When it comes to modern kitchens, functionality and aesthetics are equally important. An electric cooktop is an essential appliance that significantly elevates your cooking experience. Whether remodelling your kitchen or upgrading your cooking space, choosing the right electric cooktop can make all the difference.

This guide provides a detailed comparison of the best electric cooktops for 2024. It highlights their features, benefits, and practical tips to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a cooking enthusiast, or an interior designer, this guide has everything you need to know.

What Is an Electric Cooktop?

An electric cooktop is a flat-surface cooking appliance powered by electricity. It uses heating elements beneath a smooth surface (usually ceramic or glass) to cook food efficiently. These cooktops are known for their sleek designs, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control, making them a favourite in modern kitchens.

Types of Electric Cooktops:

Coil Electric Cooktops:

• Traditional design with visible coil heating elements.
• Budget-friendly and durable.

Smooth Top Electric Cooktops:

• Sleek, flat surfaces with radiant or induction elements.
• Easy to clean and aesthetically appealing.

Induction Cooktops:

• Use electromagnetic fields to heat cookware directly.
• Fast, energy-efficient, and precise but requires compatible cookware.

7 Best Electric Cooktops for 2024

To help you find the perfect appliance, here are the top-rated electric cooktops based on features, performance, and customer satisfaction.

1. Empava 36-Inch Electric Stove Induction Cooktop

• Type: Induction Cooktop
• Key Features:
• Five induction burners
• Touch-sensitive controls
• Boost function for rapid heating
• Child lock for safety
• Why It’s Great:
• Thanks to its induction technology, the Empava 36-inch cooktop offers precise temperature control and fast heating. Its smooth surface makes cleaning a breeze, and with multiple burners, it’s perfect for multitasking.
• Ideal For: Families who cook large meals and are tech-savvy homeowners.

2. GE Profile 30-Inch Electric Cooktop

• Type: Smooth Top
• Key Features:
• Four radiant cooking elements
• Glide touch controls
• Keep-warm setting
• Why It’s Great:
• This GE cooktop is known for its elegant design and user-friendly controls. It is highly rated for its even heating and durability. The sleek, easy-to-clean surface adds a touch of modernity to any kitchen.
• Ideal For: Homeowners seeking a balance of style and functionality.

3. Frigidaire 36-Inch Electric Cooktop

• Type: Smooth Top
• Key Features:
• Five heating zones
• Hot surface indicator lights
• SpaceWise expandable elements
• Why It’s Great:
• The Frigidaire cooktop is versatile, with expandable elements that adapt to different cookware sizes. It provides even heating and is designed to prevent hot spots. The indicator lights enhance kitchen safety.
• Ideal For: Families looking for flexibility and safety in their cooking space.

4. Bosch 500 Series 30-Inch Electric Cooktop

• Type: Smooth Top
• Key Features:
• Four radiant burners
• Touch control
• Sleek stainless-steel trim
• Why It’s Great:
• Bosch is known for its precision engineering, and this cooktop delivers on performance and style. The responsive touch controls allow for easy adjustments, while the design fits seamlessly into modern kitchens.
• Ideal For: Stylish homeowners and cooking enthusiasts.

5. Samsung 30-Inch Induction Cooktop

• Type: Induction Cooktop
• Key Features:
• Flex zone for larger pans
• Power Boost for faster cooking
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Why It’s Great:
• Samsung’s intelligent induction cooktop offers flexibility, speed, and advanced features like Wi-Fi control, allowing you to adjust settings remotely. It's perfect for tech-savvy users who want innovation in their kitchen.
• Ideal For: High-tech kitchens and multitasking cooks.

6. KitchenAid 30-Inch Electric Cooktop

• Type: Smooth Top
• Key Features:
• Even-Heat technology
• Dual-ring element
• Stainless steel knob controls
• Why It’s Great:
• This model is designed for consistent heat distribution across the entire cooking surface. The dual-ring element provides more flexibility, allowing you to easily use large and small pots.
• Ideal For: Homeowners seeking premium design and cooking consistency.

7. LG 30-Inch Radiant Cooktop

Features to Consider When Buying an Electric Cooktop

Evaluating certain vital factors is essential when shopping for the best electric cooktop. Here are some features to look out for when making a buying decision for an electric cooktop:

1. Size: Cooktops typically range from 24 to 36 inches. When we remodelled our kitchen, we went for a 30-inch model, which felt like a sweet spot—big enough for larger meals but compact enough to leave counter space. It’s crucial to measure your available space beforehand.
2. Number of Burners: I used to have a cooktop with just two burners and quickly became frustrated during dinner parties. Most models offer 4 to 5 burners, perfect for larger households or multi-dish cooking. I now appreciate having five burners for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.
3. Safety Features: With young kids running around, features like child locks and hot surface indicators were non-negotiable for us. I learned the hard way when my toddler touched a hot cooktop surface—thankfully, it wasn’t severe, but it emphasised the need for these safety features.
4. Control Type: I’ve used both touch and knob controls. While touch controls are sleek and super easy to wipe down, I missed the tactile feedback of knobs, especially when cooking quickly. I eventually found a model with knobs that blend with the cooktop's design, striking the right balance.
5. Energy Efficiency: Switching to an induction cooktop was a game-changer in my home. It's incredibly efficient, heating only the pot, not the air around it. Our energy bills noticeably dropped, and it’s a great choice if you’re eco-conscious or looking to save energy.

Benefits of Electric Cooktops

Easy Maintenance:
With a smooth-top model, cleaning is as easy as wiping it down with a damp cloth. Gone are the days of scrubbing food out of coil burners—this change has saved me so much time!
Sleek Design:
One of the reasons we chose a smooth electric cooktop was its seamless design. It complements our minimalist kitchen perfectly, adding a modern touch without cluttering the space.
Precise Heat Control:
Electric cooktops, particularly induction, offer incredible control. I’ve noticed that the ability to adjust heat incrementally helps with delicate recipes when making sauces or simmering soups.
Versatility:
My electric cooktop handles everything, whether I’m quickly boiling pasta water or slow-cooking a stew. It’s versatile enough to manage high-heat searing and gentle simmering, which is a big win for home chefs like me who enjoy experimenting.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best electric cooktop for your kitchen depends on your cooking habits, kitchen space, and design preferences. The models above offer various options, from budget-friendly choices to high-end, tech-savvy designs. With features like easy-to-clean surfaces, intelligent controls, and energy-efficient technologies, electric cooktops are an excellent addition to any modern kitchen.

Take the time to evaluate your needs, and you’ll find the perfect electric cooktop to enhance your cooking experience in 2024! Explore Empava's electric cooktops for high-quality options that combine style and performance. Happy cooking!