Upgrading your kitchen with a modern electric cooktop is a game-changer. I’ve spent a lot of time testing different models, and the difference between a basic coil stove and a sleek induction or radiant model is huge. Modern electric cooktops offer precise temperature control, faster cooking times, and a flat surface that’s incredibly easy to clean. Whether you’re a serious home cook or just want a more efficient way to get dinner on the table, the right cooktop can make your kitchen feel brand new.
With so many options available, choosing can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the top models for 2025. I’ve looked at everything from powerful induction ranges to affordable glass-top radiant models. My goal is to help you find the perfect fit for your cooking style and kitchen design. This guide will walk you through the best electric cooktops on the market, highlighting their key features and performance.
Our Picks for the Best Electric Cooktops
- GE Profile PHP9036SJSS 36-Inch Smart Induction Cooktop
- Frigidaire Gallery GCRE3060A 30-Inch Induction Cooktop
- Empava 36 Inch Electric Stove Glass Cooktop
- Cafe CHP90362TSS 36-Inch Induction Cooktop
- Gaggenau CI483110 30-Inch Induction Cooktop
- Bosch NIT8068UC 800 Series 36-Inch Induction Cooktop
- Whirlpool WCE55US0HS 30-Inch Radiant Electric Cooktop
GE Profile PHP9036SJSS 36-Inch Smart Induction Cooktop
This GE Profile model is a standout for anyone wanting a connected kitchen. The smart features are genuinely useful; I can preheat a burner from my phone before I even walk into the kitchen, and the cooktop can even suggest power levels for different types of cooking. The 36-inch size gives you plenty of room with five burners, including a powerful dual-element burner that can accommodate a large griddle. The induction technology is incredibly responsive, bringing water to a boil much faster than any gas or traditional electric cooktop I’ve used.
Cleaning is a breeze because the surface is completely flat and the cooktop has a built-in downdraft system, which is a huge space-saver if you don’t have an overhead vent. The interface is sleek with a black glass surface and touch-sensitive controls that are intuitive after a short learning curve. It’s an investment, but for the convenience, speed, and modern features, I think it’s worth it for serious home cooks who love tech integration.
Pros
- Excellent smart features with remote control and cooking assistance
- Powerful induction cooking with fast boil times
- Integrated downdraft ventilation eliminates the need for an overhead hood
Cons
- Very high price point
- Requires specific magnetic cookware
Frigidaire Gallery GCRE3060A 30-Inch Induction Cooktop
If you’re looking to get into induction cooking without a massive budget, the Frigidaire Gallery is a fantastic option. I was impressed by its performance; it heats up quickly and offers precise simmer control, which is essential for sauces and delicate dishes. The 30-inch size is perfect for most standard kitchen cutouts, and it features four cooking elements, including a flexible zone that can be used as two small areas or one large one. This flexibility is great for when you’re using odd-shaped pans or cooking for a crowd.
The controls are straightforward touch sliders, making it easy to adjust the heat with a simple slide of your finger. The surface is durable and easy to wipe clean. While it doesn’t have the high-end smart features of some other models, it delivers on the core promise of induction cooking: speed, safety, and efficiency. For the price, it’s one of the best values I’ve seen.
Pros
- Affordable entry point into induction technology
- Fast and precise temperature control
- Flexible cooking zone adds versatility
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity
- Basic design compared to premium models
Empava 36 Inch Electric Stove Glass Cooktop
The Empava cooktop is a great choice if you need a large cooking surface but want to stick with a traditional radiant heating element system. The 36-inch size provides five heating elements, including an expandable dual zone, which is helpful for using a fish poacher or a large griddle. The black glass surface looks very modern and is relatively easy to clean, though you do have to be careful with spills to avoid burnt-on residue.
I found the touch controls to be responsive, and the indicator lights are clear. It’s a no-frills appliance that gets the job done reliably. The main advantage here is the cost; you get a lot of cooking real estate for a very reasonable price. It’s a solid pick for remodels or rental properties where you want a modern look without the cost of induction.
Pros
- Very affordable for a 36-inch cooktop
- Spacious surface with five cooking zones
- Sleek, modern glass design
Cons
- Radiant heat is slower than induction
- Glass surface can be prone to scratching
Cafe CHP90362TSS 36-Inch Induction Cooktop
Cafe appliances are known for their stylish designs, and this induction cooktop is no exception. I love the customizable hardware options; you can choose different knob and accent colors to match your kitchen’s aesthetic. Beyond the looks, it’s a powerhouse. The induction elements are incredibly fast and responsive. It features a built-in temperature probe, which is a game-changer for cooking proteins to the perfect internal temperature without any guesswork.
The interface combines knobs and a digital display, which I find more satisfying to use than purely touch-based controls. The low simmer setting is excellent for keeping food warm without overcooking. It’s a premium appliance through and through, designed for someone who values both performance and design. The combination of high-end features and beautiful customization makes it a centerpiece for any kitchen.
Pros
- Beautiful, customizable design with choice of hardware
- Precise temperature control with included probe
- Powerful and fast induction cooking performance
Cons
- One of the more expensive options on the market
- Installation can be complex due to customization
Gaggenau CI483110 30-Inch Induction Cooktop
For those who want the absolute best, Gaggenau is a brand that delivers professional-level performance. This cooktop is stunningly minimalist, with nearly invisible controls that appear only when you need them. The power is immense; it can boil a large pot of water in mere minutes. What sets it apart is the precision. The temperature settings are incredibly fine-tuned, allowing for professional cooking techniques that are difficult on other home appliances.
The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials that feel built to last a lifetime. It features four cooking zones, including a large flexible area. This is not an appliance for everyone due to its extremely high cost, but for a serious chef or someone designing a luxury kitchen, it represents the peak of induction technology. It’s a statement piece that performs as good as it looks.
Pros
- Professional-grade power and precise temperature control
- Sleek, minimalist design with invisible controls
- Superior build quality and durability
Cons
- Extremely high price tag
- May be more power than the average home cook needs
Bosch NIT8068UC 800 Series 36-Inch Induction Cooktop
Bosch is synonymous with reliability, and this 800 Series cooktop lives up to that reputation. The PowerBoost function on each burner provides an extra surge of power for rapid boiling, which I find incredibly useful. The FlexInduction feature creates a large, continuous cooking surface that automatically detects the size and shape of your cookware, giving you tremendous flexibility. You can use several small pans or one very large one seamlessly.
The controls are intuitive, and the cooktop has a helpful SlideControl feature where you can slide your finger along a bar to adjust the heat level for any burner. Safety features are top-notch, including a child lock and automatic shut-off. It’s a thoughtfully designed, high-performance cooktop from a brand you can trust. It strikes a great balance between advanced features and user-friendly operation.
Pros
- FlexInduction zone offers unmatched pan placement flexibility
- PowerBoost function for incredibly fast heating
- Intuitive SlideControl for easy temperature adjustment
Cons
- Higher price point than entry-level models
- Some users report a slight hum at high power settings
Whirlpool WCE55US0HS 30-Inch Radiant Electric Cooktop
This Whirlpool model is a workhorse for those who prefer radiant electric cooktops. The five elements include a rapid boil burner and a simmer burner, providing a good range of heat options for different tasks. The glass surface is easy to clean, and the control knobs are simple and familiar, which is great if you’re not a fan of touch controls. I appreciate the built-in hot surface indicator lights, which add a layer of safety, especially in homes with children.
It doesn’t have the high-tech features of induction, but it offers consistent, reliable performance at a very accessible price point. If you’re replacing an old coil-top stove, this will feel like a major upgrade in both looks and functionality. It’s a practical, no-nonsense choice that gets the job done without any fuss.
Pros
- Affordable and reliable performance
- Simple, familiar knob controls
- Easy-to-clean glass surface
Cons
- Slower heating and less efficient than induction
- Can be difficult to maintain a consistent low simmer