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What kitchen appliances do you need?

    22/06/2026

    8 min.

Kitchen appliances are more than just functional gadgets – they make everyday tasks easier, save time and help make cooking more enjoyable. But which kitchen appliances do you really need? And what’s the most important thing to look out for when buying? Our guide has the answers. 

Key points at a glance:

    A hob, extractor hood, oven and fridge form the basis of every kitchen.

    Standalone devices offer maximum flexibility in planning.

    Modern hob extractors mean less noise and an unobstructed view, without bulky hoods.

    Energy efficiency, materials, range of functions, noise levels and budget are the key factors for long-term satisfaction.

    Additional appliances such as a food processor, coffee machine, vacuum sealer or wine fridge are worth investing in if you use them regularly.

    When it comes to professional-grade appliances, paying a higher price is worth it if the appliance sparks your creativity, saves you time and takes your enjoyment to a whole new level.

What basic kitchen appliances are essential?

The basic equipment consists of four devices that are used frequently or on a continuous basis: Hob, oven, a hob extractor and highly efficient refrigerators. These appliances form the basis for convenient, health-conscious and enjoyable cooking.

    Cooktop Which option is right for you?

    The hob not only defines the look of the kitchen, but also the way you prepare food. These three technologies are used most frequently:

     

    • Induction: Hobs featuring this technology are precise and highly energy-efficient. Electromagnetic fields heat only the ferromagnetic cookware; the surface remains cool. When you start frying a steak, you’ll notice straight away: The cookware heats up in no time at all, and the temperature can be controlled with great precision. 
    • Gas: The gas hob uses an open flame, so you can control the temperature straight away. This is ideal for anyone who likes to cook and fry intuitively. 

     

    • Radiant electric hob: The glass-ceramic hob with heating coils or heating elements – often referred to as Ceran® – takes time to heat up, so the heat is not immediately available. Compared with induction, the temperature does not respond as quickly to adjustments. 

     

    As well as these classic hob types, there are other additions, such as a Tepan stainless steel grill, which allow you to expand your culinary horizons.

      BORA hobs

      Stylish, bespoke functionality

      BORA hobs are designed to meet your individual needs. We offer a wide range of hob types, combined with innovative hob extractors. Here’s how to find the system architecture that’s just right for you.

      Oven: freestanding or built-in?

      The oven and hob can be planned either separately or as a combined unit. The oven and hob can be planned either separately or as a combined unit. The choice between a stand-alone unit and a combined solution depends on the layout of the room and your comfort requirements:

       

      • The self-contained oven can be positioned flexibly and ergonomically in the kitchen. The controls are separate from the hob and are conveniently positioned at eye level. The freestanding hob can be positioned as desired and, for example, integrated into a kitchen island. 

       

      • In an oven-hob combination, the two appliances form a functional unit with a central control panel located on the front panel of the cooker. The oven is situated beneath the hob. 

      BORA consistently focuses on stand-alone hobs and ovens, as these allow for particularly flexible kitchen planning and support personalised workflows. When it comes to technology and function, however, the concept of combination is fundamental to us: This is how you can perfect your cooking results with a professional steam oven such as the BORA X BO. This appliance combines a steam cooker and an oven, and its automatic and special programmes ensure maximum cooking precision: Fresh ingredients retain their flavour, nutrients and colour to the full. Healthy cooking becomes a natural part of everyday life, with the utmost convenience. 

        BORA X BO

        The professional steam oven for the home

        An extremely user-friendly touch display combined with innovative steam and hot air technology. Discover the advantages of the BORA steam oven. 

        Cooktop extractor: What does modern extraction technology offer?

        A powerful hob extractor ensures fresh air and a clear view in the kitchen. In open-plan kitchens in particular, this is essential for you to feel at home. The traditional cooker hood is being replaced by modern extraction systems, which integrate more effectively into the room, both aesthetically and practically. They are recessed directly into the hob, so they do not obstruct the view, take up less space and operate very quietly. This is a subtle way of neutralising cooking fumes (vapours).  

        The intelligent BORA cooktop extractor systems filter fumes and grease particles from the air right where they are produced: at the hob. A wide range of options allows you to customise your hob and extractor to suit your exact requirements. BORA cooktop extractors are available either

         

         

          BORA cooktop extractors

          With recirculation or exhaust mode

          Modular and compact systems – all BORA cooktop extractor systems at a glance

          Refrigeration and freezing – combined or separate?

          A fridge and a freezer are essential for storing fresh and frozen food. They are in constant use and are used every day. That is why the decision between two separate appliances or a fridge-freezer combination needs to be given particular thought.

          • Separate individual units offer larger households more capacity. Please choose the size that best matches your actual needs. An oversized fridge can lead to higher energy consumption than is actually necessary.

           

          • A fridge-freezer saves space and is a practical all-round solution for many households. Side-by-side models offer maximum capacity for large households. The fridge and freezer compartments are arranged side by side here; as a handy extra, a water and ice dispenser is often built in.

           

          BORA’s high-quality fridge and freezer systems are characterised by separate cooling circuits and innovative recirculating air cooling. This ensures your food is stored under optimal conditions and prevents odours from transferring.

            BORA fridges and fridge-freezer combinations

            Effective cooling in a smart design

            High-quality materials, state-of-the-art technologies and well-thought-out details: Discover BORA’s innovations in refrigeration. 

            Dishwasher: Save valuable time

            Nowadays, a dishwasher is no longer a luxury, but an essential part of any modern kitchen. It saves your most precious asset: Time. Modern appliances are gentle on your crockery, operate quietly and blend discreetly into your kitchen décor. There are two ways to do this:

             

            • Built-in dishwashers are essential for aseamlesskitchen design. 

             

            • Freestanding dishwashers can be positioned flexiblyand may be an optioninrented flats. 

             

            In any case, make sure that the dishwasher has a good energy efficiency rating, that its capacity suits your typical amount of washing-up, and that it is quiet. Additional programmes such as intensive cleaning, automatic programmes or quick cycles can make the machine easier to use. 

            What criteria should you consider when buying kitchen appliances?

            Good kitchen appliances make all the difference between cooking as a chore and cooking as a passion. When making a purchase, pay particular attention to the following five criteria to ensure you get long-term enjoyment from the equipment: 

             

            • Energy efficiency and environmental friendliness: The EU energy label is the decisive factor. Classes A and B save a considerable amount of electricity in the long term. That’s good for your budget and for the climate. 

             

            • Material and design: Stainless steel, glass-ceramic and high-quality plastics are durable and blend stylishly into your kitchen décor.  

             

            • Performance and features: Self-cleaning programmes, special automatic washing programmes and smart sensors are features that offer you real added value in everyday life. 

             

            • volume Operating noise is particularly relevant in open-plan kitchens. The fridge, dishwasher and cooker hood should produce less than 44 dB. That’s the equivalent of a quiet conversation. 

             

            • Budget: Basic kitchen appliances are used for many years. Investing in good quality pays off. With specialist equipment, the frequency of use determines the price range. 

              What other kitchen appliances would be useful for me?

              Depending on your lifestyle and needs, additional kitchen appliances may be added to the basic set-up. Ask yourself whether you would miss the following devices in your day-to-day life – this will help you decide whether to buy them:

               

              ProductBenefits
              Food processorWhen baking or preparing elaborate meals, a food processor saves you a lot of manual work, such as chopping, grating, kneading or stirring. Models with a heating function can melt, steam and boil – giving you even more time for other tasks.
              Coffee machineYou can choose between a fully automatic machine, a filter coffee machine or an elegant built-in model: Choose according to your taste, kitchen design and budget. 
              MicrowaveVery handy for quick reheating. Models with a grill and hot-air function can broaden the range of uses. 
              Specialist appliancesHigh-performance blenders, steam cookers, rice cookers, juicers, bread makers. Any of these appliances can be worth the investment if you use them regularly.
              Vacuum sealerIf you want to cook sous-vide, marinate food and keep it fresh for longer, this appliance is indispensable. As a built-in appliance, a vacuum sealer such as the BORA QVac can be discreetly integrated into the worktop. 
              Wine fridgeA separate fridge for your fine wines is well worth the investment if you want to store them in separate temperature zones under ideal conditions. 

               

              Professional kitchen appliances in the home kitchen: Is it worth it?

              True quality is revealed in the details. Once you’ve experienced how a professional steam oven like the BORA X BO creates the most exquisite culinary experiences using pre-set programmes, you won’t want to be without one. The added value of high-quality kitchen appliances is often evident in everyday life: through time savings, ease of use and consistently good results. Of course, an investment like this will also help your kitchen retain its value over time. 

                BORA kitchen appliances: Elegance and functionality in perfect harmony

                BORA kitchen appliances combine high-quality materials, well-thought-out features and modern design for discerning cooking enthusiasts. 

                "True quality is revealed in the details. Once you’ve experienced how a professional steam oven like the BORA X BO creates the most exquisite culinary experiences using pre-set programmes, you won’t want to be without one. The added value of high-quality kitchen appliances is often evident in everyday life: through time savings, ease of use and consistently good results. 'Of course, an investment like this will also help your kitchen retain its value.'"

                Frequently asked questions about kitchen appliances

                Compact built-in appliances for 45 cm-wide recesses (dishwashers) and combined appliances (fridge-freezers) save space without compromising on functionality. A two-zone induction hob is perfectly adequate for single-person households. With an integrated hob extractor instead of a bulky cooker hood, you’ll gain space at the top for a wall cabinet or a rail for cooking utensils. 

                Plan well in advance and carefully: Making changes at a later stage is more time-consuming and more expensive. Standardised niche dimensions and coordinated front widths create a harmonious overall look. Coordinate the installation of the hob extractor fan with your electrician to ensure the exhaust air is channelled correctly. And as an added bonus, Devices from a single manufacturer produce the most consistent results, both visually and technically. This is particularly important in open-plan kitchens, where kitchen design and quality of life are directly linked.

                As well as a powerful food processor with a dough hook for heavy doughs, an oven with precise temperature control and a steam function is essential for achieving the perfect crust on baked goods. A precise kitchen scales, a sharp knife and high-quality stainless steel graters are also essential for preparing ingredients.

                Specialised small appliances such as egg cookers, doughnut makers or waffle irons are often unnecessary, as their functions can easily be carried out by a modern oven or saucepan. It’s better to opt for versatile all-rounders rather than space-consuming niche products. Rule of thumb: If you use a device fewer than three times in two weeks, it is usually unnecessary. 

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