What's the build quality of a microwave?
The properties of a microwave
To determine in which range a microwave belongs, we look at the following specifications:
- Material interior: dirt adheres faster to a stainless steel interior than to a coated, enameled, or ceramic interior.
- Material front: on hard material such as stainless steel, damage is less likely to occur than on plastic.
- Platform: turntables are relatively quick to break. You won't have this risk without a turntable.
- Material turntable: dirt adheres less quickly to enamel and ceramics.
- Lighting: an LED lamp lasts longer.
- Controls: glass sensor buttons feel more sturdy than plastic buttons.
Top class microwave ovens
If you want the best of the best, choose a high-end microwave. In this category, a microwave has at least 70% of the above specifications. Through the use of high-quality materials, you'll be able to enjoy your purchase for years. A high-end model doesn't have a turntable. An advantage of this is that you can easily clean the interior. The microwaves don't have LED lighting. With an average of 40.000 burning hours, you won't have to replace the light.
Mid-range microwave ovens
A microwave with mid-range build quality has at least 50% of the specifications mentioned above. The stainless steel or coated front won't scratch soon, so the microwave will always look neat. The turntable is often made of glass, but many mid-range microwaves have a turntable that doesn't get dirty soon. Think about an enamel, ceramic, or metal turntable. Thanks to this, you can clean the turntable more easily.
Basic class of 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 you 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.