6 Best Cheap Induction Cooktops of 2025

Experience instant culinary power with the Mueller RapidTherm, a versatile portable induction cooktop designed to meet diverse cooking needs. Boasting a robust 1800W capability and ETL approval, this unit offers a blend of performance and safety ideal for compact living spaces or as an auxiliary burner. Its intuitive digital panel provides access to 8 temperature levels and 4 preset programs, making complex cooking tasks surprisingly straightforward. This cooktop effectively tackles the common pain point of slow or uneven heating often found with traditional electric burners.

Performance is a key strength for the Mueller RapidTherm. With a power range from 1000W to the maximum 1800W and temperatures from 140-460°F, it offers significant flexibility for everything from a gentle simmer to a rapid boil. The unit measures a portable 14.3″ x 11.3″, fitting easily on countertops or in storage. Its auto-pan detection adds a layer of safety, shutting off if incompatible or no cookware is present, though users must ensure they have induction-compatible pots and pans with a base diameter between 4.8” and 10.2”.

Positioned as a reliable mid-range option, the Mueller RapidTherm offers more features and power control than basic budget models like the WAATFEET 1600W. While it doesn’t offer the sheer number of control levels found in the higher-end Duxtop 9600LS, its combination of 8 temperature levels and 4 presets provides a good balance of simplicity and functionality. It’s best suited for users needing a capable, safe, and portable burner for RVs, dorms, or supplemental kitchen use, offering a compelling mix of features and performance relative to the XKitchen 1800W.

The WAATFEET 1600W portable induction cooktop offers a straightforward and budget-friendly entry into the world of induction cooking. Its minimalist design and 1600W power are perfectly suited for essential kitchen tasks like boiling water, brewing tea, or preparing simple meals, effectively addressing the need for quick, efficient heat in limited spaces. The intelligent touch panel provides a user-friendly interface for selecting power levels, making it accessible even for induction newcomers. This cooktop is a practical solution for users seeking basic, reliable performance without complexity.

In terms of performance, the WAATFEET provides adequate power for its intended use, with 10 adjustable levels from P1 to P10. While its 1600W maximum is lower than many competitors, it’s sufficient for everyday cooking. The inclusion of a 3-hour timer adds convenience for set-it-and-forget tasks. Its lightweight and portable nature makes it ideal for student apartments, offices, or small kitchens where space is at a premium. Users must verify cookware compatibility using the simple magnet test, as with all induction units.

Positioned as a highly budget-friendly option, the WAATFEET 1600W is designed for users prioritizing simplicity and affordability over extensive features or maximum power. Compared to models like the Mueller RapidTherm or XKitchen 1800W, it offers fewer power/temperature settings and a lower max wattage. However, for basic cooking needs and portability, it delivers dependable performance at a more accessible point than feature-rich units like the Duxtop 9600LS, representing solid value for fundamental use.

The XKitchen Portable Induction Cooktop strikes a commendable balance between power and granular control, making it a strong contender for general kitchen use. Delivering a robust 1800W and offering both 9 power levels and 12 distinct temperature levels, it provides the flexibility needed for a wide range of cooking methods, from a gentle simmer to a rapid boil. This dual control system is a significant advantage, allowing users to choose the method that best suits their dish and overcoming the limitation of units that only offer one type of adjustment.

Performance on the XKitchen is consistently strong across its various settings. The 1800W peak power ensures quick heating, while the temperature range of 140℉-465℉, coupled with 12 steps, allows for precise heat management. The inclusion of a dedicated Keep Warm function at three different temperatures (120℉, 140℉, 155℉) is a practical addition for entertaining or meal staging. Measuring 12.91″ x 11.42″ x 2.76″, it’s a standard portable size. Its compatibility is standard for magnetic cookware, ensuring broad usability with appropriate pots and pans.

Designated as Best Overall in its class, the XKitchen offers a superior level of control compared to models like the Mueller RapidTherm, which has fewer temperature steps and relies more on preset programs. While it doesn’t reach the 20 levels of the Duxtop 9600LS, its 12 temperature steps are more than sufficient for most home cooks and come at a more accessible point. It’s an ideal choice for those who need both high power and fine-tuned heat adjustment for varied cooking tasks, offering a better balance of features and control than the Panana 1800W.

For cooks who demand exceptional precision, the Duxtop 9600LS stands out with its unparalleled level of control over heating. This 1800W portable induction burner doesn’t just offer power; it provides a staggering 20 preset power levels (100W to 1800W) and 20 preset temperature settings (100°F to 460°F). This granular adjustment is a game-changer for delicate sauces, tempering chocolate, or achieving perfect searing temperatures, addressing the limitation of basic units that offer only a few broad settings. Its LCD sensor touch panel is both modern and responsive.

Performance is where the Duxtop 9600LS truly shines, offering fine-tuning capabilities unmatched by most portable counterparts. The ability to select from 20 levels for both power and temperature allows for extremely accurate heat management across its 1800W range. Features like a fast boil button, a keep warm function (up to 30 minutes), and a lengthy 10-hour timer enhance its versatility. While induction is inherently quiet, some cookware may produce minor sounds.

Positioned as the Best for Precise Control, the Duxtop 9600LS is clearly aimed at users who value maximum adjustability and are willing to invest more for it. Compared to models like the XKitchen 1800W or Mueller RapidTherm, which offer fewer control levels, the Duxtop provides a significantly more nuanced cooking experience. It’s the ideal choice for enthusiast cooks or those requiring exact temperatures for specific techniques, offering a level of control that justifies its higher point versus the Kiseely WI2 which focuses on raw power.

The Kiseely WI2 portable induction cooktop makes a bold statement with its impressive 2200W power output, significantly exceeding the standard 1800W found on many portable units. This higher wattage translates directly into faster heating times and the ability to handle more demanding cooking tasks like aggressive stir-frying or bringing large pots to a rapid boil quickly. With 8 distinct cooking settings and a wide adjustable power range from 100W up to 2200W, it offers exceptional versatility for various culinary styles, tackling the frustration of underpowered portable burners.

Performance is the standout feature of the Kiseely WI2, driven by its class-leading 2200W maximum power. The ability to adjust power across such a wide spectrum, combined with 8 dedicated cooking modes, makes it adaptable to almost any recipe. Its ultra-thin design (63mm thickness) enhances its portability, making it easy to move and store. The unit is compatible with magnetic cookware from 4 to 12 inches in diameter, offering good flexibility. A powerful cooling fan helps manage heat, operating at a reasonably low noise level (<55dB).

Designated as the Best for Versatility, the Kiseely WI2 distinguishes itself primarily through its higher power ceiling. While models like the Duxtop 9600LS offer more granular temperature/power control steps, the Kiseely provides the raw heating speed and capacity needed for specific high-heat techniques. It’s best suited for users who need a powerful, adaptable portable burner for a wide variety of cooking methods, including those requiring high heat, offering a different kind of value proposition compared to the precision focus of the Duxtop.

The Panana Portable Induction Cooktop delivers solid 1800W performance focusing on speed and straightforward temperature control. It stands out by offering 10 heat settings based on temperature (60°-240°C), providing a more intuitive approach for users accustomed to traditional stove knobs marked by heat levels rather than wattage. This direct temperature-based control simplifies the cooking process for many common tasks, effectively addressing the need for a portable burner that’s both quick and easy to understand. The clear LCD display and simple buttons enhance its user-friendliness.

Performance on the Panana is efficient and responsive, typical of 1800W induction units. The 10 temperature steps from 60°C to 240°C cover a practical range for simmering, frying, and boiling. Its compact and lightweight design makes it exceptionally portable, ideal for temporary setups, small living spaces, or travel. The ceramic surface is notably easy to clean because spills don’t burn onto the cooler surface, a significant convenience. Standard safety features like auto-pan detection are included, compatible with magnetic cookware up to 10 inches.

Labeled as Best for Fast Heating, the Panana competes with other 1800W units like the Mueller RapidTherm and XKitchen by offering a temperature-focused control scheme rather than power levels or programs. While it provides fewer steps than the XKitchen’s 12 temperature levels or the Duxtop’s 20, its 10 steps across a useful temperature range are sufficient for most users. It’s best suited for those who prioritize quick heat and simple, temperature-based adjustments in a portable format, offering a different control preference compared to the program-based Mueller.