Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Hacks & How-to's

21OAK may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Portable cooktops can be a lifesaver — here’s how to choose one that works for you

By

Portable cooktops are on the rise as interest in maneuverability and convenience continue to grow. More than ever, people are interested in maximizing their time and space when preparing and cooking food in the kitchen.

Finding the right cooktop to suit your needs can be difficult and time consuming. We’ve rounded up some of our best hacks to help you choose the right portable cooktop for your needs.

Recommended Videos

What is a portable cooktop

Portable cooktops are quickly becoming a must-have in many kitchens. Thanks to their ingenuity and space-saving perks, people are quick to implement them into their homes. 

Related

A portable cooktop comes in many varieties. Gas and induction cooktops are the most common. These  are powered by a cord that connects to a nearby outlet. Since they don’t require much electricity, they’re a cost-effective option for many food lovers.

What is a single induction burner

Single induction burners are a type of cooktop that utilizes induction rather than gas to heat up the cooktop. Induction burners operate through electricity that travels to a hot coil beneath a ceramic or glass plate. The coil heats up to the desired temperature and allows for flameless cooking.

The main benefit of induction burners is the lack of a gas flame. Flames can be dangerous in small spaces. Not to mention, the smell of propane burning is not always so appealing. 

A single induction burner simply refers to an induction cooktop with one (or a single) coil/cooking range. 

pan on portable cooktop on counter

Why portable cooktops are great

Benefits:

  • Maneuverability
  • Small size
  • Ease of use

Portable burners allow the opportunity for increased mobility. They are small and can fit on even the tightest of counter spaces. Their maneuverability enables them to be placed anywhere they may be needed throughout the kitchen or dining room. You can also bring them on camping trips or to a relative’s house to help keep food warm during the holiday season.

What to look for in a portable cooktop

Before choosing a cooktop, it’s essential to consider the following factors. These aspects will determine whether or not a portable cooktop suits your needs and space equally. Portability, ease of use, functionality, and size are some of the main determinants to help you decide which portable induction burner works best for your home.

Maneuverability

Maneuverability is one of the primary considerations when choosing the right cooktop for you. You want to select a portable cooktop that is easy to carry and requires little setup to use. 

The size of the cooktop is important as this will determine where it can be placed and used inside your home.

The

Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop

is a better option for people who want a small, single induction burner that allows for maximum portability and saves on space.

Ease of use

Ease of use is another important consideration when choosing the right cooktop. Sometimes, having all of the bells and whistles is not as convenient as it seems. Cooktops that do the job efficiently are often enjoyed the most.

Another thing to consider is whether or not you are comfortable with a gas cooktop. While these versions of portable cooktops certainly have their perks, they require more upkeep and caution than induction burners.

person cooking tortilla on portable cooktop

Cord length

The length of the cord is not often considered when buying a cooktop, but it certainly makes a world of difference. While some cooktops can be compatible with extension cords, they are not all the same. The chance of a fire or short increases with the use of extension cords.

Choosing a burner with a longer cord by default may come in handy down the road and will often provide peace of mind when it comes to fire hazards. The

iSiLER 1800W Sensor Touch Induction Cooktop

comes with many great features, including a long and durable cord.

Capabilities

The number of capabilities provided in a cooktop can make or break your decision. Avid food lovers may enjoy a cooktop with more functions and better control. On the other hand, an average home cook may find that simplicity is easier to use and more enjoyable.

While everyone holds a different opinion, we really enjoy the

Gastrorag 1300W Portable Sensor Touch Induction Cooktop

for its versatility and multitude of cooking capabilities.

Editors’ Recommendations

Topics
Amelia Wilson
Amelia Wilson
Contributor
Amelia Wilson (author pen name Amelia J. Wilson) is a content writer in Greenwood, IN. She often enjoys topics on…
Flies are super gross – here’s how to get rid of them for good
Whether you've noticed drain flies in the sink or fruit flies on the counters, follow these tips to get rid of those pesky insects
Fruit flies in a liquid container trap

If you’ve ever left fruit on the counter for a little too long or skipped a day taking out the trash, chances are you’ve found yourself face-to-face with flies in your home. While a few flies don’t always lead to an infestation, sometimes things get out of hand. Here is how to get rid of flies and tackle their breeding grounds for good.
What attracts flies to your home?

Several things can attract flies into your home, but the most common tend to coincide with moisture and foul odors. Finding things around your house that fit these two characteristics won’t always guarantee the source of the fly infestation, but it could be a great place to start.
Exposed garbage
Exposed garbage, like trash bins without lids, can be a breeding ground for insects. And if you have lids on your trash bins, double-check that there are no cracks or damages that could allow flies to get in.
Moisture in drains
Drain flies are a common pest that dwells in bathroom pipes around drains. Sinks, showers, and other water sources can be a nesting hole for these insects.
Spoiled food
Fruit flies, in particular, are a troublesome pest that is drawn to spoiled food and rotting fruit. Fruits and vegetables left on the tables or countertops can become a prime location for fruit flies and gnats.
Rotting plants
Rotting plants are also home to flies. In fact, plant pots that retain a lot of moisture or have mulch, like outdoor garden beds, can be a breeding ground for flies and their eggs.
How do flies get into the house?

Read more
This is how much a tankless water heater will cost you
Gas vs. electric and condensing vs. non-condensing - here's everything to know about tankless water heater costs
Tankless water heater next to a shower

Tankless water heaters are gaining popularity among homeowners. Because of their compact and often energy-saving technology, many households are using these systems to help save money on their utility bills. However, you may be asking yourself, "How much does a tankless water heater really cost to install?"

Today, we'll discuss everything you need to know about tankless water heater costs to help you make the right decision for your home.
Types of tankless water heaters

Read more
How to soundproof a room: What you need to know
Address excess noise levels in your space with these effective soundproofing methods
Woman closing blackout curtains

Whether you're a light sleeper trying to catch some z's during noisy hours or a musician seeking solace for practice, soundproofing your space can significantly enhance your quality of life. But where do you start? From walls to windows, doors to floors, and even ceilings, there are various methods to dampen unwanted noise. In this guide, we'll explore effective strategies for how to soundproof a room, ensuring a quieter and more peaceful home environment for all.
How to soundproof a room: Walls

When it comes to blocking out noise, the walls of your room play a crucial role. For those seeking a more official soundproofing solution, specialized materials are the way to go.
Try mass-loaded vinyl
Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) is a dense, flexible material that effectively blocks sound transmission through walls. By adding a layer of MLV between drywall sheets, you can significantly reduce noise infiltration.
Install acoustic panels
Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound waves, preventing them from bouncing off walls and creating echoes. These panels come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, allowing you to customize your space while enhancing its soundproofing capabilities.
Install acoustic foam
Acoustic foam is another effective option for soundproofing walls. Its unique structure absorbs sound waves, reducing reverberation and minimizing noise transmission. Install acoustic foam panels on your walls to experience quieter surroundings.
Use soundproofing drywall
Soundproofing drywall, also known as gypsum board, is a specially designed type of drywall that blocks sound transmission. Its dense composition effectively absorbs and dissipates sound waves, making it an excellent choice for soundproofing walls.
How to soundproof a room: Doors

Read more