Skip to main content

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

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.

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. 

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

Blinds vs. curtains: Which should you choose?
A beginner's guide to deciding between curtains and blinds
Woman with Venetian blinds

When moving into a new home or redecorating a room, one step that can be difficult is choosing between installing curtains or blinds. Before you finalize a purchase of either, consider what look you’re trying to achieve.

Factors such as cost, ease of installation, maintenance, lighting options, and energy efficiency may sway your decision when it comes to decorating your home. This research takes time and patience, but there's good news! We’ve consolidated all relevant information into a comprehensive blinds vs. curtains guide for your convenience. Here are the pros and cons you need to know when searching for window coverings that will best suit your needs.

Read more
7 things no one tells you about hosting Thanksgiving (that they really should)
Advice for hosting Thanksgiving dinner without the stress
Woman holding a turkey on a platter

So you're hosting your very first Thanksgiving dinner? It’s a rite of passage that’s bound to happen for most of us, and as the most food-focused holiday of them all, it’s no small task. You’ll have side dishes to prepare, desserts to bake, table-setting ideas to sort through, and (of course) the turkey to cook!

From finding the most mouth-watering pumpkin pie recipe to setting a gorgeous table, you’ll have so many things on your to-do list that it’s easy to trip up, especially if it’s your first time. But we’re here to help you make your holiday a smashing success and save you some worry. 

Read more
5 delicious Thanksgiving desserts to make if you kind of hate pie
Not a fan of pie? Try these holiday dessert alternatives this Thanksgiving
Autumn spices, pumpkin, and cinnamon

We admit it: We're big fans of fall flavors. And come Thanksgiving, many of those fall flavors are the highlight of the dessert table — whether you prefer apple or pumpkin, there's probably a pie to your liking. Of course, if you're not the biggest fan of pies (we don't judge), it can be disappointing to see this dessert dominate the Thanksgiving holiday.

The good news is, there is a variety of delectable, non-pie, fall-flavored desserts that you can integrate into your Thanksgiving holiday meal. Whether you enjoy pumpkin but not the pie, or if you prefer something different altogether, you don't need to miss out on a delicious Thanksgiving dessert just because of your unique preferences! Here are some amazing Thanksgiving dessert dishes that you can top off your meal with this year.

Read more