The Consumer Council, in collaboration with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), tested 10 models of steam ovens, comprising 5 built-in and 5 freestanding models. The test covered five major categories: safety, technical performance, cooking performance, energy efficiency, and noise levels. The results showed that all samples passed the safety tests, with 3 models achieving an overall rating of 4 stars or above. The BBE team has provided the latest prices for these steam ovens to help you select the one that best suits your needs.
Which 10 steam ovens did the Consumer Council select for testing?
Built-in steam oven models tested included:
- Miele DGC 7440 HC Pro
- Siemens iQ300 CS589ABS0H
- Electrolux KVBAS21WX
- Mia Cucina GYV34S
- German Pool SGV-5228
Freestanding steam oven models tested included:
- Gemini GSO40
- Panasonic NU-SC280W
- Whirlpool CS2322B
- Midea PS30L22Z
- Toshiba MS5-STR30SC(BK)
It is worth noting that the claimed capacity of built-in models ranges from 34 liters to 52 liters, while freestanding models range from 30 liters to 40 liters. Built-in models have standard dimensions of approximately 45cm in height and 60cm in width, making them suitable for installation inside kitchen cabinets; freestanding models are smaller in volume and offer more flexible placement.
What criteria did the Consumer Council use for evaluation?
Referencing relevant international standards, the Consumer Council and EMSD conducted comprehensive tests on the 10 steam ovens from multiple professional perspectives, covering the following categories:
Safety
Tests included structure, temperature rise, insulation strength, heat resistance of materials, and flame retardance. The user manuals were also reviewed to ensure they contained standard-required warning statements. All samples passed the safety tests; however, the manuals for Gemini, Whirlpool, and Toshiba lacked certain warning phrases, such as "Accessible parts may become hot during use" or "Children should not play with the appliance."
Power Accuracy
The test compared the claimed power of the samples with the actual measured values. The results showed that the deviation for all samples did not exceed the tolerance range of international standards (+5%/-10%), meaning the "firepower" of the samples largely matched their claims.
Technical Performance
This category accounts for 20% of the overall rating, comprising preheating speed (25%) and temperature control performance (75%). In the preheating speed test, the preheating time for each sample in hot air mode ranged from 3 minutes 6 seconds to 5 minutes 56 seconds. Overall performance was satisfactory, with all models receiving a score of 4 points or higher. regarding temperature control, built-in samples generally performed better, while freestanding samples were more inconsistent. Midea and Toshiba showed poorer accuracy in temperature control, with deviations for individual temperature settings reaching as high as 7% and 12% respectively, resulting in scores of only 2.5 and 1.5 points.
Cooking Test
This category accounts for 30% of the overall rating, covering baking (60%) and steaming (40%) of various foods, including baking cupcakes, sponge cakes, toasting bread, roasting whole chicken, baking meringue, steaming vegetables with salmon fillet, steaming broccoli, and steaming crème brûlée. Results showed that all samples were competent in cooking all food items, with no instances of undercooking, excessive burning, or strange tastes. Only individual samples performed slightly less well in terms of food color and color distribution. The overall cooking test scores were all 4 or 4.5 points.
Energy Efficiency
This category accounts for 20% of the overall rating, measuring the power consumption of each sample during standby and cooking. In standby mode, the measured power consumption ranged from 0.40W to 1.60W. Referencing EU eco-design requirements for related electrical products, appliances with a clock display should not exceed a standby power of 0.8W; some samples in this test measured slightly higher than this level. regarding cooking tests, the built-in Miele and freestanding Gemini stood out in energy efficiency within their respective groups, both achieving a better score of 4 points.
Noise Levels
This category accounts for 5% of the overall rating, assessing the noise performance of samples during cooking and when the internal fan operates to cool down after cooking. Overall, built-in samples performed satisfactorily, receiving scores between 3 and 4.5 points. Freestanding samples were more inconsistent; Gemini's fan operation was quieter, earning a score of 4 points, while Whirlpool and Midea emitted louder noise during cooking and cooling, receiving a lower score of only 1 point.
Ease of Use
This category accounts for 20% of the overall rating, including reviews of the user manual (9.1%), program usage (27.3%), daily operation (27.3%), and cleaning (36.4%). The knobs and buttons of Midea and Toshiba were handy to control, and their displays were clear and easy to understand. Siemens and Midea performed excellently in daily operation, with cavity lighting and glass door designs allowing users to clearly see the cooking progress.
Consumer Council 10 Steam Ovens Comparison Table
| Brand |
Model |
Safety |
Tech |
Cooking |
Energy |
Noise |
Overall |
| Miele |
DGC 7440 HC Pro |
5 |
4.5 |
4.5 |
4 |
4 |
4.5 ⭐ |
| Siemens |
iQ300 CS589ABS0H |
5 |
4 |
4.5 |
3.5 |
4.5 |
4 ⭐ |
| Electrolux |
KVBAS21WX |
5 |
4 |
4 |
2.5 |
4.5 |
3.5 |
| Mia Cucina |
GYV34S |
5 |
4.5 |
4 |
2.5 |
3 |
3.5 |
| German Pool |
SGV-5228 |
5 |
4.5 |
4.5 |
2.5 |
3 |
3.5 |
| Gemini |
GSO40 |
5 |
4.5 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 ⭐ |
| Panasonic |
NU-SC280W |
5 |
4 |
4 |
2.5 |
2 |
3.5 |
| Whirlpool |
CS2322B |
5 |
4 |
4 |
3.5 |
1 |
3.5 |
| Midea |
PS30L22Z |
5 |
3.5 |
4 |
2.5 |
1 |
3.5 |
| Toshiba |
MS5-STR30SC |
5 |
1.5 |
4.5 |
2.5 |
3 |
3.5 |
Factors to Consider When Buying a Steam Oven
Based on the Consumer Council's review and expert advice, consider the following factors when purchasing a steam oven:
- Space and Installation Method: First, assess your kitchen size and available space. Built-in models are aesthetically pleasing and space-saving, suitable for users with limited kitchen space or planned cabinetry. Freestanding models are flexible and movable, suitable for rental units, compact kitchens, or users who need to retain moving flexibility. Installing built-in models requires considering an additional basic installation fee of $440 to $1,400.
- Capacity Selection: Generally, a 3-4 person household can choose a 20-30 liter capacity; larger families or those who frequently cook large items (like roast chicken or fish) should choose models over 30 liters. Built-in models generally have larger capacities (34 to 52 liters), while freestanding ones are relatively smaller (30 to 40 liters), but larger capacity usually means higher power consumption.
- Temperature Control Accuracy: Consumer Council tests showed significant differences in temperature control performance. Built-in models generally performed better, while freestanding models were inconsistent.
- Energy Efficiency: The review found that the built-in Miele and freestanding Gemini had the most outstanding energy-saving performance, both receiving a 4-point rating. Standby power ranged from 0.40W to 1.60W, with some models exceeding the EU recommended limit of 0.8W. For long-term use, prioritize models with higher energy efficiency ratings to reduce electricity costs.
- Noise Level: Noise performance varies most among freestanding steam ovens. If your kitchen is connected to the living area or family members are sensitive to noise, prioritize models with better quietness ratings.
- Cooking Functions: Functional differences between models are significant. Choose based on daily cooking habits; for example, if you steam frequently, choose a model with stable steam functions; if you need fermentation, ensure it has a constant temperature fermentation function; if you seek multifunctionality, check if the single unit supports steaming, baking, and air frying.
- Price-Performance Ratio: A key finding from the Consumer Council is that price and rating are not always directly proportional. Before buying, comprehensively consider your budget, actual needs, and review results rather than simply pursuing high-end brands or the latest models.
How much do the Consumer Council's 3 high-scoring steam ovens cost?
1. Electrolux KVBAS21WX 43L Built-in Steam Oven
Price: HK$29,800
The Electrolux KVBAS21WX Built-in Steam Oven features a 43-liter capacity and 3000W power. It is equipped with the innovative Steamify® function and a food probe, which automatically adjusts the steam amount and precisely monitors the core temperature of the food, helping you easily create restaurant-quality dishes. Manufactured in Poland, this steam oven features a stylish design and comprehensive functions, making it an ideal choice for modern kitchens.
2. Siemens iQ300 CS589ABS0H 45L Built-in Electric Steam Oven
Price: HK$19,800
The Siemens iQ300 series CS589ABS0H Built-in Electric Steam Oven perfectly blends traditional steaming with modern baking functions, bringing a revolutionary cooking experience to your kitchen. This electric steam oven not only features a stylish design but is also equipped with various smart technologies, allowing you to easily master complex dishes. Whether healthy steaming or crispy baking, it handles everything with ease. Its excellent performance and user-friendly design make it an ideal choice for pursuing a high-quality culinary life.
3. Whirlpool CS2322B 32L 4S Maxi+ Freestanding Air Fry Steam Oven (Black)
Price: HK$7,298
The Whirlpool CS2322B 32L 4S Maxi+ Freestanding Air Fry Steam Oven features a stylish black design and combines air frying, steaming, baking, and convection functions in one unit. It offers a spacious 32-liter capacity and a stainless steel cavity, equipped with a powerful 2050W output. This steam oven utilizes a front exhaust design, effectively reducing the space required for heat dissipation, while supporting up to 3 hours of continuous steam cooking and independent upper/lower heat control, helping you easily prepare various delicacies. It is an ideal choice for modern home kitchens.
