3 Best Induction Ranges of 2024, Lab-Tested and Reviewed
CR tests induction ranges from more than half a dozen brands, including GE and LG. They heat fast and simmer capably—and prices have dropped.
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Induction ranges are finally having their moment. While induction technology has been around for decades, many people are just now giving it a serious look. That’s largely driven by a combination of falling prices, a proliferation of induction-compatible cookware, and reports on the potential dangers of cooking with gas.
Furthermore, induction ranges typically outperform other types of ranges we’ve tested. Pots and pans placed on these ranges boil rapidly and simmer steadily. You’ll find that you no longer need to constantly stir tomato sauce to avoid scorching or make constant adjustments to a burner.
“The high-power burners on induction ranges are faster to heat water than even the most powerful gas or radiant electric burners,” says Kenneth Sutton, CR’s engineer in charge of testing induction cooktops and ranges.
Nearly all the induction ranges currently in CR’s ratings earn top marks for our cooktop-high test, which reflects how quickly a burner heats water.
Best Induction Ranges
Although induction ranges tend to be more expensive than conventional electric ranges, prices have fallen in recent years. Here, we spotlight three top recommendations from our extensive tests, including ranges with prices comparable to those of electric and gas options.
How We Pick the Best Induction Ranges
At most large retailers you’ll find at least a dozen induction ranges to choose from, some with fancier features than others. But what’s most important is an induction range’s ability to perform some very basic tasks really, really well, day in and day out. That’s why we recommend induction ranges only if they meet the following criteria.
They heat water fast. The best induction ranges in our tests are quick to bring a large pot of water to a near-boil.
How CR Tests Ranges
We test induction ranges the same way we test all ranges, including gas, conventional electric, and pro-style varieties. Our experts use a combination of calibrated time and temperature measurements that size up how evenly an oven distributes heat and how quickly a cooktop warms water or maintains a steady simmer—crucial for tasks like melting chocolate or simmering delicate sauces.
We also cook a variety of baked goods to determine baking performance, totaling more than 2,400 cookies and 400 cakes each year.
To learn more about induction ranges, see our comprehensive range buying guide. CR members can also explore our full list of ratings for induction ranges, where you can filter for criteria based on your needs, such as range type, size, price, and more. If you’re unsure whether an induction range is right for you, check out our full guide to the pros and cons of induction ranges and cooktops.
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