Are you on the hunt for a new cooktop that offers both dependable performance and a no-fuss cooking experience? Look no further than electric coil cooktops. These kitchen workhorses have been a staple for decades, known for their robust build, consistent heat, and straightforward operation. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, outfitting a small apartment, or needing a portable solution for dorms or RVs, an electric coil cooktop could be your perfect match.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into some of the best electric coil cooktops on the market. We’ll cover everything from compact portable units to spacious built-in models, highlighting their unique features, pros, and cons. By the end, you’ll have all the info you need to pick the ideal heating coil cooktop for your culinary adventures.
Let’s get cooking!
Our Top Picks for Electric Coil Cooktops
Here are 10 excellent options to consider, from full-sized built-ins to handy portable stoves:
1. Summit 30″ 4 Burner Electric Cooktop, 230 Volt Coil…
This Summit electric coil cooktop offers a classic, professional look with its stainless steel finish, designed to seamlessly integrate into most modern kitchens. It’s built for built-in installation, fitting into standard 28″ x 19.5″ cutouts, making it a reliable choice for a kitchen upgrade. With its ADA compliant design and easy-to-operate upfront knobs, accessibility is a key highlight, ensuring a comfortable cooking experience for everyone.
- Key Features:
- Stainless steel finish for a sleek look and easy cleaning.
- Designed for built-in installation in 28″ x 19.5″ cutouts.
- ADA compliant with upfront, push-to-turn knobs for safer use.
- Two powerful 1800W burners and two standard 1200W elements for versatile cooking.
- Indicator lights to show active burners.
- Pros:
- Modern aesthetic with stainless steel.
- Excellent accessibility features.
- Good range of burner wattages for different cooking tasks.
- Durable construction.
- Cons:
- Requires professional installation.
- Specific cutout dimensions needed.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the classic coil reliability combined with modern design elements. The accessibility features are a big plus for many, though some note the installation requires careful planning.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Double Burner Cooktop, 2000W Portable Electric Stove, 5…
When you need extra cooking space or a flexible solution for small areas, this 2000W portable electric stove is a fantastic option. It boasts dual 6-inch coil elements that heat up quickly and evenly, ensuring your food cooks consistently without annoying hot or cold spots. Its compact design makes it a lifesaver for dorm rooms, small apartments, RVs, or even as an extra burner during holiday feasts.
- Key Features:
- Dual 6-inch coil elements with 2000W total power for fast, even heating.
- 5-temperature control (302°F-1022°F) for versatile cooking.
- Separate thermostat dials with indicator lights for precision.
- Safety features: indicator turns off when temp is reached, auto heat preservation.
- Easy to clean surfaces (after cooling) and compatible with most cookware types.
- Portable with non-slip feet and durable stainless steel body.
- Pros:
- Highly portable and compact.
- Rapid and consistent heating.
- Offers precise temperature control.
- Versatile for various cooking methods and cookware.
- Easy to clean and safe to use.
- Cons:
- May heat ceramic pots slower.
- Requires a dedicated power outlet.
- User Impressions: Customers love its portability and how quickly it heats up. It’s often praised for being a reliable backup or primary cooking source in cramped living situations.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Summit 30″ 4 Burner Electric Cooktop. 230 Volt Coil…
This Summit cooktop brings a touch of traditional reliability with a metallic design that fits well into any kitchen. Designed for built-in installation, it features robust coil burners that provide durable and consistent heat for your everyday cooking needs. What sets this model apart is its lower wattage elements, which ensure a steady heating process without the frequent on/off cycling seen in some standard electric cooktops, perfect for simmering.
- Key Features:
- Metallic design for a professional and durable look.
- One 8″ 950W and three 6″ 650W coil elements.
- Designed for 28 3/8″ x 18 5/8″ cutouts; 220-240V operation.
- Removable chrome pans for easy spill cleanup.
- Right-side located knobs require force for added safety.
- Pros:
- Durable and reliable traditional coil burners.
- Steady, slow heating without cycling for consistent results.
- Easy to clean with removable drip pans.
- Enhanced safety features.
- Cons:
- Requires professional installation.
- Lower wattage means slower initial heating compared to high-power elements.
- User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight its sturdy build and the consistent heat delivery, particularly for dishes that require longer, gentler cooking. The easy-to-clean chrome pans are also a frequently mentioned benefit.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Summit 30″ 4 Burner Electric Cooktop. 230 Volt Coil…
Another excellent 30-inch option from Summit, this electric coil cooktop combines a sleek, modern aesthetic with the trusted performance of coil burners. Its scratch-resistant porcelain top in jet black offers a clean, sophisticated look that’s also incredibly easy to maintain. Like its metallic counterpart, it’s designed for built-in installation and features lower wattage coils for steady, reliable heat that won’t cycle off.
- Key Features:
- Scratch-resistant black porcelain top for a clean, modern look.
- One 8″ 950W and three 6″ 650W coil elements for steady heating.
- Fits 28 3/8″ wide x 18 5/8″ deep cutouts; 220-240V operation.
- Removable chrome pans to simplify spill cleanup.
- Right-side safety knobs that require a small amount of force to turn.
- Pros:
- Elegant jet black porcelain finish is easy to clean and scratch-resistant.
- Consistent, non-cycling heat ideal for precise cooking.
- Removable pans make maintenance a breeze.
- Robust safety features.
- Cons:
- Professional installation is a must.
- May not be ideal if rapid high-heat searing is your top priority due to lower wattage.
- User Impressions: Users love the sharp look of the black porcelain surface and its ease of cleaning. The steady heat is appreciated for dishes that need gentle simmering without constant temperature fluctuations.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Summit 21″ 2 Burner Electric Cooktop. 115 Volt Coil…
Perfect for smaller kitchens, RVs, or auxiliary cooking stations, this 21-inch Summit electric coil cooktop is a compact powerhouse. Its versatile design allows for either portrait or landscape installation, making it incredibly adaptable to various counter layouts and space constraints. With two strong coil elements, including a powerful 1800W burner, it handles a range of pots and pans effortlessly. Plus, it’s ADA compliant with excellent safety features.
- Key Features:
- Stainless steel surface for an attractive and easy-to-clean finish.
- Versatile installation (portrait or landscape) in 20″ x 16″ cutouts.
- Large 7″ 1800W and 5 1/2″ 1200W coil elements.
- ADA compliant with indicator lights and push-to-turn knobs.
- Ships with a 3-pronged cord for easy connection.
- Pros:
- Highly adaptable for small spaces.
- Powerful elements despite compact size.
- ADA compliant and safe to use.
- Easy plug-in installation (compared to 230V models).
- Cons:
- Only two burners.
- Requires a specific cutout size.
- User Impressions: Many praise its flexibility for installation and the robust heating power for its size. It’s frequently chosen for its blend of compact design, strong performance, and safety features.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Summit 24″ 4 Burner Electric Cooktop. 230 Volt Coil…
This Made-in-the-USA Summit electric coil cooktop offers a fantastic balance of size and functionality. At 24 inches wide, it provides four coil burners while still being suitable for slightly smaller kitchen layouts than its 30-inch counterparts. It boasts the same traditional coil burner reliability and lower wattage elements as other Summit models, ensuring consistent, cycle-free heating for all your culinary endeavors.
- Key Features:
- Made in the USA, ensuring quality craftsmanship.
- Metallic design for a professional and durable aesthetic.
- One 8″ 950W and three 6″ 650W coil elements for steady heat.
- Designed for 22 5/8″ wide x 18 5/8″ deep cutouts; 220-240V operation.
- Removable chrome pans for effortless spill cleanup.
- Right-side safety knobs requiring force to turn.
- Pros:
- Four burners in a compact 24-inch design.
- Reliable, consistent heating without cycling.
- Easy to clean with removable drip pans.
- Made in the USA.
- Cons:
- Requires professional installation.
- Lower wattage might mean longer preheating times.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate having four burners in a slightly narrower footprint. The durability and easy maintenance are recurring themes in positive feedback, as is the steady cooking temperature.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Frigidaire FFEC3025UB 30 Inch Electric Smoothtop Style…
Note: While the primary focus of this article is on electric coil cooktops, we’ve included this Frigidaire smoothtop as a popular alternative within the broader electric cooktop category, offering a different aesthetic and cleaning experience.
The Frigidaire FFEC3025UB provides a sleek, modern look with its electric smoothtop style. This cooktop instantly elevates your kitchen’s aesthetics with its smooth, easy-to-clean surface and radiant heating elements that glow when hot. It’s perfect for those who prioritize a seamless countertop appearance and simplified cleanup after cooking.
- Key Features (General Smoothtop Features):
- Sleek black glass-ceramic surface for a modern look.
- Four radiant heating elements for even heat distribution.
- Indicator lights for hot surfaces enhance safety.
- Knob controls for precise temperature adjustments.
- Easy-to-wipe-clean surface, preventing food from getting trapped.
- Pros:
- Very easy to clean due to the smooth surface.
- Modern and elegant aesthetic.
- Quick heating elements.
- Versatile burner sizes.
- Cons:
- More prone to scratching than coil cooktops.
- Glass surface can crack with heavy impact.
- Requires specific cookware for optimal performance (flat bottoms).
- User Impressions: Customers frequently commend the elegant design and the ease of cleaning. Many enjoy the fast heat-up times, though some express concern about scratching the glass surface with rough cookware.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Summit CCE212BL 12-inch Wide 115V 2-Burner Coil Electric…
Another fantastic offering from the Summit Made in USA Collection, this 12-inch wide electric coil cooktop is a compact, robust, and incredibly convenient solution. Featuring a scratch-resistant black porcelain surface and matte black knobs, it’s designed for durability and ease of use. It’s perfect for tighter spaces, dorms, RVs, or as an additional cooking zone, coming with a pre-installed 3-prong cord for easy plug-in.
- Key Features:
- Made in the USA with a scratch-resistant black porcelain surface.
- Two coil elements (6″ 600W front, 8″ 900W rear) for diverse cooking.
- ADA compliant upfront push-to-turn knobs and indicator lights for safety.
- Lower wattage coils for slow, steady heating per UL safety standards.
- Easy to maintain with removable coil elements and reflector bowls.
- Compact size (12” W x 19.75” D) fits common counter cutouts; 115V operation.
- Pros:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting design.
- Easy to install with a pre-installed cord.
- Excellent safety features and ADA compliant.
- Coils and drip pans are easily removable for cleaning and replacement.
- Ideal for small living spaces.
- Cons:
- Only two burners.
- Lower wattage may mean slower heating for some tasks.
- User Impressions: Users consistently praise its robust build quality and the simplicity of maintenance. The plug-and-play setup is a big win for those looking for an easy installation, and its steady heat is appreciated for everyday cooking.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Proctor Silex Portable Electric Stove, Stainless Steel…
For ultimate flexibility and compact cooking power, the Proctor Silex Portable Electric Stove is a standout. This single-burner unit is a true utility player, capable of everything from keeping food warm to rapidly boiling water, thanks to its 1200 watts of power and adjustable heat dial. Its compact size makes it a go-to for camping, holiday overflow cooking, or anyone needing an extra burner without committing to a full cooktop.
- Key Features:
- Versatile heat adjustment from warm to high with a simple dial.
- Fast heating with 1200 watts of power.
- Portable and compact design for easy travel and storage.
- Compatible with all types of cookware, including aluminum.
- Easy-to-clean hinged 5.5″ diameter coil and plate beneath.
- Pros:
- Exceptional portability and compact storage.
- Fast heat-up for quick meals and beverages.
- Universal cookware compatibility (unlike induction).
- Very easy to clean the coil and drip plate.
- Cons:
- Only a single burner.
- Might take up counter space if left out.
- User Impressions: This portable electric stove gets high marks for its convenience and rapid heating. Users frequently mention it as a lifesaver for small apartments, offices, or as an extra cooking zone during large gatherings. The simple cleanup is also a big plus.
- See it on Amazon here
10. Upgraded JEA7000ADSA Coil Element Cartridge Module…
If you’re a Jenn-Air cooktop owner looking to revitalize your appliance, this upgraded coil element cartridge module is an essential find. Rather than a full cooktop, this is a replacement part designed to bring efficient, consistent performance back to your existing Jenn-Air electric range. It includes both large (2100W) and small (1250W) burners, drip pans, and terminal connections, making it a comprehensive solution for old, malfunctioning coil elements.
- Key Features:
- Complete replacement cartridge assembly for Jenn-Air cooktops.
- Includes 2100W large burner and 1250W small burner, plus drip pans.
- Ensures efficient heat distribution and consistent cooking performance.
- Compatible with a wide range of Jenn-Air, Maytag, Kenmore, and Whirlpool models.
- Rust-resistant coating for enhanced durability and lifespan.
- Designed for easy DIY replacement with precise fit.
- Pros:
- Cost-effective solution to extend the life of an existing cooktop.
- Provides quick and accurate heating.
- Easy to install (DIY-friendly with instructions).
- High compatibility with popular brands.
- Improved durability with rust-resistant coating.
- Cons:
- Only for specific Jenn-Air compatible models.
- Requires some DIY skill for installation.
- User Impressions: Customers are generally very happy with how well this cartridge module fits and performs, restoring their Jenn-Air cooktops to like-new condition. The ease of installation and the significant cost savings over a full replacement are frequently highlighted.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Coil Cooktops
Q1: What are the main advantages of electric coil cooktops?
A1: Electric coil cooktops are celebrated for their durability, affordability, and consistent heat output. They’re typically less expensive to purchase than smoothtop or induction models, can withstand heavy use, and are compatible with all types of cookware. Their exposed heating coils also provide direct, visible heat.
Q2: Are electric coil cooktops difficult to clean?
A2: While spills can sometimes drip into the drip pans or underneath the coils, most modern electric coil cooktops come with removable coils and drip pans. This design makes cleanup relatively straightforward: simply remove, wash, and wipe down the surface.
Q3: How do electric coil cooktops compare to electric smoothtop cooktops?
A3: Electric coil cooktops offer direct heat and are generally more forgiving with cookware imperfections. Smoothtops, on the other hand, provide a sleek, flat surface that’s easier to wipe clean, but they can be more prone to scratches and require flat-bottomed cookware for optimal contact. Coil cooktops are often more budget-friendly.
Q4: What kind of cookware can I use on electric coil cooktops?
A4: One of the biggest perks of electric coil cooktops is their versatility! You can use virtually any type of cookware, including stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, copper, and glass. Pots and pans with slightly warped bottoms will still make good contact with the coil.
Q5: Are there any safety concerns with electric coil cooktops?
A5: Like all heating appliances, caution is key. Ensure proper installation for built-in models. Many modern coil cooktops include safety features like push-to-turn knobs, indicator lights for active burners, and lower wattage settings for steady heating (which prevents excessive heat cycling). Always keep flammable materials away from hot burners.
Q6: What does “ADA compliant” mean for a cooktop?
A6: ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant cooktops are designed with features that improve accessibility, such as upfront controls that don’t require reaching over hot burners, and easy-to-operate knobs. This makes them suitable for a wider range of users, including those with mobility challenges.
Q7: Can I replace individual coil elements on my cooktop?
A7: Yes, in most cases, electric coil elements are designed to be removable and replaceable. This is a significant advantage, as it means you can often fix a malfunctioning burner without needing to replace the entire cooktop, which can be a cost-effective solution. (See Product 10 for an example of a replacement cartridge).
Conclusion
Choosing the right cooktop is a big decision for any kitchen, and electric coil cooktops continue to prove their worth with their blend of durability, consistent performance, and value. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a casual cook, there’s an electric coil cooktop out there that fits your lifestyle and culinary ambitions. From built-in units that become the heart of your kitchen to portable burners that offer flexible cooking solutions, these appliances are designed to make your time in the kitchen enjoyable and efficient.
We hope this guide has illuminated your options and helped you pinpoint the perfect electric coil cooktops for your home. Happy cooking!
