5 Best Small Induction Cooktops to Buy in 2025

Unlocking unprecedented temperature control in a portable format, the Nuwave Precision Induction Cooktop Gold stands out for discerning home cooks. Its 51 precise temperature settings, adjustable in fine 10°F increments from a gentle 100°F up to a searing 575°F, offer a level of granularity rarely seen outside full-size ranges. Coupled with a robust, shatter-proof ceramic glass surface and a large 8-inch heating coil, this cooktop is built to handle demanding tasks while providing exceptional safety and durability. It directly addresses the common frustration of inconsistent heat found in less advanced portable units.

This cooktop excels in scenarios requiring exact thermal management, from melting chocolate or holding delicate sauces at a perfect 100°F to achieving serious grill marks on a steak at its maximum 575°F. You can easily toggle between its 600W, 900W, and 1500W wattage settings, making it versatile for different cooking needs. The ability to make on-the-fly adjustments without interrupting the cooking process adds significant convenience, ensuring your culinary creations turn out exactly as planned. Its portable size makes it a flexible addition to any kitchen counter or temporary setup.

Positioned as the premium choice for home chefs prioritizing precision, the Nuwave Gold offers significantly more temperature control than the WAATFEET or XKitchen models, which rely on fewer power or temperature levels. While the commercial-grade ChangBERT focuses on durability and stable high output, the Nuwave Gold emphasizes granular control for a wider range of cooking techniques. Its expansive feature set and temperature flexibility represent a substantial step up in performance compared to more basic models like the WAATFEET.

Offering essential functionality at an accessible price, the WAATFEET 1600W Portable Induction Cooktop is a straightforward solution for basic cooking needs. Its minimalist design and simple smart touch controls make it incredibly easy to operate right out of the box. With 10 power levels (P1-P10) and a useful 3-hour timer, it provides enough flexibility for everyday tasks like boiling water, making coffee, or preparing simple meals. This unit effectively solves the problem of needing a compact, affordable cooking surface for limited spaces.

Performance is focused on simplicity and convenience. The 1600W power provides sufficient heat for many common cooking tasks, while the 10 power levels allow for basic heat adjustment. The included 3-hour timer is a valuable addition for managing cooking duration without constant monitoring. Its lightweight and portable design makes it exceptionally easy to transport and store, proving ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, or travel where space is a premium.

Compared to the more feature-rich Nuwave Gold or XKitchen models, the WAATFEET prioritizes affordability and ease of use over extensive temperature or power control. It lacks the granular temperature steps of the Nuwave Gold or the separate power/temp levels of the XKitchen. This cooktop is best suited for budget-conscious users who need a reliable, no-frills burner for basic cooking tasks. Its basic features and simple operation make it a significantly more budget-friendly option than the Nuwave Gold.

Designed with the constraints of a small kitchen in mind, the XKitchen Portable Induction Cooktop delivers a balanced set of features for daily cooking. It provides 1800W of power alongside distinct control options: 9 adjustable power levels from 240W to 1800W and 12 temperature levels ranging from 140℉ to 465℉. A dedicated Keep Warm function with specific temperature presets (120℉, 140℉, 155℉) adds significant utility. This cooktop effectively solves the challenge of needing versatile cooking capability in a limited space.

Performance is geared towards everyday versatility. The separation of power and temperature controls allows users to choose their preferred method of heat management, whether focusing on wattage for speed or temperature for precision. The Keep Warm function is particularly useful for meal timing and serving. Features like the 3-hour timer and safety lock enhance user convenience and safety. Its compact size (12.91″ x 11.42″ x 2.76″) makes it an excellent fit for cramped countertops or easy storage.

Positioned as a feature-rich option for small spaces, the XKitchen offers more granular control with its separate power and temperature levels than the basic WAATFEET or the preset-focused Mueller. While it doesn’t match the extreme temperature precision of the Nuwave Gold, it provides a good balance of control options for typical home cooking tasks. Its combination of dual control types and a dedicated keep warm function provides more versatility than the Mueller’s program-based approach.

The Mueller RapidTherm distinguishes itself with its focus on user convenience through preset programs and smart features. Offering 1800W of power, it includes four dedicated cooking programs: Hot Pot, Slow Cook, Boil, and Keep Warm, simplifying common cooking tasks. Beyond the presets, it provides 8 temperature levels from 140-460°F, controlled via an intuitive LED display. The inclusion of a Pause feature and auto-pan detection adds layers of practicality and safety. This cooktop is designed to make portable induction cooking as hassle-free as possible.

Performance is streamlined by the preset programs, allowing users to quickly jump into specific cooking modes without manually adjusting settings. The 8 temperature levels provide sufficient manual control for other needs, covering a range from warming to searing. The 4-hour digital timer is generous for longer cooking times, while the Pause feature is a standout for temporary interruptions. Its size (14.3″ x 11.3″) and features make it particularly well-suited for use in RVs or small apartments.

Targeting the mid-range market that values convenience, the Mueller RapidTherm offers a different approach to control compared to the level-based systems of the WAATFEET or XKitchen. Its preset programs provide a level of automation not found in those models. While it has fewer temperature steps than the Nuwave Gold or XKitchen, its combination of presets, timer, and pause function offers a compelling value proposition for many users. The Mueller offers more automated cooking options than the basic WAATFEET.

Engineered for uncompromising durability and consistent performance, the ChangBERT Portable Induction Cooktop stands out with its NSF and ETL commercial certifications. Built with an 18/10 stainless steel housing capable of supporting up to 100 pounds and passing rigorous drop tests, this unit is clearly designed for heavy-duty use beyond typical home kitchens. It delivers a stable 1800W output with 9 power levels (200-1800W) and 18 temperature settings (120-460℉), emphasizing reliability under demanding conditions. This cooktop solves the critical need for a robust, certified burner that can withstand continuous, high-volume operation.

Performance focuses on stability and resilience. The unique power control technology ensures consistent high-power output without overheating internal components, supported by a low-noise fan. Its large 8-inch heating coil promotes efficient and even heat distribution, crucial for professional results. The 12-hour timer caters to extended cooking processes, while tactile key-press controls are designed for ease of use even in a busy environment. This cooktop is built for continuous operation, making it suitable for restaurants, catering, or heavy home use.

Positioned squarely in the commercial-grade category, the ChangBERT differentiates itself fundamentally through its certified build quality and focus on stable, long-term performance, unlike any other unit in this selection. While the Nuwave Gold offers more temperature steps for home precision, the ChangBERT is built for the rigors of professional settings, supporting significantly more weight and boasting industry certifications. Its durable stainless steel construction and certifications provide a level of robustness not found in the home-focused Nuwave Gold.