By Himank Tripathi
New Delhi [India], October 24 (ANI): When evaluating kitchen tech, I usually look for appliances that prioritize function and understated design over flashy gimmicks. I recently spent time testing two electric cooktops that fit exactly into this category: the Wonderchef Evita Infrared Cooktop and the Philips Viva Collection Induction Cooktop. Let me tell you all about both models and if they proved to be highly reliable daily drivers or not.
Wonderchef Evita Infrared Electric Cooktop 2200W:
While induction cooktops are fantastic for speed, they come with a significant caveat: they require specific magnetic cookware. This is where the Wonderchef Evita Infrared Electric Cooktop steps in to solve a very practical problem. Over my testing period, the Evita proved its worth not just in raw power, but in versatility, earning its place on the countertop as a highly adaptable appliance.
The most significant advantage of this infrared cooktop is its universal cookware compatibility. I can use all sorts utensils like traditional cast-iron skillets, ceramic pots, standard aluminum pans, or stainless steel vessels. I tested it with various non-induction pots while preparing authentic Sichuan and Cantonese vegetarian dishes, and the heat distribution was consistently even and intensely powerful. I think the 2200W heating element is the star here that offers rapid heat transfer, which is essential for achieving proper high-heat searing in a home kitchen setting.
From a design perspective, the Wonderchef Evita leans into a more industrial, robust aesthetic. It has a sturdy stainless steel frame complete with side handles and this makes it quite portable and easy to shift around the kitchen. I could even take outdoors for a patio setup. The top surface is a 4mm crystal glass that feels durable and resists heat stress remarkably well. This one utilizes advanced sensor touch controls with an LED display. The touch interface is highly responsive, easy to read, and adds a modern, premium feels to the unit.
That’s not all as Wonderchef has added a dedicated stainless steel barbecue grill. It adds an unexpected layer of versatility for roasting vegetables or grilling directly over the heat source. Internally, there’s a built-in cooling fan that works continuously to prevent the system from overheating during prolonged, heavy-duty cooking sessions. Plus, the auto cut-off technology makes it energy efficient as it shuts this cooktop down when not in active use. It is a solid, adaptable workhorse that bridges the gap between traditional and modern cooking methods without missing a beat.
My Rating: 4/5
Philips Viva Collection 2100-Watt Induction Cooktop:
The Philips Viva Collection 2100-Watt Induction Cooktop reflects the idea that sometimes, simpler is better. Having tested this unit over the past few weeks, it has proven to be a reliable appliance that can handle daily cooking without demanding too much attention or maintenance from my end.
One of the standout aspects of this cooktop is its straightforward, no-nonsense interface. Today, when almost every product is moving toward capacitive touchscreens, this cooktop retains tactile push buttons and I like that a lot. In a practical kitchen environment where I can have wet or oily hands, physical buttons offer a level of intuitive, fail-safe control that flat screens often lack. I know exactly when I've registered a command, which makes operating it feel precise and deliberate.
The cooktop has a sleek black crystal glass surface that not only looks minimal and elegant but is also incredibly easy to wipe clean after I’m done with my messy cooking session. Under the hood, the 2100W power heats up pans almost instantaneously, dramatically cutting down the time it takes to boil water or get oil up to temperature. For someone who values efficiency, I find this rapid heating a major plus.
You also get preset menus. While manual control is always an option, these presets genuinely take the guesswork out of standard routines by adjusting the temperature dynamically. Safety is also well-addressed. It relies on magnetic induction technology, so the ceramic surface itself doesn't get dangerously hot which makes it a much safer alternative to traditional gas stoves. It also features an automatic shut-off function and ROHS compliance, ensuring peace of mind if I’m accidentally stepped away. Overall, it’s a focused, highly practical piece of hardware that delivers exactly what it promises without overcomplicating the cooking process.
My Rating: 4/5
In The End:
Both units are highly capable and deliver on their briefs. If you prefer rapid, traditional induction heating and simple push-button reliability, the Philips model is ideal. If you want the flexibility to use any flat-bottom cookware along with sleek touch controls, the Wonderchef is the better pick. They do exactly what they claim without unnecessary complications, so pick one as per your preference as they won’t disappoint you. With the festive season right here, either of these cooktops makes for a fantastic upgrade to help you tackle those elaborate celebratory meals with ease.
(Disclaimer: Himank Tripathi is an expert in the fields of consumer technology, lifestyle and auto. Views shared are personal.) (ANI)
Review of Philips and Wonderchef Cooktops: The perfect festive season kitchen upgrades?
