Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: Duxtop 8100MC Induction Cooktop
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Best Budget: CUSIMAX 1800W Double Countertop Burner
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Best Portable: iSiLER 1800W Sensor
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Best Multi-cooker: NuWave Precision Induction Cooktop
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Best For Safety: Max Burton 6515
Buying Guide
1. Power Rating
The power rating of an induction cooker is an important factor to consider. The power rating determines how quickly the cooktop heats up and how fast it can cook food. Induction cookers typically range from 1000-2000 watts. If you plan to cook large meals regularly or have a larger family, opt for a higher power rating.
2. Cooking Zones
The number of cooking zones is another critical factor to consider when purchasing an induction cooker. If you plan to cook multiple dishes at once, consider an induction cooker with more cooking zones.
Most induction cookers come with two to four cooking zones. If you have a large family, go for an induction cooker with four cooking zones.
3. Safety Features
Safety features are essential when purchasing an induction cooker. Induction cookers are generally safer to use than traditional gas or electric cooktops, but you still need to consider safety features such as:
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Child safety lock: This feature prevents children from accidentally turning on the cooktop or changing the settings.
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Automatic shut-off: This feature turns off the cooktop if it detects that the pot or pan has been removed or if there is no cookware on the cooking zone.
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Overheating protection: This feature turns off the cooktop if it reaches a certain temperature to prevent damage or fire.
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Residual heat indicator: This feature alerts you if the cooking zone is still hot after cooking.
4. Noise Level
Some induction cookers can emit a humming noise when in use. Consider the noise level of the cooker, especially if you have an open-plan kitchen or if you’re sensitive to noise.
5. Cookware Compatibility
Induction cookers require specific types of cookware that are magnetic and have a flat bottom. Check if your existing cookware is compatible with the cooker, or if you will need to purchase new cookware. Some cookers come with a set of compatible cookware, which can be a convenient option.
6. Controls
Induction cookers come with different types of controls, such as touch controls, knob controls, and digital displays. Touch controls are easy to use and clean, while knob controls offer more precise temperature adjustments. Digital displays provide more information about the cooking process and can be easier to read.
7. Cookware Compatibility
Induction cookers require specific types of cookware to work correctly. Induction cookware must have a magnetic bottom to work with the induction technology. Look for induction-compatible cookware made of materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, or enamel-coated steel.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does induction cooking work?
Induction cooking uses magnetic fields to directly heat the pots and pans. An induction coil below the cooking surface generates a high-frequency magnetic field which transfers energy to the pot or pan.
This directly heats up the cookware and the food inside it. Since the heat is generated directly in the cookware, it is more efficient than other cooking methods and also provides faster heating and more precise control.
2. What types of cookware can be used on an induction cooktop?
Only cookware made of a ferromagnetic metal like cast iron or stainless steel with a magnetic bottom can be used on an induction cooktop. You can test if a pot or pan is induction compatible by seeing if a magnet sticks to the bottom of it.
Non-magnetic cookware like aluminum, copper or glass will not work with induction cooking. Some induction cooktops come with integrated pots and pans but you can also use your existing magnetic cookware.
3. How easy is it to clean an induction cooktop?
Induction cooktops are very easy to clean since the smooth surface does not get very hot. You can simply wipe down the surface with a damp cloth after cooking to remove spills and splatters.
For stuck-on bits of food, use a non-abrasive cleaner or a razor blade scraper. Since the cooktop is flat, wiped clean and has no burners or grates, cleaning is much quicker than a gas or electric cooktop. The lack of open flames also means there is less risk of grease or oil fires.
Final Thought
Choosing the right induction cooker for your kitchen is an important decision. With our buying guide, you can easily find the right size, features, and price that fits your needs. With the right induction cooker, you’ll be ready to master any cooking task.
