Ever feel like your kitchen’s main stove is just too much for a simple task? Maybe you’re in a small apartment, a dorm, or just want an extra spot to simmer sauce without firing up the whole range. That’s where a trusty single burner electric cooktop comes in. It’s a game-changer for adding flexibility to your cooking setup, and honestly, it’s way more powerful than you might think.
We tested several popular models to see which ones truly deliver. Whether you need a consistent low simmer or a quick boil, we’ll break down which cooktop heats up fast, which are easiest to clean, and which ones you might want to avoid. Let’s find your perfect portable cooking companion.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Single Burner Electric Cooktop
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF# Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner, 1000…
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9.7 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet ESB100B Countertop Single Coiled Burner Electric Hot…
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet EDB-302BF Countertop Double Cast Iron Burner, 1500…
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner, 1000W Electric Hot Plate…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner, 1000W Electric Hot Plate…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop Burner, Induction Hot Plate with…
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8.5 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart CB-30P1 Cast-Iron Single Burner, Stainless Steel
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8.3 |
Read Review |
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OVENTE Electric Countertop Single Burner, 1000W Cooktop with 7.25…
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8.1 |
Read Review |
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CUSIMAX Hot Plate, Single Burner Electric Cooktop, 1500W Electric…
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7.8 |
Read Review |
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ChangBERT Induction Cooktop, Commercial Grade Portable Cooker, Large 8”…
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7.6 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Single Burner Electric Cooktop
Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF# Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner, 1000 Watts Electric Hot Plate, Temperature Controls, Power Indicator Lights, Easy to Clean, Black
The Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF# Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner is a straightforward and reliable solution for adding a portable cooking station wherever you need it. Whether your kitchen space is limited, you need an extra burner for holiday meals, or you want a simple appliance for a dorm, office, or camper, this electric hot plate is designed to handle basic cooking tasks with minimal fuss. At its core is a 6.4-inch cast iron cooking plate.
Cast iron is favored for its excellent heat retention and even distribution, which helps prevent hot spots that can burn your food. The surface is treated to be nonstick, making it surprisingly easy to clean. After use, once the unit has fully cooled, you can typically wipe it down with just a damp cloth or a non-abrasive sponge—no heavy scrubbing required. This is a major plus for keeping maintence simple and quick. Controlling your cook is managed by a single, variable temperature knob.
It allows you to select from low, medium, or high heat settings. This lets you gently simmer a sauce, keep a pot of soup warm for a crowd, or quickly bring a small pot of water to a boil for coffee or noodles. The 1000-watt motor provides efficient power that’s sufficient for most everyday tasks like heating canned goods, frying eggs, or sauteing vegetables. It’s not meant for high-heat searing, but it’s perfectly capable for the majority of stovetop basics.
Safety and stability are built in with thoughtful features. A clear power indicator light on the front reminds you that the unit is plugged in and operational, which is a helpful visual cue to prevent accidental burns or energy waste. Four non-skid feet on the bottom keep the burner firmly in place on your countertop or table during use, reducing the risk of it sliding around.
Elite Gourmet ESB100B Countertop Single Coiled Burner Electric Hot Plate, Temperature Control, Indicator Light, Easy to Clean, Black
The Elite Gourmet ESB100B Countertop Single Coiled Burner Electric Hot Plate is a versatile and straightforward appliance designed to provide a reliable cooking surface wherever you need it. This compact hot plate centers around a single coiled heating element, powered by 1000 watts for efficient and consistant heating.
Its simple design, finished in black, makes it a practical addition to any kitchen, dorm room, office, or travel kit, offering a solution when you’re short on stove space or completely without a traditional kitchen. One of the key benefits of this model is its portability. Its compact footprint means it takes up very little room in a cabinet or suitcase, making it perfect for small apartments, RV trips, or camping where power is available.
It’s also incredibly handy for creating an extra cooking station during busy holiday meals or office potlucks. Despite it’s small size, the 1000W coiled element delivers solid power, capable of boiling water relatively quickly and providing even heat for tasks like simmering sauces or frying eggs. Control is intuitive with the adjustable temperature knob. It offers six distinct heat settings, allowing you to precisely manage your cooking.
You can crank it up to get a pot of water boiling for pasta or coffee, then dial it down to a low simmer for soups or to keep a dish warm until serving time. This flexibility means the hot plate can handle a variety of basic cooking needs effectively. A helpful power indicator light on the front lets you know at a glance when the unit is on, a simple but useful safety feature. Maintenance is designed to be hassle-free.
Elite Gourmet EDB-302BF Countertop Double Cast Iron Burner, 1500 Watts Electric Hot Plate, Temperature Controls, Power Indicator Lights, Easy to Clean, Black
The Elite Gourmet EDB-302BF Countertop Double Cast Iron Burner is designed to be a reliable and straightforward extra cooking source for a variety of situations. This electric hot plate gives you two independent cooking zones in a single, compact unit, offering flexibility without taking up much space. It’s a practical solution when your main stove is full, when you’re in a space without a full kitchen, or when you simply need an additional dedicated spot to simmer a sauce or boil water for tea.
At its core, this unit is about simple functionality. It features two cast iron plates: a 6.5-inch and a 5-inch plate. These plates are flat and have a nonstick surface, which leads to its first key feature: its easy to clean design. After cooking and once the unit has cooled, you can typically wipe the plates down with a damp cloth or a non-abrasive sponge, making maintenance straightforward without the need for intense scrubbing.
Each plate has its own variable temperature control knob, allowing you to adjust the heat to LOW, MEDIUM, or HIGH settings. This adjustable temperature system lets you quickly get water boiling or gently keep a meal warm for extended periods, giving you decent control over your cooking process. The combined wattage for both burners is 1500W, providing efficient power for most basic cooking tasks.
Because the plates have individual controls, you can cook two different items simultaneously at different temperatures—like boiling pasta on one side while simmering a vegetable on the other. This efficient power use makes it a handy tool for preparing simple meals. The unit’s compact and portable nature is a significant advantage.
OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner, 1000W Electric Hot Plate with 7” Ceramic Glass Cooktop, 5 Level Temperature Setting & Easy to Clean Base, Compact Stove for Home Dorm Office, Black BGI101B
The OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner BGI101B is a compact and versatile appliance designed to add a reliable cooking spot wherever you need it. Whether your in a dorm room, a small apartment, an office kitchenette, or even an RV, this 1000-watt hot plate provides a straightforward solution for preparing everyday meals. Its core technology uses infrared heating, which is known for efficiently transferring heat directly to your cookware.
This means it heats up quickly and distributes warmth evenly across its 7-inch ceramic glass surface, helping to avoid hot spots for more consistent results. One of the most practical features of this OVENTE burner is its broad compatibility. Unlike induction models that require specific magnetic pots and pans, this infrared model works with virtually all cookware you already own—stainless steel, aluminum, ceramic, or glass.
For the best performance, using a flat-bottomed pot or pan that closely matches the 7-inch cooking zone is recommended. This ensures maximum contact and energy efficiency. You can use it for a variety of tasks, from frying eggs and boiling water for coffee to simmering soup or keeping a side dish warm during a meal. Controlling the cooking process is simple, thanks to the adjustable 5-level temperature knob.
You can turn it from a low keep-warm setting all the way up to a high heat for rapid boiling. An illuminated indicator light shows you when the burner is actively heating, which is a helpful visual cue. The unit also incorporates a safety-focused auto-shutoff function that activates if the cooktop overheats or reaches its target temperature, offering some peace of mind during use. The design prioritizes both style and portability.
OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner, 1000W Electric Hot Plate with 7” Ceramic Glass Cooktop, 5 Level Temperature Setting & Easy to Clean Base, Compact Stove for Home Dorm Office, Silver BGI101S
The OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner BGI101S is a compact and versatile appliance designed to add a reliable cooking spot wherever you need it. Whether your in a dorm room, a small apartment, an office kitchenette, or even an RV, this 1000-watt hot plate provides a straightforward solution for preparing meals without the need for a full-sized stove.
Its core technology uses infrared heating, which is known for distributing heat quickly and evenly across its 7-inch crystallite ceramic glass cooktop. This means you can efficiently fry an egg, boil water for coffee, simmer soup, or keep a dish warm without dealing with uneven hot spots that can ruin your food.
A significant advantage of this model is it’s compatibility with virtually all your existing cookware.
Unlike induction burners that require specific magnetic pots and pans, this infrared burner works with glass, ceramic, aluminum, and stainless steel. For the best performance and energy efficiency, its recommended to use a flat-bottomed pot or pan that closely matches the 7-inch diameter of the heating area. This ensures optimal contact and heat transfer, getting your task done faster.
Controlling the cooking process is simple with the adjustable 5-level temperature knob.
You can select the right setting for everything from a gentle simmer to a vigorous boil. A red indicator light lets you know when the burner is actively heating and will turn off once the target temperature is reached, providing both visual feedback and a built-in safety feature against overheating. The unit also features an auto-shutoff function for added peace of mind if it detects excessive heat.
Beyond functionality, the OVENTE burner is built with portability and style in mind.
Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop Burner, Induction Hot Plate with LCD Sensor Touch 1800 Watts, Silver 9600LS/BT-200DZ
The Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop Burner, model 9600LS/BT-200DZ, is a versatile countertop appliance designed to bring the efficiency and control of induction cooking to virtually any space in your home. Its core appeal lies in its portability; it’s lightweight and compact, meaning you can easily move it from the kitchen to the patio, store it in a cabinet, or even take it on road trips, as long as you have access to a standard 110/120V electrical outlet.
Being ETL listed and built to North American electrical standards provides an important layer of reassurance regarding its safety and compatibility. One of the standout aspects of this induction hot plate is it’s precise control. You’re not limited to just high or low; you can choose from 20 preset power levels, ranging from a gentle 100 watts up to a powerful 1800 watts for fast boiling, and 20 preset temperature settings from 100°F to 460°F.
This level of granularity allows for everything from delicate simmering sauces to searing meats with consistent heat. The induction technology itself is notably efficient, converting about 83% of the electrical energy into direct cooking heat, which is often more efficient than traditional coil electric or gas stovetops, potentially saving on energy costs over time. Operation is managed through a sleek digital LCD sensor touch panel.
Key features here include a child safety lock to prevent accidental changes to your settings, a dedicated fast boil button for quick convenience, and a keep warm function that maintains food at 140°F for up to 30 minutes. The built-in timer can be set for up to 10 hours, offering great flexibility for slow cooking or simply ensuring you don’t forget a dish.
Cuisinart CB-30P1 Cast-Iron Single Burner, Stainless Steel
The Cuisinart CB-30P1 Cast-Iron Single Burner is a compact, powerful appliance designed for adding a dedicated cooking station wherever you need it. Think of it as a permanent, high-performance extra burner that doesn’t require a major kitchen renovation. It’s built around a heavy-duty cast iron plate, which is the heart of it’s performance.
Cast iron is fantastic at absorbing and distributing heat evenly, so you won’t get those annoying hot spots that can burn one part of your pancake while leaving another undercooked. This means consistent results whether your searing a steak or simmering a sauce. With 1300 watts of power driving a large cooking surface, this unit packs a serious punch. It can quickly bring a pot of water to a boil or provide the high heat needed for a proper stir-fry.
Managing that power is straightforward thanks to the six-setting adjustable temperature control. You get a true range from a gentle low keep-warm setting all the way up to the highest heat for serious searing. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide variety of tasks, from melting chocolate without scorching it to frying up a batch of eggs.
The ready and on indicator lights are simple but helpful features; they let you know at a glance when the unit is powered and when the cast iron plate has reached your selected temperature, taking the guesswork out of preheating. Cleanup is often a concern with cooking appliances, and the Cuisinart adresses this with its coil-less cooking surface. There are no crevices or coils for food to drip down into; instead, you have a completely solid, flat cast iron plate.
OVENTE Electric Countertop Single Burner, 1000W Cooktop with 7.25 Inch Cast Iron Hot Plate, 5 Level Temperature Control, Compact Cooking Stove and Easy to Clean Stainless Steel Base, Silver BGS101S
The OVENTE Electric Countertop Single Burner BGS101S is a straightforward and reliable appliance designed to add cooking flexibility wherever you need it. At its core is a 7.25-inch cast iron hot plate, powered by 1000 watts. This combination is key because cast iron is excellent at retaining and distributing heat evenly across its surface. That means no more hot spots causing some parts of your soup to boil while others remain lukewarm.
Whether your boiling water for pasta, frying up some eggs, or keeping a sauce warm, the heat consistency helps you cook reliably. Controling the temperature is simple with the intuitive rotary knob. It offers five specific heat levels, from a gentle low to a powerful high, giving you precise command for different tasks. An indicator light clearly shows when the element is active, and important safety features are built right in.
The burner includes an automatic shut-off function that activates if the unit overheats or once it reaches the set temperature, providing peace of mind during use. The construction prioritizes both safety and longevity. The housing is made from quality stainless steel, which resists heat damage, corrosion, and warping over time. Four non-slip rubber feet on the base ensure the unit stays firmly planted on your countertop, preventing any accidental slides or wobbles while your cooking.
This durable design means this single burner is built to be a dependable part of your kitchen routine for years. One of its biggest advantages is its compact and portable form. Measuring just a few inches tall, it’s ideal for spaces where a full stove isn’t practical or available. Think dorm rooms, studio apartments, office break rooms, or RVs.
CUSIMAX Hot Plate, Single Burner Electric Cooktop, 1500W Electric Burner Hot Plate for Cooking with Adjustable Temperature, Portable Countertop Burner Stainless Steel, Black, New Model
The CUSIMAX Hot Plate, Single Burner Electric Cooktop, is a versatile and portable cooking solution designed to complement your kitchen setup. Its compact stainless steel body houses a powerful 1500W heating element, making it an ideal appliance for small spaces like dorms, offices, RVs, or apartments with limited counter space.
When your not using it, the unit can be tucked away in a cabinet, freeing up valuable workspace and adding a layer of cooking flexibility you might not have with a fixed stovetop. One of the key advantages of this hot plate is its compatibility. It works efficiently with all types of cookware—glass, aluminum, ceramic, and more—as long as the base is 7.4 inches or smaller. This means you can use your favorite pots and pans without needing to invest in special ones.
The design minimizes heat loss, directing energy to your food for effective cooking. Whether you need to boil water for coffee, simmer a sauce, cook pasta, or prepare grilled cheese and scrambled eggs, this burner handles everyday tasks quickly, fitting seamlessly into a fast-paced routine. Safety and durability are central to its design. The housing is constructed from sturdy stainless steel with a smooth surface that simplifies cleaning—just a wipe with a damp cloth once the unit has cooled.
Four anti-skid feet on the bottom keep the hot plate securely in place on your countertop during use, preventing unwanted movement. An integrated thermostat allows for adjustable temperature control, and an automatic safety shutoff function provides added peace of mind.
ChangBERT Induction Cooktop, Commercial Grade Portable Cooker, Large 8” Heating Coil, Premium Stainless Steel Countertop Burner with NSF Certified, 10 Hours Timer Powerful 1800W Professional Hot Plate
The ChangBERT Induction Cooktop, Commercial Grade Portable Cooker is a powerful and versatile appliance designed for serious cooking. It combines the precision and efficiency of induction technology with the rugged durability needed for constant, demanding use. Whether your setting is a busy restaurant kitchen, a food truck, a catering event, or simply a home kitchen that sees a lot of action, this cooktop is built to perform reliably day in and day out.
At its core is a large 8-inch heating coil, which is engineered with an expanded magnetic design. This optimizes the transfer of electromagnetic energy directly to your cookware, resulting in more even heat distribution and significantly improved heating efficiency. You get consistent, stable high-power output thanks to its continuous-duty circuitry and advanced power control technology, which also helps keep internal electronics cooler and operates with low noise.
With 9 preset power levels (from 200W to its full 1800W) and 18 precise temperature settings (from 120°F to 460°F), you have exceptional control over every simmer, sauté, and boil. It heats up remarkably fast, and with an 83% energy efficiency rating, it uses power more effectively than traditional gas or electric stoves. Durability is a key highlight. The unit features a premium stainless steel housing that can withstand high heat, humidity, and supports up to 100 pounds on its surface.
It carries the important NSF certification and meets UL commercial standards (UL 197), having passed rigorous tests like a 1.5 ft-lb drop test. This makes it a truly commercial-grade appliance, approved for professional environments. Yet, its portable and compact design means you can easily move it between locations—ideal for dorms, RVs, outdoor events, or apartments where space is limited. Safety and convenience are thoughtfully integrated.
Single Burner Electric Cooktop Buying Guide
Need a dedicated spot for your morning coffee or a portable cooking station? A single burner electric cooktop is a compact appliance that gives you one precise heating element. It’s perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or as an extra burner for big meals. You’ll want to look at power, size, and control types to find your match.
Power and Heating Speed
Check the wattage. Higher wattage, like 1500 watts or more, means faster boiling times. It’s frustrating to wait forever for water to boil, right? If you mostly simmer sauces or melt butter, a lower-wattage model could work fine and might even save on energy.
Size and Portability
Measure your space. Some units are surprisingly slim and light, making them easy to tuck in a cabinet or take on a road trip. Others have a larger footprint for stability with bigger pots. Think about where you’ll store it when its not in use—that’s often overlooked.
Surface and Controls
You’ll find basic dial knobs or sleek touch controls. Dials are simple and tactile, while touch panels are easier to clean. The cooktop surface itself is usually ceramic glass, which wipes down easily, but can scratch if your not careful with rough pans.
Safety Features
This is crucial for any extra appliance. An automatic shut-off timer is a great feature, turning the burner off after a set time. Look for indicator lights that show when the surface is still hot (residual heat). It prevents accidental burns long after cooking is done.
Compatibility with Cookware
Not all pans work well. Flat-bottomed pots and pans—like those for induction—are best for even contact. Wobbly or rounded bottoms won’t heat efficiently. Cast iron is heavy but usually fine; just avoid dragging it across the glass.
Frequently Asked Questions About Single Burner Electric Cooktop
What is a single burner electric cooktop?
It’s a portable, plug-in appliance with one heating element. You can use it as an extra burner in a small kitchen, dorm, or office. It gives you a dedicated spot to boil water or cook a simple meal.
Where can I use one?
They’re great for small spaces like studio apartments, RVs, or dorm rooms. You can also use it on a countertop as a spare burner during big cooking projects. Just make sure you have a standard outlet nearby.
What types are there?
The main types are coil elements and smooth glass-ceramic tops. Coil models are often more affordable. Glass tops are easier to clean and look more modern, but they can be a bit more fragile.
How much power do they need?
Most plug into a regular 120-volt household outlet. They typically draw between 1000 and 1500 watts. Check your kitchen circuit to ensure it can handle the load, especially if you run other appliances at the same time.
Are they easy to clean?
Generally, yes. Glass tops just need a wipe down after they cool. Coil elements can be trickier because food can drip down between the coils. A removable drip pan really helps with cleanup for those models.
What kind of cookware works best?
You want pots and pans with flat, smooth bottoms. This ensures good contact with the heating element for even cooking. Warped pans or rounded bottoms won’t work as well and can be less efficient.
Is it safe to leave plugged in?
It’s best practice to unplug it when your not using it. Many models have indicator lights to show when they’re still hot, even if turned off. Always keep the surface clear of flammable items like paper towels.
Can I use it for all my cooking?
It’s perfect for basic tasks like boiling, simmering, or light frying. For heavy-duty searing or very large pots, a full-sized stove might be better. It’s a fantastic supplement, but may not replace a full oven and stove for a big family.
One Last Look
So, that’s teh main things to think about. It really comes down to your own space and how you like to cook. A portable burner is a simple helper for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or just making a big meal easier. You get a lot of flexibility without a big commitment or cost. It’s a handy tool to have around.
We hope this guide helps you see what’s out there. Taking a moment to compare your options is always smart. Finding the right single burner electric cooktop for your counter can make your daily routine just a bit smoother. It’s a small appliance that can solve a big need. Good luck with your search!