An induction cooktop is a type of cooking surface that uses electromagnetic technology to heat pots and pans directly. Unlike traditional gas or electric cooktops that heat the cooking surface and then transfer the heat to the cookware, induction cooktops generate heat through electromagnetic induction. When an induction-compatible pot or pan is placed on the cooktop, a magnetic field induces electrical currents in the cookware, producing heat directly within it. This method of cooking is both energy-efficient and fast, as it minimizes heat loss and allows for precise temperature control. Additionally, the cooktop surface itself remains relatively cool since the heat is only generated within the cookware, making it a safer option in kitchens. Induction cooktops require the use of magnetic cookware, such as those made of cast iron or stainless steel, to function effectively.
Best Induction Cooktops of January 2025
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Nuwave Double Induction Cooktop, Powerful 1800W, 2 Large 8” Heating Coils, Independent Controls, 94 Temp Settings from 100°F to 575°F in 5°F Increments, 2 x 11.5” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass Surface
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MAKE ADJUSTMENTS ON-THE-FLY – Want hotter temperature or need to cook it longer? No problem. Simply adjust on-the-fly any time. No need to start over. Double’s intuitive digital controls are easy to operate, and the response is immediate.
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94 PRE-PROGRAMMED TEMPS - Select from the 6 convenient preset temperature settings or fine tune your own temperature from 100°F to 575°F in 5°F increments. You can also add or deduct cooking time at any time.
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PRECISE TEMPERATURE CONTROL – With 94 precise temperatures at your fingertips, you can keep delicate sauces warm at 100°F to grilling a juicy steak with serious grill marks at 575°F.
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INDEPENDENT CONTROLS - With two control panels, you can independently adjust the settings on each side. With large 8” heating coils and weight capacity of 25 pounds per side, you can boil pasta on one side and simmer sauces on the other.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
AMZCHEF Double Induction Cooktop with Removable Iron Cast Griddle Pan Non-stick, 1800W 2 burner Portable Induction Stove With Sensor Touch 9 Power Levels, 99 Min Timer, Iron Grey
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[2 COOKING ZONES] With a 120V/1100W (left plate) and 1100W (right plate) power supply, this portable stove has two separate cooking zones with individual controls using a "Knob + Touch" control design. When both burners are working simultaneously, the maximum power will not exceed 1800W in total.
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[Easy To Clean] The induction burner surface is made of black polished crystal glass, which is shiny and resistant. Simply wipe it with a damp towel. The all-cast iron grill pan surface is covered with a non-toxic, non-stick coating that leaves no frying residue and is dishwasher safe.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop Burner, Induction Hot Plate with LCD Sensor Touch 1800 Watts, Silver 9600LS/BT-200DZ
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Choose from 20 preset power levels (100 to 1800 W) and 20 preset temperature level settings (100 °F to 460 °F). With an 83% energy efficiency, induction burner is more efficient than traditional gas or electric stoves
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DIGITAL LCD SENSOR: Touch control panel: child safety lock keeps the cooking and timer settings from being accidentally changed once they have been set; fast boil button; keep warm button (for 1-30 minutes at 140 °F); up to 10-hour timer button
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Although induction itself is a noiseless process, there may be high pitched sounds from the cookware due to multiple layers of metals sandwiched together. Please allow the induction cooker to cool down before cleaning
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
ChangBERT Induction Cooktop, Commercial Grade Portable Cooker, Large 8” Heating Coil, 18/10 Stainless Steel Countertop Burner with NSF Certified, 10 Hours Timer, Powerful 1800W Professional Hot Plate
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HIGH EFFICIENCY - ChangBERT induction cooktop offers 10 preset power levels (200-1800W) and 11 preset temperature settings (120-460℉). With an 83% energy efficiency rating, the induction cooker is more efficient than traditional gas or electric stoves, providing quick heat-up and faster cooking times.
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LARGE COOKING AREA - Features an expanded magnetic coil design that optimizes the winding structure to enhance the transfer of electromagnetic energy directly to the cookware, significantly improving heating efficiency and ensuring more even heat distribution across the bottom of the cookware.
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MULTIPLE SAFETY PROTECTION - Equipped with built-in auto-pan detection, over-heat protection, hot surface indication, small article detection, auto shutdown protection, and circuit failure protection. With no hot coils or open flames, it significantly reduces the risk of burns.
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EASY TO CONTROL & CLEAN - The Key-Press-Control Panel allows easy control, even with gloves or wet hands. With no open flame or heating element, food does not burn onto the glass cooktop, making it easy to clean greasy dirt.
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10-HOUR TIMER FOR LONG-TIME COOKING - The built-in countdown digital timer, up to 10 hours, meets various cooking requirements.
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Nuwave Precision Induction Cooktop Gold, 12” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass Surface, Large 8” Heating Coil, Portable, 51Temp Settings 100°F to 575°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900, and 1500 Watts
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51 PRE-PROGRAMMED TEMPS - Select from the 6 convenient preset temperature settings or fine tune your own temperature from 100°F to 575°F in 10°F increments. You can also add or deduct cooking time at any time.
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SHATTER-PROOF CERAMIC GLASS – There are no open flames or hot coils that can cause burns. Unlike the competition, Gold’s heating surface is heavy-duty shatter-proof ceramic glass, which was rigorously tested to withstand intense heat without shattering. It is one of the safest cooktops in the market.
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MAKE ADJUSTMENTS ON-THE-FLY – Want hotter temperature or need to cook it longer? No problem. Simply adjust on-the-fly any time. Starting the cooking process over is not necessary. Gold induction cooktop’s intuitive digital controls are easy to operate, and the response is immediate.
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass, 6.5” Heating Coil, 45 Temps from 100°F to 500°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900 & 1300 Watts, Black
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MAKE ADJUSTMENTS ON-THE-FLY – Want hotter temperature or need to cook it longer? No problem. Simply adjust on-the-fly any time. No need to start over. Flex’s intuitive digital controls are easy to operate, and the response is immediate.
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45 PRE-PROGRAMMED TEMPS - Select from the 6 convenient preset temperature settings or fine tune your own temperature from 100°F to 500°F in 10°F increments. You can also add or deduct cooking time at any time.
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PRECISE TEMPERATURE CONTROL – With 45 precise temperatures at your fingertips, you can keep delicate sauces warm at 100°F to grilling a juicy steak with serious grill marks at 500°F.
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SHATTER-PROOF CERAMIC GLASS – The heating surface is heavy-duty shatter-proof ceramic glass. It was rigorously tested to withstand intense heat without shattering. It is one of the safest cooktops on the market.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop Countertop Burner, Gold 8100MC/BT-180G3
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Requires induction compatible cookware. If a magnet sticks well to the bottom of the pan and is at least 5 inches in diameter, it should be compatible
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Duxtop Induction Cooktop uses 120 V 15 amp electrical outlet - standard in all North American homes; lightweight and compact for easy handling and storage
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Digital control panel. Built-in count-down digital timer with 1 minute increments up to 170 minutes; 10 temperature range from 140 °F to 460 °F; 10 power levels from 200 to 1800 Watts
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Duxtop LCD Portable Double Induction Cooktop 1800W Digital Electric Countertop Burner Sensor Touch Stove, 9620LS/BT-350DZ
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DUAL HEATING ZONES: This professional digital countertop induction cooktop by Duxtop is equipped with two independent heating zones that allow you to set each one separately using the LCD display screen
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SAFE & EASY TO USE: Child safety lock system helps protect from injuries such as scalding. Touch control panel is simple to operate, and the rapid heating of the cookware makes cooking fast and easy
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Induction stoves rely on cookware to heat, so it’s essential to choose magnetic bottom cookware with a minimum diameter of 5 inches. Cooktop will not operate without compatible cookware
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
Nuwave Gold Precision Induction Cooktop, Portable, Powerful with Large 8” Heating Coil,100°F to 575°F, 3 Wattage Settings, 12” Heat-Resistant Cooking Surface
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MAKE ADJUSTMENTS ON-THE-FLY – Want hotter temperature or need to cook it longer? No problem. Simply adjust on-the-fly any time. Starting the cooking process over is not necessary. Gold induction cooktop’s intuitive digital controls are easy to operate, and the response is immediate.
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51 PRE-PROGRAMMED TEMPS - Select from the 6 convenient preset temperature settings or fine tune your own temperature from 100°F to 575°F in 10°F increments. You can also add or deduct cooking time at any time.
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FAST and EFFICIENT – Gold heats the pot directly transferring 85% to 90% of its electro-magnetic energy to heat energy! Traditional stovetops only convert about 30% of their heat for cooking. Cook faster without wasting energy and money.
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
Mueller RapidTherm Portable Induction Cooktop, Hot Plate Electric Stove Top Burner 1800W, 8 Temp Levels up to 460°F, Auto-Off & Pot Detection, LED Display, Child Lock, 4 Programs, Burners for Cooking
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Practical and Portable: The highly versatile RapidTherm Induction Cooktop boasts 1800W of cooking power, and many smart features at your fingertips. ETL approved and operating at standard 120V, the lightweight electric cooktop is easy to handle and store and is the ideal size for RV’s, small apartments or anywhere you need an extra cooktop. With no hot coils or open flames, it’s the hassle-free way to create sumptuous dishes.
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Energy-Friendly: Suitable for induction cookware only with flat ferrous bases (test with a magnet) such as cast iron, enameled steel, or magnetic stainless steel with base diameter between 4.8”-10.2”. The powerful induction burner only heats the diameter of the pan, so no energy is wasted. Plus heat is instant and evenly distributed, cooking your food 50% faster than conventional gas or electric cooktops.
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Superior Quality With Mueller - We are here to offer you only the best quality products designed to make your life easier. If you need any help, please feel free to contact us. Our unparalleled 24/7 live telephone customer support is ready and waiting to assist with anything you need!
How to prevent scratches on an induction cooktop?
Preventing scratches on an induction cooktop involves a combination of proper care, maintenance, and using the right tools and techniques. Here are some tips to help you keep your induction cooktop in good condition:
- Use Compatible Cookware: Ensure that you use cookware with a smooth, flat bottom specifically designed for induction cooktops. Avoid using pots and pans with rough bases or sharp edges, as these can scratch the surface.
- Clean Before Cooking: Before placing any cookware on the cooktop, make sure both the cooktop surface and the bottom of the cookware are clean and free of any debris or residue that could cause scratches.
- Avoid Dragging Cookware: Always lift cookware when moving it on the cooktop, rather than sliding or dragging it. This significantly reduces the risk of scratching the surface.
- Protective Mats or Pads: Consider using a silicone mat or pad specifically designed for induction cooktops. These mats can act as a buffer between the cookware and the cooktop, offering protection against scratches.
- Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Clean up spills and splatters as soon as possible after cooking to prevent them from hardening and requiring vigorous cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth or sponge for this.
- Use the Right Cleaning Tools: Clean the cooktop surface with a soft cloth or sponge rather than abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. For stubborn stains, use a cleaner specifically formulated for induction cooktops.
- Avoid Heavy Impacts: Be careful to avoid dropping heavy items onto the cooktop surface as this can cause both scratches and cracks.
- Mind the Weight Limit: Check the manufacturer's guidelines for the maximum weight your cooktop can safely handle, and avoid exceeding this limit.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check the cooktop for any signs of damage and address issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.
By following these guidelines, you can help preserve the appearance and functionality of your induction cooktop over time.
How to convert recipes for use on an induction cooktop?
Converting recipes for use on an induction cooktop can be straightforward since induction cooking is generally faster and more energy-efficient than traditional methods. Here's how you can adapt recipes for induction cooking:
- Understand Induction Cooking:
Induction cooktops heat pots and pans directly using electromagnetic energy, requiring compatible cookware made from ferrous metals like cast iron or some stainless steels.
- Use the Right Cookware:
Ensure your pots and pans are compatible with induction. If a magnet sticks to the bottom, it's suitable for induction. If not, invest in induction-compatible cookware.
- Adjust Cooking Temperatures:
Induction cooktops heat rapidly. Start by using lower settings than you would on a gas or electric stove. You might need to adjust and experiment to find the right heat levels.
- Preheat with Caution:
Preheating is fast on induction, so it might only take a minute or two. Stay attentive to avoid overheating your cookware.
- Cooking Time:
Due to efficient heating, you may need to reduce the cooking time. Keep an eye on food to prevent overcooking.
- Heat Distribution:
Induction provides precise and consistent heat, but make sure your cookware covers the entire heating element (or vice versa) for even cooking.
- Boiling and Simmering:
Water boils quicker, and simmering is more controllable on induction. Adjust the settings based on your recipe—start with a gentle heat for simmering.
- Recipe Adjustments:
Follow the original recipe’s instructions at first, then tweak as needed. With repeated use, you’ll develop an intuitive feel for how your cooktop affects specific dishes.
- Utilize Cooking Zones:
If your induction cooktop has multiple zones, use it to cook different parts of your meal simultaneously. This can speed up the cooking process.
- Follow Safety and Usage Tips:
Ensure your cooktop is clean before use, and familiarize yourself with the specific functions and settings of your model.
With practice, you'll be able to seamlessly adapt nearly any recipe for induction cooking. Enjoy the efficiency and precision that induction offers, and adjust your methods accordingly.
What is the sound an induction cooktop makes during operation?
An induction cooktop can produce several distinct sounds during operation, which are generally different from those of traditional electric or gas stoves. Common sounds include:
- Humming or Buzzing: This is the most typical sound and is often related to the electromagnetic energy being transferred to the pan. The frequency and volume of the humming or buzzing can change depending on the power level you've selected or the type of cookware used.
- Clicking: You might occasionally hear a clicking sound, which can be attributed to the power cycling on and off to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Fan Noise: Induction cooktops often have built-in cooling fans, which can produce a low whirring or whooshing sound. This noise is usually more noticeable at higher power settings.
- Vibration or Rattling: If the base of the cookware is not perfectly flat or if the cooktop is slightly uneven, you might hear vibration or rattling. Some lightweight pans or lids can also vibrate due to the electromagnetic field.
- Soft Beeping: Some models include audible feedback like soft beeps when pressing buttons or adjusting settings.
These noises can differ between different brands and models, but they are generally normal and not indicative of any malfunction. If the sounds are excessively loud or concerning, it's worth checking the cookware compatibility or consulting the manufacturer's guidance.
How does an induction cooktop work?
An induction cooktop operates using electromagnetic principles to directly heat cookware. Here's a step-by-step explanation of how it works:
- Electromagnetic Field: When you turn on an induction cooktop, an electric current passes through a coiled copper wire beneath the surface of the cooktop. This current creates a fluctuating electromagnetic field that only extends above the cooktop's surface.
- Induced Currents: When a piece of compatible cookware (typically made from ferrous metal like cast iron or some stainless steels) is placed on the cooktop, the electromagnetic field induces electrical currents (known as eddy currents) within the cookware itself.
- Direct Heating: These eddy currents generate heat due to the electrical resistance of the metal. As a result, the cookware heats up directly, rather than heating the cooktop surface itself.
- Efficiency and Control: Because the heat is generated within the cookware and not wasted on the cooktop or ambient air, induction cooking is highly efficient. It also allows for precise temperature control, as the energy transfer can be adjusted quickly without the thermal lag associated with traditional electric or gas stoves.
- Cooler Cooktop Surface: Since the cooktop surface itself is not directly heated (only residual heat from the cookware will transfer to the cooktop), it remains relatively cool, reducing the risk of burns and making spills easier to clean.
- Cookware Requirements: Only cookware with a magnetic base (such as cast iron or ferrous stainless steel) works on an induction cooktop. Non-ferrous metals like aluminum or copper won't work unless they have a ferrous layer bonded to the bottom.
Overall, induction cooktops offer efficient, fast, and precise cooking options but require suitable cookware to operate effectively.
