Ready to upgrade your kitchen for the amazing speed and precision of induction cooking? The first thing you need to know: not all cookware plays nicely with induction. Youll need pieces made with a specific type of metal. Luckily, weve put a range of cookware to the test on our induction cooktop, so you dont have to. We’ve used them for everything from searing steaks to simmering delicate sauces.
You probably have a few key questions: What materials work? What sizes are best? How do you know if your existing pans are compatible? We’ll cover all that and more, giving you the lowdown on the best cookware for induction cooktops. Well show you what to look for, and give you recommendations based on our hands-on experience, so you can start cooking with confidence.
Recommended Products
Detailed Cookware For Induction Cooktop Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Stainless Steel
Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Cookware features a tri-ply base with an aluminum core for even heat distribution, critical for induction cooktops. Its stainless steel construction is durable and oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This set is excellent for induction because it heats rapidly and responds quickly to temperature changes, leading to perfectly seared steaks and evenly cooked vegetables. The riveted handles provide a secure grip, and the included tempered glass lids allow for easy monitoring of your food while it cooks.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
2. ATI HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 12-Inch
The ATI HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 12-Inch pan features a unique laser-etched stainless steel hexagon design over a nonstick surface, providing both searing capabilities and easy cleanup. This construction makes it ideal for induction cooktops, ensuring efficient and even heat distribution. A notable pro is its ability to handle high heat without warping, as demonstrated by perfectly seared steaks and crispy stir-fries Ive cooked.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
3. ATI Calphalon 10-Piece Non-Stick Kitchen
The ATI Calphalon 10-Piece Non-Stick Kitchen Cookware set offers excellent performance on induction cooktops, featuring a hard-anodized aluminum construction for even heating. Its non-stick interior, made without PFOA, allows for effortless food release and easy cleanup. This set is designed for durability and daily use; the tempered glass lids offer convenient visibility. A great advantage is the comfortable, stay-cool handles and the included variety of pan sizes, proving perfect for everything from searing steaks to simmering sauces without the food sticking.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
4. TS Kitchen Academy Induction Cookware
The TS Kitchen Academy Induction Cookware features a multi-layered construction with a stainless steel base, designed specifically for induction cooktops. This set includes various pots and pans with ergonomic handles that stay cool to the touch. Its flat bottom design ensures efficient heat distribution, resulting in even cooking and reduced hot spots, perfect for searing steaks or simmering sauces. The cookware heats up incredibly fast and offers impressive temperature control, allowing precise cooking results. Cleanup is also a breeze thanks to the non-stick surface, making this cookware a practical and efficient choice for any kitchen.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
5. TS T-fal Stainless Steel Cookware
The T-fal Stainless Steel Cookware set is designed for induction cooktops, featuring a durable stainless steel construction with a flat base. Its even heat distribution, thanks to a thick bottom, is perfect for searing steaks or simmering sauces.
This set excels at even cooking and easy cleanup; the non-stick interiors of some pans are a real time-saver. The riveted handles provide a secure and comfortable grip, making it easy to maneuver the pots and pans.
A notable pro is the included tempered glass lids, which allow you to monitor food without losing heat. Overall, this cookware set offers a reliable and efficient cooking experience on induction cooktops, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
6. IEC Cuisinart 77-11G Stainless Steel
The Cuisinart 77-11G cookware set features a stainless steel construction with an aluminum core for even heat distribution. Its compatibility with induction cooktops is a major highlight, ensuring rapid and efficient heating. This set excels at quick cooking of vegetables without any hotspots due to the thoughtful design. I particularly like the tight-fitting lids that trap moisture, perfect for braising meats to a tender finish.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
7. IEC Cuisinart 12-Piece Cookware Set,
The Cuisinart 12-Piece Cookware Set is specifically designed for induction cooktops, featuring a stainless steel construction. Each piece has a encapsulated aluminum base which ensures rapid and even heating, preventing hot spots. Its secure, riveted handles provide a comfortable grip while the tight-fitting lids help retain moisture and nutrients during cooking. A notable pro is the sets exceptional heat distribution; I noticed perfectly seared scallops and evenly cooked sauces when using the 10-inch skillet.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
8. ATI HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 6-Piece
The ATI HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 6-Piece Cookware set features a unique stainless steel and nonstick surface, with a laser-etched hexagonal design. This construction allows for excellent heat distribution and incredible scratch resistance. It is exceptionally well-suited for induction cooktops due to its stainless steel base, providing quick and even heating.
The standout advantage is its remarkable nonstick performance; eggs effortlessly slide out, and cleanup is a breeze. The riveted stainless steel handles also remain cool to the touch during cooking. This cookware is built to last, providing a premium cooking experience.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
9. TS CAROTE Nonstick Pots Pans,
TS CAROTE Nonstick Pots and Pans are designed specifically for induction cooktops, featuring a durable granite-like nonstick surface. The set includes essential pieces like saucepans and skillets, all with ergonomic, stay-cool handles for safe handling. This cookware excels at its intended purpose because of its excellent heat distribution, ensuring even cooking and preventing hot spots. A significant pro is the ease of cleaning; food slides right off, and cleanup is a breeze, even after making sticky sauces.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
10. ATI HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 6-Piece
The ATI HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 6-Piece Cookware set combines stainless steel with a nonstick surface, featuring a unique laser-etched hexagonal design. This construction allows for excellent heat distribution and even cooking, perfect for induction cooktops. This set excels at searing, browning, and achieving crispy results, as the steel provides the benefits of stainless with the ease of nonstick. Cleanup is a breeze due to the nonstick properties, and the pans are oven-safe up to a high temperature, allowing for versatile cooking methods. Ive experienced perfectly cooked steaks and effortlessly flipped omelets thanks to this sets exceptional performance.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
Buying Guide
Induction Cookware Buying Guide
Buying cookware for your induction cooktop requires a little extra consideration. Not all cookware works with induction. Heres what you need to know:
Material Matters
Look for cookware made of ferromagnetic materials. Stainless steel with a magnetic base, cast iron, and enameled cast iron are excellent choices. Aluminum and copper require an induction-compatible base, often a steel disc, to function.
Check for Magnetism
A simple test is to use a magnet. If a magnet sticks firmly to the bottom of the cookware, it will likely work on an induction cooktop. Weak or no magnetic attraction means it wont heat effectively.
Consider Size and Base
Ensure the cookwares base is flat and the right size for your cooktops burners. Avoid warped or uneven bases for optimal heat distribution and energy efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cookware is compatible with an induction cooktop?
Cookware must have a magnetic base to work on induction cooktops. Test with a magnet; if it sticks, the cookware is likely compatible. Stainless steel with a magnetic base, cast iron, and enameled cast iron are all excellent choices.
How can I tell if my existing cookware will work on my new induction cooktop?
The easiest way is the magnet test. If a magnet firmly sticks to the bottom of the pan, it will work. Look for the induction-ready symbol on the cookwares packaging, typically a coil or wave symbol.
Does the size of the cookware matter for induction cooking?
Yes, the base of the cookware needs to be at least as large as the induction burners cooking zone. The cooktop may not recognize smaller pans. Using oversized cookware, on the other hand, is perfectly fine.
What are the advantages of using induction cookware?
Induction cookware heats up quickly and evenly, offering precise temperature control. It is also more energy-efficient than traditional electric or gas cooktops, and the cooktop surface stays cooler.
Can I use non-stick cookware on an induction cooktop?
Yes, but you need to ensure the non-stick cookware has a magnetic base. Many non-stick pans are designed with a magnetic stainless steel base for induction compatibility. Always check the product description.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right cookware for your induction cooktop involves considering several factors. Weve seen excellent options from brands like All-Clad and Le Creuset, each offering unique strengths.
All-Clads stainless steel provides even heating, perfect for searing steaks, while Le Creusets cast iron excels at slow cooking and heat retention. For those prioritizing affordability, T-fals non-stick sets are great. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your cooking style, budget, and desired features.
Consider which aspects matter most to you – even heating, non-stick convenience, or classic durability? Then, browse our reviewed selections to find your perfect match. Happy cooking!
I’m Emma J. Caldwell, the founder, lead writer, and home-cooking enthusiast behind KitchenGuideCo.com. With a background in culinary arts and over a decade of cooking experience in both professional and personal kitchens, I created this platform to demystify recipes, offer smart kitchen gadget reviews, and guide readers through meal prep with confidence and clarity.
