LG Convection Microwave Oven

Best Microwave Ovens in India

LG 28L Convection Microwave Oven

Price Range: Rs13,000 – Rs14,000
Available at: Amazon, Samsung, Flipkart, Croma
Type: Convection

LG’s entry in the convection category is interesting – it doesn’t try to be revolutionary but excels at the fundamentals. I tested this at my sister’s home, and it’s become her most-used kitchen appliance.

What Makes It Special:

Its 250+ auto-cook recipes are actually the most extensive in this list. However, it’s the quality that matters, not the quantity. LG has done its homework when it comes to Indian cooking, and it’s evident. It also includes regional dishes like “Bengali fish curry” and “Hyderabadi biryani,” which have specifically calibrated parameters for them.

The Smart Inverter is one of LG’s great features. It consistently maintains power, unlike the conventional microwaves, which cycle power on and off. As a result, it cooks more evenly and gives better texture, especially when you’re defrosting meat or reheating delicate dishes like fish.

At this price range, LG’s Charcoal heating is unique. It produces infrared heat, which enters deeper than conventional heating, and as a result, it cooks quickly and more evenly. Grilled sandwiches came out with better color and texture than the other microwaves I’ve used so far.

The Reality Check:

Despite being in the same price range of Rs.16,000-20,000 like Samsung, it doesn’t offer as many modern features Samsung does. It doesn’t use Slim Fry technology and the interior is also made of stainless steel rather than ceramic.

28L capacity is similar to Samsung which is why it doesn’t really provide much space. The choice between these two comes down to brand preference and whether you value Samsung’s Slim Fry technology over LG’s extensive 250+ auto-cook recipe presets.

Even though the control panel is functional, it feels outdated when compared with Samsung’s modern interface. It is purely about aesthetics and does not affect the performance but it is worth noting if design is something you consider important.

Best For: 

People who love cooking and who want the most extensive recipe library. Also for people who appreciate the precision of inverter technology and for people who like the brand, its reputation and service network.

How To Choose The Right Microwave For Your Needs

After months of research and testing, here’s what I’ve learned about what truly matters when buying a microwave:

Convection vs. Solo Isn’t About Budget Alone

What many people usually think is that they’ll buy a solo microwave in the beginning and upgrade to a convection later. But this rarely works out. If roasting, grilling or baking is what you are into, then go for a convection microwave immediately. You will never be using a solo microwave for these tasks; you’ll have to buy a convection for them making you spend more money overall.

Similarly, if you are a hundred percent sure that you need a microwave for reheating purpose only, then don’t waste your money on a convection microwave which has functions like baking, grilling, roasting etc. A solo microwave is all you need.

Capacity Planning Is Critical

Here’s a practical guideline based on our experience

• 20 Litres: Ideal for 1-2 people, especially for reheating purpose
• 25 Litres: Best for 2-3 people and basic baking
• 27-28 Litres: Ideal for 3-4 people who bake or cook regularly
• 30 Litres: For more than 5 people and serious baking

Don’t think only about daily use, situations like cooking for guests or cooking multiple dishes at the same time is also worth taking into consideration

Auto-Cook Menus: Quality Over Quantity

The microwaves with 250 auto-cook menus are not necessarily better than the microwaves with 100 auto-cook menus. What matters is that how well these presents work for YOUR cooking style. If you primarily cook Indian food, then prioritise microwaves that have India-specific presents which are reviewed by actual users.

Interior Material Matters More Than You Think

I’ve seen three main types:

• Stainless Steel: It is durable but shows stains and fingerprints
• Ceramic: Premium option which is easy to clean and scratch free
• Painted / Enamel: Is budget friendly but can chip overtime

Think and plan long term. The Ceramic interior may cost Rs. 2,000 more but is better looking and easier to maintain for at least 7-10 years.

Brand and Service Network

Because every major brand usually has a service centre in Tier-1 cities, the choice of brand is less significant. Compared to more recent arrivals like Croma, companies like LG, Samsung, and Panasonic offer superior service networks in smaller cities and towns.
Ask yourself – “Will you be able to repair this microwave quickly if it breaks down right before a festival on a Sunday?” This is more important than most auto-cook menus.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Microwave Oven:

1. Buying Based on Discount Percentage

A 40% discount on a mediocre microwave still doesn’t make it a great deal. We’ve seen people buy 30L convection microwaves because it had a great discount and later realising that they don’t have that type of counter space and won’t really be using its functions and features.

2. Ignoring Power Consumption

A convection microwave uses significantly more electricity than a solo microwave, especially while using the convection mode. If you live in an area where power cuts are frequent or where there are load limitations, this is something that matters. Check the wattage and keep the electrical setup in mind.

3. Not Measuring Counter Space

A microwave needs ventilation space, usually around 4-6 inches of space on the sides and back. Someone we know bought a 30L which technically fits in his counter area but due bad ventilation, it started causing heating issues.

Measure the space you have available and choose a microwave based on that. Not the other way around.

4. Overlooking Control Panel Complexity

Some microwaves have unbelievably complex control panels with a dozen buttons. If you are someone who is not s tech-savvy person or if you are buying it for your elderly parents, then a simpler interface would be more practical than one with 250 auto-cook menus.

5. Not Reading the Manual

This sounds simple but, I’m genuinely surprised by how many people don’t read the manual of their microwave. You are missing out on so many specifications and optimal usage methods. The manual explains ideal cookware, power level