12 Best Steamers - Ranking 2020
Today, cooking at home is significantly automated, and the human factor is minimized. Clever technology helps to save a lot of time, makes the housewife's work easier and avoids many mistakes in cooking. One such useful kitchen appliance is the double boiler. This device is a must-have for everyone who wants to eat tasty and healthy food. And the steamer is also indispensable for families with small children. How to choose the right appliance will be told in this rating of the best steamers in 2020.
What to look for when choosing a steamer
- Management: mechanics or electronics. In the first case, the required modes are set manually using the rotary switch. In the second, control is carried out using buttons and a display. Electronic control is more convenient, but such models are also more expensive.
- The volume of containers. It is selected based on the number of family members. If it has 3-4 adults, then a volume of at least 5 liters is needed.
- Equipment. More complete models are more expensive, but they are also more convenient to use. The most expensive steamers are equipped with cavities for boiling eggs or separate containers for spices.
- Brand name. The steamers of the more famous brands are more expensive, but their quality is also higher.
- Power. In different steamers, this parameter ranges from 800 to 2000 watts. It affects exclusively the speed of cooking.
- Materials. Most of the models have a plastic case, but there are also metal products. More convenient are those steamers in which the lid is made transparent: this makes it possible to observe the cooking process. Heat-resistant materials are used for containers.
- Availability of additional functions. They are able to make cooking more comfortable (for example, the ability to add water during cooking, rapid steam generation, timer, heating and delayed start options).
Best inexpensive steamers
Inexpensive steamers have limited functionality, low power and a small volume of containers. Such models are suitable for preparing simple meals for 1-2 people. Thanks to their compact size, they do not take up much space. We have selected 3 models that deserve the attention of consumers.
ENDEVER Vita 170/171
Unpretentious and easy-to-use steamer. It has 3 transparent containers with a total volume of 11 liters, so it can be used for cooking in a fairly large family. Steamer power - 1000 W. Management is mechanical. The water container has a volume of 1.3 liters. There is an indicator for turning on the device, it is also possible to control the water level. The steamer is equipped with a container for collecting the juice of the food being prepared. Manufactured in China. Models 170 and 171 differ in color: the first is gray and white, the second is white and green. Warranty - 24 months.
PROS:
- self-switching off timer for 60 minutes;
- the possibility of adding water;
- long warranty period for a budget model;
- auto shutdown when water boils off;
- the possibility of washing containers in the dishwasher.
MINUSES:
- the condensate container is not equipped with handles;
- large sizes (33x23.5x42 cm);
- fast erasing inscriptions on the timer.
Tefal VC 1301 Minicompact
Small but very handy steamer made of quality materials. Despite the thinness of the plastic used, it is highly durable. The model includes 3 containers that are installed as tightly as possible. When folded, the steamer takes up a minimum of space. The power is 650 W, which makes this device very economical. The device is controlled mechanically.There is a very high-quality assembly, as well as the fact that the steamer is easy to clean, and the containers are dishwasher-safe.
PROS:
- the presence of an aquatimer;
- signaling the end of cooking;
- large container for condensate;
- the presence of indicators of water level and turning on the device;
- auto shutdown when water boils off.
MINUSES:
- lack of a button to turn on and off the steamer;
- fragility of plastic color and susceptibility to scratches.
ENDEVER Vita 160/161
A very compact steamer (23x27x22 cm), designed for a small family or a single person. It can be used for defrosting, preparing simple dishes and disinfecting dishes (the latter is important for couples with a small child). Power - 800 watts. The set includes 2 transparent containers with a total volume of 4 liters. Water container - 1.3 liters. There is a rotary timer for 1 hour and a container for collecting the juice of cooking products. Models 160 and 161 differ in color: the first is gray-white, the second is white-green. Manufactured in China. The warranty is 12 months.
PROS:
- easy-to-use inexpensive model;
- the presence of a power-on indicator;
- the ability to use only 1 tier;
- the presence of rubber feet that prevent slipping;
- very rapid formation of steam;
- auto shutdown when water boils off;
- use in the manufacture of environmentally friendly plastic.
MINUSES:
- lack of the ability to add water;
- lack of function for cooking cereals;
- lack of indication of water level.
The best steamers in terms of price-quality ratio
Kitchen devices from this category have greater functionality, extended configuration and therefore can be used to prepare complete meals. The overall dimensions of such steamers are usually larger than those of inexpensive models. Among the many mid-range devices available on the market, we have selected those that are of high performance and have received positive feedback from buyers and professionals.
Tefal VC1451
Another steamer from the famous French brand of household appliances. The set includes 2 containers with a total volume of 6 liters. Stainless steel is used as a material for their manufacture. Management - mechanical, the timer is designed for a maximum of 1 hour. There is a container for cooking cereals. All bowls are dishwasher safe. Warranty - 24 months.
PROS:
- good food steel containers;
- the possibility of adding water;
- auto shutdown when water boils off and at the end of cooking;
- water level indication;
- compactness when assembled;
- excellent design in the style of expensive models.
MINUSES:
- high price;
- lack of option for heating dishes;
- no delayed start timer.
Braun FS 5100
A feature of this steamer is the presence of a steam accelerator. Thanks to him, the water boils here very quickly (within a minute). The set includes 2 containers with a total volume of 6.3 liters, so you can cook quite voluminous dishes in them. Used for the manufacture of translucent plastic. This is very convenient, because, on the one hand, dirt from coloring products is hardly noticeable on it, and on the other, through it, you can observe the preparation of a dish. The containers are dishwasher safe. In addition, the kit includes a container for boiling eggs and a container for preparing cereals. A sterilization function is also provided, so the product is useful for families with small children or those who are engaged in preservation preparations for the winter.
PROS:
- very fast vaporization;
- the presence of a timer with auto-off;
- excellent appearance;
- the presence of capacious containers;
- the ability to cook colored food without harm to the device.
MINUSES:
- insufficient total volume.
Tefal VC 1006 Ultra Compact
Another excellent steamer from the Tefal brand in this ranking. Despite its name, this model is by no means small.The set includes 3 containers with a total volume of 9 liters, so the device can be used for a rather large family. And the ultra-compact designation means that when folded, the steamer takes up very little space. For cooking, you can use not all tiers, but only 1 or 2. Power - 900 watts. High quality plastic is used for the case. The warranty period is 24 months.
PROS:
- the presence of a bowl for cooking cereals;
- the ability to add water during operation;
- the presence of a water level indicator;
- the ability to wash containers in a dishwasher;
- auto-off after cooking with a corresponding signal;
- protection against switching on without water;
- long warranty period.
MINUSES:
- insufficient strength of containers;
- lack of function for heating the finished dish.
The best premium steamers
Premium steamers are distinguished by the fact that they can not only cook, but also fry and bake various dishes. Their functionality is much wider than that of cheaper counterparts, they are more capacious, very high quality assembled and made of the best materials. We have chosen the most successful, in our opinion, models.
Beaba Babycook Duo
This is a steamer-blender with powerful functionality and a bold, original design. The power of the device is 800 watts. For cooking, 2 containers made of tinted plastic are used, and high-quality sharp knives for chopping. The device is equipped with a mechanical control, a power-on indication and a signal, as well as a self-cleaning system that removes scale. The blending time can be adjusted: the longer the knives work, the more the product will be chopped. The kit, in addition to the main components, includes a spatula, which is convenient to take out the basket, a strainer for spices and a container for preparing cereals. If this is not enough, the device can be supplemented with additional items that can be purchased from the manufacturer.
PROS:
- ease of assembly and disassembly;
- tightness of containers during cooking;
- quiet work;
- good interchangeability of containers;
- the presence of a defrost function.
MINUSES:
- big sizes;
- short power cord.
Panasonic NU-SC101
This steamer is a true example of high technology in the kitchen. Multifunctional, made in a rectangular case, has electronic control. Cooking takes place only on the 1st tier. The steamer has 18 different programs, which allow you to simply heat up the finished dish and prepare delicious pastries. The sterilization function will appeal to families with small children. The touch control panel allows you to set the desired temperature. There is a large display where all set parameters are shown. For convenience, it is highlighted. There is also a backlight in the body of the device, which improves visibility when monitoring food preparation. The steamer works completely silently.
PROS:
- the presence of 3 modes of vaporization;
- the ability to repel odors;
- great design;
- the presence of 2 states of opening the door;
- the presence of a grid and a baking sheet in the kit.
MINUSES:
- high price.
Best steamer blenders
Devices that combine the functions of different devices look very useful. In steamer-blenders, the possibilities are combined to cook a delicious steamed dish and grind the cooked product. The general principle of operation of the device is as follows: first, the products are cut into pieces and placed in a container. Then they are steamed, after which the container is turned over and the blender is turned on. So, with the help of one device, which is quite capable of replacing a food processor, you can simultaneously cook the product and grind it, making mashed potatoes. Therefore, such steamers are perfect for families with small children, because with their help you can cook a dish for your baby much faster.
Philips AVENT SCF870
This steamer blender is specially designed for preparing baby food.In it, you can not only cook various products, preserving all the most valuable in them, but also grind them, getting a delicate puree. It is enough only after cooking to turn the container over and turn on the blender. Together with the appliance, the customer receives a measuring cup, a spatula and a booklet with recipes and useful tips for parents. The power of the device is small - only 400 W, but more is not needed to prepare delicate baby food.
PROS:
- combination of 2 functions at once;
- excellent compactness;
- convenient washing;
- convenience at work;
- quick preparation of meals for children.
MINUSES:
- use for a limited category (only suitable for cooking small children).
Beaba Babycook Original
Another small blender steamer designed for preparing baby food. It allows you to quickly steam tasty and healthy dishes, as well as grind cooked foods in mashed potatoes or stews. Such a device will significantly save mothers time. The kit includes a container for 0.6 liters. The double boiler works in 2 modes: cooking and blending. For the latter, there is a removable shredder. The set also includes containers for cooking. It takes up to 15 minutes to heat water to a boil. Grinding occurs in a pulse mode for 10 s. If the food is not chopped enough, you need to restart this mode. Manufactured in China, but the brand is registered in France. Warranty - 24 months (for components - 6).
PROS:
- good compactness, making it convenient to take with you on the road;
- auto shutdown when water boils off;
- the presence of a convenient spatula with which you can stir dishes or remove the cooking basket;
- blocking the inclusion of an unassembled device;
- the presence of a power-on indicator;
- the presence of a very informative booklet.
MINUSES:
- lack of a timer;
- lack of a container for cooking cereals (but you can buy it).
The best built-in steamers
For built-in steamers, it is necessary to provide a place in the kitchen environment. But after installation, you do not need to think about where to hide the storage device and where to put it for cooking. Such devices are more expensive than their counterparts, but they have wider functionality, they are more spacious and are assembled more efficiently. Below are the models that have received a lot of positive feedback from experts.
Bosch Serie 8 CDG 634 BS1 / BB1
This steamer will harmoniously complement the look of your kitchen. High quality stainless steel is used for its body. The powerful (1750 W) and spacious steamer will easily cope with the preparation of a variety of dishes. For this, the device contains 20 programs. There are just four types of heating here at once. The device can defrost, reheat food and bring them to readiness. For ease of operation, the model is equipped with a large display, where all information about the operating mode of the device is displayed.
PROS:
- the possibility of self-cleaning from scale;
- the presence of a fan for cooling;
- availability of watches;
- the presence of a water level indicator;
- protection from children.
MINUSES:
- short power cord;
- lack of illumination of the internal space.
Smeg SF4800VA1 / VAO
The price of this steamer will seem quite significant, but this appliance is worth it. The model is made in a retro design, has a large capacity (40 liters) and high power (2100 W). The steamer is controlled by a mechanical programmer. The multi-layer door will prevent accidental burns. The inner surface is covered with enamel, which is very easy to clean. There is a delayed start function, as well as the ability to adjust defrosting by time and weight. There are special cleaning programs, including descaling.
PROS:
- cessation of vaporization when the door is open;
- the presence of the showroom mode;
- the ability to add and drain water during operation;
- signaling about the end of cooking;
- the possibility of mechanical power limitation.
MINUSES:
- high signal volume;
- lack of a plug for connection to the mains.
Which steamer is better to choose
Finally, a few tips for choosing a steamer. You need to give preference to functional and high-quality models with a manufacturer's warranty. The power of the device must correspond to the number of tiers. It is best to use filtered water to generate steam. This will reduce the formation of limescale. When choosing a model, you also need to pay attention to how compact it folds: it is better if the device takes up a minimum of space during storage.
