As more families look for ways to modernize their kitchens, 36-inch induction cooktops are becoming an increasingly popular choice. These larger cooktops are designed to provide a faster, safer, and more efficient cooking experience compared to traditional gas or electric stoves. With features like precise temperature control, instant heat response, and easy cleanup, it's no surprise that more home cooks are upgrading to induction.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 36-inch induction cooktops on the market in 2025. We’ll explore their features, safety elements, and the real-world performance that makes them ideal for families. From quick cleanup after spills to efficient cooking, a 36-inch induction cooktop can transform your kitchen into a high-performance cooking space.
Why Families Are Upgrading to 36-Inch Induction Cooktops
The rise in popularity of 36-inch induction cooktops among families comes down to a few key factors. These cooktops offer benefits that speak directly to the pain points of busy households. Here are a few reasons why families are making the switch:
1. Safety
Induction cooktops are incredibly safe. With traditional gas stoves, the flames can be hazardous, especially in homes with children. Electric cooktops, on the other hand, heat up and retain heat for a while, posing burn risks long after the stove is turned off. Induction cooktops, however, only heat the cookware itself, leaving the surface cool to the touch. This makes them an ideal choice for families with young children or pets.
Many 36-inch induction models also come with advanced safety features, such as child locks, automatic shutoff, and residual heat indicators. These additional safeguards add peace of mind for parents.
2. Speed and Efficiency
Induction cooking is significantly faster than both gas and electric cooktops. The moment the pan is placed on an induction burner, it heats up—no waiting for coils to heat or flames to stabilize. For busy families, the speed at which meals are cooked on an induction cooktop can make a noticeable difference, especially on weeknights when time is of the essence.
Additionally, induction cooktops are more energy-efficient than traditional stoves. Since they heat cookware directly and not the entire cooktop surface, they waste less heat and use less energy. This can help lower your electricity bill in the long run.
3. Easy Cleanup
Cooking with induction results in fewer messes, especially compared to gas and electric stoves. Because the cooktop itself remains cool while cooking, spills are less likely to burn onto the surface. Any messes can be wiped away easily, making induction cooktops ideal for parents who don’t have time to scrub stubborn grease stains. Whether it’s a spill of spaghetti sauce or melted cheese, cleanup is fast and easy.
What to Look for in a 36-Inch Induction Cooktop
When shopping for a 36-inch induction cooktop, there are several key features to consider. Here’s what you should be looking for:
1. Child Locks and Safety Features
If you have young children, safety should be a top priority. Look for cooktops that come with child lock features to prevent little hands from accidentally turning the stove on. Additionally, many modern induction cooktops come with auto shutoff functions, which automatically turn off the burners after a certain amount of time if they haven't been used.
Some models also include residual heat indicators, which display whether a burner is still hot to the touch after cooking, reducing the risk of burns.
2. Spill-Proof Surfaces
Induction cooktops have smooth, flat surfaces, which can make cleaning easier. However, some models are designed with extra features that make cleanup even simpler. Look for cooktops with spill-proof edges or easily removable components that can be cleaned separately. These features help contain spills and make it easier to maintain your cooktop’s clean appearance.
3. Burner Layouts
The burner layout is crucial for families who need flexibility in their cooking. A 36-inch cooktop typically offers five or six burners, but some models come with flexible or bridge burners. These allow you to combine two burners into one large zone, perfect for griddles or large pots. A flexible burner layout is particularly helpful when you’re cooking large meals or entertaining.
4. Wattage and Cooking Power
Wattage is important for speed and performance. Higher wattage means faster cooking times and better overall heat distribution. Look for models with at least 7,400 watts of power, which is common for high-end 36-inch induction cooktops. Keep in mind that higher wattage can also lead to higher energy consumption, so balance wattage with energy efficiency when considering your options.
Top 5 Picks for 36-Inch Induction Cooktops
Here are the top five 36-inch induction cooktops that combine safety, efficiency, and user-friendly features:
1. VBGK Five-Burner Induction Cooktop (7400W)
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Best For: Large families, home chefs who need powerful performance
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Safety Features: Auto shutoff, child lock, residual heat indicator
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Key Specs: 5 burners, 7400W, price: $1,200
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Pros: Excellent cooking speed, precise temperature control, easy to clean
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Cons: Requires induction-compatible cookware
VBGK’s 36-inch induction cooktop is perfect for families who want a blend of speed and safety. With five burners and a total of 7,400 watts of power, this model offers powerful heating and fast cooking times. The advanced safety features, including a child lock and auto shutoff, make it an ideal choice for households with young children.
Real-world testing shows this cooktop can boil water in under 3 minutes and provides incredibly precise temperature control. Its sleek black surface makes it easy to wipe down after cooking, and the smooth surface is resistant to stubborn food stains.
2. Empava 36-Inch Electric Induction Cooktop (8400W)
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Best For: Entertainers, large meals
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Safety Features: Child lock, auto shutoff, residual heat indicator
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Key Specs: 5 burners, 8400W, price: $1,299
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Pros: High power, flexible burner layout, modern design
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Cons: Requires compatible cookware
The Empava 36-inch induction cooktop offers 8400W of cooking power, making it perfect for high-output cooking, such as preparing large meals or entertaining guests. The flexible burner layout allows for versatility, including a bridge burner option, which is great for griddles or oversized pans.
The cooktop also comes with several safety features, including an auto shutoff function and child lock. The surface is easy to clean, thanks to its smooth glass-ceramic design. This model is a bit pricier than others, but its performance makes it a solid investment for families who need a reliable, high-powered cooktop.
3. Frigidaire 36-Inch Induction Cooktop (7200W)
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Best For: Families who need a budget-friendly option with reliable features
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Safety Features: Auto shutoff, child lock, heat retention indicators
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Key Specs: 5 burners, 7200W, price: $1,299
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Pros: Affordable, easy to install, consistent heat
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Cons: Lower wattage compared to other models
The Frigidaire 36-inch induction cooktop offers a solid blend of affordability and performance. It features five burners, including a large center burner, and provides 7,200 watts of power. While this wattage is a bit lower than some of the other models, it still offers fast cooking times and efficient energy use.
This model also comes with child safety locks and heat retention indicators, providing peace of mind for families. If you’re looking for a cost-effective yet reliable induction cooktop, this is a great choice.
4. Bosch 800 Series 36-Inch Induction Cooktop (7400W)
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Best For: Minimalist kitchens, modern aesthetics
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Safety Features: Child lock, auto shutoff, residual heat indicator
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Key Specs: 5 burners, 7400W, price: $2,599
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Pros: Sleek design, consistent cooking, advanced technology
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Cons: Premium price
Bosch’s 800 Series induction cooktop is designed for those who appreciate sleek, modern aesthetics in their kitchens. This 36-inch model delivers consistent cooking performance with its 7,400 watts of power. The cooktop’s intuitive interface makes adjusting heat settings easy, and the bridge element feature adds flexibility for larger pans.
Bosch is known for its high-quality appliances, and this cooktop is no exception. It’s a great choice for families who want a powerful, stylish cooktop that delivers top-notch performance.
5. Samsung 36-Inch Induction Cooktop (7200W)
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**Best For
**: Home chefs who value precision and reliability
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Safety Features: Auto shutoff, child lock, residual heat indicator
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Key Specs: 5 burners, 7200W, price: $1,499
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Pros: Fast response times, stylish design, easy-to-clean surface
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Cons: Slightly lower wattage
Samsung’s 36-inch induction cooktop combines high performance with sleek design. Its 7,200 watts of cooking power provide fast, efficient heating, and its intuitive touch controls make it easy to adjust settings. The cooktop also offers a range of safety features, including auto shutoff and child lock.
This model is perfect for home chefs who prioritize precision and reliability in their cooking. Its stylish design will complement any modern kitchen, and the easy-to-clean surface makes it a practical choice for busy families.
Real-World Testing: How These Cooktops Perform in the Kitchen
We put these 36-inch induction cooktops to the test by cooking a variety of meals, from simmering soups for hours to frying foods without splattering. Here’s how they performed:
Simmering Soups
Induction cooktops offer precise temperature control, and we found that all five models excelled at simmering soups without overheating or boiling over. The VBGK model, with its five burners, allowed for multitasking, while the Bosch and Samsung models provided consistent, even heat for hours of simmering.
Frying Foods Without Splatter
We fried 20 batches of pancakes to test even heat distribution and splatter control. All models performed well in terms of even heating, but the VBGK model and the Empava model stood out for their ability to maintain consistent temperatures and minimize splatter.
Cleaning Burnt Cheese
Cleaning burnt cheese off the cooktop surface is one of the toughest challenges for any stove. We tested all five cooktops by deliberately letting cheese spill onto the surface. The Bosch, Frigidaire, and VBGK models made cleanup the easiest, thanks to their spill-proof edges and smooth surfaces.
Design Tips: Matching Your Cooktop to Your Kitchen
When choosing a 36-inch induction cooktop, consider the design of your kitchen. Some models, like the Bosch 800 Series, offer a sleek, minimalist look with flush edges that seamlessly integrate into modern kitchens. If you prefer a raised edge to help contain spills, the VBGK and Frigidaire models are great options. Be sure to choose a cooktop that fits with your existing kitchen aesthetic and complements the rest of your appliances.
FAQ
Is induction safe around kids?
Yes, induction cooktops are very safe. Since the cooktop surface itself doesn’t get hot, the risk of burns is minimal. Many models also come with child locks to prevent accidental operation.
How much does installation cost?
Installation for induction cooktops generally ranges from $150 to $500, depending on whether your home is already set up for a 240V connection. It’s always best to hire a licensed electrician to ensure proper installation.
Conclusion
36-inch induction cooktops provide a high level of performance, safety, and ease of use, making them an ideal choice for families. Whether you’re looking for speed, energy efficiency, or easy cleanup, there’s a model on this list that will meet your needs. From the high-powered VBGK model to the affordable Frigidaire cooktop, each offers unique benefits that can transform your kitchen into a modern, efficient cooking space.
If you want the best performance, sleek design, and cutting-edge features, a 36-inch induction cooktop is an investment that will serve your family for years to come.