Which is better: induction or electric hob

Which is better: induction or electric hob, selection criteria

Choosing a hob for the kitchen is a responsible event, on which the efficiency of the cooking process and the convenience of using the stove depend. Today, modern plates are presented in several variants, which differ in the principle of operation, functionality, appearance and price. When deciding which is better: induction or electric hob, it is important to study the strengths and weaknesses of each option.

To date, two types of cooking surfaces are the most popular: induction and electric

Which is better: induction or electric cooker, pros and cons of products

To understand the question of how an induction cooker differs from an electric one, it is necessary to begin by studying the principle of operation of each device. The electrical device immediately heats the burner to the required temperature. Then the heat is transferred to the dishes installed in the work area. Heat is released as a result of the passage of an electric current through a conductor.

The electric stove first heats itself and only then transfers heat to the dishes

The latter is a resistive heating element, which is characterized by a high resistivity value. The conductor is represented by a spiral, which can be located in the open or hidden under the burner.

Among the distinctive advantages of an electric stove are the following:

• silent operation of the device;
• the possibility of using any dishes;
• acceptable cost;
• the burners heat up for a long time and cool down slowly, so that you can leave the finished dish on the surface so that it “reaches”;
• a wide range of color and design variations, which allows you to choose a model for any interior style of the room;
• the surface does not need special care, it is easy and simple to clean using a conventional detergent.

The disadvantages of the plate include:

• significant energy costs;
• the panel has a limit on the weight that it is able to withstand;
• a high degree of fire hazard increases the likelihood of traumatic burns.

High power consumption is one of the disadvantages of an electric panel

How an induction cooker works: characteristics and distinctive features of the panel

What an induction cooker means will become clear when studying the principle of its operation. It is based on the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction. When a high-frequency current flows through an induction coil with a copper conductor winding, its transformation occurs with the formation of an alternating electromagnetic field. At the time of installation on the work area of the cookware, which has ferromagnetic properties, the resulting physical phenomenon promotes the movement of electrons located on the surface of the bottom of the product.

Thus, there is a process of heat generation, which is spent exclusively on heating dishes. The surface of the plate in this case remains cold. Due to the unique principle of operation, the induction panel is characterized by a number of advantages:

• low energy costs, which is spent exclusively on creating an electromagnetic field in a closed conductor of an induction coil;
• maximum efficiency, which increases the efficiency of the device, as a result of which a minimum amount of time is spent on cooking;
• a high level of safety, which is ensured by the peculiarity of the stove to start working at the time of installing dishes on it and complete the process when the element on the burner is missing;
• the ability of the plate surface to remain cold, which at the same time contributes to low energy costs and eliminates the possibility of burns;
• the ability to set the required heating temperature with an accuracy of 1 degree;
• automatic selection of settings that allow you to recognize the diameter of the dishes;
• equipped with a large number of functions and programs;
• easy and simple care that does not require the use of special tools.

During the operation of the induction cooker, only the dishes are heated, and the panel itself remains cold

The disadvantages of the product include the following characteristics:

• the occurrence of specific noise during the operation of the surface, which is associated with the operation of fans cooling coils;
• the high cost of the surface in comparison with other types of panels;
• for an induction cooker, it is necessary to use special dishes;
• this device negatively affects the operation of other household appliances, which are located very close to the surface of the device.

Important! While cooking on the induction cooker, remove all jewelry and watches. The former, heating up, can burn the skin, the latter are magnetized.

Which hob to choose: induction or electric

To decide which hob is better, it is necessary to consider the technical characteristics of each. The induction hob consists of an induction coil, a glass-ceramic surface, insulation, a control unit and a frequency converter. Cast-iron pancakes, rapid, halogen or Hi-Light burners can act as heating elements for an electric stove. The first option is located on steel or enameled surfaces. The rest are hidden under the glass-ceramic panel.

Halogen heating elements provide the greatest efficiency. The perfect tandem of a rapid spiral and a halogen light bulb contributes to the rapid heating of the burner within a few seconds, which ensures maximum energy savings.

The surface of induction plates is made of glass ceramics, which increases the strength and service life of the panel

Induction panels are equipped with a glass-ceramic surface, which has strength and durability. However, it is not able to withstand a blow or strong mechanical influences. The surface of the electric stove can be made of glass ceramics, stainless steel or enameled. The latter option is the cheapest. The surface withstands various mechanical loads and exposure to high temperatures, does not require special care, but can be damaged by abrasive materials or cleaning compounds.

The stainless steel panel has good technical and operational properties. However, it requires special care, which ensures an attractive appearance for a long period.

The glass-ceramic surface is the most popular option. It can be white or black. Panels with a pattern look original and stylish.

Which is better: induction or electric hob, overview of parameters

Before choosing an electric stove, you should determine the parameters of the product. Induction and electric panels can have standard or non-standard sizes, which allows you to integrate the product into any kitchen set. The minimum width of the products is 30 cm for the first version of the plate and 26 cm for the second. In shape, induction cookers are presented in the form of a rectangle or square, and electric ones can also be made in the form of an oval, circle or semicircle.

Induction and electric cooking surfaces can be connected to the oven

Electric and induction cookers are dependent and independent. The first option is connected with the oven, which should be located in close proximity to the surface. In electric models, the panel control unit is located directly on the cabinet.

When choosing an induction or electric hob, you should pay attention to the number of burners of the device. The first type of surface can have from 1 to 6 burners of different diameters, which allows you to use different containers. The number of burners for electric models is 2-5 pcs. For plates with a glass-ceramic surface, the burners can be arranged in one row in the form of a rhombus, square, triangle or semicircle.

The total power of the induction hob is in the range of 3-12 kW, electric – 3-10 kW. The operation of both types of plates can be controlled by touch or mechanical. The first option is more convenient. In addition, each burner can have an individual set of touch buttons.

What is the difference between an induction panel and an electric panel: comparison of characteristics

To understand the question of which stove is better: induction or electric, a comparison of the main parameters of devices, such as:

Electric stoves can have from two to five burners

• speed and degree of heating;
• requirements for the dishes used;
• work efficiency;
• electrical energy consumption;
• work safety;
• noise level;
• surface characteristics;
• functionality;
• influence on other elements of household appliances.

One of the main differences between an induction cooker and a glass-ceramic electric surface is the minimum power consumption. The first type of surface instantly heats up and cools down quickly. The electric current is spent exclusively on the production of magnetic current in the induction coil. During temperature adjustment, it changes instantly. There is no need for a long wait until the burner heats up or cools down.

Important! Induction models consume 1.5 times less electricity compared to their electrical counterparts.

The induction cooker is characterized by the highest level of efficiency, which is 90%. For comparison, it can be noted that this indicator for a glass–ceramic electric panel is 55%, for a gas – 60%.

Electric stoves consume 1.5 times more electricity than induction stoves

Considering the main differences between induction and electric cookers, it is impossible not to mention the high speed of cooking on the induction surface, which significantly exceeds the capabilities of electric models. The generated heat is not spent on heating the burner and the surface. It immediately leads to the heating of the dishes.

It will take 2-3 minutes to heat 1 liter of water on the induction panel. The burner in this case will reach a temperature of no more than 60 ° C. Electromagnetic currents are directed exclusively at food, which in this case is prepared several times faster. The electric stove will take about 5 minutes to heat the burner, and another 10-13 minutes is needed for the water in the pan to boil. In this case, the temperature of the heating element can reach 400 ° C.

Important! An electric stove heats food unevenly, as a result of which it can burn.

The difference between an induction hob and an electric hob in safety matters

Answering the question, what is the difference between an induction hob and an electric one, it is impossible not to note the high level of safety of the first one. The stove starts working only at the time of installation on its working area of dishes, the diameter of which should occupy at least 70% of the area of the burner. After removing the element from the plate, it turns off. At the same time, the surface remains cold, which eliminates the possibility of getting burned at the moment of accidental touching of the panel.

The induction cooker starts working only if dishes are placed on the burner

The hotplate of the electric stove begins to heat up immediately after it is turned on to a high temperature and then cools down for a long time after the end of the work process. In this case, the risk of getting burned during involuntary contact with the surface increases several times.

Important! The induction panel will not work if a foreign object is placed on it. This nuance is very relevant for families with young children.

Studying the difference between induction and electric panels in the matter of safety, it is impossible not to mention that the first type of plate is equipped with an automatic shutdown option. This happens, for example, if the water in the pan boils and hits the surface. It will also turn off if the water in the dishes has boiled off, because the stove recognizes an empty container. This possibility will eliminate the damage of dishes.

On the other hand, only on the electric surface it is possible to set the minimum temperature, thanks to which the dish can languish without the user’s participation.

The minimum temperature can be set on the electrical panel

Which cooktops are better: induction or electric

Considering the question of how an electric hob differs from an induction hob, you should pay attention to the silent operation of the first one. The second type of model emits a specific noise during operation. It occurs as a result of the operation of fans that are located near induction burners and are aimed at cooling them. This feature may not appeal to particularly sensitive people.

Related article:

Electric hob: a stylish assistant to a demanding hostess

The difference between a dependent and an independent panel. Electric stove control options. Additional features and manufacturers of cooking surfaces.

Studying the difference between electric and induction cooktops, it is necessary to mention that the first type of stove does not need to use special dishes. The main condition is the use of containers suitable for the plate. The induction panel requires special dishes, the bottom of which is made of ferromagnetic material. These are cast iron and stainless steel products. Ceramic and glass objects cannot be used.

Useful advice! For an induction cooker, you can use ordinary dishes, the bottom of which is sealed with a special magnetic sticker. It can be purchased in the store.

A feature of the induction cooker is the ability to recognize the bottom of dishes with a diameter of at least 12 cm. Smaller containers, such as Turks, can be used complete with a special adapter.

For an induction hob, special dishes with a bottom made of ferromagnetic material are required

What is the difference between an induction panel and an electric one: operational properties

Before choosing a cooking surface, it is necessary to study its performance characteristics. The induction panel is more durable. Since its surface does not heat up during operation, accidentally dropped food or greasy splashes are easily and quickly cleaned with a wet sponge. The electric stove is afraid of salt particles, burnt sugar and pieces of burnt food, which leave traces on the surface, damaging the protective film.

The induction panel is equipped with a large number of automatic programs, which makes the cooking process simpler and easier. The surface is able to react instantly to the change of the program and temperature mode.

Considering the question of which stove is better: induction or electric, it is impossible not to say about the influence of devices on other household appliances located nearby. The electric panel must not be installed next to the refrigerator. Heating up during cooking, the stove will contribute to the heating of a number of installed items. Induction surfaces should be located at some distance from household appliances, since the influence of a magnetic field has a negative effect on their operation.

Useful advice! If there are difficulties when choosing the type of product, you can give preference to a combined induction and electric hob, which combines the features of both options.

The induction cooker is easier to clean, since fallen food or greasy splashes on a cold surface do not burn

What is the difference between an induction cooker and an electric one: product functions and options

When choosing an induction or electric stove, due attention should be paid to the functional capabilities of the devices. The first type of surface has the ability to smoothly adjust the power level of the device, which ensures the maintenance of the required temperature regime. They can be from 5 to 17. The electric hob is also equipped with an option that allows you to adjust the power. However, there are a limited number of such modes – up to 4 pcs.

All induction cookers and some models of electrical appliances are equipped with an auto-off function, thanks to which the device turns off when liquid hits its surface. Both versions of the stoves necessarily have a timer with an audible signal, which contributes to the timely shutdown of the burners. For induction panels, you can also set the start time of cooking.

A unique feature of induction cookers is the presence of the Power Boost option, thanks to which it is possible to borrow power from a neighboring burner to obtain its maximum value in a specific heating zone. Also, this type of hob has a built-in energy consumption monitoring sensor, thanks to which the device can be configured to work with minimal resource consumption.

In induction cookers, you can adjust the turn-on time

The induction panel will not work if there are no dishes on it. An electric stove can also be equipped with an option that disables the panel from which the container is removed. Induction surfaces can have the function of a short-term break in operation for 3 minutes. They are equipped with a program of residual heat and temperature maintenance.

Important! Both versions of the plates necessarily have a child lock function.

Selection of cooktops: rating of manufacturers

When choosing a hob, it is very important to pay attention to the manufacturer of the equipment. All manufacturers that produce induction and electric cookers can be divided into three categories depending on the quality of products:

• professional models of the elite class are produced by Miele, AEG, Gaggenau, Kuppersbusch;
• products of the middle category, which are characterized by an ideal price-quality ratio, belong to the companies Bosch, Siemens, Whirlpool, Gorenje, Zanussi, Electrolux;
• the budget series of good quality is offered by manufacturers Hansa, Ariston, Ardo.

The greatest demand is for cooktops of the average price category of global manufacturers

Elite class models are most often purchased for cafes and restaurants. They are characterized by the maximum number of heating zones, have high power and extended functionality. The main feature of such models is the high cost, which is not justified for the use of products in modern kitchens.

Based on numerous reviews, cooktops of the average price category of global manufacturers are in the greatest demand. This is due to the wide range of reliable products that the average family can afford. The models are distinguished by a decent quality of execution, an expanded set of necessary functions and programs used in constant use, and an original design, so that the products fit perfectly into the modern interior of the kitchen.

Models from the budget category are characterized by good quality and affordable cost. Products equipped with a minimal set of functions are mainly presented here.

Which hob to choose: distinctive features of models of world brands

Judging by numerous reviews, Bosch and Siemens cooktops are the most popular. This is due to the wide range of induction and electric models, which are characterized by high quality performance, attractive appearance and extended functionality of products.

Bosch produces plates with a High Speed glass-ceramic surface, which is characterized by high strength, wear resistance and durability

Bosch company produces models with a High Speed glass-ceramic surface, which is characterized by high strength, wear resistance and durability. Both companies offer several varieties of models for 2 burners. The cooktops of these manufacturers have one common drawback – the high cost of the product. An electric stove can be purchased for 25-30 thousand rubles, and an induction stove for 35-70 thousand rubles.

Multifunctional devices with a convenient control mode, pleasant design and relatively affordable cost are produced by well-known companies Gorenje and Electrolux. Gorenje electric cooktops have a proprietary Super Power technical option, thanks to which it is possible to increase the heating level on all burners at the same time. This helps to reduce the time that is spent on the cooking process.

Some induction panels of the Electrolux have a burner with a special Wok recess in the glass-ceramic surface for the location of the frying pan. The company specializes in the production of combined panels with gas burners and induction burners. The price of induction type cooktops from Gorenje and Electrolux is in the range of 25-30 thousand rubles, and electric – 15-20 thousand rubles.

Gorenje stoves are equipped with the Super Power technical option, thanks to which it is possible to increase the heating level on all burners at the same time

Among the budget models, Ariston and Hansa cooktops are the most popular. The cost of induction surfaces is 15-18 thousand rubles, and electric surfaces – 10-12 thousand rubles. The plates are equipped with the necessary set of functions and have an original design.

When choosing an induction or electric panel, it is important to study the features of each option, which differ in the principle of operation, functionality and price. The induction cooker provides more efficient operation with less energy consumption. However, such a surface requires special care, the use of special dishes and is characterized by high cost.

It is impossible to say unequivocally which stove is better. If it was not possible to decide on the choice, you can give preference to a combined version of the hob with electric and induction burners.