CATA INSB 6003E2 WH induction hob, 59 cm, 3 zones, 7100 W, White

An induction hob creates a magnetic field that heats the base of a suitable pot or pan directly. As a result, most of the heat goes into the food, water boils faster than on a standard ceramic hob and the glass surface itself gets less hot than a conventional cooktop. Three zones and a total of 7100 W let you cook with several pans at once. The manufacturer's data do not clearly state the power and diameter of the individual zones.

The hob is operated with a slider: you choose the power by sliding a finger along the scale, which is quicker than pressing for each level separately. There are nine power levels plus Booster, a short-term power increase that helps when bringing pasta water to the boil quickly or searing meat. Once boiling, the zone can be turned down to a lower level for gentle simmering.

The child lock locks the control panel, so an accidental touch or a small child cannot switch the hob on or change the power. The residual heat indicator shows when a zone is still hot after use – with induction the glass is warmed by the base of the pan and can stay warm for a while. According to the manufacturer this model has no timer, so cooking times need to be kept track of separately.

The hob is 59 cm wide, 52 cm deep and 5.8 cm high, so it fits the worktop of standard 60 cm kitchen units. The slim body leaves more room under the worktop for a drawer or an oven, though ventilation requirements should be checked in the installation guide. The manufacturer does not list the exact cut-out size, so check it in the installation guide before cutting the worktop.

CATA INSB 6003E2 WH suits light-coloured kitchens and smaller households for whom three zones are enough, as well as anyone who wants the speed of induction without extra features. Slider control and Booster make cooking simple, while the child lock and residual heat indicator help in homes with small children. If you need a timer, look at other models.