Induction cooktop vs. electric stove burner: running cost
An induction cooktop is cheaper to run: about $59 a year versus $59 for an electric stove burner at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $0 difference.
| Induction cooktop | Electric stove burner | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,800 W | 1,500 W |
| Watt range | 1,200–3,700 W | 1,000–3,000 W |
| Typical use | 1 hour a day | 1 hour a day |
| Energy per year | 329 kWh | 329 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 16¢ | 16¢ |
| Cost per day | 16¢ | 16¢ |
| Cost per month | $4.93 | $4.93 |
| Cost per year | $59 | $59 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $143 | $143 |
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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 stove burner: Electric coil and radiant smooth-top burners are rated 1.2-3 kW and cycle at medium settings. A typical household uses burners about an hour a day across meals.
Ways to cut either cost
Flat, magnetic-bottomed pans couple efficiently with the coil for faster, cheaper heating.
See options on AmazonInduction transfers about 85% of its energy into the pan versus about 70% for radiant and coil burners.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, an induction cooktop or an electric stove burner?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an electric stove burner costs about $59 a year versus $59 for an induction cooktop. That's $0 more.
How many watts do induction cooktop and electric stove burner use?
An induction cooktop typically draws 1,800 W (range 1,200–3,700 W). An electric stove burner draws 1,500 W (range 1,000–3,000 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.