Jenn-Air vs Thermador Induction Cooktop

Darin Busey, Appliance Specialist

Posted on May 14th, 2020

Induction cooking technology has changed the way we use a cooktop. Before we dive into comparing two of the most popular 36” induction models, let’s start with what induction is. Induction elements are a coil of copper wire located under the glass cooking surface similar to a conventional cooking burner. The coils have an alternating electric current that passes through them to create a magnetic field which excites the molecules of your feral pan, creating the heat source. Different from a conventional electric cooktop, it is the pan, not the glass surface, that cooks the food. Using a magnetic field that only heats the pan provides many benefits, including instant response and adjustment, energy efficiency, and easy cleanability. Now we’d like to call-out a few of our favorite features of our two most popular JennAir and Thermador models.

JennAir Induction Cooktop (JIC4536XS)

The JennAir JIC4536XS Induction Cooktop offers precise temperature control and heats up more quickly than a traditional gas cooktop. This unit features the industry's most powerful induction element. It will quickly bring water to a boil and alerts you with a beep when it reaches the boiling point. Five induction elements, in a variety of sizes to match your cookware. The melt function is available on all five elements which allows you to cook gently at minimal power for delicate sauces and liquids.

Thermador Induction Cooktop (CIT367XMS)

The Thermador CIT367XMS Induction Cooktop offers 3 Large Cooking Zones with five burners. The unit features 3 different power levels by just moving the pan across the cooking surface from zone to zone. The Teppanyaki feature lets you cook with very little oil. This is great for searing and browning. A Wi-Fi home connection using Alexa or Google Assistant can control your cooktop via your smartphone. This model also comes in three different finishes. While both induction cooktops offer many comparable features, the Thermador Induction Cooktop offers more features than the JennAir model with excellent flexibility and heat shift model. Essentially you can cook rice by automatically setting your temperature to 9 which will boil the water then 6 to cook and then finally to 1 to simmer.

Both models are excellent contenders if you’re looking for a 36” cooktop. Check out these two models below and call our appliance specialists to answer your induction questions today.