Looking to upgrade your cooking plate? Confused between ceramic hob or induction hob? Well, in such a case, we’ve got you covered. This article provides an ultimate guide on the major differences between ceramic and an induction hob. So, it gets easier for you to choose the best one for you!
When we talk about a ceramic hob, it is powered by an electric cooking plate. Unlike the traditional gas burner, its heating element warms up fast. Compared to a ceramic hob, an induction plate transfers heat to the pan instead of heating the entire surface. Ceramic cooktops are cheaper to buy, but induction is expensive yet consumes less energy.
Before jumping to the difference and similarities, let us give you a quick overview of both types of hobs.
Ceramic Hobs
A ceramic plate is electrically powered. With different heating zones, it is different from traditional gas hobs.
- The “ceramic” refers to the glass finish.
- Such hobs are made with shatterproof glass.
- The residual heat indicators are equipped to ensure safety.
How Does A Ceramic Hob Works?
There is a heating element under the cooking zones that glow red. The heat is evenly distributed within the red zones.
The element is activated by current and can reach high temperatures within minutes.
Are Ceramic Hobs Safe?
Yes, modern electric ceramic hobs come with child lock safety technology. The residual heat indicator protects you from burning.
Not touching the surface when the plate is still on or intently after cooking is highly advised. Always follow the instructions from the user manual while using it.
Is Ceramic Hob Cheap to Buy?
If you’re tight on budget, then a ceramic cooktop is the right fit for your kitchen. Their average price is between £200 to £250
What Is The Running Cost For An Electric Ceramic Hob?
The average cost per hour is 28.4p to 30p.
Over one year, it can cost you around £60 to £70. This is an average cost assuming that you’ll use it for 3-5 hours per day.
Pros
- The flat surface is effortless to clean.
- It is pocket friendly.
- There is no particular requirement for installation.
- Any metal pan can be used in its cooking zone.
Cons
- Not energy efficient and expensive to run.
- The surface can be scratched very easily.
The actual choice may depend on you and your specific needs. But pans that can’t conduct heat are not suitable for it.
Are Ceramic Hobs Worth It?
Overall, ceramic hobs are convenient to buy. But it takes a long time for them to reach the desired temperature.
The glass surface can shatter easily. We won’t recommend it as it is expensive to run and maintain.
Induction Hobs.
Induction cooktops are high in demand. To identify induction hobs, look for the “four-loop wire symbol.”
Compared to gas or electric plates, it is convenient and has multiple flexible zones.
- The induction cooking process is quick.
- It is often known as magnetic field cooking.
- It is more energy-efficient to cook on it.
How Does Induction Hob Work?
The induction hob has a copper loop installed underneath the surface. The heat produced is transferred to the pan directly.
The magnetic field is created in a coil with an electric current.
Is Induction Hob Safe?
Yes, it is safe. You can pick the pan from its heating zone and touch the glass surface.
Its surface is secure to touch. It is still recommended to read and follow safety instructions from the user manual guide.
Are Induction Hobs Expensive?
Yes, induction plates are expensive. The average buying price range is £300 to £1000. But using it for cooking food is pocket friendly.
The average running cost per day is 33.5p. It costs £30 – £35 per year. Electric induction hobs with built-in extractors are more expensive.
Can You Use Regular Pots On Your Induction Hob?
No, you can’t use regular pans on it. Only the 100% cast iron pots and cookware that can stick to magnets are suitable.
Pros
- You can easily wipe all the spilled curry with a damp cloth.
- Instantly reach the desired temperature.
- Flexible zones can also be used separately.
- Child safety locks and timers are additional functions.
- Save hundreds on electric bills.
Cons
- Quite expensive to buy.
- Not suitable for every type of pot.
Before you make up your mind, look at the similarities between both options.
Similarities Between Induction And Ceramic Hobs
Both ceramic and induction cooktops are far different from each other. But, there are few similarities among them.
- Both Are Very easy to clean.
- Even with different operating units and coils, both cooktops have glass surfaces.
- When it comes to safety, manufacturers take no chances. Both plates are solid and have a child lock in them. Once you enable it, your kid can no longer change the settings or time range.
Ceramic vs Induction Hob – Which One Is Best?
As for us, induction hobs are second to none for convenience. They can make you dinner in less cooking time.
The induction cooktop is a winner with temperature control and a solid plate.
Why Induction Hobs Are Batter?
Induction cookware is better due to the following reasons;
- They are faster and consume less time and energy.
- With flexible zones, you can adjust them as per your needs.
- They are safer, and sudden touch doesn’t cause a burn.
They are preferred by the people across the U.K with no gas supply. Even though it may cost a little extra while buying them, they are cheaper to run.
Wrapping It Up!
Well, the actual choice depends on your needs and kitchen space. But, we found induction cookware a winner here. It is easy to clean both as all you need to do is wipe the dirty surface.
An electric induction plate is expensive, but it costs less to use than ceramic. At your safety concerts, we found induction hobs safer and more secure.
