What are the "usability" charecteristics that matter most to you? We have a Bosch series Benchmark series that we're pleased with. I wanted one that could bridge hobs so as to accommodate a griddle, and this has one. Turns out we rarely use it though.

The expensive Thermador Freedom cooktops have the unique, single-element design that allows you to put pots anywhere on the surface rather than in designated locations. Do you require that feature? If not...

1. What size (30" or 36")?
2. Digital controls or physical knobs?
3. A control for each element or shared?
4. Bridge element required?

The $4100 Thermador Masterpiece (formerly Heritage) CIT365BB differs little from the $3000 Bosch NIT8661UC.

Miele zoneless KM 8000 series models.are announced as launching in N.America in May. They have been selling in other markets for over 5 years through model developments. So not a new product. You can test one at a Miele experience center. They were shown at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Orlando mid February. Not yet on the US site, the KM 8000 models are listed as new for Spring 2026 release on the German site.

If Miele zoneless works to evenly heat the whole surface of larger 14" pan and griddles the functionality will surpass other coil configuration by a lot for those uses.

The $2700 LG Studio CBIS3618BE has a 6000 watt(!) boost element and, based on the user manual, has controls that appear pretty easy to use. Like my LG range, it also has a row of lights adjacent to each induction element that indicates that element's power level.

What is your definition of "easy to use?"

I used to have a thermador CIT365KM and it was super easy to use and intuititve. The Freedom power level scroller is not easiest to use. The touch sensitivity feels a little inconsistent—the digital 'roller' doesn't seem to track finger movements smoothly. I haave a friend that has one and after 6 months she still struggles.

"I used to have a thermador CIT365KM and it was super easy to use..."

The LG Studio CBIS3618BE has a very similar design: (1) select an induction element and (2) set the power level. The LG's is actually somewhat better than that of your old Thermador as the arrangement of the element controls on the panel closely resembles the arrangement of the actual cooktop elements.