Best cooktops: a buyer’s guide

Food has become a global obsession and dominates just about every media platform there is. Whether we’re watching Ramsay wreaking havoc in Hell’s Kitchen or Nigella rummaging in her refrigerator, at some point we all find ourselves retreating to our own culinary corners to try out new things. And be you a basic cook or budding chef, one of the most versatile pieces of equipment to use is a cooktop. From boiling a simple egg to whipping up a Teppan Yaki masterpiece, this nifty appliance is the cornerstone of life in the kitchen. The Gaggenau cooktop range is the marketing leader in cooktops. We review their products later on in this article.

How cooktops work

With fast-moving technology and a greater leaning towards green living, there are now three types of cooktops available, each powered by a different energy source. This is how they work.

Electric cooktops

These are operated by an electrical current that passes through coiled wire sheathed in metal, which heats up when the control knob is turned on. These units are available in either coiled or smooth finishes. In the latter, the coils rest under a heat-tempered material, giving you a flat surface to work on.

Gas cooktops

These consist of a burner assembly attached to a small gas valve that is connected to the main gas line. By pressing a button or turning a knob, gas flows through the system in a controlled manner and is then ignited. By turning the heat settings, you can increase or decrease the flow of gas and air, thereby enlarging or reducing the flame.

Induction cooktops

These work off electromagnetic energy. When a pan is placed on the surface, the element beneath generates a strong magnetic field. This passes into the pan causing it to generate heat. A knob or touch function on the cooktop controls the strength of the magnetic field, thereby increasing or reducing the heat produced in the pan.

Gaggenau cooktop review

The extraordinary Gaggenau 400 series Vario range enables you to custom create your cooking area in seamless 38cm/15-inch modules and allows for the option of either a surface or completely flush installation. This ultimate selection encompasses gas and induction cooktops, grills, wok burners, Teppan Yaki, and in-counter steamers and deep fryers.

Each module is perfectly controlled by illuminated, heavy-duty stainless steel knobs, mounted on the vertical surface of your kitchen cooktop.

If you’re trying to decide whether to go with gas or induction, why not have both?

The Gaggenau 400 series induction hob features:

• One continuous cooking surface
• Free positioning of cookware
• Accommodates up to 4 pots or pans at a time
• Three cooking modes: Professional, Dynamic and Classic
• Cooking can be paused at any time and the cooktop will remember your settings when you return
• Easy to use TFT touch display
• Digital home-connect services

The Gaggenau 400 series gas cooktop features:

• Five multi-ring brass burners (one wok, two high output and two standard)
• Twelve levels of electronically controlled heat for exact regulation
• Automatic fast ignition
• Automatic flame monitoring with automatic re-ignition
• Safety shut-off
• Three-part cast iron pan support with flat, continuous pot surface
• Simmer function

Inspired by professional kitchens, the Gaggenau 400 series is designed to provide a bespoke, creative space for the discerning home cook. But if you’re looking for simpler cooktop satisfaction, the Bosch range is also highly recommended.

Gaggenau cooktop cost calculator

Now that you can’t wait to get your Gaggenau cooktop, you’ll want to know what it costs and whether it is a viable option for you.

Our handy Gaggenau cost calculator will tell you exactly how much the cooktop costs, as well as the price of other Gaggenau appliances. You can check it out here.

Cooktop buyer’s guide

There’s so much choice when it comes to cooktops, so aside from the obvious like size and fuel sources, here’s a breakdown of the things that matter:

Cost

It’s always good to start with a budget in mind, and the more specialised the cooktop, the higher the price will be. In terms of initial outlay, electric is the cheapest followed by gas and then induction.

Energy efficiency

Be aware of the long term operating costs of your unit. Induction and gas are super energy efficient, while electric tops will hike up your monthly bills.

Maintenance and Durability

Make sure you investigate the cost of parts and brand reputation.

Cleaning

The flatter the cooking surface, the easier it is to clean, so electric smooth tops and induction units win hands down.

Heating Speed

While heat produced via induction cooking and gas is immediate, electric cooktops take time to heat up and adjust to different temperatures.

Cookware

Induction heat only works with pans that can hold a magnetic field. So if you don’t already have a set of cast iron or induction friendly cookware, you’re going to be outlaying some extra money. Heavy duty pots and pans may scratch smooth top electric units. So gas is the most versatile in this department.

Modules

Some manufacturers supply modular cooktops, allowing you to expand on your options to include specialist cooking units like deep fryers and steamers.

Safety

While electric cooktops change colour when in use and most gas units have built in shut-off systems, they can both be dangerous if you’re not paying attention. The surfaces of induction cooktops, however, are always cool to the touch, so are the least likely to cause accidents.

Gaggenau FAQs

Does Bosch own Gaggenau?

Gaggenau Hausgeräte (meaning Gaggenau home appliances) is a subsidiary of Bosch-Siemens Hausgeräte (BSH Hausgeräte). BSH Hausgeräte is also the parent company of the Bosch and Thermador brands.

Where are Gaggenau appliances manufactured?

Gaggenau appliances are manufactured in both Munich, Germany and in the Lipsheim factory in France.

Are Gaggenau appliances good?

Gaggenau is a luxury German brand that brings state-of-the-art technology seamlessly into the modern home. Gaggenau is  a leader in domestic appliances and pioneers of new designs and innovations.

Is Gaggenau worth the money?

If you are looking for professional appliances that are easily integrated into the home, then Gaggenau is the brand for you. With their sophisticated technology, signature finishes, and futuristic innovations they are well worth the spend.

Where can you buy Gaggenau appliances?

Click here for our full range of Gaggenau cooktops.

Conclusion

Whether you’re drawn to steadfast functionality or modern ingenuity, redesigning your kitchen to include a state-of-the-art cooktop is a sure-fire way of inspiring new culinary skills. Browse through our Gaggenau cooktop range here or take a look at our full range of cooktops here to find exactly what you’re looking for.