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Which is the best electric cooktop for your needs?
What is an induction cooktop? What is a ceramic cooktop? What is the difference between an induction cooktop and a ceramic cooktop?
Which induction cooktop sizes are available? What about a venting cooktop? You might be asking yourself these great questions if you're looking for a new electric cooktop. Our buying guide for induction cooktops and ceramic cooktops is here to help.
The first choice to make is between induction and radiant heat. You might also want to look at venting cooktops, which have an integrated hood fan. Factors like cooktop sizes and cooktop controls are also important. Perhaps you also want to look at a cooktop's energy-efficiency or are interested in the latest advances in technology.
Below we explain what to consider when choosing a new electric cooktop for your kitchen.
1. Which type of electric cooktop: induction or ceramic?
With a flat black cooking surface, induction cooktops and ceramic cooktops (radiant cooktops) are visually very similar. The main difference lies in their performance: induction heats much more quickly and efficiently. An induction model is also easier to clean. Since the surface of an induction cooktop doesn't get hot, there are no burnt food bits to scrape off. If your current cooktop is ceramic (radiant), you can install an induction cooktop in the same cutout.
2. Which cooktop size fits my cutout?
Both induction and ceramic cooktops come in varying widths, ranging from 90cm. The right one for you depends on your cooking habits and the space available in your kitchen. A wider cooktop lets you comfortably cook with multiple pots or pans at once.
Ceramic and induction cooktop sizes.
Ceramic and induction models are available in the following widths:
- 60cm (standard)
- 70cm
- 80cm
- 90cm
Pro tip: If you have an extractor hood, your cooktop should be the same width or slightly narrower.
3. How do I want to control my cooktop?
An induction cooktop is controlled either by knobs on the oven or a type of touch-based controls on the cooktop's surface. Depending on the model, the touch-based options range from basic touch buttons to an advanced touchscreen:
- A TFT touchscreen provides a clear overview and helpful guidance.
- Premium touch control has extra-large illuminated elements that disappear when turned off.
- Comfort touch control has options printed directly on the glass.
- Basic touch control lets you select the power level using + and - symbols.
Ceramic cooktops come with either touch-based controls or physical knobs. While most people prefer the sleek look of touch controls, others feel more in control of their cooktop with knobs they can turn. The knobs are located either on the cooktop or with the oven controls.
4. How much cooking flexibility do I need?
If you cook with large pots and pans, or rectangular cooking vessels such as roasting pans, you might want a cooktop with a flexible cooking zone.
5. Does a venting cooktop make sense in my kitchen?
A venting cooktop, also known as a downdraft cooktop, is essentially an electric cooktop and a rangehood fan in one appliance. Built in below the cooktop is a powerful extractor fan that, when in use, sucks away steam and odours from pots or pans on the cooking surface.
Pro tip: In a venting cooktop, the "hood" is cleverly hidden below the worktop. It's perfect for an island or for those who don't want a visible hood fan. However, it's slightly deeper than a non-venting cooktop.
6. What about a cooktop and other innovations?
Many of our cooktops come with innovative and smart features that make sautéing, frying and boiling more enjoyable.
Rangehood-cooktop connection: Control your rangehood fan directly on your cooktop. With manual and automatic modes.
Avoid scorching: The PerfectFry sensor regulates the temperature during frying, adjusting it automatically if needed.
Prevent boiling over: The PerfectCook sensor attaches to a pot and prevents it from boiling over by precisely regulating the temperature.
Which is the best induction cooktop brand?
High-quality and reliable Bosch induction cooktops are among the market leaders. Our German-engineered induction cooktops are made according to high quality standards. So you can be certain to get a reliable appliance that will serve you well long term. Numerous awards from independent test institutes prove their excellence.
Which is the most energy efficient electric cooktop?
Generally speaking, induction cooktops are more energy efficient than ceramic cooktops. We prioritise offering people worldwide durable cooktops that last long and consume less. The precise energy consumption of an induction cooktop can vary from model to model. To find a cooktop with especially low energy consumption, it's best to review a product's specifications.
