Induction continues to pave the way as the preferred source of energy for those who are limited to electric. It's also increasing in popularity when given the choice between gas or electric cooking.
- Efficiency – Induction is the most efficient cooking application with the least amount of wasted heat. It also requires the least amount of ventilation. Induction is recognized as the quickest to boil water.
- Responsive – Much like gas, induction will quickly adjust and react to changes from a high heat to a low simmer in a matter of seconds. It's faster than a professional (pro) gas range.
- Safety – Induction is known to be the safest means of cooking. The unit will only turn on once it recognizes magnetic cookware (cookware with ferrous materials) that is compatible to work with induction. Unlike its electric counterpart, induction will begin to quickly cool once the cookware is removed or the unit is turned off.
- Cleaning – Within the cooking element, the heat is directly transferred to the cookware and the surrounding area doesn’t get hot. It makes cleaning up very easy on the ceran glass cooking surface.
Let’s now compare two very different European companies, Miele and Bertazzoni. We will look at the companies, their products, and then compare them.
Miele
“Forever Better” was inscribed on the first products Miele produced. Over a hundred years later, Miele has stayed true to that promise as they continue to manufacture some of the most elite residential and commercial appliances in the world.
Miele is a family-owned German company founded in 1899. In 1993, Miele's cooking products moved into the fast lane with induction hobs or induction cooktops. Their induction cooktops generated heat in the pan base ensuring a faster, gas-like response.
They continuously evolved their induction products, and within the last 5 years, they released one of the premier induction ranges in the industry, the Miele HR 1622i.
Miele HR 1622i - $7,399
This all-in-one range provides the best of both worlds - the best residential induction technology in the industry paired with one of the best ovens in the industry.
Below are some key features of the Miele HR 1622i:
- M-Touch Controls and backlit knobs
- 4 Variable Cooking Zones
- TwinPower Convection Fans
- Easy Clean Ceran Surface
- Booster Function
- 21 Operating Modes, including self-clean
- Moisture Plus
- MasterChef and MasterChef Plus Automatic Programs
- Soft Close and Soft Open Door
- Wireless Roast Probe
- Clean Touch Stainless Steel Front
Bertazzoni
Bertazzoni is an Italian company based in Guastalla, a small town of 12,000. Francesco Bertazzoni started the company in 1882 producing wood-burning stoves.
Bertazzoni is known for their unique design and style. More specifically, they are recognized for adding some character into your kitchen with their “custom color” finishes.
Although they have a long history of producing other cooking products, Bertazzoni induction ranges are fairly new to the marketplace as of 2015.
Bertazzoni PRO304INSAR - $5,499
Below are some key features of PRO304INSAR:
- Designer colors available (6 total). The triple coat paint process is same one used on Italy's famous sports cars.
- Each induction zone has variable low to high control and a pan detection system
- Residual heat indicators warn if a zone is still hot even when switched off, guaranteeing maximum safety
- Oven features 9 cooking modes including convection modes which use a fan surrounded by a heating element for even heat distribution
- Self Clean models also feature a cleaning cycle which operates at 850°F
- Large-capacity European convection oven is big enough for a 30-pound turkey
- Soft-motion door hinges prevent slams, dropping and bounce back
- Special multi-layer glass door ensures minimal heat loss and safe outer surface temps
- Low-temperature settings include thermostat controlled dehydration and fan only defrosting
- 25 1/8" depth allows the range to sit flush with cabinetry, unlike other professional brands
- 4" stainless steel backguard included
- Convenient storage space below the oven for pots and pans
Who has the better induction range?
Bertazzoni offers a decent induction range with color options for less money than the Miele. Their range has a smaller oven capacity and may be ideal for tight spaces.
Yet if you really want to cook better, Miele offers some unique features that clearly differentiate them in this comparison. Their induction range offers MasterChef and MasterChef Plus Automatic Programs allowing for easy “one-touch cooking.”
There are also 21 Operating Modes. For avid bakers, their range offers Moisture Plus which releases bursts of steam. This feature will increase the humidity in the oven, which optimizes cooking of a variety of foods, ideal for baking bread (there are 16 automatic modes just for bread), desserts, and roasting meats as well.
Miele’s approach to production is unique for today’s global standards. They do not outsource components to third-party companies. Most all of the components in a Miele product are specifically built in a Miele-owned facility. This helps ensure high-quality control and a better product.
If you are looking for a splash of color and a slightly less expensive product, buy the Bertazzoni. However, the better, more reliable stove for cooking is definitely the Miele.
Additional Resources
Get our free Induction Cooking Buying Guide for reviews, specs and more on the most popular induction ranges. Over 150,000 people have already found answers in a Yale guide.
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