One-pan batch cooks
If the poaching pan is your only cooking task, look at single-zone models with adjustable settings. Judge and Innoteck list compact induction options, but your pan must be induction-compatible.
Who needs which setup?
Two-pan batch cooks
If you need to heat syrup or another component alongside the pears, a double unit provides a separate zone. Measure the clear worktop space before choosing one.
Cooks keeping their existing pans
If your poaching vessel is non-magnetic, induction may rule it out. Wilko states that the Quest double ceramic infrared hot plate works with steel, glass and ceramic cookware; check that your particular pan sits flat and stable.
What matters when choosing a hob?
Start with the pan and the number of zones you need, then compare the available heat controls and the space and electrical setup each appliance requires.
Single induction
Choose when: One suitable pan will handle the poaching, with no simultaneous second cooking task.
Trade-off: It cannot heat a second pan, and the base must meet the model’s induction requirements.
Twin-zone induction
Choose when: You need to heat a separate pan while the pears poach.
Trade-off: Both pans must be induction-compatible, and the wider appliance needs more clear worktop space.
Double ceramic infrared
Choose when: Two heating areas and continued use of suitable non-magnetic cookware are priorities.
Trade-off: Check the lower settings against your intended gentle simmer; Wilko lists 100°C as the minimum adjustment for the Quest double model.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Gentle heat control | Compare the lowest setting, adjustment steps and timer behaviour; maximum wattage alone does not establish simmer control. | If I am keeping one pan of pears at a gentle poach, I need heat I can adjust without relying on maximum output. Around 42% of consumers put heat control first. |
| Pan and zone fit | Check induction compatibility and pan-base dimensions, or whether a second heating zone is needed. | If I want to keep my current poaching pan or cook in another pan alongside it, those choices determine which format I can use. Around 33% of consumers place pan and zone fit first. |
| Space and power setup | Measure a stable, clear worktop position and check the hob’s electrical rating against the intended socket or lead arrangement. | In a small or temporary cooking space, I need the hob to fit and a suitable way to power it. Around 25% of consumers prioritise space and power setup. |
Common buying mistakes
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Assuming every poaching pan works on induction
A non-magnetic pan may not activate an induction hob. Judge specifies magnetisable cookware and says a pan base under 12 cm is unsuitable for its JEA90.
Test the base with a magnet and compare its diameter with the requirements of the exact hob.
Keeping an unsuitable pan may mean needing a separate induction-compatible poaching pan.
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Buying a double hob without measuring the worktop
Two zones allow a second pan, but the Judge double induction model measures 55.0 × 33.0 cm, while Quest lists its double ceramic infrared model at 47.2 × 27.0 cm.
Measure a stable position with room for pan handles and the clearances specified in the appliance instructions.
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Using maximum wattage as a simmer guide
A high maximum output does not tell you how a hob behaves at its lower settings.
Compare the published settings and control type, then watch a trial batch to find a gentle poach rather than a rolling boil.
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Overloading an extension lead
Electrical Safety First warns that overloaded leads and wound cable reels can overheat.
Check the lead’s marked rating and the appliances connected to it. Do not daisy-chain extensions, and fully unwind a cable reel before use.
Brands to consider for this task
Judge
Single and double induction options for choosing between one-pan cooking and a separate second zone.
- Judge lists 10 temperatures from 60°C to 240°C for its single JEA90.
- Judge requires magnetisable cookware for induction and specifies a minimum 12 cm pan base for the JEA90.
Innoteck
A single portable induction option where a compact setup and timer matter.
- Innoteck lists eight presets and a 24-hour preset timer for the DS-5503.
- Its induction hob requires cookware with a ferromagnetic base.
Quest
A double ceramic infrared option for two heating areas and suitable non-magnetic cookware.
- Wilko states that the Quest double model works with steel, glass and ceramic cookware.
- Wilko lists its adjustment range as 100°C to 600°C; check whether the available lower settings suit your poaching method.
Lakeland
Its Smart Touch Induction Hob illustrates why published pan-size guidance is useful when comparing models.
- Lakeland specifies pan bases from 12 to 26 cm for this model.
- Lakeland identifies the model as discontinued, so it is not a current purchase option.
Single-zone induction hobs on Joybuy
These portable induction choices are for poaching in one compatible pan. Compare their controls and pan requirements with your recipe and setup; a listed temperature range does not establish how steadily a hob holds a gentle poach.
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IAGREEA DF200-14V10 portable induction hob
Consider this for one-pan poaching if your magnetic pan has a flat base within the listed 12–26 cm range.
The product name specifies 2,000 W, eight power levels, settings from 60°C to 270°C, seven presets and a timer of up to three hours.
Check the appliance’s footprint and electrical connection against your setup, and do not assume its listed settings guarantee a steady gentle poach.
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ochama 2,000 W portable induction hob
Consider this for a single magnetic poaching pan if you want touch controls in a portable format.
The product name specifies 10 power settings, six functions and a safety lock.
Before choosing it for a long, gentle poach, check the compatible pan-base size, lower heat settings, timer behaviour, footprint and electrical connection.
Questions before you buy
Will my existing pear-poaching pan work on induction?
It will need an induction-compatible base that fits the particular hob. Judge’s JEA90 instructions require magnetisable cookware and rule out bases under 12 cm; test the base with a magnet and measure it rather than the pan’s rim.
Is ceramic infrared worth considering for a glass or ceramic pan?
Yes, if keeping that pan is a priority and it suits the appliance. Wilko says the Quest double ceramic infrared hot plate works with glass and ceramic cookware; also check that your pan sits flat and stable and that the available heat settings suit your poach.
Can I use a portable hob with an extension lead?
Only use a lead and arrangement suitable for the hob’s electrical load. Electrical Safety First advises against overloading or daisy-chaining extension leads and says cable reels must be fully unwound for their rated load; check everything connected to the lead before cooking.
What support should I check before ordering?
Check the exact model’s guarantee, seller and returns terms rather than assuming different hobs have the same cover. Judge lists a two-year electrical guarantee for its JEA90, but that model-specific term should not be applied to other products.