed SettingsPre-programmed settings are preset cooking modes for common foods like popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and beverages. These settings take the guesswork out of cooking by automatically setting the appropriate time and power level. This feature is important for those who want quick and easy cooking without having to manually adjust settings. If you often cook specific types of food, a microwave with a variety of pre-programmed settings can save you time and effort.
Turntable vs. FlatbedMicrowaves can come with either a turntable or a flatbed design. A turntable rotates the food to ensure even cooking, while a flatbed uses advanced technology to distribute microwaves evenly without the need for rotation. Turntables are common and effective for most cooking needs, but they can limit the size and shape of dishes you can use. Flatbed microwaves offer more flexibility with dish size and are easier to clean, but they can be more expensive. Consider your cooking habits and the types of dishes you use when deciding between these two options.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning is an important consideration, as microwaves can get dirty quickly with frequent use. Look for features like a removable turntable, easy-to-clean interior coatings, and minimal crevices where food can get trapped. Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to wipe down, while some models offer steam cleaning functions to loosen food residue. If you use your microwave often, choosing a model that is easy to clean will save you time and effort in maintaining it.