Is your commercial kitchen still using a gas stove or any other traditional appliance? Well, you’ll be glad to go through this article.
Every chef should consider migrating to induction cooking because induction appliances have optimum energy efficiency. According to the Department of Energy, induction cookers are approximately 10% more efficient than traditional electric ranges and up to 3x more efficient than gas cooking appliances. Are you convinced now? Good.
Some induction hobs are solely designed for domestic use, which are less demanding. As a chef running a commercial kitchen, you want an outstanding commercial-grade induction cooktop.
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Product Name |
Price |
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1. |
Duxtop Commercial Range Countertop Burner |
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2. |
Nuwave Pro Chef Induction Cooktop |
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3.  |
Breville Induction Cooking System |
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4. |
ChangBERT Induction Cooktop |
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5.  |
VONCI Large Commercial Induction Cooktop |
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6. |
Anhane Commercial Induction Cooktop |
How We Tested
The demands of busy restaurant kitchens showed significant durability differences, setting commercial-grade induction apart. The cooktops have to withstand heavy usage and rapid maintenance to survive, not to mention deliver the rapid precision temperature control that chefs require.
- We intentionally overloaded zones to confirm the claimed wattage
- Professional chefs attempted different cooking techniques, rating responsiveness
- We deep-cleaned units using commercial degreasers, checking durability
What are the Top Commercial Induction Stoves for Chefs in 2023?
The best induction cooktops for dedicated chefs include:
1. Duxtop Commercial Range Countertop Burner
The Duxtop Commercial Range Cooktop kicks off our list. This portable appliance is ideal for different entities, from personal chefs who get paid to prepare meals for multiple families to food truck owners who move around with their mobile restaurants. The cooktop’s compact design makes it easier to fit in a tightly-spaced automobile and haul from place to place.
Duxtop’s portable commercial stove has a burner that requires a 120V 15-amp electrical outlet. Such outlets are common in most households, so personal chefs don’t have to worry about outlet issues. It’s also exquisitely designed with a durable stainless steel outer body and an LCD screen.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop |
| Wattage | 1800W |
| Voltage/Amps/Hertz | 120V/15A/60Hz |
| Power Levels | 10 |
| Temperature Range (F) | 140-460F |
| Display/Controls | LED display, touch controls |
| Timer | Up to 170 minutes |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 11.4 x 15.35 x 2.76 in |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs |
| Burner Size | 8.5 in diameter |
| Pan Size | 4.5-10 inches diameter |
Pros – What We Like
- The cooktop is made of stainless steel, a durable and reliable material. The material has high thermal qualities, meaning it can withstand extreme temperatures. That is incredibly useful since chefs often use high temperatures for cooking processes like sautéing, which calls for up to 350°F.
- Its control panel is a touch-sensitive display screen that’s extremely easy to operate. The large and bright screen is easy to read even from a distance.
- This appliance is highly efficient. It has 20 preset temperature level settings ranging from 100°F to 460°F. So, a chef can pick the right temperature for preparing a delicious meal. Additionally, the cooktop has 20 present power levels, from 100W to 1800W.
- The cooktop can dissipate heat rapidly. That is made possible by its back tuyere and 7-blade fan. Therefore, any chef using heat can rest assured it won’t overheat, even after hours of use.
Cons – What We Don’t Like
- If you like preparing multiple dishes simultaneously, this cooktop isn’t for you. Why? It has one burner. That means you are limited to using one cooking zone.
- Some users have reported the appliance’s inability to distribute heat evenly.
2. Nuwave Pro Chef Induction Cooktop
Another tremendous portable stove for savvy chefs is the Nuwave Pro Chef Induction Cooktop. This sleek appliance is made of tough, commercial-grade, which lends it extra strength and durability. You can haul it in your passenger car or an RV without worrying about the glass shattering. And that’s not hearsay. The appliance has been tested for durability and shown an astounding 1.5 ft-lbs drop test impact.
This cooktop’s cooking surface is also resilient ceramic glass. This heavy-duty, shatter-proof material can withstand intense heat without cracking, breaking, or shattering. You can use the appliance to prepare anything, from sauteed veggies and browned meat to stir-fried chicken and pan-fried fish, without damaging the cooktop.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Nuwave Pro Chef Induction Cooktop |
| Wattage | 1800W |
| Voltage/Amps/Hertz | 120V/15A/60Hz |
| Power Levels | 100 preprogrammed temperature settings |
| Temperature Range (F) | 100°F – 575°F |
| Display/Controls | LED display, touch controls |
| Timer | Up to 99 hours 59 minutes |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 13 x 16.5 x 4.5 in |
| Weight | 10 lbs |
| Burner Size | 8 in diameter |
| Pan Size | 6-10 inches diameter |
Pros – What We Like
- This commercial induction stove is compact and lightweight. These qualities make it ideal for chefs who move around with their tools of trade and those who cook in kitchens with limited space.
- It allows users to make temperature adjustments on the fly. While preparing a dish, you can either increase or decrease the temperature without turning off the appliance and starting from scratch.
- The cooktop has 94 precise temperature settings. With it, you can set and maintain the exact temperature for preparing a perfect dish. The temperature range is from 100°F, which you need to keep sauces from going cold, to 575°F, ideal for grilling a juicy T-bone steak with a perfect sear.
- This appliance uses patented insulation technology and a slimmer design to keep cookware close to the heating coils. As a result, it can cook food faster than other appliances and is better at facilitating even heat distribution.
Cons – What We Don’t Like
- The cooktop has one cooking zone. While using it, you have to prepare one meal at a time, which can be a problem if you are a busy chef.
- It’s pricier than many other portable commercial induction cooktops.
- Some users have reported inaccurate cooking temperatures and uneven heating.
3. Breville|PolyScience Commercial Induction Cooking System
Every seasoned chef knows keeping a close eye on ingredient temperature is the key to preparing flawless, finger-licking dishes. Breville PolyScience is no stranger to the indispensable nature of ingredient temperature. That is why the company has designed the Breville|PolyScience Commercial Induction Cooking System, an appliance that can sense and hold stable ingredient temperatures to within 1.8 degrees.
The Breville|PolyScience cooktop is conveniently sized and designed with portability in mind. It doesn’t eat up much space, making it ideal for commercial kitchens with limited space. Additionally, it comes with a stainless-steel housing, which lends it optimum durability and longevity.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 1,800W maximum/100W minimum |
| Voltage/Amps/Hertz | 120/15/60; dedicated 15amp circuit |
| Power Levels | 397 |
| Temperature Range (F) | 86 – 482F, adjustable in 1F increments |
| Display/Controls | Color LED display/pushbutton mode and setting selection/temperature probe for liquid applications |
| Timer | 72 hr with Repeat, Continue, Keep Warm and Stop |
| Dimensions in inches (W x D x H) | 13.4 x 18.5 x 4.3 |
| Weight (lbs) | 24.7 |
| Burner Size (in.) | App 6 inches |
| Pan Size | Recommended pan size 4.5 – 10.5 inches bottom diameter |
Pros – What We Like
- The appliance is durable. Besides the stainless-steel housing, its cooking surface is made from ceramic glass. Therefore, it can withstand extreme heat and is highly resistant to cracking.
- Unlike other appliances, the Breville|PolyScience cooktop comes with a through-the-glass sensor. This outstanding feat of technology enables the appliance’s thermostat to touch cookware and accurately determine cooking temperature.
- This commercial cooktop can cook for long hours, even at searing temperatures. The appliance has a twin-fan cooling system conveniently designed to take rapid cooling to the next level.
- This cooktop can hold temperatures ranging from 86°F to 482°F for as long as necessary. So you no longer have to worry about fluctuating temperatures preventing you from preparing quality dishes.
Cons – What We Don’t Like
- Breville|PolyScience Commercial Induction Cooking System has one cooking zone. If you like cooking faster by preparing multiple dishes simultaneously, this appliance isn’t for you.
- It comes with a considerably high price tag.
4. ChangBERT Induction Cooktop
If you are searching for a durable cooktop that can serve your commercial kitchen for years, the ChangBERT induction cooker is worth checking out. The appliance’s durability comes from its stainless-steel construction, which allows it to withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion pretty well.
Like other top-shelf appliances, the ChangBERT cooktop’s durability is tested and proven. NSF International has certified that the cooker meets industry standards and has a drop-test impact of approximately 1.5 ft lbs.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | ChangBERT 1800W Induction Cooktop |
| Wattage | 1800W |
| Voltage/Amps/Hertz | 120V/15A/60Hz |
| Power Levels | 10 power levels |
| Temperature Range (F) | 140-460°F |
| Display/Controls | LED display, touch controls |
| Timer | Up to 10 hours |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 16 x 19.5 x 4 in |
| Weight | 14.5 lbs |
| Burner Size | 8 in diameter |
| Pan Size | 6-10 inches diameter |
Pros – What We Like
- This cooktop is made from a durable material. Moreover, it has a German Schott glass cooking surface. German Schott glass is a highly resistant tempered material designed to endure years of constant, demanding use. Its thermal resistance is a whopping 1,742°F, higher than ceramic glass’s.
- It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. The appliance’s size and design make it ideal for unique situations like backyard cooking or preparing meals in RVs, boats, and smaller home kitchens.
- The appliance allows chefs to choose from 11 preset temperature settings and 16 preset power levels. The temperature and power level settings range from 120-460°F and 300-1800W, respectively.
- The product comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s limited warranty. That means the manufacturer offers to replace parts that develop significant issues within a year of buying the cooktop. Additionally, a lifetime of technical service support is included in the package.
Cons – What We Don’t Like
- The cooktop has one cooking element, meaning you can’t use it to cook more than one dish simultaneously.
- This cooktop has limited preset temperature and power level settings compared to other alternatives.
5. VONCI Large Commercial Induction Cooktop
VONCI, a reputable German brand, makes this commercial cooktop. It has a large cooking zone compatible with many of the larger cookware that chefs use, from frying pans to stock pots. Despite having a large cooking zone, the appliance only measures 14.49″D x 12.6″W x 4.17″H. Its compact size and light weight make it one of the most portable cooktops today.
And, to make life easier for chefs, VONCI has installed a long control panel with a big display screen on the appliance. That enables chefs to operate the cooktop easily, view cooking temperatures, and adjust settings quickly whenever necessary.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | VONCI 1800W Large Commercial Induction Cooktop |
| Wattage | 1800W |
| Voltage/Amps/Hertz | 120V/15A/60Hz |
| Power Levels | 10 power levels |
| Temperature Range (F) | 140-460°F |
| Display/Controls | LED display, touch controls |
| Timer | Up to 300 minutes |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 15.7 x 19.7 x 3.9 in |
| Weight | 11 lbs |
| Burner Size | 11 in diameter |
| Pan Size | 8-11 inches diameter |
Pros – What We Like
- The cooktop’s control panel optimizes visibility. While using this appliance, setting and monitoring cooking temperatures can be relatively easy, even in environments with poor lighting.
- A stainless-steel housing protects Vonci’s commercial induction stove. This feature enables it to last long, even in extreme conditions.
- Its cooking surface is made of a thick, sturdy glass plate that can hold items that weigh up to 66 pounds without cracking or shattering.
- The cooktop relies on high-speed fans capable of cooling down larger machines. It also comes with power exhaust and suction systems. So, overheating shouldn’t be a problem.
- The cooker has multiple security features, including an automatic shutdown system that can detect when no one has used the cooktop for 2 hours and turn it off. Others include overheating protection and intelligent pan detection.
Cons – What We Don’t Like
- The cooktop has a single cooking zone, which makes preparing multiple meals at once impossible.
- Some users say the appliance produces a high-pitched, irritating noise at high power levels.
6. Anhane Commercial Induction Cooktop
The last item on our list is the Anhane Commercial Induction Cooktop. Like the other products we’ve reviewed, this cooker is compact, with a single cooking zone. That makes it portable and easy to store. However, owing to having a single heating element, you can’t use the cooktop to do more than one thing at a time.
This appliance supports 9 power levels, ranging from 200-1800W, and 9 temperature levels, from 176-518 °F. Additionally, it lets you set a preferable cooking time, from 1 minute to 3 hours.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | ANHANE 1800W Commercial Induction Cooktop |
| Wattage | 1800W |
| Voltage/Amps/Hertz | 120V/15A/60Hz |
| Power Levels | 9 power levels |
| Temperature Range (F) | 140-460°F |
| Display/Controls | LED display, touch controls |
| Timer | Up to 3 hours |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 13.4 x 16.5 x 3.5 in |
| Weight | 7.7 lbs |
| Burner Size | 8 in diameter |
| Pan Size | 4.7-10 inches diameter |
Pros – What We Like
- The cooktop is pocket-friendly and significantly cheaper than most of its alternatives.
- It has a modern, stylish design.
- Its safety system can detect no cookware and shut down the appliance after 60 seconds.
- The product’s compact design makes it incredibly easy to store and handle.
Cons – What We Don’t Like
- Most users say the heating element is significantly smaller than what’s in the product details.
- It has one cooking zone, so you can only use it to cook one meal at a time.
Honorable Mentions – Other Top Commercial Induction Ranges
You love our picks, right? If you haven’t made a decision to pick one yet, consider the following too. They didn’t make it into our list but are great options for your restaurant of kitchen.
What to Look for in a Commercial Induction Burner – Buying Guide
So many commercial cooktops are available in the market. Some are lovely appliances, but others aren’t ideal for handling the day-to-day cooking requirements in commercial kitchens. To ensure you end up with an induction cooker that will meet your needs and preferences, factor in the following:
- Construction material: Standard cooktops are designed to last for approximately 10,000 operating cycles. But in a commercial kitchen, where heavy usage and extreme temperatures are the norm, the lifespan of a conventional cooktop can reduce dramatically. If you don’t want your cooktop to fail prematurely, ensure you pick a commercial product made of a durable material like stainless steel.
- Temperature control: Meal preparation is an art that calls for specific aspects, including the right ingredients and correct cooking temperatures. Without the latter, preparing delicate dishes through precise cooking will be impossible. So, pick a cooktop that allows users to control and set preferred temperatures.
- Number of cooking zones: Suppose you deal with many clients who order different delicacies. In that case, preparing each meal at a time can take hours, if not your entire day. To save time, you must cook multiple meals simultaneously. And that requires a cooktop with at least 2 cooking zones.
- Burner size: Most cooktops activate after detecting cookware. Now, buying an appliance with a large burner may become an unnecessary headache if you have smaller pots and pans. To avoid this problem, check the size of each burner and compare it to your cookware before purchasing an induction hob.
- Warranty: An induction cooker can develop diverse issues prematurely. These range from failing to heat up and displaying error codes non-stop to producing loud noises and overheating. But a good warranty can protect you from such complications and their aftermath: expensive repairs.
Longer Run Time
Now let’s talk about the running time of the stoves:
Tired of your induction cooktop shutting off just when you need it most? It’s a common headache with consumer-grade induction burners that have limited run times of 1-2 hours before forcibly powering down.
But when you make the leap to commercial-grade induction cooktops, say goodbye to restrictive, suffocating timeouts. Instead, embrace unlimited freedom with burners that run indefinitely to match a professional chef’s uninterrupted workflow.
The best commercial induction ranges ditch annoying built-in timers that wrest control from your hands. Their burners will keep going strong for as long as you need them, whether whipping up an endless banquet or experimenting all Sunday afternoon with grandma’s slow simmer recipe. No timers cutting your creativity short or shutting off mid-meal.
Of course, commercial induction units do allow you to set a timer that automatically turns the cooker off. But the key distinction is that the burners themselves have no predetermined stop time if you want to keep going. Just pure, unlimited induction power when you demand it.
When upgrading to pro-style induction cooking, be sure to check for open-ended run times. But nearly all high-end commercial models ditch limited timeouts and give you freedom to cook without compromise.
Wattage of Commercial Induction Stoves
When it comes to induction cooktops, you’ve probably seen units flaunting wattages like 1800W or 3500W and wondered – what’s the real difference? Beyond just bigger numbers, is that extra wattage actually necessary for home cooking? Or is it overkill meant for heavy-duty commercial use?
The truth is that 1800W on a standard 120V outlet is plenty powerful for most kitchen tasks. These induction burners heat up lightning-quick, letting you sear steaks, stir-fry veggies, and rolling boils in no time. You can cook delicious multi-course meals with responsive, consistent heat that rivals gas stovetops.
3500W induction cooktops promise even faster heating by unlocking more wattage. But we’re talking seconds faster, not minutes. And they require special 240V outlets that limit where you can use them. You can’t easily move a 3500W unit between your kitchen, garage, or backyard like a portable 1800W cooker.
That ultra-rapid heating becomes important for commercial-scale cooking. But for most home chef needs, 1800W induction gives you all the speed you need without overkill. And standard outlets let you use them anywhere in your home.
So don’t get sucked into thinking higher wattage equals higher performance. Unless you’re cooking massive volumes, 1800W induction burners have all the searing, simmering, and boiling power you’ll ever need!
Final Thoughts
Today’s best induction cooktops range from the Duxtop Commercial Range Countertop Burner to the Anhane Commercial Induction Cooktop. All the appliances we’ve reviewed here are top-quality cooktops that can help you take your chef business or career to the next level. They come with all the right features, from optimum portability to reliable heat distribution.
But no induction cooker is flawless. Each has its weaknesses. For instance, some have fewer temperature control settings, and others have no warranty. Do your homework before purchasing any of the mentioned appliances to avoid nasty surprises. While researching, look for all the right features and red flags. Then take your pick.
We wish you nothing but good luck in all your cooking endeavors.
Common Questions
How difficult is it to transition from gas to induction cooking?
For most chefs, induction cooking is very easy to learn. The basic techniques are the same as gas or electric. The main differences are the instant temperature response and lack of open flames. Working with induction just involves some adjustment to timing and heat levels. Start on lower power levels till you get familiar with the faster heating.
What are the benefits of a commercial induction cooktop for chefs?
Commercial induction cooktops offer several benefits for professional chefs:
- Very fast heating and cooking times – induction cooktops heat up and adjust temperatures instantly. This allows for faster cooking and less time waiting for pans to heat up.
- Excellent temperature control – induction provides precise temperature control for more consistent cooking. Many models have over 100 exact temperature settings.
- Energy efficient – induction cooktops use 90% less energy than gas or electric cooktops by directly heating the pan instead of indirectly heating the cooktop surface. This can lead to lower energy bills in a commercial kitchen.
- Cooler cooking surface – the cooktop surface doesn’t get as hot which reduces the risk of burns. Only the pan gets hot.
- Safer to use – no open flames like gas stoves. Reduced risk of fire and burns.
- Easy to clean – induction cooktop surfaces don’t get as dirty since spilled food doesn’t bake on the surface. Smooth glass tops make cleaning easier.
What size and power commercial induction cooktop is best?
For commercial kitchens, a powerful induction cooktop of at least 1800 watts is recommended. Large single burners of 11+ inches or multiple burners are best for handling large pots and pans. Having a minimum of 10 power levels allows fine-tuning of temperatures.
What types of pans work with induction cooktops?
Induction requires ferrous metal pans made of cast iron or stainless steel. For best results, choose commercial-grade cookware with a flat bottom and dimensions that match the induction burner size. Avoid aluminum, copper, glass, and ceramic pans as they don’t work on induction.
Should I get a portable induction cooktop or a built-in induction range?
For commercial kitchens, portable countertop induction cooktops offer more flexibility for the movement and configuration of workstations. Built-in induction ranges are better suited to residential kitchens. Portable units allow positioning the cooktop where needed and storing it safely out of the way when not in use.
