What's the construction quality of a microwave oven?
This is how we determine the build quality of a microwave
To determine in which class a microwave falls, we look at the following specifications:
- Material inside: dirt adheres faster to a stainless steel interior than to a lacquered, enameled, or ceramic interior.
- Material front: on hard material, such as stainless steel, damage is less likely to occur than on plastic.
- Platform: both the mechanical and the turntables are relatively quick to break. You don't have this risk without a turntable.
- Material shelf: dirt attaches less quickly to enamel and ceramics than to glass and metal.
- Lighting: a LED light lasts considerably longer than a halogen light or light bulb.
Top class microwave ovens
If you want the best of the best, choose a high-end microwave. In this range, a microwave has at least 70% of the above specifications. Through the use of high-quality materials you have years of pleasure from your purchase. A high-end model doesn't have a turntable that breaks down relatively quickly. Another advantage of the absence of the turntable is that you can easily clean the interior. The microwave ovens have LED lighting. With an average of 40,000 burning hours, you don't have to replace the lamp.
Mid-range microwave ovens
A microwave with a mid-range build quality has at least 50% of the listed specifications. It doesn't last as long as a high-end microwave, but longer than a basic microwave. The stainless steel or coated front doesn't scratch easily, so it always looks neat. The turntable is usually made of glass, but many mid-range microwave ovens also have a platform on which dirt adheres less. Think of an enamel, ceramic, or metal shelf. This makes the shelf easier to clean.
Basic microwave ovens
You'll find the most affordable microwaves in the basic category. These have less than half of the specifications mentioned above. Don't expect much of the quality? A basic microwave is suitable for you. The used materials are of lesser quality, which is why the microwave won't last as long as a mid-range or high-end model. A basic microwave has a glass turntable that you can't turn off, and the light is often a light bulb. A light bulb has less burning hours, so it needs to be replaced sooner.
