Convection vs Conventional Oven: Which Oven Is Better?

Choosing the right wall oven for sale is a decision that will impact your cooking experience. When shopping for a wall oven you will encounter two heating types: convection and conventional. Both have their strengths and considerations. So, which one is the right fit for your kitchen?

In this blog, our appliance experts break down the characteristics of each type, comparing their functionalities, advantages, and considerations. By the end, you'll be equipped to make an informed decision tailored to your cooking needs. Let’s get started!

What Are Conventional Ovens and Convection Ovens?

Conventional ovens, also known as traditional ovens, rely on stationary heating elements. These elements heat the oven cavity, and the heat gradually spreads to cook the food. On the other hand, convection ovens operate by circulating hot air throughout the oven cavity. Equipped with a fan, these ovens ensure even distribution of heat, resulting in faster and more consistent cooking. 

Benefits of Conventional Ovens

• Familiarity: This is the classic oven most of us grew up with. It's user-friendly and perfect for those comfortable with traditional recipes.

• Moist Heat: The traditional heating elements create a moist heat environment, ideal for delicate recipes.

• Temperature Variation: Some cooking enthusiasts enjoy the ability to achieve different results depending on the baking rack they place their dish on. 

• Lower Cost: In general, conventional ovens are often cheaper than convection ovens in terms of upfront cost. 

Benefits of Convection Ovens

• Reduced Cooking Time: Even heat circulation helps cook things faster.

• Enhanced Browning: The consistent heat throughout the oven leads to better browning.

• Energy Efficient: They use less energy overall thanks to the reduced baking time.

Disadvantages of Conventional Ovens

• Uneven Heat Distribution: Conventional ovens may have hot spots, leading to uneven cooking. This can result in the need to rotate dishes during the cooking process for consistent results.

• Slower Cooking Times: Traditional ovens often have longer cooking times compared to convection ovens, potentially impacting efficiency for those seeking quick meals.

• Limited Versatility: Conventional ovens may lack some of the versatility offered by convection ovens, particularly in terms of simultaneous cooking of multiple dishes without flavor transfer.

• Heat Accumulation: Conventional ovens can accumulate heat during extended use, making the kitchen environment warmer.

Disadvantages of Convection Ovens

• Learning Curve: Faster cooking times might require adjusting baking times and temperatures. This is also true with the even heat distribution, especially if you are used to traditional cooking methods.

• Drying Out Risk: The circulating air can dry out some foods if not monitored closely.

• Not Ideal for Delicate Items: Strong airflow may disrupt the structure of tall or delicate baked goods.

• Cost: Convection ovens often come with a higher upfront cost compared to conventional ovens, potentially impacting your initial kitchen appliance budget.

• Space Requirements: Convection ovens may have a slightly larger design to accommodate the fan and additional features, requiring more kitchen space.

Choosing Between Conventional and Convection Ovens

Now that you understand the benefits and disadvantages of both convection and conventional ovens, you are probably still wondering which one is the perfect fit for your kitchen. Here are some considerations to help you choose between these two:

Baking Style

• Conventional Oven: Ideal for traditional baking and roasting, especially if you prefer longer cooking times.

• Convection Oven: Well-suited for those who prioritize faster and more even cooking, making it versatile for various dishes.

Evenness vs. Speed

• Even Browning: If consistent browning and even baking are your top priorities, a convection oven excels in this area.

• Faster Baking: If shorter cooking times are important, a convection oven helps you get those cookies out of the oven quicker.

Budget

• Lower Upfront Cost: Conventional ovens are generally more budget-friendly in terms of upfront costs.

• Long-Term Savings: Convection models may have a higher initial investment but could result in long-term energy savings.

By carefully weighing these factors, you can make a decision that aligns with your cooking habits, kitchen space, and budget constraints. Whether you opt for the simplicity of a conventional oven or the efficiency of a convection oven, both can serve as valuable additions to your kitchen based on your unique needs.

Hybrid Options

For those who find it challenging to pick between the faster, even cooking of convection and the familiar, cozy baking of a traditional oven, there's a great option: a hybrid oven. These ovens give you the best of both worlds, allowing you to switch between the quicker convection mode and the regular baking mode based on what you're making. This flexibility is perfect for bakers who enjoy both perfectly browned cookies and slowly roasted, juicy meats. While hybrid models might be pricier compared to standalone convection or traditional ovens, they could be an excellent choice for those who want a bit of everything.

Featured Wall Ovens at DeWaard & Bode

GE 27" Smart Built-In Single Wall Oven (JKS3000SNSS)

Why We Like It:

Take control of your oven from anywhere with remote notifications, thanks to the SmartHQ App. Save time by preheating and monitoring your oven conveniently, even when you're not in the kitchen. 

The glass touch controls make setting temperatures a breeze and cleaning effortless. With the 10-pass hidden bake element, enjoy even baking and quick cleanup. This element heats a large cooking area and is hidden for an easy-to-wipe surface. Plus, the 8-pass broil element ensures full broil coverage and even browning from edge to edge

Bosch 500 Series, 30", Single Wall Oven, SS, EU Convection, Knob Control (HBL5451UC)

Why We Like It:

Elevate your cooking experience with stylish control using the heavy-duty metal knobs featured on these ovens. Achieve consistent and even baking on all racks with the Convection Pro feature, boasting a third heating element and a fan for uniform air circulation. 

Unlike regular convection ovens with only two heating elements, the Convection Pro ensures consistently golden results across every dish. Experience the convenience of grilling inside your oven with the Broil mode, utilizing intense heat from the upper element to deliver a perfect char, sear, and grill. Ideal for meats and achieving bubbling crusts on casseroles.

KitchenAid 30" Double Wall Oven with Even-Heat™ True Convection (KODE300ESS)

Why We Like It:

Experience superior baking performance with the Even-Heat Preheat feature, eliminating cold spots by ensuring the entire oven is heated to the correct temperature. The upper oven takes it a step further with a unique bow-tie design, incorporating a heating element and fan to circulate hot air throughout the entire oven. This design guarantees consistent temperatures, resulting in perfectly crisp, flaky baked goods, well-browned roasts, and flavorful, caramelized vegetables. 

The Temperature Probe in the upper oven provides precise measurements of internal temperatures for meats, poultry, and casseroles, eliminating the need to open the oven door and ensuring accurate cooking.

Explore More Ovens at DeWaard & Bode

Explore our extensive oven collection, featuring a range of options to suit your cooking preferences. Whether you enjoy the precision of electric ovens, the traditional charm of gas ovens, or the convenience of warming drawers, we have it all. Additionally, we carry single ovens as well as double ovens. Looking for other cooking appliances? Our collection includes kitchen ranges, cooktops, microwaves, and range hoods.

Contact us today or visit one of our appliance stores conveniently located in Bellingham and Burlington, WA. We are ready to assist you in finding your next kitchen appliance!

Related Readings:

• Baking Battle: Gas vs. Electric Ovens - Which Is Right for You? 

• Is a Convection Oven the Same as an Air Fryer?

Commonly Asked Questions: Convection vs Conventional Ovens

What is the main difference between a convection and a conventional oven?

The primary difference lies in how they distribute heat. Conventional ovens use stationary heating elements, while convection ovens have a fan that circulates hot air for more even cooking.

Are convection ovens more expensive than conventional ovens?

Generally, convection ovens tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to conventional ovens. However, energy efficiency and faster cooking times might result in long-term savings.

Which oven is better for baking?

Convection ovens are often considered better for baking due to their even heat distribution, resulting in consistently golden and well-cooked baked goods.

Do conventional ovens have any advantages over convection ovens?

Traditional ovens, while lacking the even cooking of convection ovens, are reliable for classic baking and roasting. Also, they are often more budget-friendly upfront.