Elica NikolaTesla Fit vs One vs Switch: What's the Difference?

Choosing between the Elica NikolaTesla Fit, One and Switch? All three ranges combine induction cooking with an integrated extractor, but they differ in size, cooking-zone arrangements, extraction design and available cooking functions.

The main difference is how you intend to use the hob. NikolaTesla Fit is the starting point for compact kitchens and flexible cabinetry. NikolaTesla One provides an 83cm cooking surface with a prominent central extractor. NikolaTesla Switch offers a distinctive rotating extraction flap, with selected versions adding more advanced cooking controls and automatic extraction features.

There is no single best model for every kitchen. The right choice depends on the space available, the cookware you use, your preferred extraction configuration and whether additional cooking programmes are worth paying for.

Elica NikolaTesla Fit vs One vs Switch Compared

Feature	NikolaTesla Fit	NikolaTesla One	NikolaTesla Switch
Main advantage	Compact installation flexibility	Balanced cooking and extraction	Discreet extraction design
Available widths	60cm, 72cm and wider XL versions	83cm	83cm
Cooking zones	Three or four depending on model	Four	Four
Bridge zones	Available on selected four-zone models	Available; HP variants offer additional flexibility	Two on selected current models
Extraction design	Compact central extraction inlet	Prominent central extraction inlet	Rotating central extraction flap
Automatic extraction	Available on selected models	Available on selected models	Available, including sensor-based control on selected models
Best suited to	Smaller kitchens and flexible installations	Buyers wanting an 83cm hob with conventional controls	Buyers prioritising design and additional cooking options

Specifications vary within each family. Models such as Fit 3Z, Fit XL, One HP, Switch Glow and Switch Lux should be compared individually before ordering.

Which Elica NikolaTesla Should You Choose?

Choose NikolaTesla Fit for Compact Kitchens

The Elica NikolaTesla Fit is designed to bring induction cooking and integrated extraction into kitchens with limited cabinet space. Selected Fit models can be installed in suitable 60cm base units, making them worth considering where a wider extractor hob would be impractical.

Standard Fit models offer four cooking zones, with a bridge function on compatible versions that combines two zones for larger or elongated pans. The range also includes wider Fit XL models for customers wanting additional cooking space.

The NikolaTesla Fit 3Z provides a different arrangement, using three cooking zones with a large 30cm zone for substantial pans. This can be particularly useful if you regularly use one large saucepan or frying pan rather than four smaller pans.

Choose Fit if installation flexibility and practical cooking features matter more than having a premium 83cm design.

Choose NikolaTesla One for Balanced Cooking and Extraction

The Elica NikolaTesla One combines an 83cm induction hob with a centrally positioned integrated extractor. It provides four cooking zones and bridge functionality on compatible models, with automatic extraction available to adjust ventilation during cooking.

The One range suits customers who have space for a wider hob and want an established cooking layout with a clearly defined extraction inlet.

Selected One HP models add functions such as Melting, Warming, Simmering and Fast Boiling, alongside additional bridge-zone flexibility. These are useful if you regularly prepare sauces, cook at controlled temperatures or use larger cookware.

Choose One if you want a wider, well-equipped extractor hob without specifically needing the rotating extraction design of Switch.

Choose NikolaTesla Switch for Discreet Extraction and Design

The Elica NikolaTesla Switch combines an 83cm induction cooking surface with a distinctive rotating central flap. The flap conceals the extraction opening when closed, creating a streamlined appearance across the hob.

Selected Switch models include two bridge zones, allowing compatible pairs of cooking zones to be combined for larger pans. Elica's Airmatic technology, available on supported models, automatically adjusts extraction in response to cooking vapours.

The wider Switch family includes Glow and Lux versions, with differences in finish, controls and cooking functions. Switch Lux models offer additional automatic cooking modes, including Melting, Simmering and Fast Boiling.

Choose Switch if the appearance of the cooking surface, flexible cooking zones and available premium controls are your priorities.

What Are the Most Important Differences?

1. Hob Width and Kitchen Cabinet Space

Fit has the advantage when space is restricted. Selected 60cm and 72cm Fit appliances are designed for suitable 60cm base units, although their actual worktop dimensions and cut-outs differ.

One and Switch are predominantly 83cm appliances and require wider worktop openings. Their installation arrangements must also allow for the extraction housing and ventilation components beneath the hob.

For example, Elica's published specifications list a 56 x 49cm cut-out for representative 60cm Fit models, compared with 80.7 x 49.2cm for the current 83cm One and Switch models.

These dimensions are examples, not universal installation requirements. Always check the technical drawing for the exact model and product reference.

2. Cooking Zones and Larger Pans

Don't assume that a wider hob always provides more useful cooking space. Consider the number, shape and positioning of the zones.

The Fit 3Z is particularly interesting for its large 30cm cooking zone, while four-zone Fit models offer bridge functionality on selected versions. NikolaTesla One provides a conventional four-zone arrangement, with One HP variants offering additional cooking flexibility.

Selected NikolaTesla Switch models provide two bridge zones, which can be useful when cooking with griddle pans or other large cookware.

3. Extraction Performance and Noise

All three families include integrated extraction, but airflow and operating noise vary by model and installation configuration.

Elica publishes extraction airflow in cubic metres per hour (m³/h) and operating noise in dB(A). Compare normal operating figures and boost settings separately, and make sure you are comparing ducted figures with ducted figures or recirculating figures with recirculating figures.

A higher maximum extraction figure does not automatically make a hob the better choice. Duct length, bends, filter condition and kitchen ventilation affect the performance of the installed system.

4. Automatic Extraction and Cooking Programmes

Automatic extraction is not exclusive to the most expensive NikolaTesla range. Supported Fit and One models offer Autocapture, which adjusts extraction according to cooking activity. Selected Switch appliances use Airmatic, which responds to cooking vapours using sensors.

The more meaningful upgrade on certain premium models is the cooking functionality. One HP and Switch Lux models can offer dedicated settings for melting, warming, simmering and fast boiling.

These programmes may justify choosing a higher-specification model if you frequently prepare food requiring controlled temperatures. They are less important if you mainly use basic induction power settings.

5. Ducted or Recirculating Installation

Models across these NikolaTesla families support ducted or recirculating configurations, subject to the exact product version and compatible installation components.

Ducted extraction directs cooking air outside, removing moisture and odours from the property. Recirculating extraction uses grease and odour filters before returning air to the kitchen, making it an alternative where external ducting is impractical.

Both configurations require sufficient room beneath the worktop. Recirculating systems also need suitable air-return arrangements and periodic odour-filter maintenance.

Confirm the required installation kit, electrical supply, cabinet clearances and ducting route before ordering.

Which NikolaTesla Offers the Best Value?

Value depends on whether you will actually use the additional features.

NikolaTesla Fit: A sensible starting point for buyers prioritising compact installation, core induction functions and integrated extraction.
NikolaTesla One: Worth considering for an 83cm cooking surface and an established four-zone layout without making the rotating extraction flap a priority.
NikolaTesla Switch: Worth considering for its distinctive concealed extraction system, bridge-zone flexibility and additional functions on selected premium versions.

A more expensive NikolaTesla is not necessarily better for every kitchen. Check the specific cooking features, extraction arrangement and installation requirements rather than deciding on price alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Elica NikolaTesla Fit, One and Switch?

Fit prioritises compact installation flexibility, One offers a wider 83cm cooking surface with a prominent central extractor, and Switch uses a distinctive rotating flap to conceal the extraction opening. Cooking functions, bridge zones and automatic controls vary by individual model.

Is Elica NikolaTesla One better than Fit?

Not necessarily. One provides a wider cooking surface and different cooking-zone arrangements, but Fit can be more suitable for smaller kitchens and 60cm cabinet installations. The better choice depends on the available space and the features you need.

What is the difference between NikolaTesla One and One HP?

One HP adds advanced cooking functions, including Melting, Simmering and Fast Boiling, along with additional bridge-zone flexibility on compatible models. Standard One models provide four-zone induction cooking and integrated extraction without every HP-specific function.

What is the difference between NikolaTesla Switch Glow and Switch Lux?

Both belong to the design-led Switch family, but Lux models offer additional cooking functions and differences in cooking-zone specifications and finishes. Compare the exact Evo, Glow, Lux and Raw versions rather than assuming that every Switch appliance has the same features.

Which Elica NikolaTesla is best for a 60cm kitchen cabinet?

Selected NikolaTesla Fit models are designed for suitable 60cm base units. However, the appliance width, worktop cut-out and under-hob extraction clearance must all be checked against the manufacturer's installation drawing.

Can Elica NikolaTesla extractor hobs be installed above drawers?

Some installations can retain drawers beneath the hob, although the available space depends on the appliance, cabinet dimensions and extraction route. The top drawer may need to be shallower or repositioned.

Read our guide to installing an Elica extractor hob above drawers for further installation advice.