Key takeaways
- A single portable induction plate is a cheap, safe second burner.
- Induction heats fast and precisely, and the surface stays cooler than gas or radiant plates.
- Check that your pans are induction-compatible (a magnet should stick to the base).
In this article
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Good induction cooktops do not have to be expensive. We are still building our list of named budget picks in the US, so here is how to find a cheap model that is genuinely worth buying, and what to avoid.
How to save money
A single portable induction plate is a cheap, safe second burner.
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.
Where not to cut corners
Induction heats fast and precisely, and the surface stays cooler than gas or radiant plates.
Common mistake: Using pans with warped bases, which heat unevenly on induction.
How to find a good one online
When you shop online, sort by average customer review and prefer models with many ratings over a perfect score from a handful of buyers. Check that the seller is reputable, compare the warranty, and read the most recent reviews for problems that only show up after a few months of use.
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Search induction cooktops on Amazon See top-rated induction cooktops on Amazon
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Frequently asked questions
What are the best cheap induction cooktops in the US?
A single portable induction plate is a cheap, safe second burner.
Are cheap induction cooktops worth it?
A single portable induction plate is a cheap, safe second burner. Do not compromise on the basics, though. Induction heats fast and precisely, and the surface stays cooler than gas or radiant plates.
When are induction cooktops cheapest in the US?
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.