Do Induction Stoves Require Special Cookware? (7 Pot & Pan Materials Examined inc. Steel, Copper and Glass)

Yes, induction stoves DO require their own special cookware. Cookware must be ferromagnetic to work on induction stoves/cooktops. Alternatively, an Induction Diffuser (see below) can be used to create a ferromagnetic effect.

Ferromagnetic means that your cookware must contain iron or another magnetic material.

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Types of cookware compatible with induction cooktops are:

• Cast iron
• Enameled cast iron
• Most types of stainless-steel
• Carbon steel

Manufacturers that make induction cooktop cookware include Chantal, All-Clad, and T-fal.

Prices for induction cookware vary depending on the brand, material, and number of pieces contained in the set.

For example, the Chantal Induction 21 Steel Cookware Set (9 pc.) costs $350 and is available at GE Appliances.

All-Clad offers a variety of induction-compatible cookware sets ranging from $300 to $1,300 and can be purchased at retailers such as Williams Sonoma and Bed Bath & Beyond.

Pros and cons of induction cooking include:

Pros	Cons
Energy efficient	Requires special cookware
Fast heating	Stove & Cookware can be expensive
Precise temperature control	May produce a humming noise
Safe to use	Sensitive to scratches
Easy to clean	Doesn’t work with all types of cookware

TIP: If your metal pan sticks to a magnet, then it will heat by induction. Another way to check is to look for the “induction compatible” symbol on the bottom of the manufacturer’s cookware or packaging.

What cookware does NOT work on induction stoves?

Cookware that won’t work on induction stoves/ cooktops includes pots and pans which are:

• Aluminum
• Copper
• Glass

These materials are not ferromagnetic and therefore cannot react to the magnetic field generated by the induction cooktop.

However, induction adapters for non-ferromagnetic pots and pans are available.

Induction heat diffusers, for instance, work by distributing heat evenly across the cookware’s surface, allowing it to heat up and cook the contents of the pot or pan evenly.

Manufacturers that make induction hob diffusers include Ilsa, BergHOFF, and Bialetti.

The cost of induction hob diffusers varies depending on the size and brand. For example, the Ilsa A1784001 Induction Heat Diffuser Plate costs $19.95 and is available at Amazon. The BergHOFF Induction Stove Heat Diffuser costs $34.99 and is available at Bed Bath & Beyond.

The pros and cons of using induction hob diffusers are:

Pros	Cons
Allows non-ferromagnetic cookware to be used on induction cooktops	Can reduce the efficiency of the induction cooktop
Can be used with a variety of cookware	May take longer to heat up the cookware
Helps to distribute heat evenly	Can be bulky and difficult to store
Easy to clean	May not work with all types of cookware

How Do Induction Cookers Work?

This 1-minute video explains how induction stoves work:

Can I Use Induction Cookware On A Regular (Gas Or Electric) Stove?

Yes. Induction cookware can generally be used on a gas or electric stove.

There are exceptions, though.

Cookware with a very thin steel base or a non-stick layer on the base may not be suitable for use on an electric or gas stove.

Here are some recommendations for the best induction pots and pans for use on electric and gas stoves:

Best Induction Pots and Pans for Price:

Best Induction Pots and Pans for Energy Efficiency

Best Induction Pots and Pans for Durability:

Both options have received positive reviews from cooking experts and enthusiasts and are recommended for their durability and quality construction. They are available at Amazon and other retailers.

Pros and Cons of Using Induction Cookware on an Electric or Gas Stove
Pros:
– Induction cookware heats up quickly and efficiently on an electric stove.
– Induction cookware is generally more energy-efficient than traditional cookware.
– Induction cookware is often more durable and longer-lasting than traditional cookware.
Cons:
– Some types of induction cookware may not be suitable for use on an electric stove.
– Induction cookware may be more expensive than traditional cookware.
– Induction cookware may require special cleaning and maintenance.

Are Induction Stoves Worth The Extra Money?

The cost of induction stoves can vary depending on the brand, size, and features. On average, a basic induction stove can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500, while high-end models can cost upwards of $3,000.

Here are some recommended ‘best buy’ induction stoves from reputable reviewers:

1. Best Induction Stoves for Price:

• Frigidaire FGIF3036TF Gallery Series 30 Inch Freestanding Induction Range: Made in the USA, this induction stove is reasonably priced and is available at Best Buy for around $1,100. (Source: Consumer Reports)
• GE Profile PHP9030DJBB 30 Inch Induction Cooktop: Made in the USA, this induction cooktop is affordable and can be found at Home Depot for around $1,700. (Source: Reviewed)

2. Best Induction Stoves for Energy Efficiency:

• Bosch HIIP054U 30 Inch Induction Range: Made in the USA, this induction range is highly energy-efficient and can be found at Lowe’s for around $3,000. (Source: Consumer Reports)
• Samsung NZ30K7880UG 30 Inch Induction Cooktop: Made in Korea, this induction cooktop is designed for energy efficiency and can be found at Best Buy for around $2,000. (Source: CNET)

3. Best Induction Stoves for Durability:

• Thermador CIT36XKB 36 Inch Induction Cooktop: Made in the USA, this induction cooktop is highly durable and can be found at AJ Madison for around $4,000. (Source: Yale Appliance)
• Miele KM6375 36 Inch Induction Cooktop: Made in Germany, this induction cooktop is designed for durability and can be found at Appliances Connection for around $3,500. (Source: Appliances Connection)

We know that induction cookers are more expensive than conventional gas and electric stoves and they require specialist (and again expensive) cookware. But what benefits do they offer?

Benefits Of Induction Cookers (Compared To Gas And Electric Stoves)

Here are the verdicts of some of the nation’s most reputable reviewers:

1. Quick & Cool: “Induction cooktops are fast, efficient, and safe. They use electromagnetism to heat pots and pans directly, which means that heat is generated only where it’s needed. They don’t generate as much heat [as gas or electric stoves], which can make your kitchen more comfortable in the summer months.” (Source: Consumer Reports)
2. Energy Efficient & Easy to Clean: “Induction cooktops are […] more energy-efficient than traditional gas or electric cooktops. They’re also easier to clean, since the surface doesn’t get hot enough to burn food onto it.” (Source: The New York Times Wirecutter)
3. Safe: “Induction cooktops are safer [than gas or electric stoves], since the surface doesn’t get hot enough to burn you or ignite nearby objects. (Source: Good Housekeeping)

Overall, induction stove cookers are praised for their speed, efficiency, safety, and ease of cleaning. However, they can be expensive and require special cookware, which may be a drawback for some consumers.

It’s worth noting that the pros and cons of each type of stove may vary depending on the specific model and brand. However, this table provides a general overview of the advantages and disadvantages of induction cookers compared to gas and electric stoves.

	Induction Cookers	Gas Stoves	Electric Stoves
Pros	Fast, efficient, and safe. Energy-efficient. Easier to clean. Surface doesn’t get hot enough to burn food onto it.	Precise temperature control. Works during power outages.	Affordable. Easy to install.
Cons	Expensive. Requires special cookware. May produce a buzzing sound.	Risk of gas leaks and fire hazards. Can be difficult to clean.	Slower heating and cooling times. Uneven heat distribution.

Sources

Recommended Induction Cookware:

• Serious Eats – The Best Stainless Steel Cookware, According to Our Tests
• Reviewed – THE BEST INDUCTION COOKWARE SETS OF 2023
• CNET – Induction vs. electric cooktops: Which is right for you in 2021?
• Appliance Connections – Miele KM6375

FAQs

1. Q: How do induction stoves work? A: Induction stoves use electromagnetism to heat pots and pans directly, ensuring heat is generated only where needed. The stove creates a magnetic field which induces an electrical current in the cookware, generating heat.
2. Q: Do I need special cookware for induction stoves? A: Yes, you need cookware made of magnetic materials like cast iron or stainless steel. Aluminum, copper, and glass cookware won’t work on induction stoves.
3. Q: Are induction stoves more energy-efficient than gas or electric stoves? A: Yes, induction stoves are more energy-efficient than gas or electric stoves. They use electromagnetism to heat pots and pans directly, meaning that heat is generated only where it’s needed.
4. Q: Are induction stoves safe? A: Yes, induction stoves are safe to use. The surface doesn’t get hot enough to burn you or ignite nearby objects, and there’s no risk of gas leaks or fire hazards.
5. Q: Are induction stoves expensive? A: Induction stoves can be more expensive than gas or electric stoves, but the price depends on the brand, size, and features.
6. Q: Do induction stoves require special installation? A: Induction stoves require a dedicated circuit and a compatible electrical outlet. You should also check if you have a sufficient power supply and if the house installation is suitable to run the stove properly.
7. Q: Can I use my induction stove during a power outage? A: No, you can’t use your induction stove during a power outage since it requires electricity to function.
8. Q: Can I use a wok on an induction stove? A: Yes, you can use a wok on an induction stove, but you need to make sure that the wok is made of magnetic materials like cast iron or carbon steel.
9. Q: How do I clean my induction stove? A: To clean your induction stove, use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as they can scratch the surface.