What’s the Difference Between an OTG Oven and a Microwave Oven?

In today’s fast-paced kitchens, having the right cooking appliance can make a huge difference in convenience, cooking quality, and energy efficiency. Two of the most commonly used kitchen appliances are OTG ovens and microwave ovens. Although they might seem similar at a glance, they function very differently and serve distinct purposes.

If you're setting up a new kitchen or upgrading your old appliance, you may be wondering: Which one is better for baking? Can I use a microwave for grilling? What’s the real difference between an OTG and a microwave?

This blog breaks down the key differences, pros, cons, and best-use scenarios to help you make an informed decision.

What is an OTG Oven?

OTG stands for Oven, Toaster, and Griller. It is a traditional electric oven that uses heating coils to cook food. These coils are located at the top and bottom of the chamber, allowing for baking, grilling, and toasting.

How It Works:

• Converts electricity into heat using metal coils

• Requires manual temperature and time settings

• Takes longer to preheat and cook, but gives better browning and texture

What is a Microwave Oven?

A microwave oven uses microwaves (electromagnetic radiation) to heat water molecules in food, resulting in rapid cooking or reheating. Some microwaves come with a convection mode, allowing them to bake and grill too.

How It Works:

• Microwaves penetrate food and heat it from within

• Super fast and efficient for reheating and cooking

• Modern convection microwaves offer baking, grilling, and roasting options

Side-by-Side Comparison: OTG vs. Microwave Oven

When to Choose an OTG Oven

OTGs are ideal for:

• Baking lovers who frequently bake cakes, cookies, and bread

• Grilling enthusiasts who want that smoky, charred texture

• Home bakers and small businesses that require uniform heat

• People looking for a budget-friendly oven option

If baking is your priority, OTG is your best bet due to its dry heat and even cooking surface.

Pros of OTG:

• Better texture and browning for baked items

• Lower cost compared to convection microwaves

• Separate upper and lower coil heating options

• Available in various sizes (15L to 60L+)

Cons of OTG:

• Slower cooking time

• No auto-cook or reheat options

• Manual temperature/time settings may need practice

• Not suitable for reheating liquids quickly

When to Choose a Microwave Oven

Microwave ovens are great for:

• Everyday reheating of food, beverages, and leftovers

• Cooking fast meals with auto-cook menus

• Defrosting frozen food in minutes

• Homes where speed and ease are key priorities

If you want a multi-purpose appliance for cooking and reheating, a convection microwave oven is a smart choice.

Pros of Microwave Oven:

• Super fast cooking and reheating

• Auto-cook menus for quick recipes

• Easy for beginners to use

• Convection models can also bake and grill

Cons of Microwave Oven:

• Can’t match OTG in baking texture

• Slightly more expensive

• Might dry out certain foods during reheating

• Repairs can be costly if the magnetron fails

Can a Microwave Replace an OTG?

Only convection microwave ovens come close to an OTG in terms of baking, but even then, professional or frequent bakers notice:

• Less crispness in cookies and pizza bases

• Uneven browning in cakes

• Smaller internal cavity for baking trays

So, while a convection microwave can work for occasional baking, it cannot fully replicate the results of an OTG oven.

Maintenance & Durability

Both appliances require care, but OTGs are simpler to clean and repair, while microwave ovens need professional servicing occasionally.

In Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?

Here’s a quick recommendation based on your lifestyle:

User Type Best Appliance 

Home baker or baking business OTG Oven 

Family looking for daily reheating Microwave Oven 

Small kitchens needing multi-function Convection Microwave 

Budget-conscious user OTG 

Fast-paced cooking and defrosting Microwave 

If you can afford it and space isn’t an issue—owning both is ideal. Use a microwave for quick reheating and everyday meals, and an OTG for high-quality baking and grilling.

Also read:- How to Maintain Your Kitchen Chimney for Optimal Performance

FAQs: OTG vs Microwave Oven

Q1: Can I use steel or aluminum utensils in a microwave?

No. You can use microwave-safe glass or ceramic. Steel/aluminum is only safe in an OTG.

Q2: Is OTG suitable for making rotis or naan?

Yes, OTGs can grill naan and tandoori rotis using upper coil heating.

Q3: Can a microwave cook everything an OTG can?

Convection models can try, but they don’t match OTGs in baking texture and grilling.

Q4: Which is safer for kids to use?

Microwaves with a child lock are safer. OTGs get very hot on the outside.

Q5: Which consumes more electricity—OTG or microwave?

Microwaves cook faster, so they consume less electricity in short cycles. OTGs take longer but use slightly lower wattage.