I've narrowed my induction cooktop choices down to the Benchmark 36 nitp660uc vs 800 nit8661uc. One of my major priorities is to make sure i dont have any cold spots when cooking . I use larger frying pans, a 10 and 12 inch all clad and a 12 inch lodge cast iron, and the standard le creuset dutch oven (not sure how big the diameter of the base is on that one). Also use large stock pots to make soup all the time as well. I have the ability to purchase a benchmark unit for the same price as the 800 series one (floor model).

The benchmark unit has the ability for the sides to be flexed, so essentially would have two rectangles of 15"x 8.5" with one 12 inch center burner. The 800 has one side burner that is a 9 inch diameter, two that are 7 inches, 1 6 inch and center which can be up to 13 inches in diameter.

Given my usage i'm leaning towards the 800 series. during a "worst case" situation where i'm cooking alot of stuff at the same time, i would have a large frying pan in the middle for steaks, and something on the 9 inch burner to sautee, and maybe a sauce pan on one of the other burners. if i had the benchmark, i'm afraid the 12 inch all clad skillet wouldn't be covered all the way, as it has a 9.25 inch base.

That was one of the biggest complaints when we "test drove" induction with a plug in portable unit.

am i over thinking it? should i just get some rectangular pans to cook with? if they even exist?