The Best Induction Cooktops for RV

If you’ve been traveling with an RV for a long time, you’ll realize how smart it is to get an induction cooktop. Such a cooking accessory allows you to cook faster and clean up quicker. Compared to gas and other electric cooktops, induction cooktops are more efficient.

But given the many induction cooktop brands available today, it would be hard to find the right one. There are certain features and specs that you need to consider.

Before we start, however, you may want to know some critical factors to keep in mind while browsing for induction cooktops for your RV. By learning these aspects, you’ll find it much easier to pinpoint what product would suit your needs and preferences most.

• Design: Most induction cooktops for RV are portable, lightweight, and budget-friendly. A freestanding induction cooktop, for example, solves the space problem in your kitchen as you can install it above ovens or use it outdoors for family meals. On the other hand, if you want something more permanent, a built-in induction unit might suffice in your kitchen.
• Size: You’ll want to know the size of the induction plate so you can be sure whether your existing pans and pots fit. Induction cooktops for RV may range from small, single-burner units to large double-burner models.
• Power Consumption: Most induction cooktops in this list offer 1, 800 watts of power. This figure is quite stable for a cooking appliance. You may choose a low wattage model. However, note that it might make the cooking speed slower.
• Extra Features: Safety is important in operating this cooking appliance, so consider features like auto-shutoff and child-lock. For versatile cooking, look for a wide range of temperature levels. Legible LCD display and control buttons also make operation easy.

In this article, I’ll do all the legwork to help you find the best induction cooktop for RV. I’ll review the top-tier induction cooktops out there and provide a guide in case you want to shop on your own. Keep scrolling to get started.

Top-Quality Induction Cooktop for RV Reviews

1. Duxtop 8100MC/BT-180G3 Induction Cooktop

The Duxtop 8100MC is a compact, single-burner 12 volt induction cooktop that offers ten temperature levels ranging from 170-460 F. The premium glass surface is easy to wipe with a damp cloth. With this model, you can use a lot of cookware, including steel and iron.

I love that Duxtop automatically shuts off when it fails to detect any cookware for a minute. This unit also shuts off when the timer is up, which is convenient for forgetful people like me. When you’re slow cooking for many hours, make sure to restart the unit every two hours or else it’ll automatically turn off.

The fan on this 12v induction cooktop is relatively quiet. There’s no need to increase your TV volume or shout to each other when using this cooktop. Remember that you the unit boils fast, so turn the heat down to medium to prevent your food from burning.

You might notice that this Duxtop model will run hot. When this happens, lower the temperature settings. Best of all, the construction of this unit is quite heavy-duty, so expect this to last for many years.

2. NutriChef PKSTIND48 Double Induction Cooktop

If you want a stylish induction cooktop that’s easy to use and clean, I recommend the NutriChef PKSTIND48. This double induction cooktop has a beautiful finish that’s easy to maintain and looks very sleek in your RV. The tempered ceramic glass feels durable and easy to wipe clean.

The PKSTIND48 cooks fast because it only took me a couple of minutes to make soft-boiled eggs, which was the quickest I have ever made. I like this induction cooktop because it offers perfect temperature control with the right pans. You can virtually use any cookware, including cast iron, stainless steel, and enameled iron.

I find the LCD display very helpful because it tells you when the power is on and the remaining cooking time. With this NutriChef model, you’ll get two burners for more cooking options. You can cook burgers with one burner and keep the soup warm on the other.

This RV induction cooktop is safe for kids as it locks all control buttons when unused. Besides, the touch panel is very responsive, and the pan heats up fast. Thankfully, NutriChef is lightweight, so moving and storing in the cabinet is a breeze.

3. Cuisinart ICT-60 Double Induction Cooktop

The Cuisinart ICT-60 is another nice RV electric cooktop that emanates class and sophistication with a contemporary aesthetic. This induction cooktop is easy to use with its simple control panel. Also, you’ll get two burners with a total wattage of 1800 watts.

Every burner has its 150-minute timer and power switch. Hence, you’ll know that the cooking time is up when you hear four beeping sounds. When your cooking reaches 180 minutes, the unit shuts off automatically for safety purposes.

I like that this Cuisinart model casts off less heat because it keeps your RV cool. Furthermore, it’s easy to clean, and it doesn’t take a genius to use it. Make sure to use flat-bottomed and magnetic pots and pans to avoid any problems.

The unit automatically turns off when it identifies incompatible cookware. For this unit, aluminum and glass won’t work. I think that this cooktop makes excellent fries without the oil.

4. Duxtop BT-200DZ Portable Induction Cooktop

Built with a sensor touch control panel and a digital timer, the Duxtop BT-200DZ is another promising induction cooktop that you should consider.

I love the LCD screen because it shows the timer, temperature, and power very clearly, even from a distance. When you want a quick boil, all you need to do is push the Boil button.

It’s great that you can cook with this unit with less supervision. Simply set the timer up to 10 hours, and the unit will directly shut off when the time is up. Fortunately, there are no loud beeps to scare you.

With how volatile it is to make the frosting, you can easily do it with this induction cooktop. Duxtop allows you to control the temperature and instantly shift to boil, then simmer for that perfect frosting. Also, you can set the temperature as low as 150 F to make the perfect fondue cheese.

This Duxtop model is safe around children and the aged with the installed safety lock function. Besides, it seems to have a solid construction to last for many uses. When it comes to maintaining the unit, you can simply clean the surface with a damp towel.

5. Empava Electric Stove Induction Cooktop

If you can’t fit a horizontal induction cooktop in your RV’s counter space, then the Empava vertical electric stove might be suitable for you. The black ceramic glass surface looks very elegant and modern. From steaming to slow cooking, you can do all cooking types with its nine heating level settings.

You don’t have to closely watch the food while it cooks because Empava automatically shuts off when cooking time is over. If you have kids around, activate the child lock feature to prevent them from manipulating the unit while you’re busy. Hence, the unit is safe to use, even with children and the elderly.

Empava is perfect for installing above any single wall oven with the same brand. It’s a good built-in induction cooktop for an RV because it’s easy to use and maintain. After finishing cooking, I use a regular cleaner to wipe the surface, and it still looks new after a long while.

Like all other induction cooktops, Empava is selective on the cookware types it uses. Some of the cookware types that suit well with this induction cooktop are cast iron and carbon steel. Glass and aluminum won’t work well with this model.

6. True Induction S2F2 Cooktop

Boil water within two minutes with True Induction S2F2. This double burner True Induction RV cooktop comes with a touch control panel and an attractive, black color. The S2F2 is solid yet surprisingly lightweight making it easy to move around, considering its wide dimensions.

Both cooking surfaces measure about 10 inches in diameter. Although the manufacturer specifies optimum 10-diameter cookware, you can use a 12-inch one as it distributes equal heat. I like the fact that the two burners partake in 1800 watts of power, so each burner uses 900 watts when you use them simultaneously.

The temperature controls are fairly precise on this one. I love that you don’t need the unit to warm up because it’s ready to cook when you hit the pan on the surface. As a safety feature, the unit automatically shuts off when it doesn’t detect any cookware or the surface gets too hot.

Since the entire surface is one sheet of glass, cleaning is very easy. I’m pleased that the unit is very thin because it’s easy to install and store away when traveling. Regarding its high price, I think it’s worth the investment considering all the benefits it can offer.

7. Duxtop 9100MC/BT-M20B Portable Induction Cooktop

Another portable induction cooktop that fits in your budget is the Duxtop 9100MC/BT-M20B. This single burner cooktop is super lightweight so you can bring this outside and sear burgers. Since the heat control is perfect, you can cook vegetables and even brew your favorite tea.

It’s nice that the cord is long because you don’t need to purchase an extension for outdoor cooking. The unit heats up so fast that it can turn your cold pan 350 degrees Fahrenheit (F) hot in less than a minute. Furthermore, it shows the time and the heat level on the LCD display, so you can monitor your food more closely.

Truthfully, I’m happy with the performance of this Duxtop model. I find the power level options and temperature setting very helpful and accurate. I love the almost immediate temperature change when changing the settings.

Another thing that delights me is the angled control panel. Due to this feature, there’s a low probability that hot cookware can damage the panel while on the surface. I also trust that the control buttons can last longer than touch sensor controls.

Plus, the use of this product ensures hassle-free cleaning, making it ideal for a busy lifestyle.

What to Know Before Buying RV Induction Cooktop

An induction cooktop is surely a great addition to your RV kitchen. Before you make that final purchase decision, here are some important things to know about RV induction cooktops.

The Different Types Of Induction Cooktops

Induction cooktops work the same, but they come in different forms. Here are three common types of induction cooktops that you should consider for your RV.

• Portable Induction Stoves

These portable, standalone units are versatile and convenient for your RV life. They’re lightweight and slim, so they’re easy to bring outside or virtually anywhere. Also, these units are mainly available in black and white to bring elegance to your mobile kitchen.

This type of induction cooktop is often available in single or double elements. A single burner induction cooktop only provides one cooking zone and usually delivers 1800 watts of power. As expected, these units are relatively more affordable and portable than multiple element induction stoves.

If you have a large household or simply enjoy cooking multiple dishes, a double burner induction cooktop may suit you. This induction cooktop version uses a higher power up to 3600 watts and operates at 220 volts. Compared to a single element unit, a double element induction is more pricey and less portable as it needs more installation space.

• Built-In Induction Units

If you like to make a permanent kitchen in your RV, a built-in unit might be perfect. These units come in various sizes and different heating elements. Generally, they’re customized to fit the size of your countertop.

The top-rated thing about built-in induction cooktops is that they look beautiful to the eyes because they’re perfectly installed to fuse with your current countertop. When choosing this option, you need to consider high installation costs.

• Freestanding Induction Cooktops

Freestanding induction units usually sit above ovens or set in between countertops. They’re quite versatile as you can also use them outdoors. Surprisingly, you can install them without making any large changes to your kitchen setup.

These freestanding units are ideal for anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking or living away from home. When choosing this option, look for the attached oven’s features, like a variable broil component and a warming drawer.

Benefits And Drawbacks Of Induction Cooktops

Nowadays, induction cooking is the rave, and it’s well deserved given the many benefits it offers. These benefits are your payout when you switch to induction cooktops.

• Fast cooking: The electromagnetic cycle responds quickly that you can cut off 50% of your average cooking time. Boiling water even takes less than two minutes.
• Energy-efficient: The RV induction cooktop power consumption is lower than most cooktops. It cooks faster, so it uses less energy and converts into a great saving to your energy bills.
• Safe and cool: Using an induction is safe. Most models have a child-lock feature to keep your kids from playing the burners. Since it uses electromagnetic reaction, no radiant heat is generated that will keep your RV hot. Furthermore, the cookware and the burner also cool down easily after turning the unit off, so there’s less chance of burns.
• Easy to clean: The glass top surface is easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. Since this type of cooktop comes in a single piece of glass, there are no crooks to clean over. Food also doesn’t seem to stick to the cooking surface because the burner remains relatively cool all through the cooking process.
• Elegant-looking: Induction cooktops may come in a single piece of black glass, but they look stunning. They look neat when you install or put them on your RV countertop.

While induction cooktops promise great convenience, there are some downsides that you should prepare yourself. For one, induction cooktops are high-priced, but they’re worth the price with the many benefits that you can enjoy. You should also need to use a certain type of cookware, or the induction process won’t function properly.

Induction cooktops may also produce a humming sound when you use a lighter type of stainless steel cookware. The fan can also make a slight noise, which isn’t that annoying to me.

Compatible Cookware

Induction cooktops can’t accept all types of cookware, which is quite a bummer. Since this type of cooktop uses magnetic power, it fits on any magnetic cookware with a flat bottom. The cookware types that are certain to be compatible with induction cooktops are:

• Cast iron: This type of cookware is a slow heat conductor that offers great heat retention for even cooking. All cast iron pots and pans are acceptable, except for those with a rough surface because they can scratch your induction surface.
• Porcelain Enamel: All porcelain enamel cookware can work with an induction cooktop as long as they have a magnetic metal base. To be certain, conduct the magnet test.
• Stainless steel: Stainless steel cookware is an excellent option for induction cooktops; however, they may cause a hissing sound when they’re lighter. Not all stainless steel pans are acceptable, so you’ll want to conduct the magnet test to be certain.

For all you know, your cookware is already compatible with the induction unit. To know, perform the magnet test. Simply hold a magnet near the bottom of a pot/pan, and if it sticks, your cookware is compatible.

When buying a new set of induction cookware, look for a wide flat bottom to distribute heat more evenly. Choose heavier, stronger lids for a quieter cooking process. Vibrations may also be due to loose handles, so make sure to pick cookware with a durable handle.

Size And Number Of Cooking Elements

An induction cooktop sets a limit to what pan size it can accommodate. If you go beyond the pan size limit, then your cooktop won’t detect the cookware. Ideally, your cookware should match the diameter of your cooktop heating element.

The number of elements depends on the number of people you’re planning to feed and your workload capacity. For 1-2 people, a single element cooker is enough. If you’re planning to feed a big family and used to multi-tasking, consider getting at least two heating elements.

Induction cooktops may offer a maximum capacity of five pans. But if you’re planning to use it in your RV, a 1-2 heating element cooker is sufficient for portability.

Wattages And Temperature Settings

Induction cooktops often come with a wide range of watts, from 100 to 3,300. A higher wattage usually means more cooking options, faster cooking, and lower electricity consumption. Most RV induction cooktops offer a maximum wattage of 1,800.

Some portable induction models provide a maximum power of 2,100 watts. However, they seem to produce almost a similar temperature output of a regular 1,500-17000 watt powered cooktop. Due to high power, some models feature a power sharing technology to divide power between two burners.

Ideally, temperature settings with fewer intervals are great for doing almost any cooking style you like. You want the right cooking temperature to get the best results. The best induction cooktop for RV offer a wide temperature range from 140 to 430 degrees F.

All good induction cookers have LED displays to show you the power levels it provides. Cooking can get as good as this!

Touch Sensors Vs Mechanical Controls

The control panel, where you see all setting options, can either be designed with touch sensor or press button controls. Touch sensor control panels usually cost higher than press buttons. They become a more popular option for interface design because they’re more flexible than mechanical controlled panels.

Touch controls are nice if you like to merge your cooktop seamlessly into the kitchen countertop. They’re easy to clean, but high sensitivity might let you activate the buttons accidentally. Nonetheless, you can find more attractive shapes and control wheel designs from touch control panels.

Unlike touch controls, press buttons seem to be more responsive to gloved hands. Many fabrics insulate your fingers and keep the touch controls from sensing them. Best of all, you get the “feel” that you don’t get with touchpads.

Buying Tip: Since the heating element can get too hot, make sure that the controls are angled far away.

Special Features

If you like to buy a portable RV induction cooktop, here are some features that you may consider:

• Auto-pan detection: The most trusted induction models have this feature to tell you that you’re using unsuitable cookware. The unit won’t turn the heating zone on when it detects no pan.
• Child-lock: If you have kids, look for this feature to ensure that they won’t accidentally touch the heating element or change the settings.
• Built-in timer: If you’re busy, a timer is much appreciated, so you can leave the kitchen while cooking. Most RV induction cooktops allow you to set the cooking up to 160 minutes or more.
• Auto shut-off: This feature is common to many induction cooktops for safety. It turns the unit off when it doesn’t detect any cookware or when the cooking time is up.
• Digital LED display: This feature is important if you want to know the current temperature readings. If you have poor eyesight, look for a large LED display.
• “Hot” warning sign: Since the flame is nonexistent on an induction cooktop, make sure that the unit will show a “Hot” warning display to prevent burns.
• Booster: The top-tier models offer a power booster to speed up the cooking process. This feature seems to be helpful if you’re in a rush to make breakfast or dinner for you and your family.

Installation Safety Tips

To lessen the chances of fire or personal injuries, avoid placing the induction cooktop just below a cabinet storage space. If you must install a cabinet storage right above the cooktop, install a range hood at the cabinets’ bottom. Avoid utilizing an extension cord because it may lead to electrical shock or fire.

Before you install the cooktop on the RV countertop, ensure that all screws are tight. Set it straight into the countertop cutout. Never remove the spring spacers on the edges because they help center the appliance to prevent excess heat accumulation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do RV induction cooktop work?

An RV induction cooktop uses electromagnetism, rather than flame, to cook your food. The burner and the cookware create a magnetic field to do induction cooking. When there’s no pot or pan on the heating element, the burner won’t produce any heat.

The key to making an RV induction cooktop work is to use the right cookware. The compatible cookware types are the ones with a magnetic base, like cast iron or stainless steel. The heat comes from the pan itself, making this cooking process more efficient.

Who makes the most trusted RV induction cooktop?

NutriChef creates top-rated induction cooktops for RVs because they offer a lot of cooking modes at a reasonable price. The brand features a child safety lock and a countdown timer for convenient cooking. I love the tempered ceramic glass construction because it’s durable and easy to clean.

How many amps does an RV induction cooktop need?

Generally, a single burner induction uses 15 amps to fuel 1200-1800 watts of power. The larger the cooktop, the higher the required amps. An induction cooker with 4-5 burners needs about 40-50 amps.

How do you use your RV induction cooktop?

You can use the induction cooktop outside or inside the RV. If used outdoors, put the induction cooktop on a picnic table or under a canopy. You can put the induction cooker on the countertop or the table when cooking indoors.

Of course, you need to use the right type of cookware. Now, turn on the unit by pushing a button or revolving a knob. Set the timer properly because induction cooktops tend to cook faster than regular cookers.

Since the cooking time will be faster, prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Take note that boiling a large spaghetti pot only takes five minutes, so don’t walk away while boiling things. When it’s your first time cooking with an induction cooker, start on Medium to get used to the speed.

How do you clean and care for an RV induction cooktop?

One thing that I love about induction cooktops is that they’re easy to clean. As soon as the unit cools down, wipe the surface for any spills with a damp cloth or sponge. Use a mixture of detergent soap, water, elbow grease, and water.

When you’re done, rinse off any residue with a damp cloth. Doing so will prevent the surface from becoming permanently stained. Finally, dry the surface completely.

For more convenience, use a commercial ceramic cooktop cleaner to clean larger spills or messes. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or cloths because they easily scratch the cooktop’s surface. Rather than sliding the pot across the surface, pick it up and move it to a different area.

Is an induction burner good for camping?

Yes, an induction burner is a good electric range for RV and camping because it’s efficient and energy-saving. Most especially, the mini induction cooktop models have a lightweight construction to carry almost anywhere. For outdoor use, plug the appliance into the nearest power source in the camper van with an extension cord.

Compared to propane, induction reduces the risk of any leaks or fires. In addition, its smooth and flat surface makes cleaning a breeze. The only drawback is that this type of burner only heats up materials with a magnetic bottom.

What is the life span of an induction cooktop?

A typical induction cooktop can work up to 2,500 hours. This is similar to seven hours every day in a year. The highest rated induction cooktops can even last more than 2,500 hours.

The most suitable way to find out is to determine the warranty of the induction model. A longer warranty means a longer lifespan. Of course, the performance might change over time, so ensure to do regular cleaning and maintenance.

Are induction cooktops for RV energy-efficient?

Yes, an induction range is energy-efficient because it draws less energy than other traditional cooktops. To give you an idea, induction ranges are at least 5% more energy efficient than other electric cooktops. Whereas other appliances can only use 70% of heat at most, induction ones can turn 90% of consumed energy into heat.

Therefore, if it’s energy efficiency that you’re after, induction cooktops would be your best bet.

How durable are the induction stoves for an RV?

The induction burner for RV has a smooth surface, making it more susceptible to scratches. The glass ceramic looks fragile, but it doesn’t easily break with normal use. It only gets damaged when used roughly.

And as pointed out above, induction stoves can last for 2500 hours or more, so you can expect to get good use out of these cooking appliances.

Can you replace broken hotplates on the induction cooktop?

Unfortunately, you can’t replace a broken hotplate when broken or damaged. You’ll need a replacement for the whole thing. Once you detect the damage, disconnect the cooktop from its power source immediately.

Conclusion

Surely, an RV induction cooktop is a great reliever to your mobile living. It’s a better option than propane because it cooks faster and is more energy efficient. All you need is to use the right cookware, like cast iron and stainless steel.

In our review, we pick the NutriChef PKSTIND48 as the best induction cooktop for RV because it’s child-friendly, durable, and portable. Its two burners can give freedom to cook as many dishes as you want while RV bound.

If you want a single-burner induction cooktop, I recommend the Duxtop 8100MC, which offers all the basic features at an attractive price. For more sleepiness and cooking flexibility, the Cuisinart ICT-60 might be a great option.

Philip Lopez

Okay, so I’m Philip Lopez. I join Riverside Trailer as an editor, where I will be doing research for both content and reviews. I contribute to studies aimed at understanding the most typical problems encountered by RVers on the road. I also keep up with the newest RVing gadget innovations so that I can promptly evaluate and recommend the best options.