CATA IFSB 6460 MB induction hob, 59 cm, 4 zones, 7.2 kW, Matte Black

On an induction hob an electromagnetic field heats the pan with a magnetic base directly instead of heating the glass. That is why the hob reacts quickly to setting changes and the surface around the pan stays much cooler than on a ceramic hob. Pan detection recognises whether a suitable pan is on the zone, and without one the zone does not start, which reduces the risk of switching it on by accident.

Each zone offers nine power levels: the lower ones suit simmering sauces and melting chocolate, the higher ones are for frying. Booster briefly gives the selected zone more power than usual, so a large pot of water comes to the boil faster. The manufacturer lists the zone sizes as 21 × 20 and 21 × 40 cm.

AUTO 2 connectivity lets the hob control a CATA hood with AUTO 2 support automatically. While the hob is in use, you do not need to switch the hood on with its own buttons or change its speed by hand, because the hob takes care of that. This is handy when your hands are busy cooking, and it keeps the kitchen cleaner even at moments when you might forget to switch the hood on.

The timer switches a zone off after the set time, while the countdown alarm sounds when the time is up, for example when boiling eggs or pasta. The pause function stops all zones at once when you need to answer the door or quickly wipe the surface. The safety lock locks the touch panel so that children or an accidental touch cannot change the settings.

The hob measures 59 × 52 cm with a height of 6 cm and weighs 10.5 kg. The matte black surface matches dark worktops and black appliances, and fingerprints show less than on glossy glass. The touch controls sit at the front edge, within easy reach. There is no wok burner – all four are regular induction zones.

The CATA IFSB 6460 MB suits a kitchen that needs a 59 cm, four-zone induction hob with a matte black finish. It is especially practical for anyone who has or plans a CATA hood with AUTO 2 support, since the hob and hood then work together. Booster, the timer and the safety lock also make it a practical hob for a family with children.