What really makes the difference between a top-performing appliance and one that isn’t lies inside the fry-top.
At Mainho, we’ve been designing hospitality equipment for over 40 years, and we know that the secret to a good fry-top isn’t just about power—it’s about how every calorie generated is put to use. We’ll walk you through how it works on the inside, both in the gas and electric versions.
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🔥Gas fry-tops: enclosed heat, heat put to use
In gas fry-tops, everything revolves around the combustion chamber. It’s fully enclosed, designed so that all the energy generated by the burners goes solely beneath the plate.
What does this design achieve?
- Protects internal components from excess heat.
- Prevents heat loss to other areas of the unit.
- Concentrates all the power right where it’s needed: under the cooking surface.
It’s a system designed so that not a single watt is wasted outside the plate.

Burners from a PC120-N
⚡ Electric fry-tops: precision without a flame
In the electric version, the approach changes, though the goal remains the same: maximum performance with minimum consumption.
Heat is generated through shielded heating elements, strategically distributed beneath the entire surface of the plate. Since it doesn’t rely on a flame:
- Temperature is controlled with greater precision.
- It stays stable, with no fluctuations during service.
- It adapts better to kitchens seeking pinpoint control over cooking.
It’s the ideal choice for businesses that prioritize consistency and fine-tuned temperature control above all else.

PC120-ET heating elements
The result? A plate that doesn’t fail
Whether gas or electric, the interior design of a good fry-top has a single goal: achieving a 20-22 mm thick plate capable of reaching up to 300°C evenly across its entire surface.
That thickness is no accident: the thicker the plate, the greater its capacity to retain the heat generated, even when loaded with cold food or several batches in a row.
Gas or electric? It depends on your kitchen
There’s no “better” option in absolute terms—each technology has its strength:
- Gas offers speed and immediate power.
- Electric brings precision and thermal stability.
The right choice depends on the type of service, available space, and the specific needs of each business.
Not sure which one best suits your business? Write to us and we’ll help you choose the ideal fry-top for your kitchen.