Capacity
Internal volume involved in cooking. The larger the capacity, the more spacious the oven, but do not forget that this parameter also affects the dimensions of the device.
Controls
The main type of controls in the electric oven.
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Rotary knobs. Mechanical rotary knobs often are used in the simplest low-cost models: one knob sets the heating power, the other — the operating time. The accuracy of such adjustments is not very high; it is especially true for the operating time.
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Push-buttons. Control using buttons. Usually, it implies the presence of a display — otherwise, it would be difficult to control the operation. This option allows you to set the parameters more accurately — the timer in push-button models is usually electronic. In addition, it is well suited for models with built-in recipes, special modes, etc. Therefore, buttons are usually a feature of a model with advanced features.
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Rotary knob + buttons. A kind of control that combines buttons (see above) with a rotary knob. The rotary knob does not rotate smoothly but in “steps”. The features of such control are generally similar to the usual push-button. But the rotary knob, in some cases, is more convenient than the buttons — for example, it is easier for them to set the time on the timer.
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Touch controls. Another type of control is similar to the button described above. Touch panels look more advanced than push-buttons, are easier to operate, and have no protruding parts, making them less dirty and easier t
...o clean. The disadvantage of touch controls is a higher cost, which is why this option is found mainly in expensive models.Number of cooking modes
The number of specific operating modes provided for by the design of the oven (for example, “top grill”, “bottom grill”, “grill + convection”, temperature conditions, etc.). The more modes, the wider the possibilities of the oven.
Features
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Grill — a device for cooking food due to thermal radiation. It provides baking to a ruddy crust. Suitable for cooking steaks, casseroles, and dishes with breadcrumbs.
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Convection. The convection function enhances the natural circulation of hot air inside the oven, ensuring an even distribution of heat throughout the oven. Especially useful for baking.
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Steam cooking. Ability to use the oven for steam cooking. Cooking is carried out in the main chamber of the oven, and the steam comes from a special reservoir into which water is poured in advance. This method is considered more healthy than traditional cooking. In addition, it often turns out to be optimal for people with dietary restrictions. However, models with steam cooking are also more expensive than usual ones.
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Defrosting. The ability to use an electric oven for defrosting frozen foods. In this mode, the temperature inside the oven is relatively low since you do not need to bake the product but only bring it to room temperature, keeping it raw.
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Rotisserie fork. A device for roasting in the oven dishes (usually meat or fish) in pieces or whole. It is a rotating metal rod (or several rods), usually installed horizontally, on which the prepared product is mounted. Rotation of the rotisserie fork ensures u
...niform baking. Usually, it is carried out using a drive from an electric motor.
— Timer. A time counter that allows you to more accurately control the cooking process. Some timers automatically turn off the oven after the set time has elapsed, while others simply beep.
— Auto switch-off. A safety system that turns off the oven if it has been working for a long time without user intervention or when the heating element reaches a critical temperature.
— Child lock. A security system that allows you to lock the oven door. Thus, a curious small child will not be able to open it, which, with the oven running, could be fraught with a burn. Such a lock is unlocked by pressing a few keys on the control panel.Lighting
Function of illumination of a working chamber. Thanks to its lighting, you can better see the chamber of the oven. This feature is useful to control the cooking process through the glass without opening the door. However, it can also be useful when the door is open, for example, when cleaning the oven.
