Induction cooktop vs. electric oven: running cost
An electric oven is cheaper to run: about $45 a year versus $59 for an induction cooktop at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $14 difference.
| Induction cooktop | Electric oven | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,800 W | 3,000 W |
| Watt range | 1,200–3,700 W | 2,000–5,000 W |
| Typical use | 1 hour a day | 3 hour of bakings a week |
| Energy per year | 329 kWh | 250 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 16¢ | 29¢ |
| Cost per day | 16¢ | 12¢ |
| Cost per month | $4.93 | $3.75 |
| Cost per year | $59 | $45 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $143 | $109 |
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What drives the difference
- Induction cooktop: Induction delivers about 85% of its energy into the pan, so it needs less total energy than radiant or coil burners for the same cooking. A portable 120 V unit maxes out at 1,800 W.
- Electric oven: A standard 30-inch electric oven has a 2.5-3.5 kW bake element. One hour at 350°F, including about 15 minutes of preheat, uses roughly 1.5-2 kWh as the element cycles.
Ways to cut either cost
Heats a much smaller space with 1,200-1,800 W and needs little or no preheat, using roughly half the energy for small batches.
See options on AmazonCooks small portions in 15-20 minutes at about 1,500 W, often 50-70% less energy than a full oven.
See options on AmazonFlat, magnetic-bottomed pans couple efficiently with the coil for faster, cheaper heating.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, an induction cooktop or an electric oven?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an induction cooktop costs about $59 a year versus $45 for an electric oven. That's $14 more, or 1.3× as much.
How many watts do induction cooktop and electric oven use?
An induction cooktop typically draws 1,800 W (range 1,200–3,700 W). An electric oven draws 3,000 W (range 2,000–5,000 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.