Hong Kong’s Consumer Council has published a rigorous evaluation of 13 double-burner and full-surface induction cookers, warning that price alone is no guarantee of safety or efficiency. The findings from its Choice magazine issue 568 expose serious issues with heating speed, temperature distribution, and energy labelling that could affect everyday cooking and even pose fire hazards.
The council tested models priced between HK$3,680 and HK$21,300 from brands including German Pool, Panasonic, Whirlpool, Siemens, and Rasonic. Two units—the German Pool GIC-252DB and the Giggas GS-238D—failed a core test entirely, unable to heat cooking oil to 180°C within 45 minutes. The Panasonic KY-C223B also struggled, taking nearly 40 minutes to reach the target temperature, leaving barely enough time to fry a single batch of frozen chips. In contrast, 10 models completed the heating task within 13.7 to 25.3 minutes and successfully fried one to three portions.
Uneven Heating and Overheating Shutdowns
Heat distribution proved equally problematic. Five cookers produced unevenly browned pancakes during a simulated flatbread test, with darker centres indicating concentrated hotspots. The German Pool model triggered its automatic safety shutdown when the hob surface became excessively hot. All three full-surface induction models also showed inconsistent heat across their cooking zones, likely because heat must travel from separate coil areas to the centre, leaving the middle noticeably cooler than the ends.
Low-Power Cooking Falls Short
Nearly 70% of the cookers failed to meet the international standard IEC 60350-2 for low-heat control. In a test designed to melt chocolate gently, most units allowed oil temperatures to rise too quickly within the first 18 minutes, exceeding the required cap of 53°C. Only four models maintained the delicate temperature range needed for simmering soups or braising meat, which could disappoint cooks who rely on precise low-heat settings.
Energy Labels Mislead Consumers
Energy performance was another major concern. Five cookers operated at an energy efficiency level one grade lower than their labels stated. The Rasonic RIC-S44E was particularly egregious: labelled as Grade 2, it registered Grade 5 because its standby power consumption exceeded 2 watts. Across all models, standby power ranged from a negligible 0.13 watts to a wasteful 2.28 watts. The council has forwarded the results to the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department for further action.
What Consumers Should Do
To reduce risks, the Consumer Council recommends using a dedicated power socket for induction cookers, since they draw high current. Always check the ceramic surface for cracks before use, and do not disconnect the power immediately after cooking—let the internal fan cool the appliance down to protect internal components and extend its lifespan.
This test shows that the most expensive induction cooker is not necessarily the best or safest. Consumers should look beyond price and brand, prioritising verified heat control and genuine energy labels. The council’s full comparison list provides a reliable starting point for anyone planning a purchase, alongside its broader safety and energy-saving advice.
For related reading, see the Consumer Council’s tests on bottled water, cooking oils, and meal replacement products.