Table hobs

How to choose a table hob

A table hob is a hob that needs no installation: put it on the worktop, plug it in and cook. It is the answer for a rented flat, a summer house, a student room and an extra ring at Christmas when four zones are not enough.

• Induction or hotplate. An induction hob heats the base of the pan directly with a magnetic field: a litre of water boils in 3–4 minutes, the surface stays cool and it uses up to 30% less electricity. A cast-iron hotplate heats more slowly and stays hot for a long time, but works with any pan and costs around twenty euros.
• Number of zones. One zone is an extra ring or enough for one person; two zones fully replace a cooker in a small kitchen. On a two-zone model, look at the total power — 3500 W is shared between the zones.
• Power. On induction 2000 W is standard and 2400–3500 W is fast; a boost function gives the maximum for a short burst. A hotplate is fine with 1000–1500 W per zone because it retains heat.
• Controls. Sensor or touch controls are easy to wipe and precise (10 power levels, a timer); a rotary knob works with wet or greasy hands. Use the control-type filter on the left.
• Cookware. Induction needs a magnetic base — steel, cast iron, enamelled pans. Quick test: a magnet must stick to the bottom of the pan.

Table hobs in our range

Single-zone induction hobs: Caso Pro Menu 2100 with sensor controls, Caso 02230 (2400 W), Caso TC 3500 with a temperature probe (3500 W), Caso Comfort C2000 with ten power levels, Philips 5000 series HD5850 with boost and 3000 series HD5830 (2000 W), Camry CR 6515 with an LCD and timer, and Cecotec Full Magma Single with touch controls. Two-zone induction hobs: Caso 02231 with sensor controls and Adler AD 6516. Electric cast-iron hotplates are the affordable end of the shelf: single-zone Adler AD 6503, Camry CR 6510, Tristar KP-6185 and KP-6151, two-zone Mesko MS 6509, Adler AD 6520, Tristar KP-6152 and KP-6248 in a steel body.

Brands

Caso is the induction specialist — the highest power in the range and precise control with a temperature probe. Philips offers two clear classes: the 3000 series for everyday cooking and the 5000 series with boost mode. Cecotec and Camry are affordable induction models with a timer and display. Tristar, Adler and Mesko cover the cast-iron hotplates.

Table hob or built-in hob

A table hob plugs into an ordinary socket and can travel with you; power is capped at 2000–3500 W because a standard socket gives no more. A built-in hob is fitted into the worktop, wired to its own circuit and gives 3–5 zones with up to 7 kW in total. A built-in hob suits a kitchen of your own; a table hob is the right choice for rented space, a second cooker and seasonal use.

Related products

A mini oven stands in for the oven, a multicooker handles stews and rice, and a kettle boils water faster. The whole section is cooking and baking, with the wider range in kitchen appliances.

Frequently asked questions

Which pans work on an induction hob? Any a magnet sticks to: stainless steel, cast iron, enamelled steel.

Is a table hob fine for a rented flat? Yes — no installation needed, just an ordinary socket. Do not plug two 2000 W hobs into the same extension lead.

Is induction more economical than a hotplate? Yes, induction heats only the pan, not the plate and the air around it — the saving is up to 30% and water boils twice as fast.

Why does an induction hob hum or click? A slight hum is normal, especially with light pans and at high power; the clicks come from power regulation.

How is the hob delivered? A table hob fits a parcel locker — Omniva, DPD or Venipak deliver it in 1–2 working days.