Ceramic vs. induction cooktop: Which is the better choice?

Choosing the right stovetop can transform your cooking experience. Whether you’re a home cook or an aspiring chef, choosing between a ceramic vs. induction cooktop is crucial. Both options bring something to the table, so it can be hard to know which one is best for you.

This guide will break down the essentials. From the even heating provided by ceramic cooktops to the rapid, precise control of induction, understanding these appliances will help you level up your kitchen.

How does a ceramic cooktop work? 

Smooth ceramic cooktop with radiant heat. (Source: iStock)

A ceramic cooktop works by using electric heating elements placed under a sleek, smooth surface. When you turn it on, these elements heat up and transfer heat through the glass ceramic layer directly to your pots and pans.

It’s efficient and provides a steady source of heat. However, the surface stays hot even after you turn it off, so a bit of caution is necessary.

How does an induction cooktop work?  

A minimalist kitchen featuring a new induction cooktop. (Source: iStock)

An induction cooktop uses electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans. Instead of heating up the surface, it sends currents straight into the cookware.

When you switch it on, the cooktop creates a magnetic field that interacts with the iron in your cooking utensils. This process generates heat right where it’s needed, making it super efficient.

Induction or ceramic cooktop: What are their key differences?

If deciding on which cooktop to buy seems overwhelming, this section will cover the main factors to consider. From energy efficiency to ease of installation, our goal is to help you understand the difference between ceramic and induction cooktops.

In terms of energy efficiency

People are now looking for various ways to create a smarter kitchen environment that not only saves energy but also enhances the cooking experience. This makes the energy efficiency of your cooktop an important factor.

In terms of how well they use energy, ceramic cooktops aren’t as efficient as induction cooktops. They heat the glass surface first, causing some energy loss. An energy comparison study on residential cooktops showed that ceramic cooktops’ efficiency is only 75.5%.

Induction cooktops, on the other hand, use electromagnetic fields to heat the cookware directly, minimising energy loss. The same research discovered that induction cooktops’ efficiency in transferring heat is about 83-86%, which results in lower energy consumption. 

In terms of cooking precision

Compact and efficient cooking on a smooth ceramic cooktop. (Source: iStock)

Ceramic cooktops take longer to heat up. They also cool down slowly and retain residual heat even after being turned off. This slow response time means that ceramic cooktops aren’t ideal for recipes requiring quick temperature changes.

Induction cooktops heat up much quicker. They offer almost instant cooling and heating adjustments for precise control over cooking temperatures, perfect for simmering or quickly boiling water. Gas cooktops are also sometimes compared to induction, but even they can’t match the latter’s speed.

In terms of touch controls

When choosing between types of cooktops, the simplicity of the interface is significant. You wouldn’t want to fiddle with hard-to-read dials or switches while cooking a delicate dish.

Ceramic cooktops often come with touch-sensitive controls or traditional knobs. Touch controls are easy to clean, while knobs can collect grime and are harder to maintain. The functionality is pretty basic and offers simple temperature adjustments and cooking settings.

Induction cooktops usually feature sleek, touch controls. They can be wiped clean and have no protruding parts. These cooktops also come with advanced features like precise temperature control, timers, power boost functions, and safety locks. 

In terms of cookware compatibility

Cooking setup on a white glass induction cooktop. (Source: iStock)

So, what are the best pots and pans for ceramic cooktops? Well, anything that has a flat bottom for even heating will do. Ceramic cooktops are compatible with a wide range of cookware, so they’re usually a staple in kitchen renovations. You can use aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and glass cookware on them.

Induction cooktops, however, require ferrous metal cookware like stainless steel or cast iron. To check if your existing cookware will work, see if a magnet sticks to it. Non-ferrous cookware won’t work unless they have a magnetic metal base.

People also compare electric cooktop vs induction. However, traditional electric cooktops use heating coils under surfaces similar to ceramics. They heat up and transfer heat to cookware via conduction, so cookware compatibility is the same as with ceramic cooktops. 

In terms of cost

Due to their advanced technology, induction cooktops generally have a higher upfront price, ranging from $500 to $6,500. Ceramic cooktops, on the other hand, usually cost less, between $200 and $2,000 in the US.

The higher price of induction cooktops can often be justified by their energy efficiency and long-term savings on energy bills. Ceramic ones are generally more affordable, but models with advanced features like touch controls and multiple cooking zones can still drive up the price. When considering the overall cost of a new kitchen, weigh the initial expense against these long-term benefits.

In terms of installation requirements

Technician fitting an induction stove into the countertop. (Source: iStock)

Whether you’re aiming for a complete IKEA kitchen or just sprucing up your kitchen, there’s typically a lot to keep track of. However, it’s essential to understand appliance installation costs and requirements.

Ceramic cooktops are generally simpler to install. They use a standard electric connection similar to other electric cooktops. This makes it easy and cheap, especially if you’re just replacing an existing unit. Usually, all you’d need is a flat, stable surface and good ventilation.

Induction cooktops, however, often need more specialized installation. Due to their higher power needs, they might require a dedicated circuit, so an electrician should review your setup. This typically means higher installation costs but also ensures the safety and functionality of your new appliance. 

Professionally install your new ceramic or induction cooktop with Airtasker

Whichever cooktop you pick, having it professionally installed is the way to go. This ensures you get the most of your appliance.

That’s where the Airtasker platform comes in. Post a task and connect with professional appliance installers specializing in kitchen renovations. You can even let qualified experts handle your electric cooker repairs.