Ali Hashemian, Ph.D.
**Samsung NZ30A3060UK/AA 30-Inch Induction Cooktop Review**
The Samsung NZ30A3060UK/AA 30-inch induction cooktop truly lives up to the hype, delivering excellent performance overall. The glass surface is easy to clean, and it effectively heats only the area under the pan while keeping neighboring spaces cool—a standard feature in modern induction cooktops.
This model features a variety of element sizes: a small 6-inch element on the right, which is somewhat limited in use due to its size; a powerful 11-inch center element; and two 7-inch elements on the left. The 11-inch center can ramp up to 3700 W in boost mode, although activating boost mode is not possible when multiple elements are in use.
The fan is impressively quiet, blending into the background of typical kitchen sounds. However, the touch controls can be challenging to manage. There is a single slider bar for temperature adjustments, which offers 15 settings—more than most budget-friendly models but fewer than the pricier units, which often have about 17 settings. To adjust the temperature on a specific element, you must first select that element and then use the slider. This system works well when cooking with a single element, but it can lead to confusion and accidental adjustments when multiple elements are active, especially since even non-metal objects can inadvertently change the settings.
The center element is frequently used due to its size, which is more accommodating for a variety of pots and pans. In contrast, the 7-inch elements are generally too small for anything larger than small 8-inch omelette pans. Nonetheless, I have successfully used a 10-inch pan on the 7-inch element, which is adequate for heat distribution thanks to the pan's design—most pans are sold by their top diameter, but have a smaller base.
For those new to induction cooking, the speed at which water boils on this cooktop is remarkable—often in less than a minute.
After testing several more expensive cooktops, we decided on this Samsung model for its balance of features and cost-efficiency. It performs excellently for its price range and is a worthy consideration for any kitchen.
However, the Wi-Fi feature is disappointingly limited, serving only to indicate whether the unit is on or off, with no remote control functionality. This stands in stark contrast to the Bosch 8000 series cooktop, where the Wi-Fi offers extensive controls that surpass even the local controls on the device. Additionally, it would have been beneficial to have a second larger element—for example, another 9-inch element to complement the existing 11-inch center element, as well as the smaller 7-inch and 6-inch elements.
**Comparison with Bosch 8000 Series:** Compared to the Bosch 8000 series induction cooktop, the Samsung model performs equally well in every aspect except for the Wi-Fi functionality. Given the substantial price difference, with the Samsung priced at $1000 versus $3000 for the Bosch, the Samsung cooktop represents an excellent value.
The reasons I give it four stars are because of useless Wi-Fi, and lack of a second 9 inch element.
On a side note, if you are new to induction cooking, be prepared to invest in new cookware. You'll soon discover that many products marketed as induction-compatible fall short of expectations. Most "induction-compatible" cooktops feature merely a metal plate affixed to the base, enabling conductivity to magnetic fields. However, the diameter of this plate often falls short of the pan's full width, leading to ineffective conduction along the edges. Additionally, many so-called induction-ready pans have the manufacturer's stamp embedded in the metal at the center, rendering them incompatible with induction in those specific areas. As a result, you may find that the pan does not produce heat properly at the center or around the edges, about an inch inward.
| Brand Name | SAMSUNG |
|---|---|
| Model Info | NZ30A3060UK/AA |
| Item Weight | 43.2 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 21 x 30 x 4.25 inches |
| Country of Origin | Thailand |
| Item model number | NZ30A3060UK/AA |
| Installation Type | Built-In |
| Part Number | NZ30A3060UK/AA |
| Special Features | Wi-Fi Connectivity, Power Boost Mode |
| Burner type | Induction |
| Heating Elements | 4 |
| Color | Black Stainless Steel |
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
| Wattage | 1500 watts |
| Fuel type | Electric |
| Included Components | Cooktop |
| Batteries Required? | No |