If you love spending time in the kitchen, then you need to consider purchasing an induction range.
While common cooktops can be great for making hot and delicious meals, they also come with the setback of producing too much heat, which can result in burns and mess.
Fortunately, you can now purchase induction ranges to combat this problem, as they use electromagnetic technology to help make cooking and cleaning easier.
In the guide below, we have compiled a list of the best induction ranges available for online purchase, which we have tried and tested to ensure their efficiency.
OUR TOP PICK
Frigidaire Gallery FGIH3047VF Induction Range
EDITORS CHOICE
LG Electronics LSE4616ST Smart Induction Range
BEST VALUE
Verona Designer Series VDFSIE365SS Induction Range
OUR TOP PICK
Frigidaire Gallery FGIH3047VF Induction Range
For the first product on our list, we have chosen an induction range that is both impressive and affordable, making it one of the best induction ranges available on the market.
Measuring at 30-inches wide, the product features four cooking elements and 5.4 cubic feet of cooking space, which means you can cook multiple dishes at the same time.
The product even comes with a 30-minute steam cycle that will clean the oven cavity once the food has been cooked.
However, the most notable feature of this appliance is its double nature, as it comes with the convenience of an induction cooker and the capabilities of a convection oven.
Because of this, you can have the best of both worlds for a reasonable price.
The product also comes with other features such as a built-in air fryer and hidden baking element.
Pros
- Built-In Air Fryer: The appliance features a built-in air fryer, which can be used to cook fries and delicious chicken wings.
- Hidden Baking Element: Frigidaire’s FGIH3047VF induction range also comes with a hidden baking element for hard-to-clean stains.
- Convection Oven: Beyond its induction, the product also features a convection oven for quick and simple cooking.
Cons
- Temperature Probe: The product does not feature a temperature probe, which could make it difficult to determine the temperature while cooking.
- Lacking Accessories: It is also important to note that the product does not feature a broiler or pan for the air fryer.
EDITORS CHOICE
LG Electronics LSE4616ST Smart Induction Range
When it comes to smart induction ranges, there’s no better product than the LG electronics LSE4616ST, which remains one of the best options available online.
The slide-in range comes with a variety of different perks, from its built-in storage drawer to its self-cleaning mode.
The appliance also comes with useful control knobs that are similar to those found on gas ovens, which make it easier to control the temperature.
If this is your first time purchasing an induction range, then this product will make the transition much easier with its innovative design.
Beyond this, the range can also be connected to your smartphone and preheated from another location.
You can even monitor the condition of the food as it cooks or ask another smart device to check for you.
Pros
- Storage Drawer: The LG induction range comes with a built-in storage drawer, which can be used to house utensils and other tools.
- Gourmet Control Knobs: The product features control knobs similar to those found on gourmet or gas stoves.
- Convection Tech: Beyond its induction, the appliance also comes with convection tech and innovative features.
Cons
- Air Fryer: Unfortunately, the appliance does not come with a built-in air fryer, which means you will need to purchase one separately.
- Temperature Probe: The product also lacks a temperature probe, which could make it harder to cook certain food items.
BEST VALUE
Verona Designer Series VDFSIE365SS Induction Range
Coming straight out of Italy, this Verona Designer Series induction range gives you a 5-element smooth cooktop, with plenty of room for cooking the many constituent parts of a large, complex meal simultaneously, simplifying your timings.
This lends itself to some truly exceptional culinary results.
Below, we have a quiet close, beveled door, (it really was silent during our tests).
Peering through the door, you’re introduced to a 5.0 cubic foot cooking area supported by dual convection fans that all but guarantee a perfect bake every time!
Of course, with the word “Designer” in the title, the stainless steel build is obviously as drop-dead gorgeous as this thing is functional, and as far as we can tell, it’s solid enough to last a lifetime (or three).
The pullout storage draw adds a practical element to the flawless aesthetics, giving you a sizable extra space to store bulky cookware, something you’ll appreciate if space is running a premium in your kitchen.
Pros
- Dual Convection Fans: If you’re a baker, you’ll appreciate the consistent and even heat. You’ll never burn a cake again!
- Storage Drawer: We all need more storage space in our kitchens, and this drawer delivers it!
- Large Cooking Capacity: No more switching out foods to complete big meals; it all fits in at once.
- 5 Induction Zones: Impressive cooktop capacity gives you plenty of flexibility when working with lots of pots and pans.
Cons
- Price: This kind of induction tech doesn’t come cheap.
RUNNER UP
Fulgor Milano F6PIR304S1Professional Induction Range
This Fulgor Milano brings 4 Induction zones to the table, threaded into an elegant ceramic-glass surface.
Each has a booster setting for kicking things up a notch in time-sensitive situations when you really need to bring the heat — Hungry mouths are fed faster!
A true dual-convection oven handles business below deck, providing a surprising amount of internal space considering the rather compact appearance of the unit, so big family meals are a total breeze to cook.
The door shuts softly too, which can certainly take the edge off a nerve-wracking cooking session.
But as great as the oven facility is, our favorite thing about this range is the LCD with advanced features such as a residual heat indicator that keeps you in the loop regarding thermals, ensuring you don’t accidentally burn yourself as the cooktop cools.
Pros
- Dual Convection: Consistent and even heat leads to an even cook, so say goodbye to burned exteriors and frozen/raw interiors!
- Residual Heat Indicator: Minimizes burn risk
- 3 Chromed Racks: They optimize the space in the cooking cavity, and they’re incredibly easy to clean.
Cons
- Induction Zones: Perhaps one extra zone would be beneficial to those who regularly cook for lots of people.
- Price: This is the most expensive option on our list.
RUNNER UP
Zline Raind-30 Induction Range
If you’re on the lookout for a stunning mid-tier induction range, the Raind-30 from the folks over at Zline will hit the spot.
Featuring 4 high-quality induction zones, there’s enough cooktop space for moderately large culinary endeavors, which definitely makes dinner prep a lot less stressful.
The 4 cubic feet of the oven below is a little on the small side compared to some others on our list, but this leads to a smaller footprint, making it a good fit for modestly-sized kitchens.
Being that the 3-ply door stays cool even as the stove heats, it’s also a safe option for small kitchens in which you’re more likely to bump into or work in close proximity to the range.
The display-less, stainless steel build has a solid yet elegant aesthetic, communicating a simple, satisfying classicism that appeals to the no-nonsense cooks that need only essentials to make a masterpiece. But that’s not to say it’s completely devoid of bells and whistles.
Surrounding each front control knob is a blue LED that communicates which element of the range is active, another fantastic safety feature, one that also gives a subtle nod to the modern without compromising the no-frills design.
Pros
- Cool-Touch Door: The 3-ply door keeps you, children, and pets safe from potential burns.
- Classic Design: This induction range suits a traditional aesthetic but doesn’t look out of place in a more modern kitchen.
- Power Boost Mode: The extra power of boost mode can produce quick results in time-sensitive situations.
Cons
- 4 cu.ft. Capacity: Larger families may require an extra cubic foot for no-stress, efficient cooking.
Best Induction Range Buying Guide
The idea of buying an induction range may sound like a simple task, as every model has been designed for the same purpose.
However, there are certain elements that should be taken into consideration before purchasing a new induction range. Elements that help to ensure that the induction range meets your needs and expectations.
In the following guide, we have outlined some key factors that should be kept in mind when it comes to purchasing an induction range.
We have decided to showcase these factors to aid in your final decision, which should save both time and money.
Capacity
When choosing a new induction range, it’s important to consider the capacity of the model, as this can often make the difference between a good product and a bad one.
For example, an induction range with more space can be used to make more food, whether that be a delicate sponge cake or a whole holiday turkey.
In most cases, the average capacity for an induction unit is 5.8 cubic feet. However, this number can fluctuate from 4.6 – 7.1 cubic feet depending on the product and how it has been designed.
Because of this, you will also need to be mindful of the space in your household and the dishes you plan to make, as these components will also contribute to your search for the best induction range for your needs.
Number Of Burners
In most cases, an induction range will often feature four or five burners, which should be suitable for most households.
Generally, an induction range with four burners can accommodate a family of two or three, while an induction range with five burners is more suited to a large family or gourmet kitchen, as it can hold more pots and pans than its smaller counterpart.
Because of this, most five-burner products will also feature a dedicated warming burner, which produces less heat than the burners around it.
This burner can be used to keep food warm while you prepare other dishes and is perfect for simmering.
However, it is important to note that five-burner models are more expensive than four-burner varieties, as they come with more benefits and are associated with gourmet cooking.
For this reason, most households will choose to purchase a four-burner induction because of its accessible nature.
Self-Clean Mode
Another benefit of induction ranges is that they come with self-cleaning functions, which makes it easier to avoid messy and tedious stains.
However, this option is not always available on induction models, which is why we recommend purchasing a product that comes with this function.
Not only does it make cleaning much easier, but it can also save time and money in the long run.
In most cases, this function will take the form of a self-cleaning mode, which generates enough heat to reduce stains and mess to a wipeable ash.
However, there are also other models that use steam cleaning methods to rid the product of the mess, which means you can clean the induction without the need for chemicals or heat.
Unfortunately, steam cleaners are often less effective than other products with other cleaning methods, which means you will still need to use some elbow grease to remove the grime from the surface.
Virtual Flame
Of course, the main disadvantage of induction ranges is that it can be hard to tell when the burner is hot.
Because of this, some manufacturers use virtual flame technology to determine whether the burners are on. In most cases, this warning sign will take the form of a dull red glow, which can increase in brightness to match the heat.
So if you live in a household with small children, we recommend purchasing an induction range that uses this function, as it could reduce the chances of burns and serious accidents.
However, there is a downside to this function, as virtual flame technology is most common on high-end and gourmet models, which means it can cost a substantial amount of money to purchase.
Hidden Elements
Hidden elements are another component used in induction ranges that make it easier to clean and maintain.
In most cases, hidden baking elements can be found at the bottom of the oven’s cavity and are used to collect oil and grease that could stain your pots and pans.
The only drawback is that the heating element can take longer to warm up because of this feature, as it will often be less powerful.
Despite this, hidden baking elements are the perfect feature for households that use their oven on a daily basis.
Delay Functions
Most induction ranges will also feature delay functions, which can be used to activate the stovetop at a later time.
In most cases, this process involves placing a dish in the oven cavity and telling it when the power should come on.
Because of its innovative technology, this function is often found on induction ranges that come with smart home compatibility, which means they can be connected to smartphones and other devices.
In fact, some models can even be controlled via your smartphone to ensure a delayed start.
Best Induction Range – FAQ’s
By now, you should have a better understanding of what makes a good induction range, as well as the various features that come with them.
However, if you still have some burning questions, we have compiled some common FAQs in the section below:
How Long Can Induction Ranges Last?
Induction ranges can last around 8 – 10 years with proper maintenance. However, this does not apply to the entire unit, as the oven cavities will often last longer than this timeframe.
In most cases, the stovetops are the component that will suffer the most from age and use, with the majority losing their strength after a few years.
Fortunately, you can increase the lifespan of your induction range with constant maintenance and cleaning, which should be enough to ensure its longevity.
How Reliable Are Induction Ranges?
Induction ranges are considered very reliable products, as they make cooking and cleaning much easier.
However, there are ways to make the most of your unit, such as using the right utensils and coming to terms with the product’s characteristics.
For example, you should only use stainless steel cookware when using induction ranges, as cast iron has been known to scratch the surface.
It is also important to remember that induction ranges can heat up quickly, which means it can save time when cooking food.
Do Induction Ranges Require Ventilation?
When compared to other ranges such as gas and electric, induction models do not require too much ventilation.
However, this does not mean that you should avoid this practice, as even induction ranges should have a hood to collect the smoke and fumes.
This is because ventilation helps to improve the air quality in your home, which could become corrupted due to smoke.
Can You Use Cast Iron Cookware On Induction Ranges?
Despite what we said earlier, cast iron cookware is perfect for induction ranges, as the metal is known for its magnetic properties.
However, this does not mean that you should use it, as the material has been known to scratch and damage the glass stovetop.
This means that you will need to proceed with caution when using cast iron on the induction, otherwise, you could mark the ceramic glass surface and leave it looking unattractive.
