Induction cooking is popular among professional chefs and novice cooks alike. Its pros include faster cook times, a high level of temperature control that can't be matched by electric or gas cooktops, increased energy efficiency, are safe to use, and ease of cleaning. The 36-in. models offer more than enough space and cooking zones for preparing multiple meals every single day, especially for a massive family. New induction cooktop models are introduced every year, which can make picking the right one for your kitchen a bit overwhelming. To help you choose, here's a rundown of the best 36-in. induction cooktops of 2021.
Gaggenau CI292600
The Gaggenau CI292600 200 Series model comes with five induction elements with rapid, precise heat control to prep multiple meals at once and 17 output levels to accommodate any cooking type. Use the boost function to temporarily increase the power output of the desired element to 3,700 Watts for fast boiling. The flex function combines two cooking elements to create a larger cooking surface. The cooking and frying sensor functions provide better temperature control for your cookware. With the keep warm function, you can gently simmer or melt butter and keep food warm until serving time. Easily control all the functions with the bicolored display and magnetic Twist-Pad knob.
Bosch NIT5668UC
Bosch is known for making culinary masterpieces, as evidenced by the NIT5668UC 36-in. 500 Series induction cooktop. This appliance comes with five cooking elements, including a 12-in. dual ring center cooking zone that's perfect for large and irregular-shaped pans and pots. Each cooking zone can boost power to speed up the cooking process, with the maximum burner output being 5,400 Watts. Each element also has an independent countdown timer and residual heat indicator. Thanks to PreciseSelect® controls, you can directly select one of 17 power levels, which is easier than scrolling through a confusing menu. In addition, this induction cooktop comes with multiple safety features, including PotSense pan recognition, childproof lock, power management function, a SpeedBoost® function, and key lock to prevent accidental burns.
Cafe CHP95362MSS
If you're looking for the best 36-in. induction cooktops with smart capabilities, then Café CHP95362MSS is your best bet. It is Wi-Fi enabled, meaning you can control the cooktop from your smartphone remotely. It comes with five induction elements, including an 11-in. 3,700 Watt Induction element that brings water to a boil fast. With sync-burner capability, you can control two 7-in. elements with the touch of a single button, thus creating a wider cooking surface for large cookware like griddles. This cooktop also features pan presence and size sensors, thus reducing heat loss and saving on your energy bills. Thanks to Gourmet Guided Cooking, you get video-guided recipes from chefs with a system that automatically adjusts temperature, time, and cooking pace for the perfect results.
Thermador CIT365TB
Thermador is a trusted brand in the appliance world, with their cooktops constantly receiving high ratings across a wide range of criteria. The CIT365TB Masterpiece Series model packs some of the most advanced features of induction cooking technology. Its frameless design and glass-ceramic surface add a touch of refinement to your kitchen. It comes with five elements, with each having its own shut-off timer, which makes it easier to coordinate the cooking of multiple dishes. The elements produce different power outputs of up to 5,500 Watts, with the PowerBoost® function increasing each element's power by up to 50%. Lastly, the touch control panel with blue light illumination and 17 power levels is highly precise.
Fisher Paykel CI365PTX1
The Professional Series Fisher & Paykel CI365PTX1 induction cooktop is built to last with distinctive, bold styling that will compliment any kitchen. It comes with five elements with varying power output levels up to 5,500 Watts. The PowerBoost function delivers high power heat that brings water to a boil in less than a minute. On the other hand, the GentleHeat function delivers low heat for gentle simmering for melting chocolate. The Touch&Slide controls respond immediately to temperature adjustments, allowing you to go from simmer to boil and vice versa in seconds. In addition, this cooktop will only start to heat once you've placed your pan on the surface and stops when you remove the cookware, making it a safer and energy-efficient choice.
Related Questions
Which brand of induction cooktop is best?
Several brands make induction cooktops with a broad range of model designs, features, sizes, and prices to suit different kinds of consumers, making it hard to pick one as the best. That being said, the brands mentioned above are worth considering as they are known for making the most durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing induction cooktops available in the market.
How long do induction cooktops last?
The lifetime of these cooktops is measured in operating hours and not years. Models with components designed for domestic use usually last for 2,500 hours, which is equivalent to 10 hours a day for about a year, although they are not meant for continuous usage. A better option is the commercial units, which can last for about 30,000 hours (an equivalent of 10 hours a day for up to eight years).