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You pulled out a recipe you want to make, but you don't have enough burners on your stovetop to cook every side, sauce, and main part of your plate. Don't scrap your recipe for something less complex and less tasty. Instead, add an induction burner to your large home, small apartment, or RV. This appliance can have the temperature control of a gas burner and typically includes safety features so you feel confident and comfortable when starting it up on your countertop.
Whether you're looking to simmer, sauté, or boil ingredients in your cookware, an induction burner also makes sure you don't make any big messes in the process, thanks to its cool-to-the-touch surface. Prep a dinner without having to play Tetris with your current stovetop, and then tuck this item next to a rice cooker or waffle maker in your cabinets.
What to Look for in an Induction Burner
Size
Induction burners can be anywhere from 10 to 25 inches wide, depending on how many elements they have. The smallest models on the market have a single burner, and are best at accommodating small, compatible cookware and cooking side dishes or meals for one. The largest models on the market can have upward of three elements, placed horizontally or vertically from each other. To determine the size you'll need, consider what types of food you want to cook, where you may want to install your induction burner, and what capacity your cookware requires.
Safety Features
Safety features in induction burners include automatic shut-off technology, and sensors that detect when the unit is too hot and needs to be dialed down. Automatic shut-off technology, in particular, turns off the appliance about 30 seconds after cookware is no longer detected. This helps to prevent accidents, but is not meant to replace unplugging and turning off your induction burner all together. Another key feature in safety is control lock, which prevents you from knocking into your control panel and unknowingly altering the settings.
Power
The power of an induction burner is measured in Watts, and typically ranges from 1,300 to 3,700 Watts. A more powerful model is good for searing and boiling water quickly, while a less powerful model is better for sautéing, simmering, and slow cooking. In some models, the power level can be adjusted so your burner is better suited for your recipe. This feature is separate from your temperature setting, which can typically be set anywhere from 100 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Below, the best induction burners for your kitchen space and lifestyle.
Best Overall: JennAir JIC4715GS 15 in. Electric Induction Cooktop
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Fuel Type: Induction | Dimensions: 0.1 x 15 x 21 inches | Max Power Level: 3,700 Watts | Number of Burners: 2
Has a durable exterior
Can accommodate large cookware and griddles
Very powerful
Very expensive
Pan detection technology can be sensitive
This JennAir induction cooktop will be a reliable sidekick at mealtimes. It features a tiny build that's easy to install within a countertop or over a built-in oven. Its cooking surface is incredible sleek, thanks to a ceramic glass finish, and black and silver detailing. Plus, it's incredibly strong, and can reach a power level of 3,700 Watts quickly and efficiently. Although this unit is definitely one of the most expensive ones on the market, it doesn't skimp out on functionality and high-end features alike, making it worth the price tag.
For example, the burner can be stretched to accommodate a griddle or Dutch oven. This allows you to use all shapes and sizes of cookware to prep a tasty meal — whether that be a large pot of pasta and sauce, or plate's worth of pancakes and bacon. The controls are precise, although they do require a good amount of weight to activate the pan detection technology, which only turns on an element when it recognizes a piece of cookware.
Ultimately, what makes this particular model our best overall pick is how it makes your experience safe and streamlined. You won't have to worry about the exterior chipping when you're moving cookware around, as it's very durable, and safety features like indicator lights make sure you know when your cooktop is on and hot to the touch. Install it with a 240V outlet, and you're good to go.
Best Budget: Hamilton Beach 34104 Single Burner 10 in. Black Induction Cooktop
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Fuel Type: Induction | Dimensions: 16.25 x 12 x 3.7 inches | Max Power Level: 1,800 Watts | Number of Burners: 1
Inexpensive
Includes a timer
Automatically shuts off
Can be noisy
Not suitable for simmering
At a budget-friendly price, this induction burner packs a big punch and features many amenities that will make your experience a total breeze. For example, the cooktop features a 10-inch burner that can work with induction cookware from 4 to 10 inches wide. In addition, it can produce up to 1,800 Watts of power, to allow you to boil a large pot of pasta water in just seven minutes.
To get started with it, use the included induction test magnet to make sure your cookware is compatible with the smooth surface. Then, decide how you would like to heat the cookware for your specific dish: by choosing one of 10 different heat levels, or by setting a specific temperature. This model includes a timer so you can perfectly prep your dishes, and has digital displays to keep you totally informed.
Now, although your budget-friendly purchase won't include a stainless steel pot or any other amenities, you will be treated to safety features like automatic shut-off. Just be prepared that this appliance may be a little loud, and too powerful to simmer rice as well.
Best Double: Cuisinart ICT-60 12 in. Glass Double Induction Cooktop
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Fuel Type: Induction | Dimensions: 2.5 x 23.5 x 14.25 inches | Max Power Level: 1,600 Watts | Number of Burners: 2
Individual displays
Looks stylish
Has a total of 13 unique settings
Requires a wider surface
On the expensive side
Two can be better than one. That's the case with this double-burner unit that lets you choose a larger or smaller element when cooking, or use both at once when making multiple dishes. From Cuisinart, the model has eight unique temperature settings for the larger burner and five settings for the smaller one. It also features individual 150-minute timers for each burner, as well as separate on-off switches and time-temperature displays.
For safety, the heat turns off 30 seconds after a pot or pan is removed. If you're looking for a piece that has a bit of style, this double induction burner sports an attractive, black cooking surface, too. The controls are on a light strip that’s easy to see. While this piece is obviously wider than others on the market, it has a low profile that makes it easy to store in a cabinet or on a countertop.
Best Combo: True Induction TI-1+2B 25 in. Induction and Gas Combo Cooktop
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Fuel Type: Gas and induction | Dimensions: 2.8 x 25 x 17 inches | Max Power Level: 1,600 Watts | Number of Burners: 3
Built-in safety features
Has three elements
Good for small living and traveling
Has to be installed professionally
Expensive
Do you want your induction cooktop to have a bit more variety? If so, then opt for this True Induction model that includes two gas burners and an induction burner. Its 25-inch build is made to be inserted within kitchen countertops in your home and taken on the road. Whether you plan on using it while you're camping, living in an RV, or making meals at home, it will give you the luxury of multiple places to cook and precise control over your food.
To start up the gas burner portion, you'll need to turn the front dial. The induction burner uses touchable digital controls, which are located next to the timer feature and the power button. The model can be set at temperatures anywhere from 150 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and has built-in safety features that ensure it doesn't exceed that high limit.
It is recommended that you have your model professionally installed, so be sure to plan for that after purchasing.
Best for Small Spaces: SPT SR-964TB 11-in-1 Element Black Induction Cooktop
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Fuel Type: Induction | Dimensions: 2.48 x 11.81 x 14.17 inches | Max Power Level: 1,300 Watts | Number of Burners: 1
Digital controls can be locked
Heats up quickly
Portable
Can't accommodate large cookware
Not as powerful as other models
If you have a small kitchen but need extra cooking space, this induction cooktop from SPT is for you. It measures just under 12 inches wide—which is the perfect amount of space to cook a dish, but also tuck this appliance into a cabinet when you're done. This appliance is portable, and has digital controls you can lock so that they aren't unknowingly adjusted while you're prepping a meal. Most notably, it heats up quickly, which is ideal if you want to get a meal on the table efficiently.
Although it may not be the most spacious of induction burners, and only be able to hold small pots and pans, this burner will ensure that your kitchen doesn't get overheated and continues to look stylish. It has a sleek, ceramic finish on top of seven power settings and 13 temperature settings. The range of this piece certainly makes up for its size.
Best Portable: Max Burton 6400 Digital Choice Induction Cooktop
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Fuel Type: Induction | Dimensions: 2.6 x 12.5 x 13.3 inches | Max Power Level: 1,800 Watts | Number of Burners: 1
Great for camping and RVs
Heats up quickly
Has a timer
Not as precise as other models
Not suitable for slow cooking
The temperature adjusts from 100 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit in 25-degree increments, and you can set the timer for up to 180 minutes, which is great for some slow cooking and braising. Notably, this model has a simple digital touchpad too, which gives the chef a lot more control. While you can’t control the temperature as precisely as some other models, and shouldn't rely on this piece for slow-cooked meals that need to sit for longer than three hours, it’ll get the job done. Plug it in a standard outlet, and move it a little away from your temporary kitchen's walls for the safest and most effective operation.
When you're on the go and need just a little more power for cooking a meal, this 1,800-Watt induction burner has you covered. It heats up quickly, and has simmer and boil buttons that make it easy to get a pot of water boiling. Whether you use it while camping or roaming in an RV, you won't need to mess with the controls in order to enjoy a quality meal.
Best for Gourmets: SPT SR-34BWC Countertop Commercial Induction Range
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Fuel Type: Induction | Dimensions: 7 x 14.8 x 20 inches | Max Power Level: 3,400 Watts | Number of Burners: 1
Precise operation
Stylish exterior
Has both knob and digital controls
No timer
Very expensive
Do you consider yourself a gourmet? If so, then opt for this SPT model that has a ton of power and commercial-like precision. It features one, 12-inch element, and has both digital displays and a front control knob. You can use the touch controls to set the temperature between 90 and 440 degrees Fahrenheit, and the knob to set the power level between 1,300 Watts and 3,400 Watts. Thanks to SmartScan technology, the burner will sense your pan's size and type, and make necessary adjustments on its own.
Now, this specific model doesn't feature a timer, WiFi capabilities, or even dual burners, but it does marry industrial functionality with a stylish exterior. It has a large, stainless steel build, and dips where your pot or pan will be placed. For a gourmet chef looking to start a catering business, a YouTube channel, or simply spice up their routine at home, it's certainly a suitable investment.
If you're in the market for an induction burner, look no further than the JennAir JIC4715GS (view at AJ Madison) that's both functional and jam-packed with features. This burner has a glass surface that's easy to clean, and is designed to automatically shut off when compatible cookware is not detected. Do you want to spend less? The Hamilton Beach 34104 (view at Target) doesn't have multiple burners, but does have many heat levels, a timer, and the ability to bring a large pot of water to a boil in just seven minutes.
Standout Features
Timer
Like a timer on a full-sized range, a timer on an induction burner allows you to plan your meals. It's not strictly found on high-end or smart models, but can be used when you're following along with a recipe that tells you to cook something for a certain amount of time. If your burner has multiple elements, it's likely that it'll have separate timers for each. This feature is most handy for those cooking meat, pasta, or potatoes that should be properly timed.
Burner syncing
Burner syncing is found in induction burners that have more than one element. It allows two elements to connect, in order to accommodate your larger cookware like a griddle. In some cases, this feature is even able to create a continuous cooking surface, allowing you to place your pan anywhere. While this feature is often found in high-end and more expensive induction burners, it's worth the money if you'll frequently cook with larger cookware.
FAQs
What pans work with induction burners?
Stainless steel pots and pans work best with induction burners. Not only are they compatible with the magnets within the appliance, but they also don't leave scratch marks or dents on your cooktop. While cast iron and enameled cast iron pots and pans also work with induction burners, they're very likely to ruin the smooth surface of your appliance.
The types of pans that don't work include anything all-copper, glass, or aluminum. However, you can purchase a pan adapter if you want to go that route. For more, you can check out our guide on what cookware works with induction cooktops.
Do induction burners get hot?
Induction burners can get very hot, especially if your power setting is set to the maximum. For chefs and gourmets, that heat can be ideal for quickly searing meat, and prepping a meal that needs to get on the table fast. For those who are new to induction cooking, it can be a learning curve, as your food may finish earlier than expected. The best and safest way to use your induction burner is to stay near it whenever it's on, and tend to your dish as need. Also, keep it away from any walls and give it plenty of space on the counter.
If the appliance gets too hot, safety features like automatic shut-off can kick in to ensure the burner is not a hazard. However, not all induction burners have this safety feature and it's something to look for.
How do you get stains off an induction burner?
It's quite possible that your pot may boil over when you're cooking, or some oil may splatter onto your induction burner when you're sautéing. To rid your burner of any leftover stains, start by turning it off and letting it cool down. Once the appliance is completely cool, just spray the area with distilled white vinegar and sprinkle some baking soda on the stain. (At this point, you may notice it's foaming. That is totally normal.)
From there, soak a soft towel in hot water, and leave the wrung-out towel on the stain. Come back in 15 minutes to wipe everything off, and do any additional scrubbing. For more, check out our guide on how to clean a glass cooktop, which can also be applied to the smooth surface of an induction burner.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written and updated by Marisa Casciano, who is the large appliance expert for The Spruce. Throughout her career, she's researched the ins and outs of air purifiers, dishwashers, cooktops, and more in the home and lifestyle space. She's an avid cook, who frequently runs out of stove space when tackling recipes.
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