Unlike induction cooktops, standard electric stovetops (also known as radiant or coil models) are familiar to many homeowners and offer a simpler installation. They also don’t require compatible cookware like induction options.
Traditional electric elements sit underneath a smooth, easy-to-clean glass surface. Some include Even-Heat Ultra Elements that distribute heat evenly and prevent hot spots.
Flexibility in cooking
Unlike gas cooktops, which rely on an open flame to heat your pots and pans, electric cooktops (also known as radiant cooktops) feature heated coils underneath their smooth glass or ceramic tops. The electrical current that flows through the metal coils causes them to glow hot, which then radiates down into the cooking surface and into your cookware for even heat distribution.
The flat surfaces of electric cooktops are easier to clean than traditional grates and burner coils, and they also offer stability for your pots and pans. However, not all cookware will work with these types of burners: Your pots and pans should have a flat bottom that makes contact with the smooth cooking surface. Some electric cooktops also have a flexible cooking zone that combines 2 separate cooking zones into 1 large one for accommodating larger pans like griddles or roasting dishes.
Some models also come with extra burners for preparing more elaborate meals and have hot surface indicator lights that alert you when the cooktop is still hot, even after it’s been turned off. You can also integrate your cooktop with Nest products to keep an eye on your appliances from anywhere, change settings or turn off the oven remotely, and get notifications if something goes wrong.
Smart cooking hob
For the cook who loves to experiment with new recipes, a smart hob with intelligent temperature regulation is a must. AutoChef automatically regulates the power in each cooking zone to prevent over- or undercooking and ensure the perfect results for your favourite dishes. The smart function also helps bep tu munchen reduce energy use and keeps your cooktop cool to the touch.
Alternatively, our induction cooktops offer an energy-efficient way to make dinner for your family. With an ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology Award, induction cooktops heat only the cookware that’s touching the glass surface, meaning less wasted energy.
You’ll find smart features like AutoSizing that detects the size of your pan to only send the right amount of power. Or you can use SpeedBoost to shave minutes off your cooking time. And with True Temp Melt & Hold, you can gently melt delicate ingredients and sauces without scorching or burning them for up to an hour. And if you’re concerned about your kids getting too close to the cooktop, our smart hobs with Home Connect functionality include a childproof lock and a safe guard for peace of mind.
Even heat distribution
In addition to being easy to clean, an electric cooktop’s heating elements are located underneath a smooth glass surface that adds a sleek and integrated look to your kitchen. These types of cooktops typically have a lower upfront cost than gas or induction models. However, you may find that the cooking surfaces give off residual heat after the electrical current stops, which can pose a safety hazard for those near the burners.
Coil cooktops have raised coils that sit above the cooktop surface. They are generally less expensive than other options, but the coils can be more vulnerable to spills and messes, especially at higher settings. They also tend to be noisier when adjusting the settings.
Radiant cooktops have a smooth top surface and include radiant elements installed beneath the glass or ceramic surface. They are similar to induction cooktops in that they offer centralized heating for your pots and pans. Some models have adjustable wattages to accommodate different pot sizes. Others have Auto Sizing Pan Detection that senses the size of your cookware and automatically selects an appropriate element. This feature can help you achieve perfect results every time and eliminate the guesswork of selecting an incorrect heating level. It can also save energy by focusing heat where it is needed most, like when making an omelet for Saturday morning or reducing power for a rapid boil to get food ready before music lessons.