New to Induction Cooking?
From switching to induction cooktops to choosing the best induction-ready cookware, we explain what to look for and review some of the most popular induction tools available!
Induction Basics
We answer the most common questions about induction cooking, explaining how induction cooking works, how to switch from your current stove to an induction cooktop, safety features you should know, and why induction is becoming a popular choice worldwide.
What is Induction Ready Cookware?
Not all cookware in induction compatible! With our easy-to-understand cookware guide, we explain how to tell if your current cookware is induction-ready, how to clean pots and pans to maintain the magnetic bottom, and why we wish we had started cooking on induction cooktops years ago!
Induction Cookware Reviews
From traditional cast iron pans to modern non stick induction cookware sets, we research and review kitchen pots, pans, and skillets (even induction crepe pans!) suitable for quick, efficient cooking--ranging from affordable cook-anywhere sets to serious investments for the home cook.
Our Mission: Help Other Americans Discover the Time + Energy Savings, Precision, & Safety of Induction Cooking
We do all the research, reviews and comparisons so you don't have to
Whether you’re considering your next stovetop in a new home, seeking a safer fuel option, or looking for a portable way to cook on the road, you’ll likely have a lot of questions about induction cooktops and cookware. That’s where Induction Experts can help: We offer easy-to-understand information from our kitchen experiences and ongoing research into the best cookware and tools for induction cooking for beginners. No matter your previous or current fuel source, we’ll help you find the right cooking tools and cookware for your ideal induction experience through our detailed buyer guides and reviews.
Our Favorite Induction Cookware by Category
4.8/5
With a proven track record, Le Creuset’s versatile 5.5-Quart Round Dutch Oven doesn’t disappoint when braising, boiling, deep frying, stovetop cooking, baking bread, and more!
4.4/5
Yosukata’s Black Carbon Steel Wok is a durable, pre-seasoned, heat-responsive pan that heats food quickly and evenly. With a large flat 6″ surface and tall walls, perfectly-cooked veggies, eggs, and fried rice can be yours at an affordable price.
4.9/5
This space-saving RV, camping, and vacation Airbnb kitchen essential 7-piece set from RockUrWok is one of the most affordable, versatile (it can go from stovetop to oven to fridge as a food-saver when you detach the handle and add the included cover after cooling), and FUN cookware sets we’ve tried. In fact, we love it so much, some of us now use this every day at home too!
5/5
This best-selling 9.5 and 11 inch nonstick crepe pan set with wood spreader is easy to use when you’re in the mood for crepes, tortillas, dosa, or even a quick grilled cheese. Testers found these two flat skillets from Eslite Life were best at making crepes with only a spritz of oil at most–the nonstick coating is as advertised. Best of all, if you end up with the rare defective pan, Eslite Life guarantees a full refund or a new replacement.
How We Compare & Choose Cookware
Expert knowledge to help you buy fast
Looking for the best induction cookware? We’ve got you covered. Along with our home cook experts who’ve tested the best and worst cookware, our team analyzes thousands of product reviews from the most trusted websites. Then, we create detailed, easy-to-understand reviews. Our collective wealth of knowledge on everything from cookware materials to individual pot or pan performance on induction cooktops is here at your fingertips, so you can quickly decide on the perfect induction cookware for your kitchen. With our help, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and elevate your cooking game to the next level!
Our Buyer's Guide To Induction Cookware
Induction cookware is designed specifically for use with induction cooktops, which use an electromagnetic field to directly heat the cookware, keeping the rest of the cooktop cool to the touch. Compared with heating over traditional fuel stovetops, induction cookware is heated quickly and efficiently with less energy loss, allowing for faster cooking times and more precise temperature control. Induction cookware is available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, copper, and cast iron, and can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks, including searing, sautéing, simmering, and frying. With its energy efficiency, fast heating times, and precise temperature control, induction cookware is becoming increasingly popular among home cooks and professional chefs alike.
What to Consider in Your Induction Cookware Search
Are you ready to take the plunge into the world of induction cooking? One of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best induction cookware for you is the material it’s made from. Since induction cooktops require a pot or skillet made of magnetic material, cookware is available in magnetic stainless steel, cast iron, and carbon steel. But what about copper induction pans? While a great conductor of heat, copper is not magnetic. Luckily, some cookware manufacturers add a magnetic layer to the base of otherwise non-magnetic materials, giving induction nerds like us more stylish choices in ceramic, copper, and glass to add to our induction cookware collections. But that’s just the beginning!
The 6 Best Questions to Ask When Choosing Cookware for Induction:
Our Cookware Categories
Induction Cookware For Beginners (Affordable Induction Pots and Pans)
When shopping for your first induction cookware, consider your budget and needs to decide whether a few basic pots and pans will suffice for now, or if an induction cookware set is right for you. We review cookware at a range of prices on our site but mostly stick to affordable models in Induction Cookware for Beginners.
Non Stick Induction Cookware
Non stick induction cookware is designed to work with induction cooktops, which use magnetic fields to heat up the cookware directly, resulting in faster and more efficient cooking. The non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning up a breeze, but it’s important to look for high-quality materials and coatings that are safe, durable, and non-toxic. Keep in mind that many, if not most, non stick surfaces will degrade with high temperatures. Look for cookware with a thick, heavy base for even heating, and check the compatibility of the cookware with your specific induction cooktop. With the right non-stick induction cookware, you can enjoy healthy, delicious meals with less time and effort spent on cleanup.
Carbon Steel Cookware for Induction Cooktop
Carbon steel cookware is a versatile and durable option for induction cooktops. Its unique properties allow for quick and even heating, making it ideal for searing and stir-frying. When choosing carbon steel cookware for your induction cooktop, consider factors such as size and weight, handle comfort, and durability. A seasoned carbon steel pan will develop a natural non-stick coating over time, making it a healthy alternative to traditional non-stick cookware. With proper care, carbon steel cookware can last a lifetime and be a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Stainless Steel Cookware for Induction Cooktop
Stainless steel cookware is a popular choice for induction cooking due to its durability and versatility. It can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for searing, frying, and sautéing. When looking for the best stainless steel cookware for your induction cooktop, consider factors such as the thickness of the material, the quality of the construction, and the type of handle. Look for pots and pans that have a heavy bottom for even heat distribution, a stainless steel or silicone handle that stays cool to the touch, and a design that complements your cooking style. With the right stainless steel cookware, you can enjoy the benefits of induction cooking for years to come.
Copper Cookware for Induction Cooktop
While copper is a great heat conductor and a popular material for cookware, not all copper pots can be used on induction cooktops. Induction cooking requires cookware that is made with magnetic materials (heat is generated by an electromagnetic field). Copper is not magnetic, therefore many copper pots cannot be used on induction cooktops. However, some manufacturers have started to adding magnetic layers to beautiful copper pots, making them compatible with induction cooktops. So, if you’re a fan of copper cookware and want to use it on your induction cooktop, look for pots and pans that specifically state they are induction compatible or have a magnetic layer added.
Induction Crepe Pans
Induction crepe pans are specially designed for making delicate, thin crepes with ease on an induction cooktop. These pans are typically made with materials that conduct heat evenly and quickly, such as aluminum or copper, and feature a non-stick coating for easy flipping and removal of the crepes. When choosing an induction crepe pan, consider the size, shape, and weight of the pan to ensure it’s suitable for your needs. It’s also important to look for a pan that is compatible with your induction cooktop and has a flat bottom to ensure even heat distribution. With the right induction crepe pan, you can enjoy perfectly thin, delicious crepes at home.
Induction Dutch Ovens
When it comes to cooking hearty stews, soups, and casseroles, an induction dutch oven is a versatile kitchen essential. Unlike traditional dutch ovens, induction-compatible ones are made with magnetic materials, making them suitable for use on induction cooktops. Stainless steel and cast iron are popular materials for induction dutch ovens, with each offering unique benefits. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, while cast iron provides excellent heat retention and distribution. When choosing an induction dutch oven, factors to consider include size, weight, lid design, and whether it is oven safe. With the right induction dutch oven, you can create delicious meals that will satisfy the whole family.
Induction Sauce Pans
Induction sauce pans are an essential piece of cookware for any kitchen. Their size and shape make them perfect for heating and cooking sauces, gravies, and other liquids quickly and evenly on an induction cooktop. When shopping for induction sauce pans, there are several factors to consider, such as the size and material of the pan, its handle and lid, and its overall durability and performance. With the right induction sauce pan, you can make delicious and perfectly cooked sauces every time, all while taking advantage of the efficiency and convenience of induction cooking.
Induction Skillets
Induction skillets are a must-have for any home cook looking to take their cooking to the next level. They are specifically designed to work with induction cooktops, which means they are made of materials that can be magnetized, like stainless steel, cast iron, or some types of nonstick coatings. Induction skillets come in a variety of sizes, from small pans for single servings to larger pans for family meals. When shopping for induction skillets, there are a few key factors to consider, including the material, size, shape, and handle design. By taking these factors into account, you can find the perfect induction skillet to suit your needs and cooking style.
Induction Wok Pans
When it comes to induction wok pans, there are a few key things to consider. First, look for a pan that is specifically labeled as induction compatible. Wok pans made from materials like carbon steel or stainless steel are ideal for induction cooking. A flat bottomed wok pan is also necessary for proper contact with the induction cooktop. Additionally, look for a wok pan with a sturdy handle for easy maneuvering and a non-stick coating for easy cleaning. Finally, consider the size of the wok pan, with larger pans being better for cooking meals for larger groups, while smaller pans may be more appropriate for single servings.
Griddles for Induction Cooktop
Griddles are a popular type of cookware for cooking breakfast foods like pancakes, bacon, and eggs. When choosing a griddle for induction cooktops, there are a few things to consider. Look for a griddle that has a flat, even cooking surface to ensure even heat distribution. Non-stick coatings can be helpful for easy cleanup, but make sure the coating is safe for use with induction cooktops. Size is also important – consider the size of your cooktop and the number of people you will be cooking for. Finally, check the weight of the griddle – heavier griddles tend to hold heat better and provide more even cooking. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best griddle for your induction cooktop and enjoy delicious breakfasts at home.
Stock Pots for Induction Cooktop
Induction stock pots are a versatile addition to any kitchen, especially for those who enjoy cooking large quantities of soups, stews, and broths. When looking for the best stock pot for your induction cooktop, consider the size, shape, and material. Stainless steel and copper are popular choices, as they are durable and conduct heat evenly. Look for a stock pot with a thick bottom to prevent burning and ensure even heating. Handles and lids should also be considered for ease of use and convenience. With the right induction stock pot, you can enjoy delicious homemade soups and stews with ease.
How We Review the Best Induction Cookware
When rating induction cookware, we look at:
- Material:
- Durability (material quality before and after repeated use)
- Compatibility with cooktop (must be magnetic material)
- Consistent heat distribution (necessary for even cooking, thick heavy base >> thin, lightweight base)
- Appearance (fits personal preferences or style)
- Ease of use, easy cleaning, and what care is required
- Price
How Induction Cooking Works
Induction cookware is made from materials that are magnetic, such as iron or steel. When you place an induction-compatible pot or pan on the cooktop and turn it on, an alternating electrical current passes through a coil of wire located beneath the cooktop surface. The current generates a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic material in the cookware, causing an electrical current to flow within the pot or pan itself.
This flow of electrical current generates heat within the cookware, which is then transferred directly to the food. Unlike traditional gas or electric stovetops, induction cooktops heat up the cookware directly, rather than the cooktop surface. This makes induction cooking much more energy efficient and faster than other methods.
Electrical current passes through wire coil of induction cooktop when cookware is in contact
Current creates a magnetic field that induces an electromagnetic current within the cookware
Increase in energy heats molecules of cookware
