One-pot stock makers short on space
If you can put your hob away after cooking, a single-zone induction model is worth considering. Check that your stockpot has a magnetic base and fits the model’s stated pan range.
Who is this for?
Cooks keeping an existing stockpot
If replacing a non-magnetic stockpot is out of the question, consider a conventional electric hob rather than assuming the pot will work on induction.
Cooks who need a second pan
If another saucepan must be in use while stock simmers, a two-plate hob offers a second cooking position that a single-zone model cannot provide.
What matters when choosing?
Start with your stockpot and the number of pans you need to use, then check whether the hob fits your cooking and storage space.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Worktop and storage space | Measure a stable cooking area with room for the pot handles and cable, then check the hob’s stored dimensions. | If I need the worktop back after cooking, where the hob will go afterwards matters as much as where it sits during use. Around 31% of consumers put space and storage first. |
| Gentle simmering | Check the lower settings, manual controls and how any timer or cooking programme ends. | For a long stock simmer, I need control once the liquid is hot rather than just a high maximum setting; around 31% of consumers prioritise simmer control. |
| Stockpot compatibility | For induction, test the pot base with a magnet and compare its diameter with the chosen model’s stated range. | If I want to keep my current stockpot, I need to establish whether it will work before choosing induction. Keeping existing cookware comes first for around 25% of consumers. |
| Cooking with two pans | Decide whether one zone is enough; if not, check the usable space and instructions for a two-plate hob. | When stock occupies one position, I may still need another saucepan for the meal. Around 13% of consumers put two-pan capacity first. |
What should you avoid?
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Buying induction before checking the stockpot
An induction hob requires a magnetic-base pot, and the base must fit the chosen model’s stated pan range.
Test your pot with a magnet and measure its base before ordering. If it is non-magnetic and you want to keep it, compare conventional electric hobs.
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Choosing by maximum power alone
A maximum power rating does not tell you how the hob behaves at the lower settings you would use for simmering stock.
Check the manual settings and whether a timer or automatic programme could stop cooking before you expect it to.
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Using whichever surface has space
A portable hob still needs a suitable place to operate. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service advises stable, heat-resistant placement, cables clear of water and hot surfaces, and supervision while cooking.
Clear a stable cooking area before starting and follow the instructions for the particular hob.
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Overlooking the plug and product instructions
A 2025 Office for Product Safety and Standards report identified a particular induction cooker with a serious fire risk linked to its plug fuse link. That report does not describe every portable hob.
Buy from a traceable seller, inspect the plug and cable, follow the supplied instructions and check current product-safety alerts when a product or seller is unfamiliar.
Brands to consider
Tefal
Tefal’s portable single-zone induction models include the Everyday Slim IH210840.
- Tefal UK states that the Everyday Slim IH210840 is 45 mm thick, has power levels from 300 W to 2100 W and takes induction pans measuring 12 cm to 26 cm.
- Your stockpot must be induction-compatible and fit the stated pan range; check the controls on the exact model you choose.
IKEA
The one-zone TILLREDA is a portable induction option to compare when worktop and storage space are limited.
- IKEA UK states that TILLREDA measures 27 cm by 30.5 cm by 6.2 cm and has one 2000 W induction zone.
- IKEA specifies magnetic-base cookware; check your stockpot before choosing this model.
Russell Hobbs
The 15199 Mini Hob provides a conventional electric, two-plate option for cooks who want a second cooking position.
- Russell Hobbs UK describes the Mini Hob as having two ceramic plates, so a stockpot need not occupy its only cooking position.
- Check the appliance’s overall footprint, cookware instructions and low-heat controls for your intended use.
Judge
Judge’s portable induction range is another route to consider if you want an induction hob.
- Judge explains that induction heats cookware capable of being magnetised.
- Confirm the dimensions, supported pot size and simmer controls for the exact Judge model before buying.
Joybuy product choices
This portable induction option is relevant if you plan to make stock in one magnetic-base pot. Check the pot fit, storage dimensions and lower-setting behaviour against your needs before choosing it.
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ochama 2000 W Portable Induction Hob, 10 Power Settings
Consider this single-pot induction option if your stockpot has a magnetic base; check the supported pot size and lower-setting behaviour for a long simmer.
The product title states 2000 W, 10 power settings, six functions, touch controls, a glass panel and a safety lock. Measure your available worktop and storage space before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Will my stockpot work on a portable induction hob?
It will work only if its base is magnetic and it fits the chosen hob’s pan-size requirements. Test the base with a magnet; Tefal UK states a 12 cm to 26 cm induction-pan range for the Everyday Slim IH210840.
Is a 2000 W or 2100 W induction hob suitable for simmering stock?
It can be, provided the particular model gives you a suitable lower setting and controls for the time you need. Tefal UK states that the Everyday Slim IH210840 has power levels from 300 W to 2100 W; check how its settings and timer operate rather than choosing on maximum power alone.
Where should I put a portable hob in a small kitchen?
Put it on a stable surface suitable for the appliance and leave room to keep the cable clear of water and hot areas. IKEA instructs TILLREDA users to choose a flat, stable surface, while Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service advises heat-resistant placement and not leaving cooking unattended.