5 Best Portable Induction Cookers

Portable induction cookers have been available for a while and it is a myth that these are only useful for professionals. Portable cookers are compact and handy as they can be plugged in anywhere with an outlet, or can be used as an extra burner besides your stove top when cooking multiple dishes. Most models have a sleek design and are lightweight making them easy to take outdoors.

As well as being easy to use, induction cookers are energy efficient as they heat straight away when turned on. Heat isn’t wasted but transfers directly to pots and pans using magnetic fields. Just make sure your cookware is induction compatible and then start boiling, simmering, frying, sautéing, and sous vide your dishes.

Over the years, portable induction cookers have evolved and become better, some with multiple functions and we listed a few.

List of best portable induction cookers

Most popular – Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop Countertop Burner
Best thin model – MZCHEF Induction Burner Cooker With Ultra Thin Body
Best small unit – NUWAVE Flex Precision Induction Cooktop
Best double – Duxtop LCD Portable Double Induction Cooktop 1800W
Best commercial – Breville|PolyScience the Control Freak Temperature Controlled Commercial Induction Cooking System

Things to consider before buying

Temperature control

Cooking food requires precise temperatures. Temperature control is crucial and should be easy to operate your chosen model. Power levels and heat settings on induction cookware let you choose the exact heat for cooking or keeping food warm. An angled control panel is easier to see than one on a flat appliance.

Cleaning

Most induction cooktops are simple to clean with a damp cloth. Never clean the device with abrasive materials. In case you have trouble removing heavy grime, adding some vinegar to a cloth will help.

Size and design

There is no big difference in size when comparing induction burners. However, it is recommended to use correct sized pots and pans that fit the diameter of the appliance. Round or square, single or double burners, it’s a personal choice and will depend on personal preferences and needs.

Overview of best portable induction cookers

Most popular – Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop Countertop Burner

This budget model might not have a large range of precise button choices, such as ‘boil’ or ‘keep warm’ but it is a good choice for occasional users or for those who want to try induction cooking. The digital control panel has a built-in countdown timer with 1 minute increments up to 170 minutes. There are 10 power levels with a maximum of 1800W and 10 temperature levels between 140°F – 460°F (60 – 238°C). Cookware of at least 5 inches (12.5 cm) is required for optimal functioning but take care not to cover the control panel. The burner shuts off automatically after 60 seconds if left without cookware.

Related: How to choose a non-stick pan

Best thin model – MZCHEF Induction Burner Cooker With Ultra Thin Body

With only 1.75 inch (4.5 cm) this induction burner is designed to carry around easily and is practical to store. 8 power and temperature levels are available (within the same range as the Duxtop) but it might take a few attempts to find the required temperature. The LED display clearly shows the setting, and a temperature sensor is built-in for extra safety as well as a child lock and rounded edges. A timer can be set for up to 3 hours and the unit shuts off automatically after 60 seconds if incorrect or without cookware. Overall, a good model but is a little noisy.

Best small unit – NUWAVE Flex Precision Induction Cooktop

The Nuwave model is a little smaller than the square induction cookers but functions perfectly and is ideal for small environments such as dorms and RV’s with 3 settings of 600, 900, and 1300 Watts. Safety is assured with shatterproof glass on top and an automatic shut off function when cooking time is finished. This appliance will not start without cookware in position. There are 6 pre-set temperature settings and a total of 45 precise temperature settings between 100-500°F (38-260°C.) If you don’t already have cookware that is compatible, there are also packages available containing a wok, a pan, and a frying pan.

Best double – Duxtop LCD Portable Double Induction Cooktop 1800W

This double induction cooktop is equipped with two independent heating zones and each can be set separately. Power and temperature modes can be switched easily with the push of a button. There are 20 pre-set levels per mode from keeping food warm to boiling quickly. A power sharing feature is designed to avoid electrical overload and a child safety lock system is built-in. The only issue with this appliance is the loud noise of the fan.

Best commercial – Breville|PolyScience the Control Freak Temperature Controlled Commercial Induction Cooking System

This robust looking induction cooker from Breville is rather pricey and recommended for professionals and for commercial use but seasoned home cooks who like to splurge now and then will also find it a great choice.

It’s in the name and while it heats super quick, temperatures hold from 86-482°F (30-250°C) and can be controlled precisely within 1.8 degree. Use heavier cookware because this cooker does not perform well with lightweight pots and pans.