Which ceramic cooktop should I buy?
You've settled on a ceramic cook top, but which one should you buy?
Note: Not sure if ceramic technology is the way to go? Head to our article, 'Which is the best electric cooktop?'
In this article, we'll save you time by recommending the best option based on your requirements.
General considerations
In general, we'd recommend sticking to your existing cook top size to minimise the complexity of the retrofit. We've included a couple of different sized options below. If you want to change the size of your cooktop, this is possible and we've provided you with options to do this below.
If you want to fit a smaller cooktop into a larger existing benchtop cut-out, this is straightforward with the right tradie, though it will require some cabinetry. Click here to find out more about how to get a trusted tradie.
Options for your specific needs
In this section we outline options based on three categories:
- Budget options
- Balance price and performance
- 90cm+ units.
The example appliance brands and models are included to illustrate what is available in these categories but they are not the only option. There are comparable products. We will provide links for comparable products.
If you sign up to an Energy Freedom Homes Masterclass we can connect you with experts who will recommend a unit based on your budget, needs/wants, kitchen space and installation time requirements. Check your Masterclass readiness now!
You're on a tight budget
The 60cm Omega OCC64TZTGG is highly regarded by Choice and very affordable at RRP $549. It rates highly for performance and usability and Omega have good ethical credentials compared to other manufacturers at a similar price point.
This is an example of a budget ceramic cooktop. Other options can be browsed through the E&S website, which has comparable units within this price range, with similar features. On this website you can also specify the size of the wall oven to have it easily slide in to your existing cabinetry.
These units need to be hardwired in, so make sure you factor for the cost of an electrician. If you don't, you'll risk voiding any product warranty. However, it's unlikely you'll need a dedicated circuit on your switchboard, so at least you'll save that cost.
You're after a unit that balances price and performance
If you've got a bit more money to spend, the Electrolux EHC644BE is highly recommended. At RRP $1099 it's twice the cost of the Omega unit, but you get what you pay for. Again, make sure you factor the cost of an electrician to wire in the unit.
This is an example of a balance of price and performance. Other options can be browsed through the E&S website, which has comparable units within this price range, with similar features. On this website you can also specify the size of the wall oven to have it easily slide in to your existing cabinetry.
You want a large cook top
The Electrolux EHC944BE 90cm unit is highly recommended by Choice and has plenty of good reviews and write-ups. It'll cost you RRP $1649, plus the cost of the electrician.
This is an example of a large ceramic unit. Other options can be browsed through the E&S website, which has comparable units within this price range, with similar features. On this website you can also specify the size of the wall oven to have it easily slide in to your existing cabinetry.
You want a particular brand
If you already have a preference or you'd like your cooktop to match your other appliances, have a browse on E&S Trading and use the filters to find your preferred brand of ceramic cooktop in a size that matches your current setup.
What's next?
Hopefully you've picked out the best ceramic cook top for your circumstances.
If you are now up to replacing a gas oven with an electric alternative and you haven't started your research, have a look at our article, 'Which is the best electric oven?'
If you are all set with your planning for cooking appliances, take a moment to congratulate yourself! Cooking is the most personal of the Energy Freedom upgrades and so it is often the most difficult. When you are ready to move to the next area of upgrades, such as hot water or space heating, in your journey to an Energy Freedom Home, click here to head to our planning article.
Ready to get it installed? Make sure you have the right installer to get the job done and read our article about how to find a trusted tradie.
If you'd prefer to use one of the trusted tradies who have passed our assessment process, join an Energy Freedom Homes Masterclass and learn to identify your needs, gain expert installation advice, and meet trustworthy tradespeople. Check your Masterclass readiness now!
The recommendations in this article come from talking with real people and communities to identify a best-fit option for a range of priorities. We also do our research; each of the above recommendations is based on articles by Choice Magazine, ratings from Product Review and general consensus from the popular Facebook group, My Efficient Electric Home.