The Difference Between Convection and Conventional Oven
When it comes to cooking appliances, one of the most common debates is about the difference between a convection oven and a conventional oven. While both ovens essentially do the same job, there are some key differences that set them apart. In this article, we will explain the differences between convection and conventional ovens to help you determine which one is best for your cooking needs.
How Does a Conventional Oven Work?
A conventional oven is the most common type of oven you will find in households. An electric or gas-powered conventional oven heats from the bottom and/or top of the oven. The heat rises and cooks the food by surrounding it. Conventional ovens lack any additional features like fans or vents to aid in the circulation of hot air around the food.
The lack of a fan in conventional ovens leads to some hotspots that cause uneven cooking in certain areas of the food. It also takes a longer time to preheat as compared to convection ovens.
How Does a Convection Oven Work?
A convection oven, on the other hand, has a fan that circulates hot air within the oven. The fan helps to disperse heat evenly throughout the oven space, allowing the food to cook quickly and evenly. The hot air currents also make sure that humidity is dispersed, preventing moisture build-up on your food.
Convection ovens offer several advantages over conventional ones, like faster cooking times and better browning of cakes and meat. Because the fan circulates hot air, it eliminates hotspots or burnt areas, making it an excellent choice for baking and roasting. And although they might be a bit more expensive than conventional ovens, they will save you energy costs in the long run.
Which One is Best for You?
Choosing between a convection and a conventional oven depends on your cooking needs. Consider what types of food you like to cook, as well as how often you use your oven. Convection ovens are a must-have for professional bakers and serious home cooks.
If you are on a tight budget or only use your oven occasionally, a conventional oven works just fine. However, if you want to bake, roast or cook any food quickly, precisely and evenly, a convection oven would be an excellent investment.
In conclusion, both conventional and convection ovens have their pros and cons. Conventional ovens are affordable and reliable, while convection ovens offer faster and more precise cooking. Whichever you choose, make sure you take care of it properly to ensure it lasts a long time.
Table difference between convection and conventional oven
| Aspect | Convection Oven | Conventional Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | An oven that uses a fan to circulate hot air for faster and even cooking | An oven that heats food by radiating heat from the top and bottom heating elements |
| Cooking Time | Shorter cooking time due to even distribution of hot air | Longer cooking time due to uneven heating |
| Heat Distribution | Evenly distributed hot air for consistent cooking and browning | Heat radiates from top and bottom elements, causing uneven cooking and browning |
| Cooking Capacity | Can accommodate large amounts of food due to the fan-assisted circulation of hot air | Smaller cooking capacity due to uneven heating, limiting the amount of food that can be cooked at once |
| Energy Efficiency | More energy-efficient due to shorter cooking times | Less energy-efficient due to longer cooking times |