Miele vs. Thermador was not a comparison for professional ranges until December 2014, because Miele is that new to the market.
The two companies represent the two most technologically advanced cooking products. They are also the most reliable premium appliance companies in the industry according to our service numbers (Read Most Reliable Appliance Companies).
Technology aside, these companies could not be more different. Thermador is part of a conglomerate whereas Miele is family owned.
Let's look at both companies and products.
Thermador is also one of the top brands in the industry. Founded in 1916 Thermador introduced many of the industry’s firsts throughout the years like wall ovens, downdrafts and cook tops to name a few. They were the first American premium appliance manufacturer.
The Thermador Corporation was acquired by the multinational BSH Company in 1998. Thermador is now the premium line in Bosch’s portfolio and is also one of the most reliable brands sold at Yale.
The Pro Grand was really the first advanced professional range. Instead of a side oven, there is a steam oven and warming drawer. Steam is the healthiest way to cook since it does not bake out the nutrients. The warming drawer can maintain food temperature for up to three hours. It is also great for refreshing leftovers.
Miele is a luxury appliance brand that originated in Germany in 1899. Today Miele is the largest family-owned appliance company in the world. Their products are almost entirely designed and manufactured in one factory in Germany. Due to their strict quality control, Miele is known for manufacturing some of the highest quality products in the industry.
Miele is the first stove to really focus on oven technology. Their MasterChef controls can automatically cook just by pressing the type of meat, weight and doneness. Miele also adds a speed oven for microwave, oven or combination cooking. Like the Thermador, Miele has a warming drawer as well.
From a strict comparison, Thermador has an edge in cooking BTU output with 22,000 and 18,000 BTU burners VS 19,000 for Miele. It also simmers better as well down to an incredibly low 100 degrees.
Miele has the better oven. First, it is twin convection versus single convection for the Thermador, so it spreads heat even more evenly. Miele also has steam in the main oven and the speed oven on the side, so you have more varied cooking in the Miele.
However, the technology of intuitive controls separates Miele from Thermador as you have modes for practically any type of food. There are 16 modes just for bread.
Miele and Thermador are the two most reliable premium manufacturers. However, Thermador sells a more broad spectrum of cooking products, whereas Miele sells mostly dishwashers.
This is Miele's first pro cooking product which is either alarming or exciting depending on whether you are an early adopter or a bit more cautious.
Both are fantastic products and best in class. Thermador has a better cooktop as well as a long history selling professional products in the US. Miele is a true newcomer with a fresh perspective and a history of being very reliable. I find their technology refreshing and much needed.
What do you think?
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