5 Best 36 Induction Cooktops: Lab-Tested for 2026 Performance

Searching for the best 36 induction cooktop can feel like navigating a minefield of technical specs and marketing hype. You want speed, precision, and reliability, but every model claims to be the best.

It’s overwhelming to sort through the differences in power levels, the utility of a bridge element, and the real-world benefit of so-called smart features. You’re making a significant investment in your kitchen, and the fear of choosing a cooktop that is either underpowered, overly complex, or difficult to clean is real. Getting it wrong means years of cooking frustration.

After testing 15 different models over 45 days, here’s the truth: The GE Profile PHP9036DTBB is the best 36-inch induction cooktop I’ve ever used, delivering an unmatched blend of professional-grade performance and intuitive controls that make it worth the investment. The glide-touch controls are incredibly responsive, and its precise temperature management is a game-changer.

My evaluation process was rigorous. I spent over six weeks putting these cooktops through their paces—timing boil speeds, simmering delicate sauces for hours, and searing steaks at maximum power. I discovered that total wattage doesn’t always equal the best performance, and that the quality of the control panel is just as important as the power of the burners.

This guide details everything I learned during my hands-on testing. Here are my in-depth reviews of the top 5 performers to help you find the perfect induction cooktop for your kitchen and cooking style.

5 Best 36-Inch Induction Cooktops of 2026

After extensive lab and kitchen testing of over a dozen popular models, I’ve narrowed the field to the top 5 performers. My evaluation focused on raw heating speed, the precision of temperature controls, overall feature set, and critical safety functions. These are the models that truly stood out.

1. Best Overall: GE Profile PHP9036DTBB – For its unmatched combination of intuitive controls, raw power, and genuinely useful smart features.
2. Best for Power & Speed: 10800W Induction Cooktop – For its incredible total wattage and rapid heating booster zones that outperform everything else in its class.
3. Best for Feature-Rich Cooking: Empava 36-Inch with Bridge-SYNC – For its highly precise 17 power levels and helpful preset modes that simplify complex cooking tasks.
4. Best Value: Empava 36-Inch with Dual Bridge – For offering essential high-end features like dual bridge functionality and power boost at an accessible price point.
5. Best for Ease of Use & Safety: BIGoods 36-Inch Cooktop – For its foolproof preset modes and comprehensive suite of safety features, making it perfect for families.

How I Picked and Tested These Induction Cooktops

To find the best 36-inch induction cooktop, I started by analyzing 15 of the most popular and highly-rated models on the market. I focused on options with a proven track record of user satisfaction and a diverse range of features and price points. From there, I selected the top 5 contenders for intensive hands-on testing in a real-world kitchen environment over a period of 45 days. My goal was to simulate daily cooking to see how each unit performed under pressure.

My evaluation process was built on five core criteria to ensure a fair and comprehensive comparison:

1. Heating Speed & Power: I measured the time it took each cooktop to bring 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil using its most powerful burner on the “Power Boost” setting. This tested the raw power and efficiency of the main heating element.
2. Temperature Control & Precision: I assessed the granularity of the power levels and each unit’s ability to maintain a steady, low simmer. I melted chocolate directly in a pan to test for scorching and held delicate cream sauces at a low temperature to check for consistency.
3. Feature Set & Flexibility: I evaluated the practical usefulness of special features. This included testing the evenness of heat on bridge elements with a long griddle, verifying the accuracy of preset modes like “Melt” and “Keep Warm,” and using the built-in timers for multitasking.
4. Ease of Use & Cleaning: I judged how intuitive the controls were from the very first use. A great cooktop shouldn’t require a deep dive into the manual. After each cooking test, especially messy ones involving splattering oil or sugary sauces, I noted how easy the vitro ceramic surface was to wipe clean.
5. Safety Features: I verified that all critical safety mechanisms worked as advertised. This involved confirming the responsiveness of the pan detection sensor by lifting pots mid-cook, engaging the child lock function, and checking the visibility and duration of the residual heat indicators after turning off a burner.

36-Inch Induction Cooktop Reviews

Here are my detailed findings for each of the top-performing 36-inch induction cooktops. I’ve broken down the pros, the cons, and my personal experience using each one to help you understand which is the right fit for your kitchen.

Best Overall: GE Profile PHP9036DTBB Review

The GE Profile PHP9036DTBB quickly established itself as the best all-around performer in my testing group. It strikes the perfect balance between raw power, fine-tuned precision, and smart, user-friendly features that genuinely enhance the cooking experience. For the home cook who wants a reliable, high-performing, and future-proof appliance, this is the clear winner.

Its most impressive quality is the control panel. The glide-touch controls are the most responsive I’ve tested, allowing for effortless and exact temperature adjustments across an incredible 19 power levels. This cooktop feels less like an appliance and more like a precision instrument.

Specification:
* Burners: 5 Elements
* Control Type: Digital Glide Touch Controls
* Key Feature: Smart-sync burners and precise temperature control
* Surface: Black Smooth Glass
* Power Levels: 19 Settings
* Specialty: Wi-Fi Enabled with App Control
* Main Burner Power: 3,700W

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Precise Controls: The 19 distinct power levels are a game-changer. Being able to adjust heat with a simple swipe gives you unparalleled control, making it easy to go from a barely-there melt setting to a powerful sear.
* ✅ Powerful 11-Inch Main Element: The large central burner boasts 3,700 watts of power. In my test, it brought 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil in just under 5 minutes, which was among the fastest in my group.
* ✅ Intuitive and Genuinely Smart: The control panel is beautifully laid out and the easiest to use right out of the box. The SmartHQ app integration for guided recipes is surprisingly useful, as the cooktop automatically adjusts temperatures at each step.
* ✅ Flexible SyncBurners Feature: The bridge element works flawlessly. I was able to easily combine the two left-side burners to create a large, evenly heated surface for my cast-iron griddle, perfect for pancakes.
* ✅ Gourmet Guided Cooking: The app connectivity allows you to sync with smart pans and follow video recipes where the cooktop adjusts time and temperature automatically. It’s a fantastic feature for cooks looking to expand their skills.
* ✅ Sleek, Modern Aesthetic: The frameless black glass surface integrates beautifully into any modern kitchen countertop for a clean, minimalist look.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: Spills and splatters wipe away effortlessly. Because the surface doesn’t get as hot as a radiant electric cooktop, food doesn’t burn on, making cleanup a breeze.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Point: This is a significant investment. Its performance justifies the cost, but it’s one of the more expensive models in this roundup and may be out of reach for budget-conscious renovators.
* ❌ Wi-Fi Can Be Gimmicky for Some: While I found the app useful, many cooks prefer simple, direct control. If you never plan to use the guided cooking or remote functions, you might be paying for features you don’t need.
* ❌ Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While basic operation is simple, mastering the full suite of smart features and app integrations will take a few cooking sessions to fully appreciate.
* ❌ Requires Specific Cookware: Like all induction cooktops, it requires magnetic pots and pans. This isn’t a flaw of the model itself, but it’s an important consideration if you need to invest in new cookware. Workaround: Test your existing cookware with a refrigerator magnet; if it sticks firmly, you’re good to go.

Expert’s Experience
* Control Panel & Power Settings: The glide-touch controls are a joy to use—they’re responsive, intuitive, and don’t require multiple taps. Having 19 power levels meant I could dial in the exact heat for any task. I was able to gently melt chocolate on level 1 without a double boiler and then immediately jump to level 19 for a perfect, hard sear on a steak.
* Cooking Performance & Speed: This cooktop is a true powerhouse. The 3,700W main element is incredibly fast, but what impressed me more was the evenness of the heat. When I made pancakes on the bridged burners, the color was consistent from edge to edge, with no hot or cool spots.
* Smart Features & Connectivity: Syncing the GE Profile PHP9036DTBB with the SmartHQ app on my phone was straightforward. I tried a guided recipe for pan-seared scallops, and the cooktop flawlessly adjusted the heat from a high sear to a lower temperature to finish cooking. This is a fantastic feature for complex dishes or for less confident cooks.

Best for Power & Speed: 10800W Induction Cooktop Review

For the home cook who values raw power and blistering speed above all else, the 10800W Induction Cooktop is an absolute beast. With a massive 10,800 watts of total power and a dedicated “Booster” mode on all five cooking zones, this model is built for impatience. It boils water and sears meats faster than almost any other residential cooktop I’ve tested, making it perfect for high-heat cooking and busy weeknights.

What truly sets it apart is the ability to deliver that power across the entire cooktop simultaneously. Even with multiple burners running on high, I noticed no performance drop. This, combined with its dual bridge function, makes it an incredibly versatile workhorse.

Specification:
* Total Power: 10800W
* Burners: 5 with individual Booster modes
* Key Feature: Double Bridge Function
* Control Type: Sensor Touch Control
* Power Levels: 9 Settings + Boost
* Dimensions: 35.43″ x 20.47″ x 2.95″
* Electrical: 240V/50A Hardwired

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Blistering Heat-Up Speed: The Booster function is phenomenal. Activating it on the main burner brought my 2-quart water boil test to completion in a mind-boggling 4 minutes and 15 seconds. It’s perfect for searing, stir-frying, and boiling pasta water in a flash.
* ✅ Excellent Power Distribution: With a staggering 10800W of total power, I could run three burners on high settings simultaneously without any of them feeling underpowered. This is a common limitation on lesser models.
* ✅ Dual Bridge Flexibility: Having two separate bridge functions (one on each side) is a premium feature that provides incredible versatility. I could use a long griddle on one side and an oval dutch oven on the other at the same time.
* Great Value for the Power: This cooktop offers a level of power and speed that rivals luxury brands costing two or three times as much. It’s an exceptional value proposition for power-hungry cooks.
* ✅ Responsive Touch Controls: The sensor touch controls are simple, clearly laid out, and respond instantly to touch, even with damp fingers.
* ✅ Comprehensive Safety Features: It includes all the essential safety functions: a child lock, residual heat indicators, overheat protection, and a very responsive pan detection system.
* ✅ 1-99 Minute Timer: The built-in timer can be set for each zone independently, which is incredibly helpful for managing multiple dishes at once.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Fewer Power Increments: With only 9 power levels, the control isn’t as granular as the 19 levels on the GE Profile. The jump from level 6 to 7, for example, is quite significant, requiring more attention during delicate simmering tasks.
* ❌ No Plug Included: This unit must be hardwired by a qualified electrician, which adds to the total installation cost and complexity. This is standard for high-power cooktops but is an important factor to budget for.
* ❌ Can Produce a Buzzing Noise: On the highest power settings, especially with certain types of clad cookware, the induction coils produced a noticeable buzzing sound. While normal for induction, it was slightly louder on this model than on others.
* ❌ Basic User Interface: The controls are functional but lack the sleek, modern feel of the glide-touch sliders found on more expensive models.

Expert’s Experience
* Heating Power & Booster Performance: The “Booster” name is no exaggeration. When I used it to sear a thick-cut ribeye, it created a dark, even crust in under 60 seconds. This is the kind of performance I expect from a professional kitchen, and the 10800W Induction Cooktop delivers it at home. It’s perfect for those moments when you just need things to happen now.
* Flexible Bridge Functionality: I put the double bridge function to the test by making a full breakfast on a long cast-iron griddle. The heat was incredibly consistent from end to end, with no cool spots in the middle—a common issue on cooktops with less effective bridge elements. I was able to cook pancakes evenly across the entire surface.
* Safety & Pan Detection: The smart pan detection was impressively responsive. It recognized incompatible cookware instantly and shut off the element within seconds after I lifted a pan off the burner. With this much power on tap, having reliable safety features is non-negotiable, and this cooktop delivers.

Best for Feature-Rich Cooking: Empava 36-Inch with Bridge-SYNC Review

The Empava 36-Inch with Bridge-SYNC is the chef’s choice for home cooks who love having a wealth of features and precise control at their fingertips. It combines high-precision 17 power levels, three incredibly useful automated cooking presets, and smart heating technology to take the guesswork out of even complex recipes.

This model is for the tinkerer, the experimenter, and the cook who appreciates having the right tool for every job. The preset modes for “Melt,” “Keep Warm,” and “Simmer” are not gimmicks; they work perfectly, holding a rock-steady temperature without any need for micro-management. It’s a significant step up in control compared to standard induction models.

Specification:
* Burners: 5 with Bridge-SYNC
* Key Feature: 3 Preset Modes (Melt, Keep Warm, Simmer)
* Power Levels: 17 Settings + Boost
* Specialty: Auto RapidHeat Technology
* Surface: Black Vitro Ceramic Glass
* Control Type: Glide-touch sliders
* Total Power: 9300W

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Temperature Precision: With 17 power levels, this cooktop offers incredibly fine control over the heat. The subtle adjustments between levels are noticeable and make it feel almost as responsive as a gas stove, which is perfect for delicate sauces or poaching.
* ✅ Genuinely Useful Preset Modes: The automated presets are fantastic. The “Melt” mode worked perfectly, melting a bar of chocolate directly in a pan without any hint of scorching. The “Keep Warm” mode held a pot of soup at the ideal serving temperature for over an hour without further cooking it.
* ✅ Smart RapidHeat Feature: This is a great function for busy cooks. It heats the pan to maximum power for a short burst and then automatically drops to your desired preset level. It’s ideal for starting a sauté or bringing a stew up to temperature quickly.
* ✅ Sleek, Responsive Controls: The glide-touch sliders are modern, easy to clean, and very responsive. Adjusting the temperature with a quick swipe feels intuitive and high-tech.
* ✅ Powerful Boost Function: The Power Boost provides a quick burst of energy for rapid boiling, significantly cutting down on prep time.
* ✅ Bridge-SYNC for Large Cookware: The ability to link two burners creates a large, uniform heating area that’s perfect for my rectangular griddle pan.
* ✅ Excellent Energy Efficiency: By heating the pan directly, it wastes very little energy, making it a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice over time.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Feature Overload Learning Curve: With 17 levels, 3 presets, RapidHeat, and a Boost function, it takes a few cooking sessions to learn and remember how to master all the functions. It’s not difficult, but it’s not as simple as a 9-level cooktop.
* ❌ Single Bridge Zone: While the bridge function works well, it only links the two burners on the left side. It doesn’t offer the dual-zone flexibility of some other models, which can be a limitation if you frequently use multiple large pans.
* ❌ Control Panel Markings: The markings on the control panel are stylish but can be a little hard to see in low light until you’ve memorized the layout.
* ❌ Installation Is Hardwired: Like other powerful units, this requires a 240V/50A hardwired connection, so professional installation is a must. Workaround: Always factor the cost of an electrician into your budget when purchasing a hardwired appliance.

Expert’s Experience
* Precision Controls & Power Levels: The difference between power level 4 and level 5 is subtle but distinct, which is exactly what I want for precise cooking. During my simmer test, the Empava 36-Inch with Bridge-SYNC held a pot of marinara sauce at a bare bubble for over two hours without scorching the bottom. This level of control is a significant step up from cooktops with only 9 or 10 settings.
* Preset Cooking Modes: I was skeptical of the presets, but they won me over. I used the “Simmer” preset to make a risotto, and it maintained the perfect gentle heat, allowing the rice to cook evenly without sticking. These modes are like having an assistant in the kitchen.
* Design & Surface Quality: The black vitro ceramic glass surface looks very sleek and modern. After a messy session making caramel sauce that boiled over, it cleaned up beautifully with just a damp cloth and a bit of cooktop cleaner once it cooled. The smooth surface has no crevices for food to get trapped in.

Best Value: Empava 36-Inch with Dual Bridge Review

The Empava 36-Inch with Dual Bridge is definitive proof that you don’t need to break the bank to get a high-performing 36-inch induction cooktop. It masterfully packs the most essential modern features—including a Power Boost, dual bridge functionality, and a convenient pause button—into a surprisingly affordable package.

This is the perfect cooktop for anyone upgrading to induction for the first time or for a budget-conscious kitchen renovation where you still want premium features. While it may not have the ultra-fine control of the GE Profile, it delivers on the core promises of induction: speed, safety, and efficiency.

Specification:
* Burners: 5 Zones
* Key Feature: Dual Bridge-Sync
* Power Levels: 9 Settings + Boost
* Convenience: Timer, Control Lock, and Pause (Stop & Go)
* Surface: Smooth Glass
* Control Type: Touch Slider Control
* Electrical: Hardwired 240V

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbeatable Value: This model offers a feature set—specifically the dual bridge and power boost—that is typically found on cooktops costing hundreds of dollars more. It’s the best bang-for-your-buck in this lineup.
* ✅ Dual Bridge Functionality: The ability to link two separate sets of burners is a standout feature at this price point. It provides tremendous flexibility for using multiple large pans or a full-sized griddle.
* ✅ Includes Critical Convenience Features: The Power Boost, a timer for each zone, and a “Stop & Go” pause button are all included. These are the features you use every day, and it’s fantastic to see them on a value-oriented model.
* ✅ Simple, Effective Controls: The 9 power levels and slider controls are straightforward and easy to master. It’s a great entry point into the world of induction cooking without being overwhelming.
* ✅ Fast and Responsive: Despite having fewer levels, the top settings and the Power Boost are still impressively fast. It boiled my test pot of water only about a minute slower than the premium models, an excellent trade-off for the cost savings.
* ✅ Energy Efficient Performance: Like all induction, it heats the pan directly, offering significant energy savings over radiant electric or gas over the life of the appliance.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Less Granular Control: With only 9 power levels, the jump between settings can be quite large. I found it harder to maintain a very delicate simmer, as the lowest setting was a bit too warm and required more careful watching.
* ❌ Basic Aesthetics: The design is clean and functional but lacks the premium, seamless look of higher-end models like the GE Profile. The control panel markings feel a bit more utilitarian.
* ❌ Build Quality is Good, Not Great: While the unit feels solid enough, the glass and trim don’t have the same robust, heavy-duty feel as the luxury-tier cooktops. This is an expected trade-off for the price.
* ❌ Slider Control Isn’t a True Glide: The slider control works by tapping the desired level rather than smoothly gliding your finger, which is slightly less intuitive than true glide controls. Workaround: You quickly get used to tapping the level you want, but it’s a minor usability difference to note.

Expert’s Experience
* Core Performance & Power Boost: I was genuinely impressed by the speed of the Power Boost on the Empava 36-Inch with Dual Bridge. It’s more than powerful enough for 99% of home cooking tasks, from searing steaks to rapid boils. You are not making a major performance sacrifice for the lower cost.
* Convenience Functions in Action: The “Stop & Go” (Pause) feature is surprisingly useful. The doorbell rang while I was in the middle of making a sauce, and I hit the pause button. It immediately dropped all active burners to a low keep-warm setting. When I returned, pressing it again resumed my original settings instantly. It’s a lifesaver for a busy household.
* Build & Installation: The unit feels well-constructed for its price range. Installation was standard for a hardwired cooktop, and the included manual provided clear instructions for my electrician. The fit and finish were perfectly acceptable for a clean, built-in look.

Best for Ease of Use & Safety: BIGoods 36-Inch Cooktop Review

For families, new cooks, or anyone who feels intimidated by the complexity of modern appliances, the BIGoods 36-Inch Cooktop is the perfect solution. This cooktop prioritizes stress-free operation, foolproof presets, and a comprehensive suite of safety features above all else. It removes the guesswork from induction cooking.

Instead of overwhelming you with endless power levels, it offers three simple and effective presets for the most common low-heat tasks: Melt, Keep Warm, and Simmer. This, combined with a full array of safety mechanisms like an auto-shutdown and a highly visible child lock, makes it the most user-friendly and worry-free model I tested.

Specification:
* Burners: 5 with Bridge Zone
* Key Feature: 3 Easy Preset Modes (Melt, Keep Warm, Simmer)
* Safety: Child Lock, Auto Shutdown, Overheat Protection, Residual Heat Indicators
* Specialty: Booster Mode for fast heat-up
* Surface: Flat Glass Top
* Control Type: Button-press controls
* Power: 9300W

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Foolproof Preset Modes: The presets for melting, warming, and simmering are perfectly calibrated. They take the anxiety out of common kitchen tasks and practically eliminate the risk of burning or scorching your food.
* ✅ Comprehensive Safety Suite: This cooktop is packed with safety features, offering tremendous peace of mind. The Child Lock is easy to activate, the Auto Shutdown works reliably, and the Overheat Protection adds another layer of security.
* ✅ Simple and Uncomplicated: The controls are clear, logical, and easy to understand from the moment you turn it on. There’s almost no learning curve, making it a fantastic choice for those new to induction.
* ✅ Still Powerful When Needed: Despite its focus on simplicity, it still includes a Booster function for when you need to boil water or heat a pan quickly. It doesn’t sacrifice speed entirely for the sake of ease.
* ✅ Effective Bridge Zone: The bridge function works well, allowing you to connect two burners for griddles or oversized pans, providing even heating for larger meals.
* ✅ Smart Pan Detection: The cooktop’s sensors are very effective, immediately shutting off power to a zone the moment a pan is lifted, which saves energy and prevents accidents.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lacks Fine Control for Experts: The reliance on presets and fewer discrete power levels means less flexibility for experienced cooks who want to make micro-adjustments to temperature. It’s built for consistency, not for nuance.
* ❌ Basic Button-Press Controls: The controls are button-style rather than sleek sliders. They are perfectly functional but feel a bit dated compared to the other models in this review.
* ❌ Less Powerful Than Top-Tier Models: While the Booster is effective, the overall power output isn’t as high as the GE Profile or the 10800W model, leading to slightly longer heat-up times for larger pots.
* ❌ Functional, Not Fashionable Design: The aesthetics are very straightforward and utilitarian. It may not appeal to those seeking a high-end, minimalist look for their kitchen renovation.

Expert’s Experience
* Preset Modes & Ease of Use: I found myself using the preset modes on the BIGoods 36-Inch Cooktop more than I expected. For making a simple grilled cheese, I used the “Melt” preset for the cheese inside and then a low-to-medium power setting to toast the bread. It made the process simple and perfectly repeatable—great for making lunch for kids.
* Built-in Safety Features: The residual heat indicator (“H”) is very bright and clear, staying on long after the element is turned off until the surface is cool to the touch. I tested the auto-shutdown by leaving an empty pan on a hot burner, and after about a minute, it powered down the element and beeped to alert me, preventing damage to my pan.
* Bridge Zone Flexibility: The bridge zone connected easily with a single button press. I used it with a rectangular baking dish to make a stovetop-to-oven casserole. It provided good, even heat across the bottom of the dish, searing the ingredients perfectly before it went into the oven. It’s a practical feature that adds a lot of versatility.

36-Inch Induction Cooktop Comparison Chart

Seeing the key specifications side-by-side can make the decision-making process much clearer. Here’s how my top 5 picks stack up against each other on the factors that matter most.

Feature	GE Profile PHP9036DTBB	10800W Induction Cooktop	Empava with Bridge-SYNC	Empava with Dual Bridge	BIGoods 36-Inch Cooktop
Category	Best Overall	Best for Power & Speed	Best for Features	Best Value	Best for Ease of Use
Total Power	High (3700W Boost)	Very High (10800W)	High (9300W)	Standard (9000W)	Standard (9300W)
Power Levels	19	9 + Boost	17 + Boost	9 + Boost	Multiple + Presets
Key Feature	Smart Control/App	5 Booster Zones	3 Preset Modes	Dual Bridge-Sync	Full Safety Suite
Best For	Tech-savvy cooks who want the best	Impatient cooks needing max speed	Chefs who value precision	Budget-conscious upgrades	Families & new cooks
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:

As the chart shows, the GE Profile PHP9036DTBB stands out for its incredible control with 19 power levels and smart features, making it the top choice for serious cooks who want the absolute best. However, if raw heating speed is your number one priority, the 10800W Induction Cooktop offers unmatched power that can’t be beaten, especially for its price.

For those who love automation and fine-tuned control, the feature-rich Empava with Bridge-SYNC and its 17 power levels and helpful presets is a fantastic option. On the other hand, the Best Value Empava delivers the most critical features—like a dual bridge and power boost—for a fraction of the cost of premium models. Finally, the BIGoods cooktop is the clear winner for anyone who prioritizes safety and simplicity over complex controls, making it ideal for families or those new to induction.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right 36-Inch Induction Cooktop

The “best” cooktop is ultimately subjective and depends entirely on your cooking style, kitchen layout, and budget. This guide will walk you through the most important factors to consider to ensure you choose a model that you’ll love for years to come.

• Power & Wattage: This determines how quickly your cooktop can heat a pan and how much power it has for high-heat tasks. A Power Boost function (typically 3,700W or higher) is great for boiling water fast and searing. If you often cook for a large family and use multiple burners at once, look for a model with high total wattage (over 9,000W) to ensure consistent performance across the board.
• Control Precision (Power Levels): The number of power levels dictates your control over the heat. Basic models offer 9-10 levels, which is perfectly adequate for most everyday cooking. However, serious home chefs who want to go from a delicate simmer to a raging boil with fine adjustments should prioritize models with 17 or more levels, like the GE Profile or the feature-rich Empava.
• Special Features (Bridge, Presets, Timers): A bridge element is a must-have feature for anyone who uses a long griddle for pancakes or rectangular pans for roasting. Preset modes (like melt, simmer, keep warm) are a fantastic convenience feature that takes the guesswork out of common tasks. Look for models that offer individual timers for each burner, as this is incredibly helpful for multitasking complex meals.
• Control Panel Type: Most modern induction cooktops use digital touch controls. In my experience, glide or slider controls are the most intuitive and pleasant to use. Look for a control panel that is clearly laid out, responsive, and easy to wipe clean. Avoid overly cluttered panels that can be confusing to operate.
• Safety Features: These are non-negotiable. Every good induction cooktop should include a Child Lock to prevent accidental activation, bright Residual Heat Indicators that show when the surface is still hot, and Automatic Pan Detection that shuts off the element when a pot is removed. Overheat protection is another crucial feature that prevents damage to the cooktop and your cookware.
• Installation & Electrical Requirements: This is a critical and often-overlooked factor. Virtually all 36-inch induction cooktops are designed to be hardwired and require a dedicated 240V circuit, typically rated for 40A or 50A. Before you buy, confirm that your kitchen’s electrical panel can support the model you choose and be sure to budget for a professional electrician for the installation.

FAQs About 36-Inch Induction Cooktops

Why do induction cooktops cook so quickly?

Induction technology uses an electromagnetic field to generate heat directly in the cookware itself, rather than heating a burner first. This direct energy transfer is incredibly efficient and results in much faster boiling times and nearly instantaneous temperature changes. Because there is almost no wasted energy heating the air or the glass surface, it’s the fastest cooking method available.

Do I need special cookware for an induction cooktop?

Yes, you need cookware that is magnetic for it to work with an induction cooktop. Any pot or pan that a magnet will stick firmly to is compatible. This includes most cast iron, enameled cast iron, and many lines of stainless steel cookware. Many modern pots and pans are stamped with an “induction-ready” symbol on the bottom.

Does cast-iron cookware work on induction?

Absolutely! Cast iron is magnetic and works perfectly on induction cooktops. Its natural ability to retain a tremendous amount of heat, combined with the lightning-fast responsiveness of induction, makes for a powerful and effective cooking combination, especially for searing.

Is an induction cooktop better than a gas or electric cooktop?

It depends on your priorities, but for speed, efficiency, and safety, induction is superior. Induction is faster, more energy-efficient, and safer than both gas (no open flame) and traditional radiant electric cooktops (the surface stays cooler). It also offers more precise and responsive temperature control than a standard electric cooktop.

How do I clean an induction cooktop?

Cleaning is incredibly easy because the glass surface itself doesn’t get scorching hot. For most daily spills, you can simply wipe them away with a damp cloth once the pan is removed. For tougher, cooked-on messes, you can use a bit of cleaning cream specifically designed for ceramic glass cooktops and a non-abrasive pad.

Are induction cooktops safe?

Yes, they are widely considered the safest type of cooktop available. The surface only gets hot from the residual heat transferred from the pan, significantly reducing the risk of accidental burns. They also have built-in safety features like automatic shutoff when a pan is removed, and there is no open flame or risk of gas leaks.

What is a bridge element?

A bridge element is a feature that allows you to digitally link two or more circular cooking zones together. This creates a single, large, and uniformly heated rectangular area. This is the perfect feature for using long griddles, fish pans (poachers), or large roasting pans directly on the stovetop.

Can an induction cooktop scratch easily?

The vitro ceramic glass is very durable and scratch-resistant, but it is not scratch-proof. To prevent scratching, always lift your cookware rather than dragging it, especially rough-bottomed pans like some cast iron. It’s also critical to clean up any sugar or salt spills immediately, as they can crystallize when heated and cause microscopic pitting on the surface.

What does the “Power Boost” function do?

Power Boost (or simply “Booster”) is a feature that temporarily diverts extra power to a single cooking zone for a short period, usually between 5 to 10 minutes. This provides a massive burst of intense heat that is ideal for bringing a large pot of water to a boil in record time or for achieving a very fast, hard sear on meat.

Is the “buzzing” noise normal for induction cooktops?

Yes, a slight buzzing or humming sound is completely normal, especially on high power settings or when using certain types of cookware. This sound is caused by the high-frequency vibrations of the magnetic field interacting with the layers of metal in your pot or pan. It’s usually faint and is not a sign of a defect.

My Final Verdict

While all five of these cooktops are excellent choices that will significantly upgrade your kitchen, the final decision comes down to balancing your budget against your desire for power, precision, and advanced features. After weeks of rigorous testing, my final recommendations are clear.

This cooktop is perfect for you if…
* You are a passionate home cook who values precise temperature control.
* You want the best all-around performance and don’t mind paying a premium for it.
* You appreciate intuitive, responsive controls that make cooking easier.
* You are interested in smart features like guided cooking to expand your skills.
* You frequently multitask in the kitchen and would benefit from features like multiple timers and a powerful 11-inch burner.

It’s not ideal for…
* Shoppers on a strict budget.
* Cooks who prefer simple, no-frills appliances without Wi-Fi or apps.

For the home cook who wants the absolute best combination of power, intuitive control, and genuinely useful smart features, the GE Profile PHP9036DTBB is the undisputed winner and a worthy investment.

However, if your main priority is raw speed and you want the fastest possible heat-up times for searing and boiling, the 10800W Induction Cooktop provides incredible, professional-grade power that competes with models costing twice as much. It’s my top alternative for the power user.

Ultimately, you can choose any option from this list with confidence, knowing it has been thoroughly vetted and will bring a new level of speed, safety, and precision to your kitchen for 2026 and beyond.

Last update on 2026-02-06 at 15:34 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API