Thinking about upgrading your kitchen? The world of modern electric cooktops has changed so much, it’s not your grandma’s coil burner anymore. Today’s models offer sleek glass surfaces and incredibly responsive heating that can rival gas. If you’re tired of uneven cooking or just want a easier-to-clean hub, these appliances deserve a serious look.
We tested several top models to cut through the marketing hype. This review will break down what really matters: speed, control, safety, and of course, which one might be perfect for your cooking style. Let’s find your next kitchen powerhouse.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Electric Cooktops
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Elite Gourmet EDB-302BF# Countertop Double Cast Iron Burner, 1500…
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF# Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner, 1000…
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9.4 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet ESB100B Countertop Single Coiled Burner Electric Hot…
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet EDB-302BF Countertop Double Cast Iron Burner, 1500…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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OVENTE Countertop Infrared Double Burner, 1700W Electric Hot Plate…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart CB-60P1 Countertop Double Burner, Stainless Steel/Black
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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CUSIMAX Hot Plate, Single Burner Electric Cooktop, 1500W Electric…
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8.7 |
Read Review |
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Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop Countertop Burner, Gold 8100MC/BT-180G3
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass,…
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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Infrared Double Burner Electric Cooktop – 1800W Portable Stove,…
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8.3 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Electric Cooktops
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 for those who need reliable, extra cooking space without the commitment of a full-sized appliance. This 1500-watt electric hot plate offers a straightforward solution for small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, or even outdoor settings like camping trips, providing two independent cooking surfaces in one compact and portable unit.
Its core functionality centers on the dual cast iron cooking plates, measuring 6.5 and 5 inches. These plates are known for their excellent heat retention and distribution, which helps in cooking food more evenly. A significant benefit is their easy to clean nature; the nonstick surfaces mean you can usually wipe them down with just a damp cloth or a non-abrasive sponge after they’ve cooled, making maintenance simple after preparing a meal.
Each burner has its own variable temperature control knob, allowing you to quickly set it to LOW, MEDIUM, or HIGH. This adjustable temperature feature is versatile, perfect for tasks ranging from gently keeping a sauce warm to rapidly boiling a small pot of water for coffee or noodles. You can manage two different foods at their ideal temps simultaneously, which is a real efficiency boost. The unit incorporates thoughtful built-in safety and design elements.
Dual power indicator lights on the front provide a clear visual reminder when the burners are powered ON, a helpful feature to prevent accidental operation. Four non-skid feet on the bottom ensure the burner remains stable on your countertop or table during use, minimizing the risk of it sliding around. Its compact and portable design means it stores easily in a cabinet and can be moved to wherever you need it, wheter that’s a basement apartment, a break room, or a tailgate party.
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 designed to be a straightforward and reliable solution for your supplemental cooking needs. At its core, this 1000-watt electric hot plate provides a solid, consistent heat source wherever you need it, without the complexity of a full stovetop. Its simple, black design focuses on functionality, making it a practical tool for a variety of situations.
One of the key aspects of this burner is its ease of maintenance.
The 6.4-inch cooking surface is made from cast iron, which offers even heat distribution and a naturally nonstick quality when properly seasoned. Cleaning up after use is genuinely simple; just a wipe down with a damp cloth or a non-abrasive sponge is typically all thats required to get it ready for next time.
This makes it a low-hassle option for daily use, wheter your reheating leftovers or making a quick soup.
Control over your cooking is managed through a straightforward variable temperature knob. This allows you to select between LOW, MEDIUM, and HIGH settings, giving you the flexibility to gently keep food warm or quickly bring a pot of water to a boil. The 1000-watt motor provides efficient power for most common tasks like simmering, frying, or boiling.
A helpful power indicator light on the front gives you a clear visual reminder that the unit is on, which is a small but important safety feature alongside the non-skid feet that keep the burner stable on your countertop.
Perhaps one of its biggest advantages is its portability. The compact and lightweight design means it can easily be stored in a cabinet or taken with you.
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 heat source wherever you need it. Its core purpose is to extend your cooking capabilities beyond the main kitchen, offering a simple, plug-in solution for a wide range of tasks. If you’ve ever found yourself short on stove space or needing to cook in a different room, this unit aims to fill that gap effectively.
At its heart, this hot plate is valued for its compact and portable design. It doesn’t take up much room on a countertop, and its lightweight build makes it easy to move or store in a cabinet. This makes it perfect not just for small apartments or dorm rooms, but also for taking along on camping trips where electricity is available, or setting up as an extra station during busy holiday meals or office gatherings.
The non-skid feet on the bottom help keep it securely in place during use, which is a nice touch for safety. A key feature is the adjustable temperature control, managed through a simple rotary knob. It offers six distinct heat settings, allowing you to go from a gentle simmer for keeping sauces warm all the way up to a strong boil for pasta or soups. This flexibility means you can use it for actual cooking, not just reheating.
The 1000-watt coiled heating element provides efficient power to heat up quickly and maintain consistent temperature, which is important for cooking outcomes. A power indicator light on the front clearly shows you when the unit is on, a simple but crucial reminder. Maintenance is designed to be hassle-free. The coiled element itself and the stainless steel drip tray beneath it are both easy to clean; usually just a wipe with a damp cloth or a non-abrasive sponge is all thats needed.
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 a versatile electric hot plate designed to expand your cooking space without demanding a permanent spot in your kitchen. Its core appeal lies in its straightforward functionality and portability, offering two independent cooking surfaces that provide a combined 1500 watts of efficient power.
This means you can manage two different cooking tasks at once, like simmering a sauce on one burner while keeping a side dish warm on the other, all from your countertop, desk, or any other stable surface. Each of the cast iron plates—one 6.5-inch and one 5.5-inch—features a flat, nonstick cooking surface. This design makes them exceptionally easy to clean; a quick wipe with a damp cloth or a non-abrasive sponge is usually all thats needed after use.
The adjustable temperature control is simple and intuitive, with a variable knob for each burner that lets you select LOW, MEDIUM, or HIGH heat. This range is sufficent for everything from gently melting butter to boiling water for a quick cup of tea or keeping a meal warm for later. The dual power indicator lights on the front are a helpful visual reminder that the unit is on, adding a layer of safety to its operation. Where this burner really shines is in its flexibility.
Its compact and lightweight build, complemented by non-skid feet for stability, makes it easy to move and store. You can tuck it away in a cabinet and bring it out for holiday meal prep, take it to a dorm room for simple meals beyond microwave fare, or even pack it for a cabin or camping trip where cooking options are limited. It serves as a reliable extra burner when your stovetop is full or as a primary cooking appliance in a small living space.
OVENTE Countertop Infrared Double Burner, 1700W Electric Hot Plate and Portable Stove with 7.75" and 6.75" Ceramic Glass Cooktop, 5 Level Temperature Setting and Easy to Clean Base, Black BGI102B
The OVENTE Countertop Infrared Double Burner BGI102B is a versatile and compact cooking solution designed for spaces where a full-sized stove isn’t practical or available. At its core, this 1700W appliance uses infrared heating technology. This method distributes heat quickly and evenly across its two crystallite ceramic glass cooktops, which measure 7.75 and 6.75 inches.
This means you can efficiently fry, simmer, boil water, or keep dishes warm without the uneven hotspots common to some single coil burners. A significant advantage of this model is its broad cookware compatibility. Unlike induction hobs that require specific magnetic pots and pans, this infrared burner works with virtually any material you already own—stainless steel, aluminum, ceramic, or glass.
For optimal performance and energy efficiency, its recommended to use pots with flat bottoms that closely match the size of the heating elements. The unit features a simple, adjustable control knob for each burner, offering five distinct temperature settings. This gives you direct control for various tasks, from a gentle simmer to a rapid boil. An illuminated indicator light shows when a burner is active and the system includes an auto-shutoff function for safety in case of overheating.
Portability is a key feature here. With a slim profile and a light weight of just 4.6 pounds, the burner is easy to move and store. Its stainless steel housing and sleek black glass top offer a classy look that fits well on a kitchen counter, a dorm room desk, or in an RV galley. This makes it an excellent primary cooker for small apartments or a reliable backup during large family gatherings when you need extra cooking space.
Cuisinart CB-60P1 Countertop Double Burner, Stainless Steel/Black
The Cuisinart CB-60P1 Countertop Double Burner, Stainless Steel/Black, is designed for anyone who needs extra cooking space without a full kitchen renovation. It’s a straightforward, powerful appliance that gives you two reliable heat sources in a compact, portable frame. If your stovetop is overcrowded or you need a cooking station in another room, this unit provides a solid and independent solution. At its heart are two heavy-duty cast iron plates.
These aren’t flimsy elements; they’re solid and built for durability, ensuring even heat distribution across your pots and pans. The entire unit measures 5.75 x 22.50 x 15.25 inches, giving you a substantial cooking width while maintaining a low profile that won’t obstruct your view. It’s a practical size that fits comfortably on most countertops, tables, or kitchen islands.
The non-slip feet are a crucial detail, providing total stability while cooking so the unit stays firmly in place even when your moving pots around. Power is where this model really stands out. With a combined 1800 watts, it heats up quickly and maintains temperature reliably throughout your cooking. The primary burner delivers a robust 1300 watts, perfect for boiling water or searing, while the secondary 500-watt burner is ideal for simmering sauces or keeping side dishes warm.
This seperation of power allows for versatile meal preparation. You control each burner independently with two separate dials, each offering six adjustable temperature settings. This gives you precise command, whether you need a rolling boil or a gentle, low heat. Operation is simple and safe.
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 simplify meal prep in a variety of settings. Whether your main kitchen is busy, you’re dealing with limited counter space, or you need an extra burner for entertaining, this unit offers a reliable and convenient way to cook.
At its core, this hot plate is powered by a 1500-watt heating element, which provides quick and efficient heat.
This makes it suitable for a range of common tasks like boiling water for coffee or tea, simmering soups and sauces, cooking pasta, or preparing items like scrambled eggs and grilled cheese sandwiches. It’s particularly useful in small apartments, dorm rooms, offices, or as a backup during large family gatherings.
The adjustable temperature control, regulated by a built-in thermostat, gives you the flexibility to switch from a gentle simmer to a rolling boil, adapting to whatever your recipe calls for.
One of the key benefits of this model is its compatibility. It works with virtually all types of cookware—including aluminum, stainless steel, and glass pots and pans—as long as they are flat-bottomed and within 7.4 inches in diameter.
This means you probably won’t need to buy any special pans to use it. The compact stainless steel body is not only durable but also easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth once the unit has cooled down. Its portability is a major plus; you can easily move it from the counter to a storage cabinet, making it a great space-saver.
Safety and stability are integral to its design. The base features anti-skid feet to prevent the unit from sliding on your countertop during use.
Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop Countertop Burner, Gold 8100MC/BT-180G3
The Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop Countertop Burner, Gold 8100MC/BT-180G3 is a versatile appliance designed to add a high-performance cooking element to your kitchen setup. Its core technology uses electromagnetic energy to heat your cookware directly, which means it’s incredibly efficient and responsive compared to traditional coil or radiant elements.
This method transfers heat quickly to your food while the glass surface itself stays relatively cool, a key feature for both safety and clean-up. Before considering this model, it’s important to check your pots and pans. The cooktop requires induction-compatible cookware. A simple test is to see if a magnet sticks firmly to the bottom of your pan; if it does and the pan is at least 5 inches across, you’re good to go.
The unit is built for standard North American kitchens, plugging into any 120V, 15-amp outlet. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to move from a countertop to a dining table for hot pot meals, or to store it away if your kitchen space is limited. You have precise control over your cooking with the digital panel. It offers 10 specific temperature settings, ranging from a gentle 140°F for melting chocolate to a powerful 460°F for searing.
There are also 10 power levels, from a low 200W to the full 1800W, giving you the equivalent of a high-heat burner. The built-in timer is a standout feature, letting you set it in one-minute increments for up to 170 minutes. You can simmer a sauce for exactly 45 minutes or boil water for pasta without having to watch the clock, as the unit will automatically switch to standby mode when time’s up.
Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass, 6.5” Heating Coil, 45 Temps from 100°F to 500°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900 & 1300 Watts, Black
The Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop is designed for cooks who value control and consistency in a compact, portable package. At its core, its about giving you command over the cooking process with a level of precision that traditional electric coils or gas burners can struggle to match. The central feature is its extensive temperature range, offering 45 pre-programmed settings from a gentle 100°F all the way up to a searing 500°F.
This means you can perform tasks that typically require multiple appliances or careful guesswork. You can keep a delicate hollandaise sauce warm without it breaking, melt chocolate slowly and evenly, or get a perfect sear on a steak with serious grill marks, all on the same unit. A major advantage of the Flex is how it manages this control. The interface is built for intuitive adjustments.
If you realize a soup needs to simmer longer or a pan needs a quicker blast of heat, you can make those changes on-the-fly without cancelling your program or starting over. You simply adjust the time or temperature as needed, and the cooktop responds immediately. This flexibility is key for adapting to how food actually cooks, rather than being locked into a rigid setting.
The three primary wattage settings—600, 900, and 1300 watts—complement this by letting you match the power level to the task, wheter its a low simmer or a rapid boil. The technology inside focuses on efficient, even cooking. Its slim profile is made possible by patented insulation that positions the 6.5-inch induction heating coil exceptionally close to your cookware.
Infrared Double Burner Electric Cooktop – 1800W Portable Stove, Heat-up In Seconds, Countertop Cooktop for Dorm, Compatible with All Cookware
The Infrared Double Burner Electric Cooktop is a versatile and portable cooking appliance designed to bring convenient heat wherever you need it. Its core promise is simplicity and compatibility, functioning as a reliable primary or backup stove without the need for special cookware or a permanent installation. This cooktop stands out because it works with virtually any pan-shaped cookware you already own.
Unlike induction models that require magnetic pots, this infrared burner heats aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic, and even glass. Whether you have a favorite frying pan, a wok, or a stovetop teapot, it can handle it, supporting items up to 7.1 inches in diameter and 22 pounds in weight. This makes it incredibly flexible for different cooking styles, from a quick breakfast fry to a slow-simmered soup.
You can even use it for Teppanyaki or barbeque with the addition of seperate accessory plates, thought those aren’t included with the unit itself. Performance is centered on speed and efficiency. With 1800W of power and vertical heating technology, the burner reaches cooking temperature in just a few seconds. Infrared radiation distributes heat evenly across the bottom of your cookware, which helps avoid hot spots.
It’s designed to be energy-conscious too, using about 30% less electricity than traditional induction cookers by cycling on and off to maintain your set temperature automatically. A helpful tip for boiling water efficiently is to cover your pot with a lid during use. Safety and portability are key highlights. The unit operates without an open flame, eliminating concerns about carbon monoxide, making it suitable for well-ventilated indoor use.
Electric Cooktops Buying Guide
Upgrading your kitchen’s cooking surface? Electric cooktops provide a sleek, modern look and are a breeze to clean since thay’re completely flat. They heat up quickly and offer consistent temperature control, which is great for everything from simmering sauces to boiling pasta. The main thing you’ll be deciding between is teh type of heating element and the number of burners you need.
Type of Heating Element
You’ve got two main choices here. Coil elements are the classic, affordable option—they’re durable but can be a bit slower and trickier to clean. Smoothtop models with radiant elements under glass are far more common now. They look great and wipe clean in seconds, though the glass can scratch if your not careful. Induction is the high-tech version; it uses magnetic energy to heat only the pot itself, making it incredibly fast and energy-efficient, but you’ll need cookware with a magnetic base.
Size and Configuration
Measure your countertop cutout space carefully! Cooktops typically come in 30-inch and 36-inch widths, but compact 24-inch models exist too. Think about how many burners you regularly use. A standard four-burner layout works for most families, but some models offer a fifth element or a dual-zone burner for a griddle. Make sure the burner sizes match your pots—a small saucepan on a large burner is inefficient.
Control Styles and Safety
Controls are usually at the front or to the side. Knobs are simple and intuitive, while touch-sensitive digital panels offer a seamless look and precise settings. Some even have slide controls. Look for helpful safety features like a residual heat indicator—a light that shows when the surface is still hot after turning off. Many models have a lock function to prevent accidental activation, which is a lifesaver in homes with curious kids.
Power and Performance
Check the wattage of the individual elements. A high-power burner (around 3000 watts) is essential for fast boiling, while a low-power one (around 1000 watts) is perfect for gentle melting. If you love to cook, a model with a quick-boil or power-boost function on one burner can be a real time-saver. Remember, more power means a faster cook, but it also impacts your electricity bill a bit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Cooktops
What’s the difference between coil and smooth-top electric cooktops?
Coil cooktops have visible, spiral heating elements. They are often more affordable. Smooth-top cooktops have a flat, glass-ceramic surface with elements underneath. They are easier to clean and look more modern, but can be scratched.
Are electric cooktops easy to clean?
Smooth-top models are generally very easy to wipe down. You need to use a special cleaner for glass cooktops to avoid scratches. Coil tops can be trickier, as you have to lift the coils and drip bowls to clean underneath them.
How do I know if my kitchen is ready for an electric cooktop?
You need a dedicated 240-volt electrical circuit, similar to what an electric oven or dryer uses. It’s best to have a licensed electrician check your wiring. They can confirm your kitchen has the right setup or install it for you.
Is cooking speed different than with gas?
Yes, there is a difference. Electric elements take a bit longer to heat up and cool down compared to gas flames. This means you need to plan ahead a little for temperature changes. Once they’re hot, they provide consistent, even heat.
Can I use any type of cookware?
For best results, use pots and pans with flat, smooth bottoms. This is especially important for smooth-top models. Warped or rounded bottoms won’t make good contact, so your food might cook unevenly. Good materials include stainless steel and cast iron.
What are induction cooktops and are they electric?
Yes, induction is a type of electric cooking. Instead of heating a coil, it uses magnets to heat the pot itself directly. It’s very fast and efficient, but you need cookware that is magnetic, like stainless steel or cast iron. Not all pots will work.
Do they have any safety features?
Most modern electric cooktops do. Common features include indicator lights to show when a surface is still hot, child safety locks, and automatic shut-off timers. Some smooth-tops also have overflow protection that turns off the element if it detects a boil-over.
Key Takeaways
Choosing teh right appliance for your kitchen is a big decision. It really comes down to how you cook and what fits your space. Think about your daily routine and which features would make it easier. A good choice will feel like a natural part of your kitchen for years to come.
We hope this look at the options helps you feel more confident. Remember, the best electric cooktops for you is the one that matches your needs and budget. Take your time, measure your counter, and consider what really matters for your meals. With a little research, you’ll find a great fit for your home.