The Consumer Council, in conjunction with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, tested 10 steam ovens, including 5 built-in models and 5 countertop models. The tests covered five major areas: safety, technical performance, cooking tests, energy-saving level, and quietness. The results showed that all samples passed the safety tests, with 3 models receiving an overall rating of 4 stars or above. The BBE team has provided the latest prices for the corresponding steam ovens to help everyone choose the steam oven that best suits them.
Which 10 Steam Ovens Were Selected by the Consumer Council for Review?
For built-in steam ovens, the tested models include:
It is worth noting that the claimed capacity of built-in models ranges from 34 liters to 52 liters, while countertop models range from 30 liters to 40 liters. The standard dimensions for built-in models are approximately 45 cm in height and 60 cm in width, making them suitable for installation within kitchen cabinets. Countertop models are smaller in size and offer more flexible placement.
In Which Areas Did the Consumer Council Conduct the Evaluation?
Referring to relevant international standards, the Consumer Council and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department conducted comprehensive tests on the 10 steam ovens from multiple professional angles. The evaluation covered the following areas:
Safety
Tests included structure, temperature rise tests, insulation strength, material heat resistance, and flame retardancy. The manuals were also reviewed to check if they contained the warning statements required by standards. All samples passed the safety tests. However, the manuals for Gemini, Whirlpool, and Toshiba lacked some warning statements, such as "The surface of the heater may remain hot after use" or "Do not allow children to play with the appliance."
Power Output Accuracy
The test compared the claimed power output of the samples with the actual measured values. The results showed that the deviation of all samples did not exceed the tolerance range of the international standard (+5%/-10%), meaning the samples' "power" was generally as claimed.
Technical Performance
This category accounted for 20% of the total score and included two parts: 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. The overall performance was satisfactory, with all receiving a score of 4 or above. In terms of temperature control, built-in models performed better overall, while countertop models were more inconsistent. The temperature control accuracy of Midea and Toshiba was relatively inferior, with deviations for specific temperature settings reaching up to 7% and 12% respectively, earning them scores of only 2.5 and 1.5 points.
Cooking Tests
This category accounted for 30% of the total score. The tests covered baking (60%) and steaming (40%) different foods, including baking cupcakes, baking sponge cakes, toasting bread, roasting a whole chicken, baking meringues, steaming mixed vegetables and salmon fillet, steaming broccoli, and steaming crème brûlée. The results showed that all samples were capable of cooking all foods. There were no instances of undercooking, excessive charring, or strange tastes. Only some samples were slightly lacking in food color and color distribution. Overall, the cooking test scores were 4 or 4.5 points.
Energy-saving Level
This category accounted for 20% of the total score. The test measured the power consumption of each sample in standby mode and during cooking. In standby mode, the measured power consumption ranged from 0.40W to 1.60W. Referring to the EU's eco-design requirements for related appliances, the standby power of appliances with a clock display should not exceed 0.8W. Some samples in this test had values slightly above this level. In the cooking test, the built-in Miele and the countertop Gemini stood out for their energy-saving performance compared to other samples in their respective groups, both receiving a better score of 4 points.
Quietness
This category accounted for 5% of the total score. It evaluated the noise performance of the samples during cooking and after cooking when the built-in fan was activated for cooling. The overall performance of built-in samples was satisfactory, with scores ranging from 3 to 4.5 points. The performance of countertop samples was more varied. Gemini's fan operation was relatively quiet, earning a score of 4 points, while Whirlpool and Midea produced more noise during both cooking and cooling, receiving only 1 point, a lower score.
Ease of Use
This category accounted for 20% of the total score and included four assessments: manual (9.1%), program use (27.3%), daily operation (27.3%), and cleaning (36.4%). The knobs and buttons of Midea and Toshiba were easier to operate, and their displays were clearer and easier to understand. Siemens and Midea performed excellently in daily operation, with the interior lighting and glass door/window design allowing users to clearly see the cooking status.
Consumer Council: Comparison Table of 10 Steam Ovens
Based on the Consumer Council test results, the following is a detailed score comparison of the 10 steam ovens:
Based on the Consumer Council's evaluation and expert advice, the following factors should be prioritized when choosing a steam oven:
Space and Installation Method: First, assess the kitchen size and available space. Built-in models are aesthetically pleasing and space-saving, suitable for kitchens with limited space or those with pre-planned cabinets. Countertop models are flexible and movable, suitable for rented units, compact kitchens, or users who need the flexibility to move. For built-in models, the additional cost of basic installation (HKD $440 to $1,400) should be considered.
Capacity Selection: Generally, families of 3-4 can choose a capacity of 20 to 30 liters. Families with more members or those who frequently cook large items (like roast chicken or fish) should choose models with over 30 liters. Built-in models generally have larger capacities (34 to 52 liters), while countertop models are relatively smaller (30 to 40 liters). However, larger capacities typically consume more electricity.
Temperature Control Accuracy: The Consumer Council tests showed significant differences in temperature control performance. Built-in models performed better overall, while countertop models were more inconsistent.
Energy-saving Efficiency: The Consumer Council review found that the built-in Miele and the countertop Gemini stood out for energy-saving performance, both receiving a score of 4. Standby power ranged from 0.40W to 1.60W, with some models exceeding the EU-recommended upper limit of 0.8W. From a long-term use perspective, models with higher energy-saving ratings should be prioritized to reduce electricity costs.
Quietness Level: The noise performance of countertop steam ovens varied the most. If the kitchen is connected to the living space or family members are sensitive to noise, models with higher quietness ratings should be prioritized.
Cooking Functions: Functions vary greatly between models. Choices should be based on daily cooking habits. For frequent steaming, choose models with stable steam functions; if fermentation is needed, ensure the model has a constant temperature fermentation function; for multi-functionality, check if a single unit has steaming, baking, air-frying, and other functions.
Value for Money: A key finding of the Consumer Council is that price and rating are not always proportional. Before purchasing, consider the budget, actual needs, and review results comprehensively, rather than simply pursuing high-end brands or the latest models.
How Much Do the Consumer Council's 3 High-Scoring Steam Ovens Cost?
The Electrolux KVBAS21WX built-in steam oven features a 43-liter capacity and 3000W power. It is equipped with the innovative Steamify® intelligent steaming function and a food probe, which automatically adjusts steam volume and precisely monitors the core temperature of food, helping you easily prepare dishes that rival restaurant quality. This steam oven is made in Poland, boasts a stylish design, and offers comprehensive functions, making it an ideal choice for modern kitchens.
The Siemens CS589ABS0H IQ300 series built-in steam oven perfectly combines traditional steaming with modern baking functions, bringing a revolutionary cooking experience to your kitchen. This steam oven not only has a stylish appearance but is also equipped with multiple smart technologies, allowing you to easily master various complex dishes. Whether it's healthy steaming or crispy baking, it can be accomplished effortlessly. Its excellent performance and user-friendly design make it an ideal choice for those pursuing a high-quality cooking life.
The Whirlpool CS2322B 32L 4S Maxi+ countertop air fryer steam oven features a stylish black design, combining air frying, steaming, baking, and hot air convection functions in one. It provides a spacious 32-liter capacity and a stainless steel cavity, equipped with a powerful 2050W output. This steam oven adopts a front exhaust vent design, effectively reducing the space required for heat dissipation. It also supports continuous steam cooking for up to 3 hours and independent upper and lower heat control, helping you easily create various delicious dishes. It is an ideal choice for modern home kitchens.
