Thinking about upgrading your kitchen? If you're torn between gas and electric, there's a third option you should know about — the induction cooktop.
Faster, safer, and more energy efficient than traditional stoves, induction technology is quickly becoming a favorite among home cooks and aspiring chefs alike.
So, what exactly is induction cooking, and why is it such a game-changer? In this guide, we’ll break down how it works, how it compares to gas and electric stoves, and why an induction cooktop or induction range might be the perfect upgrade for your kitchen.
What is induction?
Induction cooking uses electromagnetic energy to heat your cookware directly, not the cooktop itself. Instead of using a flame or heated coil, an induction cooktop generates a magnetic field that interacts with iron-based cookware to create heat right in the pan.
Here’s how it works at a glance
- Electromagnetic currents activate only when compatible cookware is placed on the surface.
- The pan gets hot , not the cooktop, so the surface stays cool to the touch.
- Energy is transferred directly into the cookware, making cooking faster and more efficient.
- Minimal heat transfer means fewer spills get baked onto the surface, making cleanup easier.
Compared to gas and electric cooking:
- Gas and electric burners heat the air around the cookware, wasting energy and heating your kitchen.
- Induction channels that energy directly into the pot or pan — no flame, no red-hot coils.
Induction changes the game. The goal isn’t to create a hot surface at all. Instead, these cooktops challenge energy, so the pans you use will heat your food and cook your meals. When you move the pan off the range, none of the heating zones are hot.
5 Benefits of Induction Cooking
An induction cooktop or induction range isn’t just a sleek upgrade — it’s a smarter way to cook. Here are five key benefits that make induction technology a popular choice for today’s kitchens:
1. Greater Energy Efficiency
Induction cooktops are about 10% more efficient than traditional electric stoves and up to three times more efficient than gas. According to Energy Star, if every home in the U.S. switched to induction, it could save over $125 million in energy costs each year.
2. Faster Cooking Times
Because heat is transferred directly to your cookware, meals cook significantly faster. That means less time waiting around and more time enjoying your food. You’ll notice the difference the first time you boil water or sear a steak on an induction range.
3. Safer for Families
Worried about little hands in the kitchen? With induction, the cooktop surface stays cool to the touch — only the pot or pan gets hot. It’s a much safer option for families with children or anyone concerned about accidental burns.
4. Easy to Clean
No more scrubbing around burners or under grates. The smooth glass surface of an induction cooktop wipes clean with ease. Since spills don’t get baked onto a hot surface, cleanup is quick and hassle-free.
5. Cleaner Indoor Air
Cooking with gas can release pollutants like nitrogen dioxide into your home. Induction cooking offers precise temperature control without compromising your indoor air quality — a major bonus for health-conscious households.
Pros and Cons of Induction Cooking
Like any appliance, an induction cooktop or induction range comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide if induction is the right choice for your kitchen:
Pros
Faster Cooking Times
Induction technology heats pots and pans directly, reducing overall cooking time — perfect for busy households or weeknight dinners.
Energy Efficiency
Induction cooktops are among the most energy-efficient cooking appliances available, using less power and wasting less heat than gas or traditional electric models.
Precise Temperature Control
Induction ranges offer quick, responsive heat adjustments, giving you more control whether you’re searing meat or gently simmering sauces.
Safer Surface
The cooktop surface stays cool to the touch, minimizing the risk of burns. It’s a great option for homes with children or elderly family members.
Easy Cleanup
Since spills don’t get baked onto the cool glass surface, cleaning up is as simple as wiping it down with a cloth.
Cons
Higher Upfront Cost
Induction cooktops and ranges tend to cost more than basic gas or electric options. However, many users find the investment worthwhile over time.
Requires Compatible Cookware
Not all pots and pans work with induction. You’ll need magnetic-bottom cookware made of cast iron or stainless steel for proper function.
Electrical Requirements
Installing an induction range may require an upgraded electrical circuit, especially in older homes not already wired for higher-voltage appliances.
➜ Learn More: 30 Inch Induction Range: Spencer's Top Picks
Top Induction Cooktops on the Market
If you want an even better answer to what induction cooking is, look at some of the best products on the market. You can see what the heating elements look like and how they are used. You can also explore a few top brands that invest in induction technology. Here are our top picks.
Electrolux 30" Induction Cooktop
Shop Electrolux 30" Induction Cooktop
Sleek, modern, and incredibly responsive, this induction cooktop from Electrolux delivers rapid, consistent heat exactly where you need it.
It handles everything from a rolling boil to a gentle melt with ease, offering excellent control and efficiency. The minimalist design pairs perfectly with its intuitive controls, making it a favorite for streamlined kitchens.
If you’re looking for pro-level precision without the bulk of a full range, this cooktop is a top-tier choice.
Top Features
- Slide-to-control heat adjustment for precision
- Power Boost for rapid boiling
- Easy-clean glass surface with spill protection
GE Profile 36" Stainless Steel on Black Induction Cooktop
Shop GE Profile 36" on Black Induction Cooktop
Ideal for ambitious home chefs, this GE Profile induction cooktop offers flexible cooking zones and effortless temperature accuracy.
The SyncBurners feature allows you to control two elements simultaneously—perfect for griddles or oversized pans. It’s built to keep up with multitasking without sacrificing style or speed.
GE’s reputation for reliability shines in this model, delivering consistent results meal after meal.
Top Features
- Dual SyncBurners for large cookware
- Glide-touch digital controls
- Even, powerful induction heating
➜ Learn More: 6 Best Brands for Induction Cooktops
Café 36" Stainless Steel Induction Cooktop
Shop Café 36" Stainless Steel Induction Cooktop
With bold aesthetics and high-tech functionality, this Café induction cooktop is as beautiful as it is efficient.
It offers a spacious layout with five powerful burners and Wi-Fi capabilities for smart control through the SmartHQ app. Whether you're simmering or sautéing, the performance is as refined as the look.
It’s a stylish upgrade that brings both visual flair and smart convenience to your cooking space.
Top Features
- Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control
- Multi-element timers for precise cooking
- Elegant stainless steel trim and durable glass surface
Our Picks for the Best Induction Ranges
Each model is chosen for its standout performance, smart features, and sleek design—making them ideal for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking experience with precision and style.
Frigidaire Gallery 30" Stainless Steel Slide-In Induction Range
Shop Frigidaire Gallery 30" Slide In Induction Range
A powerhouse in a sleek package, this induction range from Frigidaire blends cooking speed with versatility, thanks to built-in Air Fry and multiple rack positions.
It boils quickly, bakes evenly, and cleans easily — making it a smart fit for busy kitchens that demand more from every meal.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend baking marathons, it’s built to keep up with your lifestyle.
Top Features
- Integrated Air Fry function
- Fast and even induction heat
- Seven rack positions for oven flexibility
KitchenAid 30" Stainless Steel Slide-In Induction Range
Shop KitchenAid 30" Stainless Steel Slide In Induction Range
Cook like a pro at home with KitchenAid’s induction range, equipped with advanced convection and a modern glass control panel for seamless operation.
Heat adjustments are incredibly responsive, helping you move from sear to simmer without missing a beat. Its polished design fits seamlessly into both modern and classic kitchens.
It’s a reliable performer with a premium feel, perfect for home chefs who take their meals seriously.
Top Features
- Even-Heat True Convection for perfect baking
- Sleek touch-glass control panel
- Precise induction elements for responsive cooking
Samsung Bespoke 30" Stainless Steel Slide-In Induction Range
Shop Samsung Bespoke 30" Slide In Induction Range
Stylish and smart, the Samsung induction range pairs cutting-edge AI cooking with ultra-fast induction performance. Control it through SmartThings or your voice assistant, and take advantage of adaptive presets that simplify every meal.
Perfect for tech-savvy cooks, it blends efficiency, elegance, and personalization, thanks to customizable panels and futuristic features that bring both flair and function to your kitchen.
Top Features
- AI-assisted cooking presets
- SmartThings + voice assistant compatibility
- Bespoke design with customizable panels
Upgrade Your Kitchen with Induction Cooking
Looking to cook faster, cleaner, and with more precision?
An induction cooktop or induction range is a smart investment that brings high-end performance and modern efficiency to your kitchen. From lightning-fast boiling to safer, cooler surfaces, induction offers a better way to prepare every meal.
At Spencers TV & Appliance, you’ll find a curated selection of the latest induction appliances from top brands like Electrolux, GE, Café, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, and Samsung. Visit us in-store or shop online to discover the right model for your home and budget.
➜ Learn More: Wolf and GE Monogram Induction Ranges Compared Side-By-Side
Frequently Asked Questions
An induction stove uses electromagnetic energy to heat pots and pans directly, rather than warming the cooktop surface itself. This results in faster cooking, greater energy efficiency, and more precise temperature control compared to gas or traditional electric ranges. It’s a modern way to cook that combines speed with safety.
Yes, induction cooking requires magnetic cookware. You’ll need pots and pans made of iron or stainless steel with a magnetic base. If a magnet sticks to the bottom of your pan, it’s compatible with an induction cooktop or induction range.
The main downside of induction cooking is the upfront cost. Induction cooktops and ranges are typically more expensive than standard models, and you may need to invest in compatible cookware. However, prices are becoming more competitive as more brands expand their offerings.
Induction is significantly faster. Boiling water, for example, can take less than half the time compared to gas or electric. The heat is transferred directly to the cookware, so you spend less time waiting and more time cooking.
Yes — induction cooktops are among the most energy-efficient cooking appliances available. They use about 90% of the energy produced, compared to roughly 65–70% for electric and just 40–50% for gas, which means lower utility bills and a greener kitchen.
Absolutely. Many modern induction ranges include smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and voice assistant compatibility. Brands like Samsung, GE, and Café offer connected options that work with platforms like SmartThings and SmartHQ.
Yes, safety is one of the top advantages of induction. Since the surface stays cool to the touch (only the pan gets hot), there’s less risk of burns. Most models also include safety locks and automatic shut-off features for added peace of mind.
When choosing an induction range, consider the number of burners, available smart features, oven capacity, and whether you need built-in options like air fry or convection baking. Also, ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the power requirements.
Why Trust Spencers TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencers TV & Appliance has grown to 10 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!
Shop Induction Cooktops and Ranges at Spencers
At Spencers TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop induction cooking appliances online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you better understand what induction is and whether this is the right option for your home. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!
➜ Learn More: 2 Best Gas Cooktops This Year