You may or may not have heard that induction stoves are one of the best stoves available. In today’s market, there are many stoves and fuels to choose from, but induction ones are still one of the best choices.
Among them, there are also portable induction stoves as a separate category beneficial on its own.
This super-efficient cooktop uses an electromagnetic field to heat up your kettle or pan on it. One of its most significant benefits is the fact that it reduced kitchen heat since it’s top doesn’t even get hot. The other one is, of course, the fact that it’s portable.
These are much better than electric or gas cooktops and for obvious reasons.
How does it work?
An induction stove has a ceramic plate and an electromagnetic coil beneath it. Once you turn it on, an electric current goes through the coil, making a fluctuating magnetic field. However, it generates no heat on the stove itself.
Once you put a stainless steel or iron pan on it, its magnetic field will induce smaller electric currents in the metal you’ve placed on top. Because of the way it works, only pans made of iron will work with the stove.
There are a few other options to choose from if you don’t want all-iron pots and pans so stick around as we’ll discuss that later.
Why are portable induction stoves the best?
Did you know that an inductions stove takes only 3 minutes to bring 48 ounces of water to boiling? That’s true!
If you ever came across induction burner reviews, you probably know that those can achieve high temperature but can also cook low and slow. They can go down to 100.75°F. Also, they have precise temperature control, and it’s almost impossible to burn your food.
Still, what we want to focus on is the portable version of this great invention. The portable induction cooktop is one of the best choices if you’re a traveler. Plus, they’re easy to carry around and transport from one place to another, which would be a bit more difficult with any other cooktop.
The best 30-inch induction cooktop is efficient but still small enough for you to be able to carry it around quickly.
Induction Cooktop vs. Electric Cooktop vs. Gas Cooktop
A gas cooktop has always been a winner because it creates a fire that reacts instantly creating heat almost immediately. Electric ones, not so much, because these take time to heat and cool down. But everything’s changed with the arrival of an inductions stove. You’ll quickly understand why once we start with the induction hot plate reviews.
We can say as much that induction stoves are more efficient in transferring heat thanks to the direct connection between the stove and your cookware. These don’t have any coils that would have to heat up in order to heat your pot like it’s the case with an electric cooktop.
Since there are so many different portable induction stoves on the market, it’s understandably tricky to find the best one. We did some research on your behalf and gathered 10 of the absolute best models you can find. Check out the table below for some quick comparison, but make sure to continue reading to find out all the information.
| Best Portable Induction Cooktop | Dimension (in) | Temp Range (ºF) | Weight (lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duxtop 8100MC 1800W Gold (Best Seller) | 13x11.5x2.5 | 140-460 | 6.75 | Check Price |
| Secura 9100MC 1800W Black | 14x11.4x2.1 | 140-460 | 7.05 | Check Price |
| Cuisinart ICT-60 Double Induction | 5.2x26.8x17 | 140-460 | 11.6 | Check Price |
| NuWave Precision Induction Cooktop | 14.4x15.9x6.3 | 100-575 | 6.9 | Check Price |
| Duxtop LCD 9600LS Induction Stove | 14x11.4x2.5 | 100-460 | 7.3 | Check Price |
| Max Burton 6400 Digital Choice LCD | 13.5x12.5x2.6 | 100-450 | 7.8 | Check Price |
| NutriChef Upgraded Induction Stove | 11.4x14.2x1.9 | 140-460 | 5.96 | Check Price |
| Aicok Portable Induction Stove Black (Editor's Pick) | 14.5x11.5x1.8 | 140-460 | 6.3 | Check Price |
| Cosmo COS-YLIC1 Induction Stove | 14x2.5x11.5 | 140-464 | 14 | Check Price |
| iSiLER Sensor Touch Portable Induction Set | 11.6x2.2x14.2 | 140-460 | 6.6 | Check Price |
Stick around as we discuss all of the most important details about each of these portable induction stove models. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip down to our recommendation and buyer’s guide but we recommend you check out the reviews of the top induction cooktops before that. If you own a blackstone gridddle and having some issues with the heating, be sure to check out Carnivore Style for a quick troubleshooting guide.
1. Duxtop 8100MC 1800W Gold
The Duxtop 8100MC induction stove uses about 90% of the energy it draws, which means it’s one of the most energy-efficient portable induction stoves on the market.
It’s suitable for all homes, using the standard 120 volts and 15 amps of electricity. In addition to that, it’s also compact, easy to use and store away when not needed.
It has a digital control panel with a count-down timer that can go from 1 to 170 minutes. Its temperature ranges from 140 to 460°F. Plus, its 10 levels go from 200 to 1800 watts.
Its auto-pan detection is a useful feature since it shuts the unit automatically if no cookware is detected for 60 seconds. The stove also has a diagnostic error message system that will inform you of everything and anything that’s possibly wrong with its system. It also features low and high voltage warning system.
Remember! The Duxtop portable induction stove requires compatible cookware. Luckily, Duxtop has cookware to offer that will work the best with the stove. However, you can also use any other cookware made of cast iron or stainless steel with magnetic bottom.
This ETL approved portable induction stove is one of the best on the market thanks to its reliable system. Its self-adjusting burners detect the kind of cookware you’re using. They automatically adjust to their base size, so you save up as much energy as possible.
It’s versatile, ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. You can pull it out at times to use it as an extra cooking zone in your kitchen or place it in the yard for those outdoor parties.
- You can’t use any non-stick aluminum cookware
- Best for smaller pans and pots
2. Secura 9100MC 1800W Black
If you already have Duxtop cookware but the stove above isn’t really working for you, check out this one by Secura. It may seem similar at first glance, but there are some fundamental differences.
Its power levels go from 200 to 1800 Watts with 15 temperature settings ranging from 140 to 460°F. Plus, it has a digital timer you can manage from 1 minute up to 170 minutes.
Still, it’s not recommended you set it up and walk away. It’s especially tricky to get a hold of it if you’ve never used an inductions stove before. Some water will boil over until you learn your way around its temperature settings.
It’s compatible with Duxtop cookware, but you can pretty much use any other that’s made of cast aluminum enameled iron, steel or stainless steel that has a magnetic bottom.
It’s compatible with Duxtop cookware, but you can pretty much use any other that’s made of cast aluminum enameled iron, steel or stainless steel that has a magnetic bottom.
The stove is built to North America Electrical Standards, which actually means 120V 60Hz AC. It’s also ETL approved.
It’s lightweight being a little over 7 pounds. This allows you to carry it around anywhere you like. It’s great for travelers or people who generally love cooking in their backyard when the weather is nice.
Its 5ft cord makes it easy for you to manage your cooking area. However, keep in mind that its fan is somewhat noisy, mainly if you’re used to no noise coming from your gas or electric stove.
- Shouldn’t be left unsupervised
- A bit noisy
3. Cuisinart ICT-60 Double Induction
If you have a big family and often require a bit more cooking space, this is an excellent solution for you. It’s basically two stoves in one, which means somewhat more cooking area.
Apart from featuring two stoves, it also features dual heat settings. Precisely, the left burner has eight settings while the right one has 5. Both, of course, have individual timers with 150 minutes, and an on/off switches.
One of its best features is the fact that it automatically shuts off after 30 seconds when you remove your pan or pot. It’s consistent with cooking and energy efficient using up almost all of the power and keeping your kitchen cool throughout.
Ideally, you would use both sides at the same time for larger cooking needs, but what’s great is that you don’t need to. Thanks to its separate settings and on/off switch for both of the sides.
It only works with an induction cooking set. A general rule is to stick a magnet to the bottom of your pan or pot. If it holds, you can use it on this induction stove.
Its fan may trouble some people considering it’s a bit noisy. Of course, it’s nothing too noisy, and you’ll definitely get used to it.
- Considered a bit noisy
4. NuWave Precision Induction Cooktop
If you ever read a New Wave induction cooktop review, you know about the quality of these units.
If your kitchen is small or you often travel and need a cooktop to bring along, take a look at this one as it’s one of the best portable induction cooktops. It’s tiny, so it fits in smallest areas and luggage for you to bring it wherever you go.
How does it work? It has six pre-programmed temperature settings through its temperature ranges from 100 to 575°F. It cooks at 52 different temperatures adjustable in 10-degree increments.
It’s a smart stove with programmable stage cooking that has up to 100 hours of memory and performance. This is ideal for all people on the go who don’t have as much time to cook and experiment with different temperatures. You set it up once, and you’re good to go.
Why it’s best for travelers? The NuWave PIC is versatile and uses up to 70% less energy than all other stoves. It’s also lightweight which makes it easily portable. This induction stove is versatile and allows you to simmer, stir, deep fry, slow cook, boil and much more.
In addition, much like all the best induction stove models, the NuWave PIC has an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the device when there’s no pan or pot on top of it.
Though it’s compact in size, the cooktop provides you with a large cooking area. It offers 9 inches in diameter, meaning diversity in portion sizes.
One of the best things about it is that it comes with a lifetime membership to the online Precision Cooking Club. There you can find many recipes, tricks, and tips from the culinary team behind NuWave.
- The LED never shuts off
- Shuts off immediately when you lift your pan
5. Duxtop LCD 9600LS Induction Stove
This Duxtop LCD induction stove is suitable for all homes since it’s standard, using 120 volts and 15 amps of electricity. It’s compact and lightweight allowing you to carry it around easily.
It features a count-down timer with one-minute increments all the way until 10 hours. Its temperature ranges from 100°F to 460°F with 20 power levels from 100 to 1800 watts. The stove comes with a 5ft long cable.
The stove works best with Duxtop Whole-Clad premium cookware though you can use other induction-ready cookware, too. Choose between cast aluminum enameled iron, cast iron, steel, or stainless steel with magnetic bottom.
Do you have children? This Duxtop stove has an LCD Sensor-touch control panel and a child safety lock system. All you have to do is press and hold the safety lock key for about 3 seconds to activate it. This will help protect your kids if they like to snoop around your kitchen when you’re not watching.
It’s great that it also has an automatic shut off system that turns the device off when there’s no cookware on top of it for 30 seconds. It also shuts off when you use non-compatible cookware.
- Diagnostic error message system
- Low and high voltage system
It’s essential we mention that this is one of the quietest induction stovetops. Many on the market are somewhat noisy, but the Duxtop 9600LS is an exception. It may produce a high pitch sound if you’re using clad cookware. This type of cookware is made of many layers of metal all pressed together.
Side note: The stovetop is ETL approved and comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
- LED glows when the unit is off
- May produce high pitch noise when on the highest temperature
6. Max Burton 6400 Digital Choice LCD
This is a classic but modern looking stove top. It’s ideal for all people looking for an easy-to-use stove top that’s also easy to transport. If you’re often traveling or just making parties in your backyard, having a portable stove top such as this one is a life changer.
Most of its settings are available with a single touch, so you don’t have to worry that you won’t know how to use the stove. It has one button for boiling and another for simmering. What more would you like?
The stovetop has a lock to hold settings making it safe to keep around kids since they can’t figure out how to turn it on.
If you’re multitasking, this might be an induction stove for you. It’s because it has a 180-minute programmable timer that allows you to set your food to cook while you do whatever else you like. This is ideal for all the busy people that often don’t have the time to watch over the cooking process.
Because it’s so simple and lightweight, it’s a great stove to have in your dorm room, small kitchen, or your backyard porch for some family gatherings.
This is another quiet stovetop that won’t give you any trouble if you live in a one-bedroom apartment for example. You can hear its fan, but the noise is definitely negligible. The touch settings, however, make a loud sound when you press to change them.
- Not suitable for simmers longer than 3 hours
7. NutriChef Upgraded Induction Stove
This is heavy-duty and ideal for all who are serious about their cooking. It’s the type of an induction stove you’d get if you want the top of the market.
The NutriChef stove has a digital LCD display screen that allows you to keep an eye on the temperature, timer, power, voltage, etc. It’s one of the things that make it a professional induction stove. What’s great and different about it is that you can manually control the temperature levels and power. It has ten power levels from 100 to 1500 Watt. Also, you get to choose from 140 to 460°F regarding temperature levels.
Of course, it only supports cookware with magnetic base. It’s compatible with stainless steel, steel, cast iron, enameled iron, etc. However, make sure to choose the cookware that’s about 12 to 26 cm in diameter.
The stove features a child safety lock that protects your children from possibly injuring themselves in any way.
It’s one of the most energy-efficient units because it loses no heat between the pot and the cooking surface. This also makes your cooking experience much faster, easier, and more enjoyable.
You’ll love it if: You want a versatile and compact induction cooktop. This one is 5.9 inch, portable and lightweight. These qualities make the unit easy to use in and outside your home. Plus, the non-stick glass ceramic surface makes it really easy to clean.
As for its looks, this is one of the most modern-looking induction cooktops on the market. It’s flat, black and with all one-touch settings. If you’re seeking for that modern vibe, this might be one of the best stove tops to look into.
- A little noisy
8. Aicok Portable Induction Stove Black
If you want a smart induction stove that’s efficient, good-looking and easy to use this could be one of your best options. It’s all of the above and bit more.
The sensor’s touch control function allows you to control the settings with just a touch of your finger. The digital timer has 1-minute increments that go up to 170 minutes.
- 15-temperature range from 140°F to 460°F
- 15 power levels from 650 to 4500Watts
One of the best things about it is how easy you can clean it. Pretty much all you’d need is a paper towel or a wet cloth dabbed with some dish-washing liquid. Just wipe it down and voilà.
The stovetop works with induction ready cookware like stainless steel with a magnetic bottom, cast aluminum enameled iron, steel and cast iron. Go by the general rule of only using the cookware that you can stick a magnet to.
The cooktop comes with a 2-year warranty, and it’s ETL approved.
However, it’s somewhat noisy, depending on the situation you’re cooking for. If you’re hosting a family gathering outside, it’s highly unlikely anyone will hear the stovetop. If you’re having a romantic dinner, though, you’d have to cook before your date shows up
- Noisy
- Its lowest temperature setting is at 140°F
9. Cosmo COS-YLIC1 Induction Stove
This type of a portable induction cooktop is best for dorm rooms, RVs, boats, etc. It’s because the unit is lightweight and very easy to transport and store away. If you have a limited kitchen space, this might be a good option.
It’s a fast stovetop, much faster than a hot plate or an electric burner. On top of that, it’s also quicker than many other leading induction stoves on the market. For Cosmo COS-YLIC1, it takes only 50 seconds to boil water. This allows for energy saving at all times.
It’s recommended you use a 10.5-inch pan, but make sure it has a magnetic base. Otherwise, the unit won’t work.
It features excellent safety features preventing your kids from accidentally hurting themselves. Precisely, the child safety lock makes it impossible for kids to touch the stove when you’re not watching. Plus, the unit shuts off when you’re not using it for longer than a minute. It cools down quickly thanks to its cooling system that also prevents overheating.
- Nine power levels that go from 200W to 1800W
- Ten temperature levels from 140°F to 464°F
The built-in timer makes your life easier by allowing you to set up the time and do other things while your food is cooking. The unit can work for 3 hours non-stop, that being its maximum run time. This may not be the best if you’re into long overnight simmers.
The unit comes with a 1-year warranty.
It’s also important to mention that the stovetop is very easy to clean with just a wet cloth or a paper towel.
- Maximum time is only 3 hours
- A bit noisy for indoors
10. iSiLER Sensor Touch Portable Induction Set
Let’s say you need a heavy-duty, resistant portable induction stovetop to follow you on RV trips. If that or anything like that is the case, you should look into this model closely. It’s the best portable induction cooktop on Amazon, according to the ratings.
You get nine power levels to choose from since the stovetop goes from 100W to 1800W all in 200W increments. This makes the cooktop versatile and capable of deep fry, simmer, sauté, boil, steam, grill, slow cook, etc. The temperature is adjustable and ranges from 140°F to 460°F in 40°F increments.
Its diameter is 6.7in which means it will fit most frying pans with 3.9-8.6 inches. It’s not the most significant cooking area, though, it’s not the smallest either. Of course, make sure its size would fit you and your cooking needs.
The unit is lightweight, compact, and thus, ideal for travelers. Being only 2.3 inches thick, you can easily transport and store it when not in use. Not just for small kitchen areas, but the stovetop is ideal for outdoor parties and family gatherings.
Do you have a child?
This induction stovetop has a few features to ensure your child’s safety around the unit. The safety child lock and rounded edges make the stovetop safe to keep around. Plus, it has the overheating protection that limits your slow cooking down to just 3 hours.
However, the induction hot plate is reliable and durable. This is precisely why many heavy-duty travelers often opt for this model. Its glass surface is wear resistant, and it can take a beating so to speak
- Noisy
- Not suitable for long hour simmering
What we recommend!
Now that you’ve seen these best portable induction cooktops 2021, you should be able to choose one that would fit you the most. Still, it’s understandable if you can’t pick just one out of these best portable induction cooktop models.
After going through many portable induction cooktop reviews, our team agreed that the Aicok Portable Induction Stove Black is the best induction cooktop to buy. It’s the best rated portable induction cooktop.
- It’s easy to use. In most cases, people avoid induction stovetops thinking those are complicated to use. While there are some hard-to-master models, this Aicok one is not among them. All its features are clear and simple.
- It’s easy to clean. There are a very few things worse than trying to clean burnt food from your stove. This induction cooktop can’t burn the food that drops on it so that you can wipe it off. Use a paper towel or a wet cloth.
- The model is the most popular induction cooktop because it features a solid temperature range. It’s energy efficient and has best induction range that allows you to use the stove for many different cooking methods.
Best Portable Induction Cooktop – Buyer’s Guide
When you’re looking to buy the best portable induction cooktop, you must do it carefully. There are things we must consider such as its versatility, features, ease of use, our preference and budget. Still, quality and preference should be a bit more important than budget, though combining all factors would be the best.
If this is your first time buying a device such as this, stay tuned. We’ve gathered some great advice for you to consult before making the final decision about your next cooktop. Below, you’ll find answers to all buyer’s questions that will most certainly help you with your purchase.
How to choose the best portable induction cooktop?
Much like when buying for best warming trays, there are several things you should look for if you want to buy a quality induction cooktop. Reality is, you’ll come across some models that similar and some that are very different.
- Quality and durability
- Safety features
- Temperature and power ranges
- Versatility
- Ease of use
These are only some of the things you should consider. Make a checklist of that and try to see which models have the most of what we mentioned. This will for sure cut your list of favorites in half.
What’s the best cookware for induction cooktop?
As we mentioned several times throughout the article and the induction hot plate reviews, there’s a general rule that most people follow when it comes to cookware for your induction cooktop.
Things like cast iron, stainless steel with magnetic base, cast aluminum enameled iron all work with induction cooktops unless stated otherwise by the manufacturer.
The reality is, you may think you have the best 30-inch induction cooktop, but without compatible cookware, the cooktop cannot function whatsoever. This is crucial to consider because the cost of induction cookware ranges and you may not be happy to replace your cookware set completely.
Frequently Asked Questions: FAQ’s
Conclusion
This sums up on how to buy the best portable induction cooktop for your cooking needs. We’ve explained why these are a better solution than all others, and we covered many tips and tricks on how to find the best model for you.
If you can’t make up your mind, make sure to check out the one we recommended as the best on the list. It’s versatile and delivers top quality combined with durability and ease of use.
Overall, make sure to consider all the factors that are important to pay attention to. Also, don’t forget to include your personal preference as an important factor, too. If needed, go through all the reviews one more time to be sure you’ve noticed and remembered all the most crucial stuff.
Hopefully, we were helpful, and now you can pick one of these portable induction cooktop models to bring with you to trips or as an additional cooking area in your kitchen.
Is there a portable induction unit that will accommodate my 16″ cast iron paella pan?