Why is Induction Ceramic Hob Better?

07 Apr.,2025

 

What's the difference between a ceramic and induction cooktop?

An induction cooktop heats up your pans with a magnetic field. That means the appliance doesn't use heating elements, but heats up your pan directly. Your cooktop will be hot in about 20 seconds this way. For induction, you need pans with a special magnetic bottom. Did you cook on gas before? Chances are that the bottom of your pans are deformed and you have to purchase new pans.

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A ceramic cooktop takes some time to warm up. That's because the appliance heats the heating elements first and the pan afterwards. When they're hot, the elements turn red. You have to wait 1 or 2 minutes before you can start cooking. Thanks to the heating elements, all pans are suitable for this type. Choose a pan with a smooth and thick bottom for the best results.

An induction cooktop is energy-efficient because it only heats the pan itself. When you remove the pan from the cooktop, it automatically turns off. As a result, the cooktop cools down quite quickly. An induction cooktop consumes 175kWh per year and costs around € 52.50 in energy costs.

A ceramic cooktop requires a lot of energy to heat the cooking zones. In addition, the appliance remains warm for a long time after you finish cooking. That means that the device also loses a lot of energy. A ceramic cooktop consumes 225kWh per year and costs around € 67.50 per year.

Some induction cooktops have flexible cooking zones. These are zones that you can use as 1 large or 2 separate cooking zones. You can set the cooking zone at the touch of a button. If the cooktop is completely flexible, it doesn't matter where you place your pan. That way, you determine exactly how you arrange your pans on the cooktop.

Some ceramic cooktops have expandable cooking zones. These are elongated zones for a Dutch oven or a larger zone for a high-sided skillet, for example. Since a ceramic cooktop uses heating elements, you should always place your pan on the cooking zone exactly right to heat it properly.

Cooking with induction is a lot safer. An induction cooktop always has a child safety lock, so your offspring can't just change the settings. The cooktop only works when there's a pan on it and immediately turns off when you remove the pan. That's useful, if you ever forget to turn off the cooktop.

A ceramic cooktop is less suitable for households with small children or elderly people that tend to forget things. The cooktop stays hot for a long time after cooking, so you can easily burn yourself. In addition, the cooktop doesn't turn off automatically after cooking. This can be inconvenient if you're sometimes forgetful.

Which electric hob is best for your needs: induction or ceramic?

What is an induction hob? What is a ceramic hob? What is the difference between an induction hob and a ceramic hob?

Which induction hob sizes are available? What about a venting hob? You might be asking yourself these great questions if you're looking for a new electric hob. Our buying guide for induction hobs and ceramic hobs is here to help.

The first choice to make is between induction and radiant heat. You might also want to look at venting hobs, which have an integrated hood fan. Factors like hob sizes and hob controls are also important. Perhaps you also want to look at a hob's energy-efficiency or are interested in the latest advances in technology.

Below we explain what to consider when choosing a new electric hob for your kitchen.

With a flat black cooking surface, induction hobs and ceramic hobs (radiant hobs) 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 hob doesn't get hot, there are no burnt food bits to scrape off. If your current hob is ceramic (radiant), you can install an induction hob in the same cutout.

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Katro.

What's an induction hob?

Induction hobs generate heat through a magnetic field. Unlike ceramic hobs, the magnets only work when a pot is placed on it. Induction heats up ultra fast and offers exceptional flexibility: heating zones can be combined to suit a wide range of pot and pan sizes and shapes.

Pro tip: To test if a pot works with induction, see if a magnet attaches to the bottom.

Both induction and ceramic hobs come in varying widths, ranging from 30 to 90cm. The right one for you depends on your cooking habits and the space available in your kitchen. A wider hob lets you comfortably cook with multiple pots or pans at once.

Ceramic and induction hob sizes.
Ceramic and induction models are available in the following widths:

  • 30cm (domino)
  • 60cm (standard)
  • 70cm
  • 80cm
  • 90cm

Pro tip: If you have an extractor hood, your hob should be the same width or slightly narrower.

An induction hob is controlled either by knobs on the oven or a type of touch-based controls on the hob'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 hobs 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 hob with knobs they can turn. The knobs are located either on the hob or with the oven controls.

Many of our hobs come with innovative and smart features that make sautéing, frying and boiling more enjoyable.

Smart hob: Models with Home Connect let you verify remotely that your hob is switched off.

Hood-hob connection: Control your hood fan directly on your hob. 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. 

For more Induction Ceramic Hobinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.