For creamy leeks cooked in one pan, start with a portable single-zone induction hob that offers manual low-heat control and fits your available worktop. Consider two zones if you regularly cook another pan at the same time; either way, check that your pans meet the exact hob’s induction and size requirements.
If one saucepan is enough and the hob needs to go away between meals, look at a single-zone model’s full dimensions and low-power controls. Tefal and Judge both describe portable single-zone induction models with controls worth comparing for this use.
For softening leeks and finishing a creamy sauce, compare the stated lower end of each model’s manual power or temperature settings. Tefal lists manual power settings for its Everyday Slim IH210840, while Judge lists selectable temperatures for its JEA90.
If another pan often needs heating alongside the leeks, a portable two-zone model may be useful. Measure the space it will occupy and check both pans against its cookware requirements; CIARRA describes the CUTIH2-OW as a two-zone option.
Choose it when: Creamy leeks are usually a one-pan dish and worktop or storage space is tight.
Trade-off: Cooking another component at the same time needs a separate cooking area.
Choose it when: You regularly need a second pan running alongside the leeks.
Trade-off: Allow more worktop space, and check how the model manages power when both zones are in use.
| Concern | Buying checks | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Worktop and storage space | Measure the full appliance and the clear space needed around it, then check where it can be stored when cool. Judge lists the JEA90 at 31 cm by 27 cm by 5 cm. | If I have to clear the counter after cooking, the hob must fit both my cooking space and its storage spot; around 36% of consumers put footprint and storage first. |
| Gentle heat control | Compare the lowest stated manual setting and how it is adjusted. Tefal lists 300 W to 2100 W manual control for the IH210840; Judge lists ten selectable settings from 60°C to 240°C for the JEA90. | To soften leeks and finish a creamy sauce, I want to be able to turn the heat down rather than choose by maximum output; around 36% of consumers prioritise gentle control. |
| Two pans and cookware | Check the number of zones, the stated pan-base sizes and magnetic compatibility. For two-zone models, check the total rated power and instructions for simultaneous use. | When I cook leeks alongside another dish, I need room for both pans and cookware that works on the hob; around 28% of consumers put two-pan use and pan compatibility first. |
A pan needs a suitable magnetic base and must meet the model’s size requirements. Judge’s JEA90 manual excludes pan bases under 12 cm; other models may specify different limits.
Test the intended pan’s base with a magnet and compare its diameter with the exact hob’s instructions before ordering.
If your existing pans are incompatible, you may need suitable cookware.
A high maximum setting does not tell you how the hob adjusts at the lower end when you are finishing a creamy dish.
Compare manual settings and timer operation on the models you are considering. Tefal lists 300 W to 2100 W manual control for the IH210840; Judge lists a 60°C to 240°C selectable range for the JEA90.
A second cooking area helps only if the appliance leaves enough usable preparation space on your worktop.
Measure the appliance, cable route and surrounding space before choosing two zones. If you normally use one pan, compare single-zone dimensions as well.
A plug shape alone cannot establish that an appliance is suitable or safe to use. A 2025 Office for Product Safety and Standards report identified a particular induction cooker presenting a serious fire risk; it does not describe every portable hob.
Choose a model intended for UK use from a traceable seller, follow its rating information and instructions, and inspect the plug and lead. Stop using the appliance if you notice burn marks, a hot plug or repeated circuit trips.
Tefal’s Everyday Slim IH210840 is a portable single-zone induction model to compare when storage space and manual control matter.
Judge’s JEA90 is a portable single-zone option for cooks who want to compare selectable temperature settings.
CIARRA describes portable single-zone and two-zone induction models; the two-zone CUTIH2-OW is relevant if another pan often needs heating alongside the leeks.
It will need a suitable magnetic base and a diameter within the exact hob’s stated range. Judge’s JEA90 manual excludes bases under 12 cm, while Tefal specifies induction pans from 12 cm to 26 cm for the IH210840. Check your pan against the model you intend to buy.
One zone is enough when you cook the leeks in a single pan and do not need another pan heating at the same time. Compare the lower manual settings for controlling the heat: Tefal lists 300 W to 2100 W for the IH210840, while Judge lists selectable temperatures from 60°C to 240°C for the JEA90.
Check that the exact model is supplied for UK mains use and follow its rating information and instructions. CIARRA describes the CUTIH2-OW as a two-zone model supplied with a standard UK three-pin 13A plug; that description does not establish the connection arrangements for other portable hobs.
Give the appliance the clear space required by its instructions and keep the lead away from the cooking area and sink. Electrical Safety First advises against leaving electrical appliances on and unattended. If the plug or socket becomes hot, shows burn marks or repeatedly trips a circuit, stop using the hob and seek appropriate help.
Yes—read the instructions for the exact hob and seek appropriate professional advice before use. Lakeland says its Smart Touch Induction Hob is not suitable for someone with a pacemaker; that model-specific warning should not be assumed to describe every induction hob.