For years, my kitchen felt like a constant compromise. With limited counter space and an ageing electric hob that took an age to heat up, cooking anything beyond the simplest meals felt like a chore. The thought of hosting dinner parties was laughable, and even preparing daily meals was fraught with inefficiencies and the lingering worry about energy consumption. I desperately needed a compact, efficient, and modern solution that could transform my small cooking area into a functional, inviting space. Finding the perfect fit, like the Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob, felt like a crucial step to reclaim my kitchen and my passion for cooking, otherwise, the frustration and wasted time would only continue to mount.
Essential Pre-Purchase Considerations for Your Cooktop
When you’re in the market for a new cooktop, you’re likely seeking to address common kitchen frustrations: slow heating, energy inefficiency, difficult cleaning, or simply a desire for a more modern aesthetic. A new cooktop, particularly an induction model, promises rapid heat-up times, precise temperature control, and often enhanced safety features. It’s a significant upgrade for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process and save on energy bills.
The ideal customer for a compact, two-zone induction cooktop is typically someone with limited kitchen space, such as those in small apartments, studios, RVs, or even as an auxiliary hob in a larger kitchen. It’s perfect for individuals, couples, or small families who primarily use one or two pans at a time. If you’re passionate about quick, responsive cooking and already own or are willing to invest in magnetic cookware, an induction hob is an excellent choice.
However, a two-zone induction hob might not be suitable for everyone. Large families who frequently cook multiple dishes simultaneously will likely find two zones restrictive and might need a four-zone or larger model. Those who prefer to use non-magnetic pots and pans (like traditional ceramic or glass cookware) will find induction technology incompatible and should instead look at ceramic or gas hobs. Similarly, if you absolutely prefer tactile control knobs over touch interfaces, you might find the slider controls of some induction hobs less appealing, though many quickly adapt to the precision they offer. Before buying, always consider your existing cookware, your typical cooking habits, the available counter space, and your power supply – some powerful models require hardwiring, while others, like the Noxton Induction Hob, offer convenient plug-in options.
Unveiling the Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob
The Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob is a sleek, 30cm electric induction cooker designed for seamless integration into compact kitchen spaces. Its core promise is to deliver powerful, efficient, and safe cooking within a minimalist footprint. When you purchase this unit, you typically receive the induction hob itself, ready for built-in installation. It aims to compete with larger, often more expensive market leaders by offering key features like a flex zone and precise controls in a more accessible, plug-and-play format, making it an excellent alternative to previous, less versatile portable or standard electric hobs.
This specific Noxton electric hob is ideal for those living in smaller homes, studio flats, RVs, or for anyone needing an additional, highly efficient cooking surface without the hassle of extensive electrical work. It’s perfectly suited for individuals or couples who appreciate modern aesthetics and smart, responsive cooking. Conversely, it’s not designed for commercial kitchens or very large families needing to cook multiple large dishes simultaneously, nor for those who aren’t willing to use or switch to magnetic cookware.
Here’s a quick rundown of its pros and cons based on my extended use:
Pros:
* Flexible Cooking Zone: The unique Flex Zone expands for larger pans, including barbecue griddles, offering remarkable versatility.
* Rapid Heating & Precision Control: Heats incredibly fast and offers nine distinct temperature settings controlled by an intuitive slider for excellent precision.
* Advanced Safety Features: Includes a reliable safety lock and automatic switch-off, providing peace of mind, especially with children or pets around.
* Compact & Sleek Design: At only 30cm wide and surprisingly thin, it fits perfectly into small spaces and boasts a modern, flat black finish that’s easy to clean.
* Plug-in Convenience: Unlike many built-in hobs, this 220-240V unit simply plugs into a standard household socket, making installation remarkably straightforward.
Cons:
* Potential for Fan Noise: While generally quiet, the cooling fan can become noticeable, and occasionally produces a slight squealing sound, particularly when both zones are running at high power.
* Small Pan Recognition: I’ve found it doesn’t always register very small pots or pans, requiring specific minimum diameters.
* Simultaneous Power Limitations (Plug-in Model): The plug-in version intelligently manages total power, meaning you can’t run both zones at their absolute maximum simultaneously, though in practice, this limitation is rarely noticeable.
* Touch Control Preference: While intuitive, some users might prefer traditional physical knobs over the slide touch interface for temperature adjustments.
* Isolated Safety Concern: While rare and likely a defect, there has been an isolated report from another user of a unit melting and emitting smoke after extended, light use, which is a serious concern that buyers should be aware of, despite overwhelmingly positive experiences.
In-Depth Exploration: Features That Truly Stand Out
Having used the Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob for a significant period, I can confidently delve into the features that truly make it a standout appliance in a compact kitchen. My experience has been overwhelmingly positive, with its thoughtful design and powerful performance consistently impressing me.
The Ingenious Flex Zone for Barbecue Pans
One of the absolute game-changers for me has been the ingenious Flex Zone. Before this electric hob, I was limited to round pans, which made cooking things like large batches of pancakes or searing multiple steaks a logistical nightmare. The ability to extend the heating zone from two independent circles into one large 18x37cm rectangular area has completely revolutionized my cooking habits.
How it performs: Engaging the Flexi Zone is as simple as pressing a button on the touch panel. The hob seamlessly combines the two zones, creating an even heating surface perfect for my large griddle pan. I’ve used it extensively for weekend brunches, cooking everything from bacon and eggs to grilled sandwiches simultaneously. The heat distribution across the extended area is remarkably consistent, preventing cold spots or uneven cooking. For summer barbecues, I’ve even brought it outdoors (with appropriate electrical safety, of course) for a quick grill without firing up the charcoal.
Why this feature is important: The Flex Zone directly addresses the problem of limited cooking space and versatility in small kitchens. It means you’re no longer restricted to traditional round pots. It expands your culinary possibilities, allowing you to use specialized cookware like rectangular griddle pans or large roasting dishes directly on the hob. This not only saves space by eliminating the need for separate appliances like electric grills but also ensures efficient heat transfer directly to the cookware, speeding up cooking and saving energy. It’s perfect for entertaining or preparing larger quantities of food without needing a huge multi-burner setup.
Rapid Heating & Pinpoint Temperature Control
The speed at which this Noxton Induction Hob heats up is genuinely astonishing. Coming from a traditional electric hob, where boiling water felt like an eternity, the instantaneous heat of induction has been a revelation. Under a second, and it’s on full power – truly remarkable.
How it performs: The 9 temperature settings are controlled with a smooth, responsive slider touch interface. A simple slide of my finger adjusts the heat precisely, from a gentle simmer to an intense boil. I’ve timed it; a litre of water typically comes to a rolling boil in under two minutes, which is faster than my old kettle! The flex zone itself can reach a peak of 2500W, providing ample power for searing and rapid cooking when needed. When I reduce the heat, the effect is immediate, akin to turning down a gas flame, allowing for incredible control over delicate sauces or preventing boil-overs. The separate strip design showing current power for each zone is a nice touch, offering visual confirmation of settings.
Why this feature is important: Fast heating saves an enormous amount of time in the kitchen, making daily cooking much more efficient and less frustrating. Precise temperature control is crucial for culinary success, preventing burned food or undercooked dishes. It empowers you to tackle more complex recipes with confidence, knowing you have granular control over the heat. This responsiveness also contributes to energy efficiency, as heat is generated directly in the pan, reducing wasted energy and cooling down quickly once turned off.
The Indispensable 99-Minute Timer Function
I used to be notorious for getting distracted and forgetting about pots on the hob, often leading to overcooked pasta or burned sauces. The built-in 99-minute timer on the Noxton Induction Hob has become an indispensable tool in my kitchen.
How it performs: Setting the timer is straightforward via the touch controls. I simply select the zone I want to time, adjust the minutes, and the hob automatically switches off that particular zone (or both if the entire unit is being timed) once the countdown completes. The display is clear and easy to read. This feature has given me the freedom to step away from the hob to attend to other tasks – chopping vegetables, setting the table, or even answering the door – without worrying about overcooking.
Why this feature is important: This timer function is a massive boon for convenience and safety. It provides peace of mind, allowing you to multi-task effectively without constant vigilance over your cooking. It ensures consistent results by preventing overcooking and significantly reduces the risk of accidental fires caused by forgotten pans. For busy individuals or those who like to manage their time efficiently in the kitchen, it’s a feature that truly elevates the cooking experience.
Ensuring Magnetic Cookware Compatibility
Induction hobs operate on the principle of electromagnetism, requiring specific types of cookware. The Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob is designed for all 12-18cm diameter cast iron, iron, enameled iron, and stainless steel pots and pans that have a magnetic bottom.
How it performs: I quickly checked my existing pots and pans with a simple magnet test (if a magnet sticks firmly to the bottom, it’s compatible). Most of my modern stainless steel and cast iron cookware worked perfectly. For the few non-magnetic items I had, I made a small investment in induction-compatible versions, which I consider well worth it for the benefits of induction cooking. The hob detects the pan’s presence instantly, and if a non-compatible pan is placed on it, it simply won’t heat, or will display an error, preventing wasted energy.
Why this feature is important: Understanding cookware compatibility upfront is vital for induction cooking. This feature ensures you’re using the right tools for the most efficient heat transfer, which is the core benefit of induction. It means energy is directed precisely to the pan, rather than heating the air around it, leading to faster cooking and lower energy consumption. The 12-18cm diameter recommendation helps guide users on optimal pan sizes for best performance.
Comprehensive Enhanced Safety Features
Safety in the kitchen is paramount, especially with children or pets around. The Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob incorporates several crucial safety mechanisms that have genuinely provided me with great peace of mind.
How it performs: The “Safety Lock” function is incredibly simple to activate, disabling the touch controls to prevent accidental activation. This is invaluable in my home, ensuring inquisitive little hands or paws don’t accidentally turn the hob on. The “automatic switch-off” function is another excellent safeguard; if a zone is left on for an extended period without user interaction or a pan, it will automatically shut down. Additionally, because induction only heats the pan and not the hob surface directly, the hob cools down remarkably quickly once a pan is removed, significantly reducing the risk of burns compared to traditional electric or ceramic hobs.
Why this feature is important: These safety features directly address common household hazards. The safety lock prevents children and pets from accidental burns or starting fires. The automatic switch-off prevents potential accidents from prolonged unattended heating, offering an extra layer of protection. While my experience with the hob has been overwhelmingly safe and reliable, it’s important to acknowledge a very rare, isolated report from a user of a unit malfunctioning, melting and emitting smoke after approximately 1.5 years of light use. This appears to be an extreme outlier, potentially a defective unit, given the vast majority of positive feedback on safety and performance. However, for due diligence, it’s a point worth noting. In typical operation, the safety mechanisms of the Noxton hob function reliably and provide considerable reassurance.
Streamlined Design & Effortless Installation
Finally, the sheer convenience and aesthetics of the Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob cannot be overstated. Its sleek, black glass surface blends seamlessly into any modern kitchen.
How it performs: Installation was surprisingly easy. As a plug-in hob, it connects directly to a standard 220V household electricity supply – no complex hardwiring needed unless you opt for a different model. My husband, who is moderately handy, was able to cut the appropriate size in our worktop, secure it with the provided clips, and drop it in place, then seal the edges with silicone sealant. Its slim profile, at just 44mm from the base of the glass, was a critical factor for us, allowing it to fit perfectly above our washing machine without clearance issues. The flat surface also means it can double as additional counter space when not in use, and cleaning is a breeze – a simple wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove spills, as food doesn’t burn onto the surface.
Why this feature is important: The plug-in design simplifies installation, making it accessible even for those who are not electricians, saving on installation costs. Its compact 30cm size and thin profile make it an ideal space-saving solution for smaller kitchens, RVs, or couple apartments where every inch counts. The smooth, flat surface not only contributes to a minimalist, modern aesthetic but also makes cleaning incredibly easy, saving time and effort. This combination of easy installation, compact design, and simple maintenance makes the Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob a highly practical and desirable kitchen appliance.
What Other Home Cooks Are Saying
Having scoured the internet, I’ve noticed a clear pattern in user feedback, which largely mirrors my own positive experience. Many individuals praise its efficient operation, stylish appearance, and intuitive touch controls, often noting how quickly it brings water to a boil and its overall rapid heating capabilities. Several users highlighted the ease of installation, particularly appreciating its slim design which allows it to fit into tighter spaces, making it a perfect upgrade from older portable units for small kitchens or apartments. The convenience of the timer function and the safety lock feature are frequently lauded for offering peace of mind and supporting multi-tasking. While the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, a few users did mention a slight fan noise or occasional squealing when both zones are on high power, and there was a very rare, isolated report of a serious malfunction involving melting and smoke. However, the general consensus remains that it offers excellent value for its price and performance, with many finding it an aesthetically pleasing and highly functional addition to their kitchen.
My Final Verdict
Ultimately, the problem of a cramped, inefficient, and potentially unsafe kitchen is one that needs to be addressed for the sake of daily convenience and peace of mind. Without a modern solution, you face continued frustration, wasted energy, and limited culinary creativity. The Noxton 2 Zone Induction Hob proves to be an outstanding fit for solving these issues.
Firstly, its compact 30cm size and remarkably thin profile make it an ideal space-saving solution for even the smallest kitchens, truly transforming how you utilize your counter space. Secondly, the combination of rapid heating, precise slider control, and the versatile Flex Zone means you get powerful and flexible cooking capabilities in a highly efficient package. Lastly, the comprehensive safety features, including the child lock and automatic switch-off, provide a level of security that allows you to cook with confidence. To explore this excellent kitchen upgrade further and see if it’s the right fit for your home, Click here to check it out .