Smeg just dropped a new line of microwaves that are far more stylish than we’ve come to expect from this appliance. In fact, the humble microwave has had a facelift, and rather than being an appliance you’d prefer to obscure from view, Smeg has delivered some kitchen eye candy. But, I wouldn’t expect much else from this iconic brand.
What’s more, apart from appearance, Smeg has upped the stakes in culinary capabilities, and the microwaves can even grill and air fry. With countertops piled up with numerous appliances, it’s a relief when a single unit can offer more than one function.
Smeg’s MOC01 microwave comes with a grill, while the MOC02 combi microwave has a grill, air fry, and oven function. Freshly launched in the U.K. — the MOC01 is £349 at Smeg, and the MCO02 is £449 at Smeg, although you’ll have to join the waiting list for the second release.
You'll also have to wait slightly longer if you're in the U.S. Smeg has confirmed to Tom’s Guide that the MCO02 will be launched as the MOC12 , with an expected MSRP of $600.
Softly does it
Rather than sticking to hard lines, the two new models feature Smeg’s signature curved lines, matte finishes and brushed aluminium detailing. And to make it neat, they have a clear LCD display, and integrated concealed handles. The only problem is deciding which color to choose. Why go for matte black or white, when you can also select emerald green or storm blue?
But, I don't want you to get too excited if you're Stateside, as Smeg has told us that the MOC12 model will only be available in white or black.
Microwave and more
Smeg says that the products are designed to move the microwave beyond reheating and into the heart of modern cooking. I use my microwave for defrosting and reheating, but not much else. So what extra functionality will Smeg’s new offering provide, and will it mean I can reduce my countertop space by ditching my air fryer?
What does the MCO01 offer?
The Microwave with Grill has a generous 29-liter capacity, despite its shallower depth, making it ideal for compact kitchens. And to ensure your food is golden brown and crispy, it comes with a grill rack. It also features inverter technology to ensure even cooking or defrosting. This avoids the hot and cold spots that traditional microwaves are known for.
Apart from the microwave, grill, defrost and reheat functions, it offers multi-stage cooking, allowing you to program several stages at once. It’s ideal for dishes that need defrosting, then microwaving or grilling, so you can set everything in one go without having to reset the time.
Plus, to make your everyday meals easier, it offers 18 automatic programs for cooking meat and poultry, fish and shellfish, vegetables, cakes and desserts, bread and pizza, and rice and grains.
What are the extra benefits of the MCO02?
In the U.K., you’ll pay an extra £100 more for the all-singing and dancing MOC02, which, alongside a grill, also includes an oven and air fry function, and comes with an extra crisp pan and air fry basket. Smeg says the air fry function produces texture and depth typically associated with conventional oven cooking, but in less time, which could make your countertop air fryer redundant.
And while this is slightly smaller in capacity at 27 liters, you get 25 automatic programs instead of 18.
I’d be interested to try the MOC02 to see the results, but I have one problem. I can't decide between emerald green and storm blue.
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