Fit and comparison
True Induction: One Zone or Two?
Within True Induction’s small household models, burner count is the clearest practical split. The TI-1B has one 120 V induction zone; the TI-2C, TI-2B and MD-2B add a second zone but share their available output. The right choice depends less on a model name than on whether two pans must be active at once and whether the unit needs to sit on a counter or be fitted into a prepared opening.
One zone for one-pan cooking
The TI-1B is a single-burner cooker listed at 1,750 W and 120 V/60 Hz. Its product page says both built-in and countertop placement are possible, and the manufacturer FAQ says UL858 built-in cooktops can be used on a counter with provided rubber feet. The model manual, however, is much more detailed about its cutout installation than about countertop support. If you need the countertop configuration, verify the feet and ventilation arrangement with the exact unit rather than assuming all packages are alike.
One zone is a sensible fit when meals can be cooked in sequence, a spare pan surface is the goal, or counter width is more constrained than cook time. Its one ring also avoids balancing simultaneous pots against a shared-output limit. But a second side dish cannot heat while the first pan is running; if timing two dishes together is a regular need, the single-burner advantage is not enough.
Two zones for simultaneous pans—with a shared ceiling
The TI-2C is the family’s plainly portable dual-zone model. The TI-2B supports countertop placement according to its exact product page and also has an inset plan; confirm the countertop support for the particular manual revision. The MD-2B is another two-zone option, with its own compact format and model-specific countertop/inset instructions. These are not interchangeable just because they share a brand: layout, manual details and installation evidence differ.
Two zones let both pans heat at once, but they do not guarantee each zone can deliver its maximum at the same time. The dual-zone manuals describe power sharing, including a combined Heat-level ceiling. If your “two burners” requirement really means two independent high-output circuits, none of these models should be assumed to satisfy it without a specification that explicitly proves simultaneous independent maximum output.
Check cookware and the installation before buying
All four models use magnetic induction cookware, and the TI-1B’s manuals differ slightly on the suggested flat-pan base-size interval. A pan’s cooking base matters more than the rim diameter. Measure the actual pan base and consult the exact manual for the chosen model and revision. On an inset installation, compare the stated cutout and airflow clearances with the cabinet before cutting; on a countertop setup, leave ventilation open and confirm the supports the manufacturer specifies.
For one pan at a time, start with the TI-1B review. For a portable two-zone layout, compare the TI-2C with the TI-2B; for another compact dual-zone arrangement, see the MD-2B. A two-zone label is only the beginning: match the actual operating plan, power behavior and physical support to your kitchen.