Induction Cooktops:  Magnetic Attraction

• Gaggenau

• Two six-inch 1,400 watt cook zones, one eleven-inch 2,400 watt zone, and one eight inch 2,200 watt zone.
• Power-boost feature boosts zone output by 50%.
• Frying sensor detects special cookware and automatically regulates frying temperature.
• Memory function stores temperature settings in case of accidental shut-offs.

• $3,000 to $4,000.
• Pricing as of 2012.

• CI 481 30-Inch Induction Cooktop

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Unlike burners on an electric stove, the four induction zones don't get hot – heat is transferred directly to cookware using an electromagnetic field. Small pots can be used on large cook zones with no ambient heat loss, and spilled food won't burn on into a bulletproof patina as it does on electric burner glass-tops.

Each burner zone can be set to an exact temperature so delicate sauces never come to a boil and oil for frying stays at a consistent temperature. The power boost function allows any burner's output to be boosted by 50 percent to give you up to 3,600 watts of power for quick boiling or high-heat searing. The manufacturer compares the fast boiling times and precise temperature control to that of a gas cooktop.

For cooks particularly attached to certain heirloom pots and pans, it is important to note that like any induction cooktop, this one requires special (magnetic) cookware.