Design Vibes Staff
The largest kitchen and bath trade show in North America, KBIS, wrapped up last week, and our scouts on the ground reported that induction cooking products had a strong showing, indicating that maybe (just maybe) the technology’s time has come.
If you’re not familiar, induction ranges and cooktops look like typical glass-top electric models, but they generate heat using magnetic energy.
“Induction cooking takes place on a flat glass surface that is equipped with heating coils that create electromagnetic energy,” the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. “This field induces electric currents in the pans. These currents are activated by iron in cookware. Restated another way, induction cooktops use those electromagnetic fields to create heat in the cookware by generating a magnetic field that induces electrical currents in the metal of the cookware, creating heat. In other words, the cookware itself becomes the heat source, rather than the cooktop.”
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The technology is old–really old. It was introduced publicly at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair after all. And though it has been prevalent and popular in Europe for decades (where gas is not always available), the technology is not all that popular here in the United States. AHAM says induction ranges make up less than 5 percent of all electric ranges, according to factory shipment data, though the percentage has grown in recent years. “In 2022, induction cooktops made up about one-third of all electric cooktop shipments, a 6% increase over the previous year,” the group says.
There are many (possible) reasons why induction is not popular here, but one of the main reasons is cost. A typical induction will run about $1,000 (not that bad), but a traditional electric range from one of the well-known appliance brands on the market will cost around $550. Cooktops are much affordable, but the kitchen will still require a wall oven.
“When it comes to cooktops, it’s easy to find a great induction model for hundreds less than a gas-powered model,” The New York Times Wirecutter wrote in 2019.” And great single-element induction cookers cost only around $70 (though they aren’t as capable as a full-on cooktop).”
There is one important thing to remember about induction. Because it uses magnetic energy, cookware will have to be compatible. “While it is a popular misconception that you will need to buy all new cookware when you switch to induction, the reality is that most cookware, especially stainless steel and cast-iron cookware, is compatible with induction, as it may already contain iron,” AHAM says. “If you are shopping for cookware for induction cooktops, look for pots and pans marked ‘induction-compatible’ or ‘induction safe.’ Also, cookware with a flat bottom will provide the best cooking results.” Another easy way to tell if your pots are compatible: if it’s magnetic, you’re good.
This year at KBIS, a variety of appliance brands introduced new products with new technology and stunning new colors. Here is what we found:
GE Appliances
The appliance giant introduced new induction cooktops and an induction range at the show. Available in a 30- or 36-inch size, the Smart Slide-In Induction and Convection Range features an air fry, EasyWash oven tray and four burners–two of which offer Power Boil that immediately heats the pan to boil water faster. A Griddle Zone combines two burners to create a wide, synced, heated surface—perfect for sizzling steaks or flipping pancakes. The unit also has a new Cookware Detection that automatically shuts off the surface elements when it detects that cookware has been removed. Built-in Wi-Fi allows owners to control the oven from anywhere with a smartphone or tablet. Prices start at $1,599. geappliancesco.com
Miele
The brand’s new 36-inch induction range has two PowerFlex Zones and one large round induction zone, providing ample flexible space for different cooking vessels. It has a TwinPower feature for fast heating time and even heat distribution, a self-cleaning function and Soft Open and Soft Close fully telescopic runners. The unit also has a wireless probe, a proofing function for bread and doughs, air frying capability and a lift-up control panel. The new ranges will launch in June 2025 at Miele dealers nationwide. Pricing not available. mieleusa.com
Forno Appliances
The Espresso Donatello 30-Inch slide-in range features four induction elements for a combined total cooking surface of 8,100 watts. It has ceramic glass top for even heat distribution, two oven racks, 5-cubic-foot true convection oven (with speckled blue enamel), friction-resistant hinges, hidden bake element and a digital display control. An air fry feature (with basket) comes standard. The stove comes in stainless steel. forno.ca
Monogram
The luxury appliance brand says its Induction Professional Ranges offer connected features that make cooking on induction simpler and more precise than ever before, the brand says. Available in four- or five-burner options, the ranges allow users to connect and control two synchronized cooktop elements simultaneously to create a large cooking surface. Consumers may add a Smart Pan or precision probe accessory to decide the degree of their burner for optimal consistency and performance. A 7-inch LCD control screen swings out toward the user before returning flush with the oven control panel when not in use. Ranges start at $7,300 for the 30-inch unit. monogram.com
BlueStar
Manufacturing appliances in Blandon, Pa., since 1880, the luxury brand has unveiled its first-ever 48-inch induction range as part of the Platinum Series. The range features a matte-finished cooktop that is 80% less reflective, resistant to scratches, stains, and fingerprints than standard surfaces. It features six oversized cooking zones, including two 11-inch zones and four 9-inch zones—with a bridge function that creates the most powerful zone on the market at 7,400 watts, the company said. Additional features include 12 heat settings, Power Indicator Light Bar to provide a dynamic visual cue for heat intensity, two convection ovens and a 7-inch touchscreen. It comes in more than 1,000 colors. bluestarcooking.com