Induction cooktops, which employ magnetic currents to generate heat, have a number of advantages over standard electric cooktops. Whether you're in the middle of a kitchen renovation or just looking for a new cooktop because your old one has seen better days, it's important to have a clear understanding of the inner workings of this appliance and how it can help you cook delicious meals.
Induction cooking is not like conventional cooktop cooking. A magnetic field is created between the induction coils below the glass top and the ferrous (iron-containing) material in the cookware, allowing for efficient induction cooking. The induction heating system only heats the pan, not the table surface. This leads to improved browning and less risk of burning.
To find the best induction cooktop, we looked at dozens of models from different manufacturers and compared their heat output, evenness of heat distribution, maintenance requirements, and prices. The Empava EMPV-IDC30 30-Inch Induction Cooktop is a top pick because of its control lock and pan size sensors, which maximize efficiency during cooking and prevent accidental operation.
The Best Induction cooktops Reviews
1. Empava EMPV-IDC30 30-inch Induction Cooktop - Best Overall
There is no need to spend a fortune to benefit from the superior cooking results of an induction cooktop. The Empava EMPV-IDC30 is well regarded as a reliable, low-cost induction cooktop. It has everything you need, including four burners ranging in power from 1,800 to 2,700 watts. The digital control pad allows you to select from nine different heating levels.
This induction cooktop from Empava, like all others, has a smooth glass top that makes cleanup a breeze. Each element is the same size, but it can be adjusted to the perfect temperature for each pan with the use of a pan size sensor. Most people feel that it meets their demands for everyday cooking despite lacking the flexibility of a fifth element or synchronizing burners.
This induction cooktop has a reputation for being quite noisy. There is a strong correlation between this and the cookware being used. But one method is to use a pot or pan that completely covers the heating element.
With the Empava EMPV-IDC30, whereby all pieces are the same size, this isn't always doable. If you decide to install an induction cooktop, you should be aware that it may make some humming or buzzing noises.
Dimensions: 2.12 x 21 x 30 inches
Maximum Power: 2700 watts
Number of Burners: 4
Fuel Type: Induction
Pros
Cons
2. NuWave 30532 Flex Precision 11-in-1 Element Black Induction Cooktop - Best Portable
With a portable induction cooktop, you can rapidly prepare or reheat food wherever you happen to be. For a hassle-free induction cooking surface, we suggest the NuWave Flex Precision. This single-element option, however, just requires being plugged into a wall outlet.
It's perfect for use in compact kitchens like those found in RVs, flats, and tiny houses. When you buy a portable induction burner, you're really buying more counter space in your kitchen. It's portable, so you can set it up anywhere for a party.
The NuWave Flex Precision is unique because it can be adjusted for temperatures between 100 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Select one of six pre-set temperatures (from low to high) or make fine-tuned adjustments in 10-degree increments using the digital control pad. In comparison to other basic induction cooktops, both portable and nonportable, this one has 45 temperature settings instead of the usual 9.
A further benefit of this portable induction cooktop is its wattage versatility, which allows you to select from 600, 900, or 1,300 watts. This induction element's maximum wattage is 1,300 watts, which is less than the maximum wattage of a standard induction cooktop. Despite this, the 10-inch-diameter element is more than adequate for the majority of everyday cooking needs.
This compact induction cooktop is great for making quick meals on the go, but keep in mind that it has size restrictions that prevent you from using really large pans or pots.
Dimensions: 2 x 12 x 10 inches
Maximum Power: 1300 watts
Number of Burners: 1
Fuel Type: Induction
Pros
Cons
3. Frigidaire Gallery GCCI3067AB 30-inch Induction Cooktop - Best 30-inch
The Frigidaire Gallery GCCI3067AB is a 30 inch induction cooktop that will help you make the most of your kitchen space. This four-element cooktop is well-liked for its ability to bridge two 2,600-watt elements. It also has two 3,600-watt elements for increased heating power.
Furthermore, this cooktop has TempLock technology, which maintains a constant cooking temperature, limiting the possibility of overcooking or undercooking your food. Although there is not a fifth element, the other features of this induction cooktop measuring 30 inches in diameter more than make up for the absence of a further heating element.
To operate each element, you'll use a digital control pad, like with many other induction cooktops. The display is significantly less intuitive than on other models, but you can manage each element independently, which alleviates any uncertainty. In addition, when a pan is put on an element, the responsive cooktop indicator lights activate.
The Frigidaire Gallery GCCI3067AB's usability and performance for a 30-inch induction cooktop are difficult to match. You get all the advantages of induction cooking, such as faster heating and less cleaning, as well as useful features like constant temperature regulation and a bridge element.
Dimensions: 2.875 x 30.625 x 21.375 inches
Maximum Power: 3600 watts
Number of Burners: 4
Fuel Type: Induction
Pros
Cons
4. Samsung NZ36K7880UG 36-inch Induction Cooktop - Best 36-inch
Cooking meals is easier with a 36-inch induction cooktop. Our favorite pick is the Samsung NZ36K7880UG, which makes clever use of the cooktop's wider footprint. The Flex Zone, one of three elements ranging in size, allows you to use a wide variety of pots and pans in the kitchen. You can even keep an eye on things from your smartphone thanks to the cooktop's Wi-Fi connectivity.
This induction cooktop has digital and analog controls, making it stand out from the crowd. You can control each individual element using the digital controls, or you can attach a stylish magnetic analog knob to provide a more tactical feel. Regardless of which element you find most convenient, you can make quick and precise temperature adjustments.
For high-temperature searing or fast boiling, the largest element can produce up to 4,800 watts in PowerBoost mode. Particularly useful for evenly heating a griddle, large skillet, or other bulky cookware are the Flex Zone elements' upper and lower heating zones, which can be used alone or in combination.
Some users have complained about the controls being too difficult, namely because the digital controls are slow to respond. As with the digital display, the magnetic analog knob has been criticized for being too sensitive.
This Samsung NZ36K7880UG induction cooktop is 36 inches in diameter, and while the controls may take some getting used to, the cooktop itself is powerful and versatile.
Dimensions: 36 x 4 x 21.25 inches
Maximum Power: 4800 watts
Number of Burners: 5
Fuel Type: Induction
Pros
Cons
5. ZLINE RCIND-24 24-inch Induction Cooktop - Best 24-inch
The ZLINE RCIND-24, a 24-inch induction cooktop, is a great choice for small kitchens since it fits in tighter spaces while still providing all the benefits of induction cooking.
This model is the best pick for a compact induction cooktop since it has four elements to accommodate a variety of cooking tasks and a Power Boost mode for those times when you need high heat quickly. The touchscreen interface for the ZLINE RCIND-24 is straightforward, and there are just a few buttons to memorize.
The power of each element can be adjusted independently, and there is also a Power Boost option to increase the power supply's output. Given that this cooktop has a single inverter controlling each set of dual burners, it employs power sharing to keep the total wattage of the burners at a constant level.
When utilizing both elements on the same side of the cooktop, it is recommended that you adjust the power level of the higher priority element last, as stated in the user manual. If not, you can use a single element from each side of the cooktop to optimize the power of both.
Dimensions: 2.125 x 24 x 20.5 inches
Maximum Power: 2700 watts
Number of Burners: 4
Fuel Type: Induction
Pros
Cons
6. True Induction TI-1B 11-inch Glass Induction Cooktop - Best Single-Burner
A single-burner induction cooktop is a space-saving choice for single-pot cooking. In terms of a single-burner option, we recommend the True Induction Tl-1B 11-inch cooktop due to its versatility (it can be used as a counter insert or as a portable option). 4.5- to 10-inch induction cookware can be used with this element's design.
This induction cooktop has just one burner, so it's easy to use. The element's maximum heating power is 1,600 watts, and it may be adjusted with the touch sensor controls. The True Induction Tl-1B may not have the most powerful elements of other induction cooktops, but it will still heat food more quickly than an electric cooktop.
If you want an induction cooktop but have a small kitchen (apartment, boat, RV), this is a great option because of its compact design.
Dimensions: 2.5 x 12 x 15 inches
Maximum Power: 1600 watts
Number of Burners: 1
Fuel Type: Induction
Pros
Cons
7. Empava EMP-ID12 13-inch Black Induction Cooktop - Best Two-Burner
When shopping for a two-burner induction cooktop, many people turn to the Empava EMP-ID12. It is vertically oriented, taking up just around 13 inches of counter space on either side and 20.5 inches in depth, making it a good option for small kitchens.
It's helpful if you're working with a small kitchen and need to make the most of the space on each side of your cooktop, or if you just want to make better use of your counter space overall.
There are two elements that can be set anywhere from 100 watts (ideal for a gentle simmer) to 1,800 watts (ideal for a rapid sear). It's important to remember that the combined power of both elements cannot be more than 1,800 watts. Furthermore, the close proximity of the two elements may make it difficult to use two large pans simultaneously on the cooktop.
You can set the timer to range from one minute to ninety-nine. The element will power off once the set amount of time has elapsed.
This induction cooktop also has a safety lock to prevent accidental use and a "hot surface" indicator light. Aside from that, the design of this induction cooktop is rather simple, yet it gets the job done.
Dimensions: 2.12 x 20.5 x 13.4 inches
Maximum Power: 1800 watts
Number of Burners: 2
Fuel Type: Induction
Pros
Cons
What to Look for in an Induction Cooktop
Portable vs. Built-In Design
Any kitchen may benefit from an induction cooktop, as they come in both portable and built-in designs. The best layout for your cooktop depends on how and where you want to use it.
Like other small appliances, a portable model like the NuWave Flex Precision can be unplugged and stored away in a cupboard when not in use. It's an excellent option for a small kitchen or one that wants more cooking space in the kitchen.
You won't need a full range since a built-in cooktop will seamlessly fit into your countertops. This style of cooktop is more expensive up front but can also have many burners. You can find 30, 36, and 24-inch cooktops in built-in models. In order to figure out what appliances would work on your cooking surface, you should take some measurements.
Number of Burners
One to six burners are available on an induction cooktop. There are often only one or two burners on portable cooktops, but built-in ones can have as many as five.
Think about what you want to cook on your cooktop and what kind of cookware you already own before you go purchasing. You'll have more space to cook with a cooktop that has four or five burners, compared to an induction cooktop, which requires special cookware that can make use of the magnetic technology.
It will come in handy when you need to boil a lot of water or prepare a lot of different sides at once.
In addition to the number of burners, it is important to think about the layout of the burners and whether or not they can be combined to make larger spaces for larger cookware or griddles. A Flex Zone, as seen on the Samsung NZ36K788UG, allows for the use of a wider variety of pots and pans.
Power Level
Your time spent in the kitchen will change based on the power of your cooktop. You can quickly bring water to a boil or sear meat with a higher-powered model, while a lower-powered one is ideal for simmering. If your induction cooktop has more than one burner, each one may have a different maximum wattage, giving you more options for how you want to cook at the same time.
The power of a cooktop's burners can range from 1,300 to 5,400 watts, and you can usually adjust the level of power just like you would a gas cooktop's flame size. Thinking about the kinds of foods you plan on cooking frequently on the cooktop can help you choose the ideal power settings.
Standout Features
Burner Syncing
Some induction burners contain burners that can synchronize with one another, allowing for the use of larger pots and pans. Essentially, when used in combination, these burners expand the available cooking surface.
In most cases, this feature is only present in high-end, built-in, or "smart" models. This is a great feature to have when hosting a party, warming up appetizers, or cooking a big meal like spaghetti and meatballs.
Guided Cooking
If your induction cooktop includes a guided cooking feature, it will automatically change the temperature while you cook. In some cases, a synchronized recipe activates a guided cooking mode that walks you through the steps.
While you're frying or boiling food, some models can simply read the size and shape of your pan and adjust the heat accordingly. If you're just starting out in the kitchen and want to guarantee success, I highly recommend trying out this function on a high-end or smart cooktop.
Even though most induction ranges are equipped with a slew of safety features, however, only a select few offer a control lock. This feature prevents you from accidentally changing the temperature settings or increasing the pan's heat without your knowledge.
Whether you have young kids or frequently host large gatherings, this feature will ensure that your cooktop is being used correctly and safely at all times.
FAQs
How do I clean an induction cooktop?
Before cleaning an induction cooktop, it must be switched off and allowed to cool. After the cooktop has cooled, you can clean it with a homemade solution or a commercial all-purpose cleaner that contains a degreaser.
Spread or spray the solution over the surface carefully, and don't use rough cleaners or abrasive pads. From there, wipe the area well with a clean, soft sponge or cloth dipped in clean water. Baking soda and vinegar can be used to remove stubborn, baked-on spills.
Can you use cast iron on an induction cooktop?
There are two main reasons why cast iron cookware is not suitable for use with an induction cooktop.
To begin with, heat can't be transferred to your pan unless it is magnetically compatible with the cooktop. Therefore, many induction cooktops come with a suitable pan or pot, or their owners go out and get one.
Second, cast iron will damage the smooth surface of an induction cooktop, which is quite delicate. Using gentle cleansers and avoiding dragging pots and pans across the surface can help the stylish surface last for years to come.
What are the disadvantages of induction cooking?
An induction cooktop's controls are as precise as those of a gas cooktop, but it's more expensive. It's not just the price of the cooktop itself that can add up, but also the cost of any cookware you want to use with it.
Induction cooking is advantageous in many ways, although its quickness is one drawback. While this is helpful for a busy chef, those unfamiliar with induction cooking may find it difficult to avoid burning their food as they adjust to the speed at which the cooktop heats up and transfers its heat to the pan.
What is the difference between an induction cooktop and a glass cooktop?
When comparing induction and glass cooktops, the main distinctions are in the heating time and cooking style. To rapidly heat cookware and its contents, induction cooktops employ an electromagnetic field.
Induction cooktops are very quick to react to temperature adjustments. Since induction cooktops heat more quickly, you can cook dinner in less time. Induction cooktops do not leave behind any residual heat like glass cooktops do. As soon as you take a pan off the burner, it will cease heating.
Heating a pan or food over a glass cooktop, which relies on electric coils, is a slower process. Also, it takes more time for electric cooktops to reach a more consistent temperature after being used.
What kind of pans do you need for an induction cooktop?
Induction cooktops only work with cookware that is magnetic and has a flat bottom. To get the most out of an induction cooktop, choose pans made of magnetic metals like cast iron or enamel over stainless steel or aluminum.
Glass, aluminum, ceramic, and copper, for instance, are not magnetic and hence cannot be used with induction cooktops. To check a pan's induction-readiness: Put a magnet on the bottom of your cookware to see whether it is induction cooktop compatible.
Verdict
Our top recommendation for an induction cooktop is the Empava EMPV-IDC30, which has a diameter of 30 inches. This model does not have a fifth element, but it compensates for that inconvenience by providing quick heat across all four of its elements.
Consider purchasing the NuWave 30532 Flex Precision 11-in-1 Induction Cooktop if you are looking for a portable cooktop. This cooktop features an easy-to-read digital display and can be quickly stored away when it is not in use.
