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Both induction and electric radiant cooktops are types of high-end electric cooktops, but they create heat very differently. Induction cooktops deliver heat through magnetic induction that transfers directly to compatible cookware, while electric radiant cooktops use thermal conduction.
Use this guide to compare the benefits of induction and radiant cooktops to find the right fit for you.
Table of Contents
COMPARE
What are the differences between induction and electric cooktops?
INDUCTION BENEFITS
What are the benefits of induction cooktops?
ELECTRIC BENEFITS
What are the benefits of electric radiant cooktops?
CHOOSING
Which cooktop is better?
The primary difference between electric and induction cooktops is how they generate heat. Induction uses a magnetic field created by an electric current that flows through a copper coil beneath a glass surface.
Induction cooktops send the current to an inductor that generates a magnetic field, turning the pot into its own heat source. However, electric cooktops—also known as radiant—use heated coils that radiate through a ceramic-glass surface to heat the cookware from the bottom.
Though both cooktops have a glass surface, you can tell the difference between induction and radiant models by their speed and the type of cookware you can use with each option. Induction cooktops quickly bring food and water to temperature and rapidly cool when the pot or pan is removed from the surface, since the induction current has been disrupted. Electric radiant cooktops heat cookware from the bottom and can remain hot for several minutes after the cooking surface is turned off.
Induction cooking surfaces require electromagnetic-compatible cookware, like cast iron or steel, while electric radiant options are compatible with standard cookware.
Induction cooktops are an efficient option since they directly heat cookware. They also help your kitchen stay cool and comfortable when in use as the cooking surface doesn’t lose as much heat during use.
Benefits of induction cooking include:
Induction cooktops are highly responsive and instantly adjust to power changes.
Due to the efficient heat transfer, you can quickly achieve a rapid boil or a gentle simmer. They also cut out the step of preheating the cooktop as heat is transferred directly to the cookware.
The smooth surface typically stays cooler compared to electric radiant cooktops, preventing baked-on spills to make post-meal cleanup quicker. Always allow the cooktop to cool completely before cleaning.
Induction cooktops are not only a time-efficient option, they’re also more energy efficient than electric radiant cooktops. Since less heat is able to escape to surrounding air and surfaces, less energy is required to cook, resulting in lower energy costs from using your kitchen.
JennAir® induction cooktops defy the mundane with the precision of a gas cooktop and the sleek appeal of a glass surface.
Electric radiant cooktops look sleek, are easy to clean and can be used with standard cookware materials.
Other benefits of radiant cooktops include:
Electric radiant cooktops only need grounded outlets for installation.
The ceramic-glass surface is smooth and flat, offering a stable surface for pots and pans.
Like induction, radiant cooktops don’t have any grates or burners, making them easy to clean once they have cooled completely.
JennAir® electric radiant cooktops are a force to be reckoned with. Explore these potent electric cooking options for your kitchen.
Whether an induction or electric cooktop is better for you depends on your priorities in the kitchen. If you’re looking for the precision of a gas cooktop and the sleek, attractive look of a smooth glass surface, induction cooktops offer the best of both worlds.
With JennAir® cooktops, you can design outside the lines. Whether you’re looking for induction, radiant or gas fuel options, set basic ablaze with JennAir brand.
