What is the difference between a glass-ceramic and induction hob? In principle in different ways heating Although in both cases the working surface is made of glass ceramics, depending on the type of heating element, the efficiency of the devices and the features of their operation will be different.
Comparison of glass-ceramic and induction hobs
Actually, there can be no comparison here, since the very nature of things and their purpose are different. When talking about induction cookers, we mean, first of all, non-contact heating by an induced alternating magnetic field, and when talking about glass-ceramic electric cookers, in the context of the topic, we only mention the material hob, but not the heating source itself. Meanwhile, at induction panels the hob is also made of the same glass-ceramic, and under the general name “glass-ceramic stoves”, completely different electrical devices are hidden, equipped with heating elements, the action of which is based on different physical principles.
Types of burners for glass-ceramic electric stoves
I'll list known methods heating that glass ceramics can hide underneath in order of increasing energy efficiency, but this does not mean that the latter will be the best. Let's not forget the fundamental purpose of any hearth, cooking delicious food, and speed in this process is not always needed.
Rapid burners
Now this is the most common type of heating element for glass-ceramic stoves. Heats up in 10-12 seconds. Of course, due to low efficiency and high thermal inertia, these heating elements are far from perfect, but the ability to maintain temperature within the widest range and good maintainability to some extent compensate for the shortcomings.
Tape heating element
High Light Technology. Advantages:
- Heating rate working area 4-7 sec.
- Utensils made of any material are suitable.
Disadvantages: low efficiency and, as a consequence, high consumption electricity, fairly high thermal inertia.
It may not be very economical, but it’s so beautiful. Halogen plates
Halo Light technology uses halogen lamps as a heating element. The plates are marked with the letter “H” (Halogen). Advantages of this method:
- High efficiency 68%.
- Wide range of adjustable temperatures. Of course different models this range varies, but believe me, it is quite wide.
- Quick heating of the working area, 5-7 seconds.
- Any cookware is suitable.
Flaws:
- Cooling fan noise.
- The relatively short service life of halogen lamps (about 2000 hours). This is probably the main disadvantage of this heating method. In addition, finding an analogue to a burnt out lamp will be problematic.
The infrared rays emitted by the lamp will heat up everything that gets in their way. Of course, a one-time contact will not be reflected in any way on surrounding objects, but if you cook on such a stove constantly, then over time it will be noticeable that open areas skin visibly tanned. I don’t know which category to classify this property into, advantages or disadvantages, but women definitely won’t like it.
Pros and cons of induction cookers
Combined heating methods
There are various very intricate combinations. For example, a device from the Candy TRIO series, which combines in one body: a hob with four belt and one halogen burners, an oven and dishwasher. There are simpler configurations, gas + electric burners(Darina KM341). Hob, with gas burners combined with electric oven(Hansa FCMW58221).
What is glass ceramics
To put it very simply, it is a material based on cast glass. Well-established production technologies allow using various additives (lithium, zinc, silicon, etc.) and certain modes of subsequent multi-level heat treatments to obtain completely new composite materials with specified properties.
Glass-ceramic coating for electric stoves is the most famous of them, but not as the main one. It will not be a big secret that the main application composite materials, glass ceramics including: electronics, aerospace technology and other high-tech areas.
Properties of glass-ceramic surfaces
Have you ever wondered why most manufacturers of electric stoves choose glass ceramics as a cooking surface, although there are stronger materials? It's all about thermomechanical properties. 
On the chip of the sheet, the transversely directed structure of the material is clearly visible.
- Anisotropy or directional crystallization. Ability crystal lattices change physical properties depending on the direction, i.e. the heat quickly warms up in the transverse direction directly under the heat source, remaining almost cold 5-10 cm from the heating zone.
- Low coefficient thermal expansion, hence resistance to sudden temperature changes. Nothing will happen to glass ceramics, even if cold water is spilled on a heated surface.
- High temperature deformation 1000-1200°.
All of the above is true for products manufactured in compliance with all norms and regulations technological process. Unfortunately, it is not possible to recognize a fake by eye. To see the structure of the material, the glass-ceramic coating will have to be broken, but then there will be nothing to talk about.
With an abundance of choice, innovative induction or glass-ceramic hobs are increasingly outperforming gas and electric classics. However, which one to choose is not always easy to decide. To do this, it is necessary to compare the main characteristics of competitors, their advantages and disadvantages.
Although they are similar in appearance, both options have glass ceramics covering the hob; the design of the devices and performance characteristics have serious differences. These include:
- heating methods;
- features of work;
- need for control;
- safety;
- resistance to external influences;
- price.
Heating Methods
An induction cooker does not have a heating element. Its functions are performed by high frequency radiation, which interacts with special dishes installed on the hob. It forms closed loop and heats the contents until ready to eat.
Unlike its competitor, the glass-ceramic panel has more various options heating, which allow you to choose the most preferable one. These may include heating elements:
- made using hilight technology;
- spiral type;
- based on infrared radiation.
Which technology to choose should be decided based on the operating parameters that characterize the slab.
Features of work
With comparable power, the induction hob is ahead of its competitor in terms of efficiency. Most of these devices have a coefficient of 90%. For alternative options this figure is 1.5 to 3 times less. In the innovative device, there is no need to heat the hob to the desired temperature, then the walls of the container, and only then the contents. The dishes with food immediately heat up. This affects the cooking speed. An induction cooker brings a liter container of water to a boil in a couple of minutes. The competitor will need twice as much time for this.
Work control
An induction cooker protects the cooking surface and prevents the formation of soot and other polluting consequences of cooking. Eddy currents heat the area that is located under the dishes, while the rest of the surface remains cold. This reduces the need for close monitoring of food preparation. A high heating speed will initially require more attention to cooking, but over time this need will disappear.
Some models of such devices and their ceramic analogues are equipped with a function to reduce heating during boiling and turn off when set timer. This makes cooking easier and keeps the cooking surface clean.
Safety
Many users criticize induction cooker. The basis for the claims is the version about the negative impact of microwave radiation on humans and prepared dishes. In fact, they do no more harm than a microwave or mobile phone, and the conveniences significantly outweigh the possible negative consequences.
An induction cooker is safer in terms of heating characteristics. Its hob outside the working area can be touched with your hands without the risk of getting burned. This stove is easier to maintain because it has no residual heat.
After cooking is completed, you can immediately wipe it and wash it without waiting for it to cool.
Level of strength and durability
Glass ceramics are more sensitive to external damage due to regular heating. She is afraid of exposure to salt and sugar crystals, which can scratch the cooking surface. Can be damaged by a targeted blow. on her appearance Repeated heating of an uncleaned panel, on which hard-to-remove carbon deposits can form, has a negative effect.
Price
The most important disadvantage of a device with induction type heating is the high cost, which makes it inferior to ceramics. It is complemented by the need to purchase expensive special utensils. But this minus is partly compensated by the fact that:
- the competitor also makes special demands on the dishes, which most often have to be changed;
- Induction is more economical in terms of energy consumption.
| Induction | Glass ceramic | |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | 90% | 60 – 70% |
| Heating Features | heats dishes | heats the panel, then the dishes |
| Cooking time | 2 – 3 seconds (liter of water) | 6 – 7 sec |
| Control | minimum | requires more attention in the process of cooking |
| Safety | high, no risk of burns | the surface heats up and does not allow touching, under the threat of burns |
| Strength | high, due to the lack of temperature changes | scratches, cracks and chips due to improper use |
| Price | more + additional costs for dishes | less + additional costs for dishes |
| Economical | consumes less electricity | consumes more electricity |
The advantages and disadvantages of the compared devices are relative. Which electric stove to choose should be decided based on the conditions of use and individual preferences.
Increasingly, users household appliances refuse gas panels. Fire hazard, problematic relocation of the stove to another place, difficulty in repair - these are the shortcomings that negatively affect this decision of buyers. Today the greatest popularity and positive reviews remain behind electric hobs. Modern design, a variety of colors, mobility in installation and variety additional functions significantly attract the attention of users. It remains to figure out what is better - an induction cooker or glass ceramics.
Properties of induction and glass-ceramic hobs
Main technical differences These representatives are as follows: the nature of the heating element, the method of heat transfer and the specifics of operation.
The induction heating method is relatively new. Under work surface there is such a slab electromagnetic coil that induces a magnetic field. This heats the bottom of the pan, not the burner. Compared to other incandescent methods, this one provides high speed achieving the required temperature, saving energy and safety during use. Technically, “induction” can be distinguished by the presence of a fan to cool the surface, as well as by the effect on the operation of nearby electronic equipment.
Glass ceramic panel
In the burners of a glass-ceramic stove under the hob, spiral, strip or halogen heating elements can be used. The operating principle of such electric stoves is intense heating of the burner, which, in turn, transfers heat to the dishes. Therefore, considering the heating method, it is recommended to focus on safety when using of this equipment. It is worth noting that it operates silently and does not affect people or nearby devices.
Important! In most cases, modern electric hobs are made from glass ceramics. It is shockproof and fireproof material special hardening, but it can also lose its properties if used unfairly. Pinpoint damage from sharp, heavy objects or cleaning the surface with cleaning products containing abrasive particles can all significantly reduce the life of the equipment.
Comparative characteristics
When choosing an electric stove, the consumer is faced with a wide range of prices. As a rule, the cost depends on the set of additional functions and the popularity of the manufacturer. The more popular the brand, the more favorable the level and reliability of the assembly. To this it is worth adding more wide range after-sales service.
The difference between an induction hob and a glass-ceramic surface is presented in this summary table:
| Meaning | Glass ceramic hob | |
| Efficiency, % | 90 | 60-70 |
| Heating feature | Bottom of the cookware | Panel under the burner |
| Boiling 1 liter of water (min.) | 2-3 | 6-7 |
| Surface temperature | Limit value 55-60 °C | The average temperature of the burners ranges from 180 to 280°C. The limit value is 400-450°C. |
| Safety | Burns are virtually eliminated. | During operation, the equipment requires increased attention. |
| Specifics operation |
1. Only specialized metal utensils with a built-in magnetic bottom are used. 2. The fan is noisy when using the equipment. 3. If placed close, the stove can affect the operation of electrical equipment. |
1. Utensils made from stainless steel or with the sign “for glass ceramics”. 2. Ceramic burners are contraindicated against heavy pointed impacts. sharp objects, as well as surface care products with abrasive particles. |
| Price | Average price range: 15-25 thousand rubles High price range: 82-125 thousand rubles |
Average price range: 12-19 thousand rubles High price range: 29-37 thousand rubles |
Important! People with pacemakers are contraindicated from interacting with induction cookers.
Induction and glass ceramics: pros and cons
Of course, there is a difference between induction and glass-ceramic models. And every consumer who chooses technology is looking for an acceptable combination of advantages and disadvantages.
Induction surfaces
Benefits induction model You can name such indicators.
- Safety. A notable option that allows you to prevent a fire is that it automatically turns off when you remove the cookware from the hob. It should be recalled that the electromagnetic field heats only the bottom of the cookware, which has ferromagnetic properties, which prevents burns.
- Practicality. The advantage is evident when cleaning equipment. The contaminated area can be washed immediately, without waiting for the end of cooking or the moment when the panel becomes cold.
- Economical. Considering the cost of electricity consumed, an induction cooker is more economical.
Among shortcomings You can note the need to purchase specialized utensils. Induction surface will work exclusively with pots (pans, kettles) containing ferromagnetic alloys. It should be noted that such cookware is often used even before purchasing an induction cooker.
Advice! Due to the difficulty that usually arises when finding the right frying pan, most manufacturers equip the cookers with a special magnet that checks the cookware before purchase. Therefore, when choosing an induction hob, you should pay attention to this.
The most important disadvantage Induction hob at the moment is its high cost.
Glass ceramic surfaces
About the benefits glass-ceramic hobs, we can say the following:
- they have more flexible requirements for the selection of dishes;
- such panels allow you to finish cooking a dish using residual heat, thanks to fast heating and long cooling;
- glass-ceramic surfaces have an advantageous cost, which is a major advantage compared to induction analogues.
TO shortcomings glass ceramics can be attributed to the fragility of the equipment. The surface easily copes with large static pressure, however, does not withstand the impact of sharp and heavy objects. As a result, chips and cracks may form, which can affect the performance of the equipment.
The panel is also impractical to maintain. It is recommended to care for the surface exclusively with products without abrasive particles, otherwise scratches may appear that will affect the aesthetic appearance equipment Unlike the induction model, all dirt, grease and food residues should be removed immediately after cooking.
Advice! It is not recommended to use dishes made of ceramics and glass, as they have low thermal conductivity. Utensils made of aluminum and copper are also contraindicated - they leave damage on the surface of the burners. An exception in this case is the infrared stove, which also has a glass-ceramic coating and allows the use of any cookware.
All preferences in favor of induction panels or glass-ceramic panels are very relative. Which electric stove to choose should be decided taking into account the conditions of use, the availability of the necessary functions and, of course, personal preferences. It is especially recommended to choose equipment from trusted manufacturers, which guarantees quality and high service.
Modern hobs with electric heating and different principles heating kitchen utensils very popular today. For obvious reasons, they have gained particular popularity among residents of suburban villages where gas supply has not yet been installed. And since there are more and more such residents over the years, it is reasonable for them to have a question regarding the choice of glass ceramics or induction hob - which is better? This question comes up quite often today. To answer it, you need to understand the slabs in all positions.
Of course, there is no need to look for differences in appearance, design, sizes and other minor differences, which, in fact, are non-critical. And if there is any difference in them, then the choice based on these indicators will be purely subjective. As they say, it depends on the taste and color...
It will be more important to conduct an analysis based on such criteria.
- Type of device, that is, panels can be built-in, free-standing, portable.
- Type of heaters. In principle, the differences here are obvious - these are either induction coils or heating elements.
- Number of burners.
- Safety.
- Efficiency, that is, how efficiently the panel operates when consuming a certain amount of energy.
- Other options that increase the ease of use of the device.
Induction models
Let's begin to understand the topic of how induction differs hob from glass-ceramic, from the first position. We must immediately make a reservation that at the heart of the heating element there is an induction coil, around which a magnetic field is formed. It arises due to electric current, which moves along the turns of the coil. This is a well-known physical law of formation magnetic field.
So the trick is that the magnetic field itself, when it comes into contact with certain alloys, heats them up. Hence the advantages of an induction cooker, because it heats up the cookware, which contains the same alloy in its design. The coils and burners themselves do not heat up. All thermal energy is spent on direct heating, for example, a pan installed on the panel. Of course, the dishes will heat the top surface, but its temperature does not exceed +60C. So you won’t be able to get burned on it, and that’s already high security operation. And this is one of the advantages of this model. What about the other advantages?
- High efficiency, almost 100%.
- When comparing glass-ceramic and induction hobs, the second one consumes less electricity with the same final cooking results. And, as practice shows, shadow cookers consume half as much electricity as induction cookers.
- It is very easy to adjust the heating level. This can even be compared with gas stoves.
- Branded models have fairly wide functionality in terms of cooking. 20 different modes.
- As for safety, there are several protective qualities: it does not turn on if there are no dishes on the stove, it turns off if water, milk, broth has been spilled on the panel, and so on. You can turn off the stove to prevent children from using it.
- Since the top surface of the stove heats up slightly, spilled milk and other troubles do not burn. And this panel is very easy to clean.
- There are other options.
As for the disadvantages, an induction cooker requires special dishes, the bottom of which is covered with a magnetic alloy. It costs more than usual kitchen utensils. The design of the stove includes a fan that forcibly cools the surface. It makes noise, which is not always pleasant. True, we must pay tribute to European stoves; they work very quietly.
Glass ceramic plates
So, we continue to answer the question of which is better: an induction or glass-ceramic hob. Let's move on to analyzing the pros and cons of the second. But before that I would like to make one remark. In principle, all hobs (of these two types) are covered with glass ceramics. It’s just that ordinary people, at their unprofessional level, made such a division, that is, into an induction cooker or glass ceramics.
All stoves of this type are divided according to the type of heating elements installed in them. They can be tubular, tape, plate, spiral and so on. But at the heart of all elements is a filament.
And since this type stoves have been in use in kitchens for a long time, then reviews about them accurately determine their advantages and disadvantages.
- Such slabs can withstand quite serious temperatures - up to +600C.
- Energy consumption is not optimal and efficient for all models.
- If pancake-type burners or ordinary heating elements are used on the panels, then their heating plane cools down very quickly.
- Their safety is practically no different from induction cookers.
- Low relative price.
- Manufacturers offer additional options in each model.
Very important point, which concerns stoves with shadow heaters. For them, it is better to use dishes with a thick and smooth bottom. In this case, it is necessary to select it exactly to the size of the burner. If, for example, the diameter of the dish is less zone its installation, the panel itself will begin to overheat, which will soon cause it to fail.
And the last thing is care, which will put an end to the debate about which is better - induction or glass-ceramic hobs. Whatever you say, the high surface temperature is the place where everything will burn. So you will have to equip yourself with sponges and detergents to clean the surface of the stove. And the housewives really don’t like this. And although you can buy special cleaning gels on the market made specifically for glass-ceramic products, cleaning is still not the most pleasant process.
Results
Summarizing the information received, we can conclude that the question regarding the comparison of glass ceramics and induction hobs - which is better - is incorrectly posed. In fact, the two types of hobs have almost the same amount of pros and cons. Therefore, both slab options are present on modern market kitchen equipment. Of course, in terms of savings, induction seems to be ahead, but they cost almost half as much. In addition, glass-ceramic models operate without noise, and this sometimes becomes the main reason for choosing them. You can also add here the traditional nature of this type of slab. They are simply more familiar in everyday life, so older housewives give their voice to them. That is, it turns out that everything will depend on the person’s attachment.
Increasingly, users are wondering what is better to buy for their home: an induction panel or glass ceramics with electric heaters. Naturally, best option– best suited to the requirements of the future owner. When assessing the pros and cons of certain models, it is important to clearly set your own selection priorities. Various models will certainly differ from each other, but how critical the difference will be is a subjective question.
Design modern household devices meets all requirements and fashion trends: they are free of non-functional parts and are suitable for any kitchen. Smooth surfaces can be in several basic colors: black, white, gray and even gold. Therefore, this criterion for comparison can be omitted.
Much more important are factors such as:
- : portable, built-in or freestanding stove;
- panel dimensions;
- types of heating elements: induction (magnetic coils) or glass ceramics (built-in electric heaters);
- number of heating zones;
- energy consumption;
- protective functions;
- additional options for convenient use.
Both the first and second types of hobs operate from the mains; the hobs can be built-in or separate.
Advantages of an induction cooker
Almost everything strengths set against the shortcomings electrical panels with ceramic hobs. The principle of operation of the magnetic field that the coil induces is expressed in the fact that during the cooking process it is not the burner itself that heats up, but the bottom of the pan. The temperature of the hob does not exceed 60°C.
Advantages of induction panels:
- optimal electricity consumption- devices of this type consume 30–50% less energy resources, which is different from shadow models;
- the household appliance is safe for users, small children or animals; it is impossible to get burned on the surface of the burner;
- the low temperature of the burners ensures light, she is not afraid of spilled sugar, spilled milk or broth;
- fast heating- coefficient useful action for such panels it is 90%, which is higher than all others;
- the temperature of the burners changes instantly, similarly gas stoves, something that shade panels, which need time to cool, cannot boast of;
- the functionality of induction hobs can contain up to 20 cooking modes;
- security options: automatic shutdown when boiling/boiling, when there is no utensils, the control panel is locked from children or during operation (when the user has set the desired mode);
- Various functions for ease of use.
How does an induction cooker work?
Despite a number of advantages, one cannot ignore weaknesses modern device. The most common problem- this is cookware; for induction panels it must have a special metal composition (magnetic). It costs a little more than usual, although it is notable for its high quality.
The operation of the stove requires forced cooling, so a fan, the noise of which may cause some inconvenience.
But in fairness it is worth noting that you can pick up inexpensive model, which will work quietly.
The magnetic field induced by the coils can potentially have negative influence on standing nearby devices, for example, as well as on people with pacemakers. There have been no precedents in this regard yet; manufacturers also claim that the magnetic field is weak and safe, but such plates have not been fully tested, have collected few reviews and can pose a danger.
Based on the available reviews, it is worth paying attention to Hotpoint-Ariston induction cookers - this is your reliable assistant in the field of culinary exploits. The main thing is not to forget that for this you must have special dishes with a flat magnetic bottom. In this case, the stove will delight you with rapid heating and a sensitive response to changes temperature regime and economical energy consumption. With the wrong cookware, the burners simply won't work. Co special function Booster allows you to briefly increase the heating speed of one of the burners, which saves up to 30% of energy and time for cooking. This option is most often used to speed up the boiling of water. Also, Hotpoint-Ariston induction cookers have extremely convenient control and high functionality. And most importantly, they are absolutely safe in terms of the possibility of getting burned, because the heat is on the burner, and only the bottom of the pot or pan.
Electric stoves with ceramic burners
The common name “glass-ceramic” hob is not entirely correct: glass-ceramic is only a type of surface; all induction hobs are coated with this material. Their key difference from induction is in heating elements , which can be spiral, halogen or tape. This type kitchen stoves appeared relatively long ago, much more is known about them than about induction ones. The abundance of reviews allows you to create a clear description. Why have these hobs gained popularity? Of course, there are advantages.
- An increased level of heat resistance, the plate can withstand high temperatures, about 600°C.
- Optimal (for a number of models, but not for all).
- Rapid cooling of the heating zone, relative to stoves with external shades or “pancake burners”.
- The presence of good protective functions, such as blocking the control unit, automatic shutdown when boiling.
- Options for ease of use, such as a timer or cooking modes.
- Affordable price.
As in the field of induction cookers, Hotpoint-Ariston has been one of the confident leaders in the glass-ceramic cooker market for several years now. These are middle class electric stoves, but high quality and affordable. A distinctive feature of non-induction glass ceramics from Hotpoint-Ariston is that all models are equipped with Hi-Light burners, the advantage of which is fast heating speed and good temperature control. Quick readiness for work is a big plus in terms of saving time. In addition, Hotpoint-Ariston stoves are usually equipped with a residual heat indicator, which allows you to see which burner has not yet cooled down, so as not to accidentally get burned. In models with touch control There is a lock against accidental pressing, so you don’t have to worry that your child or cat will accidentally turn on the stove when you are not around. So Hotpoint-Ariston glass-ceramic hobs deserve attention not only for their Hi-Light burners, but also for their well-thought-out safety system.
View of a glass-ceramic hob without top glass
Modern induction cookers are becoming top sellers, and the reason for this is a number of disadvantages electric stoves with shadow heaters. Such cookers, like induction cookers, will require special cookware, but the requirements for it are quite simple: a thick, flat bottom.
To extend the life of the hob, cookware must be selected to match the size of the burners (except for those models that have an automatic cookware detection/burner size selection function).
more labor-intensive, unlike induction. The high temperature of the stove surface inevitably melts the sugar and leftover food sticks to it. All this somewhat softens the relatively rapid cooling of the heating zone, special detergents for glass ceramics. But, one way or another, it will take more time to clean.
Resume
When choosing a glass-ceramic or induction hob, we can summarize: the pros and cons are, on average, equal. Induction cooktops are more attractive, but price segment cannot be called affordable or budget. In addition, their disadvantages will become significant for many: for example, noticeable noise does not suit many owners. Glass-ceramic are common devices that work absolutely silently. For the future user who is just looking out new technology, it will be useful to know the advantages and disadvantages of certain devices in order to make the right choice.