Induction cooktops

Anyone replacing a gas burner with induction should first check two things, the wattage and the pans. Hawkins says about 1000 W on induction matches a small gas burner on high. It puts a big gas burner on high at about 2000 W.

The glass top stays cold until a pan sits on it. A coil under the glass heats the pan directly, and heating stops when you lift the pan away. Your cookware must therefore work with the magnetic field.

Our shortlists begin with the best induction cooktop and the best induction cooktop brands. Power guides include the best high-power induction cooktop. Lower-wattage options include the low-wattage induction cooktops and the mid-wattage induction cooktops. Brand pages cover the best Prestige induction cooktop and the best Philips induction cooktop. The best infrared cooktop page covers the alternative.

Power levels vary by model. Hawkins lists its Futura single cooktop at 2000 W maximum. The voltage range is 220 V to 240 V. Its levels run from 100 W to 2000 W. Each step is 100 W. The maker also notes that many cooktops may not show power settings accurately.

Cookware compatibility comes next. Hawkins says pans need a magnetic stainless steel or ferromagnetic base, such as cast iron or tri-ply stainless steel. The base should be flat and at least 120 mm across. Hold a magnet to the base. If it clings, the pan will work. Glass, aluminium and copper generally do not.

Energy labels help compare models. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency awards up to five stars based on the energy used per 1000 g of water. Five stars needs 175 Wh or less. A model joining the scheme needs a valid BIS mark. It also needs at least 80 per cent thermal efficiency. Its standby use may be no more than 1.1 W.