The Best 36-Inch Induction Cooktops for 2024
January 25th, 2024 | 10 min. read
Induction cooktops now offer a wide range of models, from single-burners to multi-zone units with various cooking features.
In this article, you will learn all about the best induction cooktops for 2024, including their features and reliability.
Our reliability and service rates are based on over 37,000 service calls conducted by our service team just last year.
Additionally, we'll explain how induction cooking works and its benefits. Plus, we'll will answer common questions about induction cooktops.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or beginner, this article will help you choose the best induction cooktop for your lifestyle.
Let's get started.
The Best 36-Inch Induction Cooktops for 2024
Gaggenau CX492611 - $6,099
Gaggenau is like the more famous Thermador Freedom induction cooktop but has more functionality in choosing burner size.
You can place pots and pans anywhere on the Gaggenau CX492611 400 series induction cooktop.
It automatically detects the size and position of your cookware and adjusts the burner zone.
You can fit as many as six pots and pans to cook simultaneously, as the entire surface is one large cooking zone.
If you're using larger cookware, the Gaggenau CX492611 cooktop can reach a maximum output of up to 5500 watts.
The TFT touch display on this cooktop makes it easy to adjust cooking zones, heat levels, and other settings.
Additionally, the booster function helps you quickly boil a pot of water.
The timer function allows you to manage cooking times and automatically switch off the heat when the set time has elapsed.
Gaggenau features residual heat indicators, automatic shut-off in case of overheating or prolonged use, and a child lock function to prevent accidental changes to settings.
Furthermore, pan size recognition ensures efficient energy usage by automatically adjusting the cooking zone to match the size of your cookware.
Bosch Benchmark NITP660SUC - $3,449
Bosch, Gaggenau, and Thermador are all part of the BSH corporation.
Bosch is like many cooktops on this list, with a central power burner in the middle and expandable burners on either side.
The burner in the middle is good for larger pots, and you can place odd-shaped pans like a griddle on either side.
With 17 power and five frying levels, Bosch cooktops offer precise control over the cooking temperature.
The Direct Select 2.0 interface and FlexInduction technology make it easy to adjust the heat for any type of cooking.
Plus, with the added feature of operating your hood by your cooktop, you can manage the settings for the matching hood directly from the cooktop itself.
You can program your hood from your smart device to start the fan and lighting when turning on your cooktop.
Despite these features, one of the key reasons to consider Bosch is their reliability.
Based on over 37,000 service calls logged last year, Bosch Benchmark has an average service rate of 1.1% for induction cooktops.
Bosch, Bosch Benchmark, and Gaggenau are three of the top four most reliable cooktops.
Bosch Benchmark NITP660SUC Burner Profile:
- Front left zone: 2,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,600 watts
- Back left zone: 2,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,600 watts
- Center zone: 3,300 watts / 2,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,600 watts / 3,400 watts
- Back right zone: 2,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,600 watts
- Front right zone: 2,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,600 watts
Wolf CI36560T/S - $3,940
The Wolf CI36560T/S induction cooktop is a chef's favorite for its performance.
This cooktop features five burners, including four 8-inch burners and one 11-inch burner.
Each burner can deliver up to 3700 watts of cooking power on the boost setting.
Wolf's induction cooktops now feature LCD touchscreens and independent timers for each cooking zone, providing a seamless and sleek look that matches their wall ovens.
The new touchscreens are also easier to use.
Its dedicated settings for simmering and melting make it easy to cook at lower temperatures.
For peace of mind, Wolf's safety features include:
- Pan detection
- A hot surface indicator
- A child lock function
You can buy this cooktop with a full beveled stainless trim to protect the glass surface.
The cooktop can also be mounted flush with the counter, BUT you will need a qualified installer.
Wolf's cooktop has a full two-year part and labor warranty (three years with Yale Installation).
Keep in mind this unit will require a 50-amp electrical connection.
Wolf Induction Cooktop CI36560T/S Burner Profile:
- Left front zone: 2,100 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Left rear zone: 2,100 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Center zone: 2,600 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Right front zone: 2,100 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Right rear zone: 2,100 watts with a boost function up to 3,000 watts
Fisher & Paykel CI365PTX4- $3,599
In a sea of stainless-steel appliances, Fisher & Paykel stands out with some unique styling (of course, style is only a matter of opinion).
Along with style, you have two powerful 5500-watt burners on this cooktop when you opt for the boost function.
Fisher & Paykel has two of the fastest burners on this list.
Two 5500-watt burners allow for running 2-3 cooking zones at max power without heat loss from other burners, aslong as they are not positioned directly behind each other.
Fisher & Paykel Induction Cooktop CI365PTX4 Burner Profile:
- Front left zone: 1,850 watts with a boost function up to 3,000 watts
- Back left zone: 1,400 watts with a boost function up to 2,200 watts
- Center zone: 3,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Front right zone: 1,850 watts with a boost function up to 3,000 watts
- Back right zone: 1,400 watts with a boost function up to 2,200 watts
Signature Kitchen Suite SKSIT3601G - $4,199
What's so impressive about SKS (Signature Kitchen Suite) is its parent company LG.
They produce more components in-house and don't have problematic supply chain issues like other companies.
By producing motors and other major parts, LG has become the second most reliable appliance brand sold at Yale.
The cooktop specifications are surprisingly good, with a 7,000-watt burner and three 3700-watt burners.
SKS has Wi-Fi to check the burners and sync to an SKS hood through their reliable ThinQ App.
Lastly, SKS has a full three-year warranty.
Service availability has been a problem for LG. Then again, service is a problem for every manufacturer to a certain degree.
Signature Kitchen Suite Induction Cooktop SKSIT3601G Burner Profile:
- Front left zone: 2,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Back left zone: 1,400 watts with a boost function up to 2,000 watts
- Front middle-left zone: 1,850 watts with a boost function up to 3,000 watts
- Back middle-right zone: 1,850 watts with a boost function up to 3,000 watts
- Front right zone: 2,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Back right zone: 1,400 watts with a boost function up to 2,000 watts
Café Appliances CHP95362MSS - $2,699
Café's induction cooktop is similar to GE's with some added features.
Café's Gourmet Guided Cooking system combines video-guided recipes from chefs with automatic adjustments to time and temperature.
On top of Café's guided cooking system, this induction cooktop features a precise Control Mode.
This mode keeps a set temperature within one degree for temperature-sensitive cooking methods.
Furthermore, the GE Red Probe Accessory JXPROBE1 enables sous vide cooking when paired with the cooktop, expanding its versatility in the kitchen.
Plus, Café's touch controls make it easy to adjust the heat with just one swipe. The control lock capability prevents unintended burner activation.
In addition to this safety feature, you can connect the cooktop to Wi-Fi for even more control.
Café Appliances' induction cooktops offer a mail-in rebate for a Hestan Q pan, which can be conveniently used with their app.
Café Appliances CHP95362MSS Burner Profile:
- Front left zone: 1,400 watts with a boost function up to 2,200 watts
- Back left zone: 2,500 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Center zone: 3,200 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Back right zone: 2,500 watts with a boost function up to 3,700 watts
- Front right zone: 1,400 watts with a boost function up to 2,200 watts
Which Induction Cooktop Should You Buy?
All make compelling arguments for being the best cooktop.
The Wolf induction cooktop is a chef's favorite for its fast-heating response. It is the best cooktop for odd-shaped pans because of the four-burner bridge.
Gaggenau has the sensor moving the power when you move the pan. It is undoubtedly the most versatile.
Do you take a chance on a newer brand?
The Fisher & Paykel induction cooktop has decent output and style.
SKS's induction cooktop is an interesting choice because its parent company is so good. Then again, so is GE, the parent company of Café Appliances.
Lastly, make sure to carefully weigh the features you want against the availability of local repair services.
Induction Cooking 101
How Does Induction Cooking Work?
Induction cooking utilizes electric currents to excite the molecules within the pan, causing the pan to become the cooking surface and bypassing the need for direct contact with the glass cooktop.
While residual heat may heat the glass surface of an induction cooktop, similar to an electric cooktop, it dissipates much more quickly, resulting in a faster cool-down period than a traditional electric cooktop.
For this reason, induction is the most efficient cooking method, as there is little heat loss.
Benefits of Induction Cooking
Induction is the most child-safe because the magnets need to sense metal to activate.
Thus, your child can't accidentally turn it on, plus the glass stays relatively cool, unlike an electric cooktop or gas burner.
Speed and Simmer
As previously said, induction is faster than a professional gas cooktop or range. Induction boils faster and can hold a better simmer than an electric or gas cooktop.
Cleanability
Induction is also the easiest to clean. Food can't be baked on your cooktop since the elements don't heat the glass.
It also does not require a professional ventilation hood like a gas cooktop because there is less heat emission.
Massachusetts Residents Take Note: Induction complies with Massachusetts Make-Up Air Laws requiring make-up air over 400 CFM (Cubic Feet Per Minute), whereas professional gas does not.
That is huge, by the way. You can use an existing hood for induction but not a professional gas cooktop.
What to Consider When Buying an Induction Cooktop
First, your pans need to be magnetic (do not worry, most are), and if you plan to buy some new pots and pans, you do not have to spend a fortune buying special pans.
If a magnet sticks to the bottom, you are good to go. We recommend any grade 5 or better.
Induction cooking surfaces work well with pans with a high ferrous metal content at the base. Cast iron, black metal, or iron pans will work on an induction cooking surface.
Pan Sizes
Pan size issues are a hot topic on the internet, but all the cooktops mentioned adjust to the size of the pan.
Induction Cooktop Power Boost Function
The power boost function on an induction cooktop increases the power output of a cooking zone beyond its normal maximum level by using the power of the adjacent burner.
Many of the cooktops on this list have similar specifications, with a large burner in the middle and two flexible burners for odd-shaped dishes on either side.
Smart Technology
For smart technology, you can synchronize your SKS or Bosch Benchmark cooktop to your ventilation hood to activate as soon as you turn on your cooktop. Smart features are fairly simple for the moment for induction cooktops.
Read More: How to Buy an Induction Range
Induction Cooktop Reliability
Induction Cooktop Reliability from January 2023 – December 2023
The following service rates are based on a minimum of 45 products sold and a total sample of over 400 products within 12 months.
Service Rates | |
Bosch Benchmark | 1.1% |
Thermador | 1.5% |
Bosch | 3.4% |
Miele | 4.4% |
Gaggenau | 8.7% |
Grand Total | 2.7% |
Bosch Benchmark and Thermador are the best on this list, being under 2%.
Induction cooktops require far less service than most appliances, with a service rate of 2.7%. Induction cooktop reliability is excellent for all major brands.
The average appliance service rate is 8.3%.
Electric, in general, has always been good because the burner is protected by glass. Most cooktops use 40-50 amps, so you must plan your electrical system properly.
However, it is not an easy repair when you do need service. Check to make sure you have a capable service department in your area.
Read More: Most Reliable Induction Cooktops
Induction Cooktops Over Wall Ovens
Consider the manufacturer's specifications if you plan to put a wall oven below your induction cooktop.
Only certain brands and models are approved to have an oven placed below in the same cabinet.
Most can accommodate, but you always want to be sure by checking the specifications.
Read More: How to Choose Between a Wall Oven and Cooktop vs. a Range
FAQs
Answers to the most commonly asked questions about induction cooktops.
Are induction cooktops better than gas or electric?
Induction cooktops are better than gas or electric for a variety of reasons:
- Induction cooktops are more energy-efficient than electric or gas cooktops because they transfer heat directly to the cookware, resulting in less heat loss.
- It is safer as the glass surface does not get hot (but there may be residual heat from the pan).
- They require less ventilation due to less heat emission.
- Cooking times are faster, saving energy and cooking time.
- Response times are faster for specific recipes, and they will simmer lower.
- Cleaning is easy because spills do not bake on.
- Without a metal pan, induction cannot activate. One of the values of this is a child cannot power your cooktop by accident.
Read More: Induction vs. Gas Cooking
Do induction cooktops use more electricity?
Induction cooktops will also use less electricity due to their speed but will require higher watts and use 40-50 amps.
Do induction cooktops require special wiring?
Induction cooktops typically require copper wire and a dedicated electrical circuit. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for specific voltage and amperage requirements.
Read More: The Challenges of Shifting from Gas Stoves to Induction Cooking
Are induction cooktops compatible with all types of cookware?
No, induction cooktops require cookware with a magnetic base, such as stainless steel or cast iron. Non-magnetic materials like glass, aluminum, and copper will not work with induction cooktops.
Are induction cooktops safe?
Induction cooktops are considered safer than traditional cooktops because they don't use open flames and the cooking surface remains relatively cool. However, it's important to follow safety guidelines and use compatible cookware to avoid accidents.
Will induction affect your pacemaker?
There have been some claims that induction has interfered with certain pacemakers. You should check with the manufacturer of your pacemaker and your healthcare provider before making any purchase.
How long do induction cooktops last?
As with most built-in appliances, the average lifespan of an induction cooktop should be around 10-15 years or more.
The glass surface protects the working elements underneath, increasing its lifespan.
Read More: Most Reliable Induction Cooktops
What is "Power Sharing"?
In all the cooktops except BSH brands, if you turn on a burner on the highest level, it will "share" power with the burner behind it.
So, that back burner will only be working at 30% power, you can still warm food, but you are not cooking with both burners high in the same grid.
For an exact explanation, read Wolf's guide.
"For induction cooktops, boost mode boosts power on one element by diverting power from an adjacent element. If the adjacent element is on a high, the power output will be reduced. The power reduction is displayed on the power level indicator of the adjacent element. Illuminates when an element is in boost mode. Boost mode deactivates automatically after approximately 15 minutes of continuous operation and can be reactivated if desired."
What is "Power Boost"?
PowerBoost is for BSH brands such as Bosch, Gaggenau, and Thermador. It uses all the power of the back burner.
From Thermador's Use and Care Manual:
"The PowerBoost function enables you to heat large quantities of water faster than when using [the] heat setting. This function can be activated for a cooking zone, provided the other cooking zone in the same group is not in use."
How do I clean an induction cooktop?
Clean the cooktop with a soft cloth and a mild detergent, avoiding abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Make sure the cooktop is cool before cleaning.
Are induction cooktops noisy?
While induction cooktops are generally quiet, some models may produce a low hum or buzzing noise when in use. This is normal and usually not loud enough to be disruptive.
Can I use an induction cooktop for canning?
Yes, you can use an induction cooktop for canning if the canning pot is compatible with induction cooking. However, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for safe canning practices.
Additional Resources
Read our Induction Cooking Buying Guide for features, buying tips, and ratings of every available induction cooking product in the market. Well over 1 million people have read a Yale Guide. Induction is our most popular.
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Steve Sheinkopf is the third-generation CEO of Yale Appliance and a lifelong Bostonian. He has over 38 years of experience in the appliance industry, and he is a trusted source of information for consumers on how to buy and repair appliances.
Steve has also been featured in numerous publications, including the
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Steve is passionate about helping consumers find the best appliances for their needs, and he is always happy to answer questions and provide advice. He is a valuable resource for consumers who are looking for information on appliance buying, repair, and maintenance.
Despite being the worst goalie in history, Steve is a fan of the Bruins and college hockey, loves to read, and is a Peloton biker. The love of his life is his daughter, Sophie.
A Note About Pricing
Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.
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