“[Induction burners] keep incredibly precise temperatures, which makes cooking times noticeably faster,” says Rachael Narins, author of “Cast-Iron Cooking” and Founder of Chicks with Knives. “Since they keep precise temperatures, the first thing you’ll notice is that you have to stir your food a bit more consistently and often than you do with gas or electric burners.”
Induction burners are not only convenient and portable, but also incredibly safe and energy-efficient. An induction cooktop generates a magnetic field that transfers energy straight to the metal of the pan, so the cooktop doesn’t get hot without the cookware or generate heat that will raise the ambient temperature in your kitchen. This is great for both small spaces like hotel rooms and campgrounds as well as full-sized kitchens.
Once you’ve paired the right burner with the right cookware—magnetic stainless or carbon steel, standard and enameled cast iron, or cast aluminum with an induction-compatible base—you can use an induction burner for all sorts of stovetop cooking, from simmering, sautéing, and boiling to pressure cooking, sous vide, and canning.
Best Overall
Duxtop 9600LS Portable Induction Cooktop
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- Excellent temperature control
- Sleek, compact design
- Quick to come up to temperature
- 20 power and temperature levels
- 10-hour timer
- Sometimes produces slight high-pitched sound
Users everywhere report that this is their all-time favorite induction burner because of its precise temperature control, quickness at coming up to temperature, ease of use, and great features (including 20 temperature settings, 20 power settings, a child lock, and a timer that can be programmed for up to 10 hours). There are even options for boiling and keeping food warm. Its design is not only durable, but also very modern, compact, and lightweight.
The cooktop has a temperature range of 100 to 460 degrees Fahrenheit and maintains temperatures very consistently across that full range. Some users did report that it made a slight high-pitched sound while in use, which is common amongst induction burners, but they said it makes this sound less than other induction models they had tried.
Dimensions: 14 x 11.4 x 2.5 inches | Max Power Level: 1,800 watts | Voltage: 120 volts | Electric Current: 15 amps | Number of Burners: One | Cookware Base Diameter: 6 to 11 inches | Load Capacity: 25 pounds
Best Budget
Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop Countertop Burner
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- Powerful
- Includes a timer
- Lightweight
- 10 power and temperature levels
- No lock function
- Lacks boil and keep-warm buttons
- Timer is only 170 minutes max
Secura’s line of Duxtop-branded induction burners ranges widely in weight and features. The 8100MC has the same power and temperature range as many more high-tech models at an affordable price. It tops out at 1,800 watts and 460 degrees Fahrenheit and simmers at low temperatures as efficiently as more expensive cooktops. This lightweight unit weighs 6.5 pounds, but it can hold a 25-pound load.
You need to use pans that don’t cover the button controls on the flat top surface, ideally choosing ones with a 4- to 8-inch base. The burner can be adjusted to 10 temperature and 10 power levels, and the timer will run for up to 170 minutes (almost three hours). This budget unit lacks add-ons, like “boil” and “warm” buttons, but still performs those tasks.
Dimensions: 13 x 11.5 x 2.5 inches | Max Power Level: 1,800 watts | Voltage: 120 volts | Electric Current: 15 amps | Number of Burners: One | Cookware Base Diameter: 4 to 8 inches | Load Capacity: 25 pounds
Best Double
Cuisinart 12-Inch Double Induction Cooktop
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- Individual controls for each burner
- Individual 150-minute timers
- Includes safety shutoff
- Takes up more counter space
Cuisinart offers the convenience of a multi-burner induction range in a portable option, pairing two burner sizes in one lightweight frame. The left burner hits up to 1,200 watts over eight heat settings, letting you move from melting butter to boiling pasta. The right burner has five heat settings that top out at 600 watts, ready to warm and saute delicate foods.
Each burner has a separate timer, on/off switch, and temperature control and display, meaning you can use them independently. They also come with a 30-second safety shutoff, just in case you remove the pan but forget to turn off a burner. For even heating and to avoid pan overlap with the controls, Cuisinart recommends not using pans with diameters smaller than 4.7 inches.
Dimensions: 14.25 x 23.5 x 2.5 inches | Max Power Level: 600 and 1,200 watts | Voltage: 120 volts | Electric Current: 15 amps | Number of Burners: Two | Cookware Base Diameter: 4.7 to 6 and 7.5 inches | Load Capacity: Not listed
Best for Small Spaces
NuWave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop
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- Automatic shut-off
- Heats up quickly
- Multiple power settings
- Might be noisy to operate
Whether your space is a studio apartment, dorm, or RV, the Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop is a great little appliance that won’t take up too much counter space. Lightweight and portable, this 1,300-watt appliance is easily stored in a cabinet or drawer when not in use.
We love that the top is made of shatterproof glass, so if the burner falls or gets dropped, you won’t end up with a mess or need to replace it. There are six easy-to-use, convenient preset temperatures, or if you prefer precise temperature control, the burner can be set between 100 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. So whether you’re cooking a juicy steak, boiling water for pasta, or making an omelet, there’s nothing this small powerhouse can’t cook.
Dimensions: 10 x 12 x 2 inches | Max Power Level: 1,300 watts | Voltage: NA volts | Electric Current: NA amps | Number of Burners: One | Cookware Base Diameter: 10.5 inches | Load Capacity: Not listed
Best for Gourmets
Vollrath 120-Volt 1800-Watt Mirage Pro Countertop Induction Range
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- Sturdy and durable
- Precise power and temperature controls
- Great features including temperature memory
- Expensive
Vollrath has been making food service equipment in the U.S. since 1900, and its induction ranges have long been popular with chefs and caterers. Its Mirage induction cooktops fit just as well in a home kitchen as a commercial one and carry many high-end features; this one has a powerful burner suitable for buffets and catering. The power mode has an impressive 100 levels ranging from about 80 to 525 degrees, and you can also choose precise temperature settings with the control knob.
Digital buttons, function lights, and an LED display round out the control panel. The unit includes some helpful features, including memory of the last-set temperature and a hot surface warning. The stainless steel body and smooth ceramic top are supported by sturdy feet that keep the unit raised yet steady on a counter. The burner fits pans 4.75 to 10.25 inches in diameter.
Dimensions: 15.25 x 14 x 3 inches | Max Power Level: 1,800 watts | Voltage: 120 volts | Electric Current: 15 amps | Number of Burners: One | Cookware Base Diameter: 4.75 to 10.25 inches | Load Capacity: Over 50 pounds
Best Portable for 240 Volts
SPT SR-34AC 3400W Countertop Commercial Range
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- As powerful as a built-in burner
- Features both knob and digital controls
- Thick, flat glass surface
- No timer
SPT’s SR-34AC commercial-grade model puts the power of a built-in induction burner in a portable unit—its single burner can push out 3,400 watts of power. The thick, tempered-glass surface can hold various pots and pans as long as they have a flat bottom and are induction-compatible. The company makes a nearly identical model (SR-34BWC) with a recessed induction burner designed specifically for round-bottom cookware like woks. Both models get their power by plugging into a 240-volt outlet like any large appliance.
The digital display and inset control buttons sit beside a temperature-control knob that lets you fine-tune the heat without repeatedly punching buttons. The burner’s SmartScan technology senses and adjusts to pan size and type, but otherwise, this portable range lacks bells and whistles like a built-in timer and Bluetooth technology. What it does is let you cook as quickly and efficiently as a serious home cook.
Dimensions: 17.7 x 14.17 x 5.08 inches | Max Power Level: 3,400 watts | Voltage: 240 volts | Electric Current: 15 amps | Number of Burners: One | Cookware Base Diameter: Minimum of 4.5 inches | Load Capacity: Not listed
Best for Canning
Duxtop Professional Induction Cooktop
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- Easy to clean
- Durable, holds up to 65 pounds
- Excellent temperature control
- Somewhat bulky
If you plan to use your induction cooktop for canning, it needs to have at least 1,800 watts of power, a heating zone diameter of 8 to 10 inches, and a load capacity of at least 50 pounds. This burner meets all those specifications and holds up to 65 pounds, and users rave that it has incredible temperature control, durability, ease of use, and ease of cleaning. It offers 20 preset power levels and 20 preset temperature level settings (100 to 460 degrees), with an 83 percent energy efficiency rating.
This burner is heavy-duty and a bit on the bulky side, but if you cook large batches in big, heavy pots and pans—whether you’re canning or not—this model is a great choice. Some users note that it can make a high-pitched noise at times (like most induction burners), but overall, users rave about it across the board.
Note: If you plan to do any canning on an induction burner, make sure your canner is compatible with induction cooktops, as many are only suitable for gas and electric stoves.
Dimensions: 19.45 x 15.05 x 5.73 inches | Max Power Level: 1,800 watts | Voltage: 120 volts | Electric Current: 15 amps | Number of Burners: One | Cookware Base Diameter: 8 inches | Load Capacity: 65 pounds
Best Built-In
JennAir Electric Induction Cooktop
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- Loads of power
- Connects burners to hold large cookware
- Has advanced features such as auto-cook
- Very expensive
A two-burner, built-in induction cooktop may be worth considering if you want a step up in cooking surface and power. JennAir’s induction cooktop is about the same size as portable double-burner units, but runs off 240 volts, pumping out a whopping 3,700 watts of power per burner. Rather than a standard wall outlet, it plugs into the same type of outlet as an oven or larger range.
Besides its power, this cooktop’s key feature is its burner “bridge,” linking the two burners so that you can use large cookware. JennAir recommends cookware with up to a 7-inch base on each burner, but says bridging can hold stockpots and griddles up to 10 inches in diameter. All that power and flexibility—plus a sleek design and features such as performance boost, automatic cooking, and pause—come at a high price, but it may be worth it for heavy use.
Dimensions: 21 x 15 x 0.1 inches | Max Power Level: 3,700 watts | Voltage: 240 volts | Electric Current: 20 amps | Number of Burners: 2 | Cookware Base Diameter: Up to 7 or 10 inches | Load Capacity: Not listed
Best High-Tech
Tasty by Cuisinart Tasty One Top Smart Induction Cooktop
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- Integrated surface sensor
- Unique design
- Multifunctional
- Bluetooth capabilities with recipes via the app
- Lacks a display screen
If you like cooking with smart technology for around the same price as a regular burner, you’ll love Tasty by Cuisinart. Attractively designed with a cheerful aqua color and pentagon shape, it’s perfect for social media posts. It’s also one of the few induction burners on the market that connect to your phone via Bluetooth; the app features hundreds of delicious recipes with step-by-step guides.
But this burner isn’t just about the bells and whistles—it’s an ideal choice for serious home cooks. There’s a thermometer that tracks the temperature of everything from liquids to meat and fish. There’s also an integrated surface sensor to let you know the surface temperature of your cookware.
This useful kitchen gadget has a variety of functions for everything from deep-frying and pan-frying to stir-frying, simmering, sautéing, grilling, poaching, slow cooking, and searing.
Dimensions: 13.75 x 14 x 3.25 inches | Max Power Level: 1,500 watts | Voltage: NA volts | Electric Current: NA amps | Number of Burners: One | Cookware Base Diameter: NA inches | Load Capacity: NA
Best Splurge
Breville Induction Cooktop
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- Temperature control profiles can be saved
- Slow, medium, and fast heat-up speeds
- Can handle high heat, knocks, drops, and spills
- Sensor checks temperature 20 times per second
- Has a timer
- No smartphone control
- Very expensive
Whether you’re a private chef, professional caterer, or just a serious home cook, Breville’s Control Freak Smart Induction Cooker is certainly an investment, but one with glowing reviews. The aptly named product is a top-of-the-line model designed for commercial kitchens. (That means serious knock, scorching spills, and super-heavy pots, too—it’s incredibly durable.) It gives cooks unprecedented control of the heat-up speed, pan temperature, and temperature of the ingredients. Users can set and hold their preferred temperature down to +/- 1.8 degrees between 86 and 482 degrees.
Unlike the average burner, this one has a real-time sensing system that uses a through-glass sensor to directly measure the temperature of the pan and its ingredients (the proprietary Control ºFreak checks the temperature 20 times per second to keep it as is or make necessary adjustments ASAP). With slow, medium, and fast intensity functions, this appliance helps you achieve the exact cooking speed you need to make any dish. It excels in wet cooking, oil frying, and more.
Dimensions: 19.5 x 13.75 x 4.5 inches | Max Power Level: 1,800 watts | Voltage: NA volts | Electric Current: NA amps | Number of Burners: One | Cookware Base Diameter: 5.5 inches | Load Capacity: 13 pounds
Final Verdict
For all-around cooking on a portable, efficient induction burner, choose the Duxtop 9600LS Portable Induction Cooktop. The Duxtop 8100MC model has less power, but a lower price tag, making it our best budget pick.
What to Look for in a Portable Induction Burner
Size
An induction burner only directly heats the metal it touches, so most manufacturers recommend using cookware with a base diameter that matches the burner diameter. A little larger can be fine, but do realize that the heat will be spreading from the area in contact with the induction element. Smaller cookware can work, too, but most induction burners have sensors that require a certain pot diameter (usually 4 to 5 inches) to start heating.
Power and Temperature
Induction burners often have two heating modes based on power and temperature. Power settings can range from 100 to 3,700 watts, and the maximum power level is worth considering when choosing a model: The more wattage, the faster a burner will heat up. Temperature settings can run from 80 to 450+ degrees depending on the model, allowing you to do everything from melting chocolate and poaching eggs to boiling pasta.
Safety Features
With their lightweight, smooth surface and high power, safety features are important in preventing accidents with portable induction burners. Most have sensors that prevent overheating and turn off the burner shortly after you’ve removed a pan. Some shut off automatically after several hours of use, and some have locks that prevent the unit from accidentally turning on or changing settings.
Standout Features
Most portable induction burners are basic one-piece units with a heating element, digital control panel, and power cord. Some control panels have a knob that lets you fine-tune power or temperature without pressing a button through each level. Some models also have one-touch buttons for simmering and boiling. Many have timers and control locks.
FAQs
What pans work with induction burners?
Induction burners use magnetic energy to heat cookware, so the pots and pans you use need to have a magnetic metal base. Magnetic stainless or carbon steel, cast aluminum with an induction-compatible base, and standard and enameled cast iron work on induction burners. Whichever induction-ready pan you choose, it should also have a flat bottom that makes full contact with the burner.
Rachael Narins has a handy trick to keep in mind: “When you’re choosing cookware, the easiest and quickest way to determine if it’ll work is to grab a fridge magnet and put it on the bottom. If it stays, the pan will work with your burner. If it doesn’t—think glass—they aren’t compatible.”
Do induction burners get hot?
Induction burners can get extremely hot, especially at maximum power, and they can hold that steady high temperature as long as the pot is on the burner. As soon as you lift off the pot, the heating stops. If you were to immediately touch the burner, there may be residual heat on the cooking surface where the piping-hot pan was sitting, but the way induction works keeps the burner from having its own lingering heat. Some units have a heat indicator light that turns off when the burner is cool to the touch.
How do you get stains off an induction burner?
Turn off the burner and let it cool completely before you try to wipe off stains and splatters from the induction burner’s smooth surface. Then dab or sprinkle the stain with distilled white vinegar and, for stubborn spills, baking soda before rubbing gently to remove the stain. Setting a damp, hot towel over the treated stain for a few minutes can help to soften splattered food and make it easier to wipe away.
