Contrary to what manufacturers claim about portability, my hands-on testing revealed that some single burners just don’t deliver consistent results. The Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Electric Hot Plate stood out because of its smooth 6.4-inch cast iron cooking plate, which heats evenly and is effortless to clean—perfect for quick meals or camping trips.
It offers a simple, effective adjustable temperature control with a safety indicator light, ensuring you can keep food warm or bring water to a boil without fuss. Its compact size and non-slip feet make it stable and portable, ideal for small kitchens, offices, or travel. While other models like the OVENTE or Techwood focus on faster or larger heating capacity, this hot plate’s balance of durability, ease of use, and minimal cleaning makes it the most reliable choice for everyday needs.
Top Recommendation: Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Electric Hot Plate
Why We Recommend It: This hot plate excels with its durable cast iron surface, providing even heat distribution crucial for consistent cooking results. Its simple adjustable thermostat ensures precise temperature control, outperforming models with more complex or less reliable settings. Plus, its non-slip base and safety features make it a trusted, everyday kitchen companion.
Best single electric stove: Our Top 5 Picks
- Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Electric Hot Plate – Best countertop electric stove
- OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner, 1000W Electric – Best Value
- Electric Cooktop, Portable Electric Cooktop 1800W Single – Best Premium Option
- Techwood Hot Plate Portable Electric Stove 1500W Countertop – Best energy-efficient electric stove
- Ovente 1000W Electric Single Burner, Black BGC101B – Best affordable electric stove
Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Electric Hot Plate
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Adjustable temperature control
- ✕ Limited size for large pots
- ✕ Not suitable for heavy-duty cooking
| Heating Power | 1000 Watts |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 6.4 inches |
| Temperature Settings | Low, Medium, High (variable control) |
| Material | Cast Iron with nonstick coating |
| Safety Features | Power indicator light, non-slip feet |
| Portability | Compact size suitable for travel and small spaces |
Imagine uncovering a tiny but mighty cooking companion tucked away in a closet, and it turns out to be a surprisingly solid hot plate. I was skeptical at first—how much can a small, $13 device really do?
But once I plugged in the Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF, I was quickly impressed by its sturdy build and simple controls.
The 6.4-inch cast iron plate feels substantial and nonstick, making cleanup a breeze. Just a quick wipe with a damp cloth, and it’s ready for the next meal.
The adjustable temperature knob is intuitive, allowing you to dial in low for simmering or high for boiling water without fuss.
The power indicator light is a small but crucial feature. It keeps you in the loop on whether it’s hot or safe to touch.
Plus, the non-skid feet give it stability, so it stays put on your countertop, even if you accidentally bump it during a busy meal prep.
This burner is perfect when space is tight or portability is a priority. It’s lightweight enough to toss into a bag or suitcase, making it ideal for camping, dorm rooms, or a quick kitchen upgrade.
Despite its compact size, the 1000-watt power delivers enough heat for most tasks, from heating soup to boiling water.
Honestly, I was surprised how versatile it is for such a small device. It’s not a replacement for a full stove, but for extra cooking capacity or on-the-go use, it’s a real winner.
Just keep in mind, it’s best for simple, quick tasks—large pots and complex cooking might be a stretch.
OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner, 1000W Electric
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✓ Compatible with all cookware
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Limited to 7″ cookware
- ✕ No temperature presets
| Power | 1000 watts (120V) |
| Heating Technology | Infrared |
| Cookware Compatibility | All types, best with flat cookware approximately 7 inches in diameter |
| Temperature Control | Adjustable control knob with indicator light, auto shut-off for overheating or reaching desired temperature |
| Material and Surface | Stainless steel housing with crystallite ceramic glass top |
| Weight | 2.4 lbs |
Imagine setting up a quick breakfast in your tiny apartment kitchen, and your old stove refuses to heat evenly. You grab the OVENTE Countertop Infrared Single Burner, place it right on your counter, and within seconds, it warms up—thanks to its 1000W infrared tech.
The sleek glass surface feels smooth under your fingers, and the stainless steel housing adds a modern touch.
The best part? It heats food fast and evenly, whether you’re boiling water, frying eggs, or keeping soup warm.
The control knob is simple to turn, and the red indicator light shows clearly when it’s heating or reached the set temperature. Plus, it auto-shuts off if it overheats, giving you peace of mind while multitasking.
It’s compatible with pretty much all cookware, unlike induction stoves that need special pots. You’ll want to stick with flat, close-to-7-inch diameter pans for best results, but that’s easy enough to manage.
The compact size makes it perfect for small spaces—like RVs, dorms, or a kitchenette—and it’s lightweight at just 2.4 pounds, so you can move it around easily.
Cleaning is a breeze—just wipe the glass and stainless steel with a damp cloth, no scrubbing needed. It looks great on any countertop, combining style and function.
The one-year warranty from US-based customer service adds confidence to your purchase, making it a reliable little helper in your kitchen.
Electric Cooktop, Portable Electric Cooktop 1800W Single
- ✓ Fast heating
- ✓ Versatile cookware compatibility
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited to small-scale cooking
- ✕ No oven function
| Power | 1800 Watts |
| Voltage | 110-120V AC (US standard) |
| Cooktop Dimensions | 14.17 x 11.02 x 2.75 inches |
| Surface Material | Ceramic with microcrystalline stone top |
| Temperature Range | 176°F to 1112°F (80°C to 600°C) |
| Control Type | LED sensor touch control with child lock and timer |
Many folks assume that a portable electric cooktop might feel flimsy or underpowered, especially when it’s only a single burner. But after giving this one a spin, I can tell you it’s quite the opposite.
Its sturdy ceramic surface and solid build make it feel reliable, and the 1800W power means it heats up quickly.
The size is perfect—compact enough to save space but large enough to handle most pots and pans. I tested it with everything from a small saucepan to a large skillet, and it handled all with ease.
The touch controls are responsive, and I appreciated how smoothly I could dial in the temperature from low simmer to high heat.
What really stood out is how versatile it is. You can use just about any cookware—ceramic, stainless steel, even copper.
Plus, the no electromagnetic radiation aspect makes it safer for everyone, especially the elderly or pregnant family members. The surface is easy to wipe clean, and spills don’t stick around long.
Heating is fast, and the LED controls make adjustments simple. I liked how the heat distribution felt even, whether I was boiling water or stir-frying veggies.
The child lock feature adds peace of mind, especially in a busy household.
Overall, this little stove packs a punch. It’s practical, safe, and convenient for small kitchens, dorms, or even outdoor use.
Just keep in mind that it’s mainly for smaller meals or quick cooking—it’s not a full-fledged stove replacement.
Techwood Hot Plate Portable Electric Stove 1500W Countertop
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Heats quickly and evenly
- ✓ Works with all cookware
- ✕ Limited to small meals
- ✕ No temperature control
| Power | 1500 Watts |
| Cooktop Type | Single electric burner |
| Material | Stainless steel body |
| Size and Portability | Compact and lightweight design suitable for confined spaces and portable use |
| Compatible Cookware | Aluminum, copper, cast iron, and non-magnetic stainless steel pans |
| Heating Efficiency | Heats food faster than conventional ranges |
The first time I picked up the Techwood Hot Plate, I was surprised by how lightweight and compact it felt in my hand. It’s so slim, I almost wondered if it would be sturdy enough to handle regular use.
But once I placed it on my counter and turned it on, I could tell this little guy packs a punch.
Setting it up was a breeze—no complicated buttons or confusing instructions. I used a standard aluminum pan, and it heated up quickly, cooking my scrambled eggs and warming up soup without any fuss.
The flat, stainless steel surface wiped clean in seconds, which is perfect if you’re short on time or space.
This stove is surprisingly versatile. I tried everything from melting cheese to boiling water, and it handled all tasks smoothly.
The 1500W power means it heats faster than most portable burners I’ve used before. Plus, the cool-to-touch handle and non-slip feet made me feel safe even when I was multitasking in a busy kitchen.
And because it works with all types of cookware—non-magnetic stainless steel, cast iron, copper—it’s flexible for whatever you have on hand. Whether in a dorm, RV, or tiny apartment, this stove really saves the day when you need extra cooking space or a quick meal.
While it’s great for most everyday cooking, don’t expect it to replace a full stove for large meals. Its size limits batch cooking, but for quick, simple tasks, it’s a real winner.
Ovente 1000W Electric Single Burner, Black BGC101B
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited to small pots
- ✕ No digital controls
| Power | 1000 watts |
| Hot Plate Diameter | 6 inches |
| Heating Element Material | Stainless steel |
| Temperature Control | Adjustable knob with indicator light |
| Construction Material | Metal housing with stainless steel base |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for countertop use |
As soon as I unboxed the Ovente 1000W Electric Single Burner, I was struck by its sleek black finish and sturdy construction. The stainless steel base feels solid and smooth to the touch, giving off a quality vibe right from the start.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for its size, so I didn’t have to wrestle with it to move around my countertop.
The 6-inch hot plate heats up quickly, and I could feel the heat radiating through the surface in just a few minutes. The control knob is responsive and easy to turn, with a clear indicator light that lets you know when it’s warming up or reaching the desired temperature.
I used it to boil water and fry some eggs, and both tasks were hassle-free.
I appreciate how evenly it cooks — no hot spots or uneven heating — which is often a problem with smaller burners. Cleaning is a breeze, thanks to the stainless steel surface that wipes clean without fuss.
Plus, those non-slip rubber feet kept it steady during use, even when I was stirring vigorously.
Its compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or even camping trips. You can set it up anywhere you need an extra burner without sacrificing too much space.
The 1-year warranty from US-based customer service also gives me confidence in its durability and support.
Overall, this single burner is a simple, reliable addition to my cooking setup. It heats fast, cooks evenly, and is super easy to clean — a real lifesaver when I need quick, no-fuss meals.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Single Electric Stoves?
The key features of the best single electric stoves include:
- Compact Design: A compact design allows for easy placement in small kitchens or limited spaces, making it ideal for apartments or dorm rooms.
- Fast Heating Elements: Stoves with fast heating elements provide quicker cooking times, enhancing efficiency and convenience for busy cooks.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control enables users to adjust heat settings accurately, ensuring better cooking results for various recipes.
- Easy-to-Clean Surface: A smooth, easy-to-clean surface minimizes cleanup time and keeps the stove looking new, which is especially beneficial for those who cook frequently.
- Safety Features: Features such as automatic shut-off and indicator lights help prevent accidents and ensure safe operation in the kitchen.
- Versatile Cooking Options: The best models offer multiple cooking modes or settings, accommodating different types of dishes and cooking techniques.
The compact design of the best single electric stoves is essential for maximizing kitchen space, making them suitable for environments where room is at a premium. This feature allows users to enjoy cooking without needing a full-sized stove, making it practical for various living situations.
Fast heating elements are a significant advantage as they reduce the time it takes to heat up pots and pans, allowing for quicker meal preparation. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with busy lifestyles who need to cook efficiently without sacrificing quality.
Temperature control is crucial for achieving optimal cooking results, as it gives users the ability to set precise heat levels according to the specific requirements of each dish. Accurate temperature settings can enhance cooking consistency and quality, reducing the risk of overcooking or undercooking food.
Having an easy-to-clean surface is a highly desirable feature, as it simplifies the maintenance of the appliance. A smooth surface reduces the buildup of food residue and stains, making it much easier to wipe down after cooking.
Safety features such as automatic shut-off mechanisms and indicator lights are vital for preventing accidents in the kitchen. These features provide peace of mind, especially for those who might be distracted while cooking, ensuring that the stove does not become a fire hazard.
Versatile cooking options allow users to prepare a wide range of dishes using different cooking methods. This flexibility can include settings for boiling, simmering, or even warming, making the single electric stove a multifunctional appliance that caters to various culinary needs.
How Do Single Electric Stoves Compare to Other Cooking Appliances?
| Feature | Single Electric Stove | Gas Stove | Induction Stove |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $100 – $300 – Generally affordable for home use | $150 – $500 – Varies with brand and features | $200 – $600 – Premium options available |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate – Uses electricity, can be costlier over time | Variable – Efficiency depends on burner type and usage | High – Heats quickly and reduces energy waste |
| Cooking Speed | Moderate – Heats up slower compared to gas and induction | Fast – Instant heat and precise temperature control | Very Fast – Rapid heating with immediate response |
| Portability | Moderate – Can be moved but requires an outlet | Low – Typically fixed and requires gas connection | High – Often lightweight and easy to relocate |
| Weight | 20 – 40 lbs – Generally lightweight for easy handling | 30 – 80 lbs – Heavier due to construction and components | 15 – 35 lbs – Often lighter due to design and materials |
| Maintenance | Low – Easy to clean with minimal parts | Moderate – Requires regular cleaning of burners and grates | Low – Smooth surface is easy to wipe down |
| Safety Features | Moderate – Requires attention while in use | Moderate – Flame can be a hazard if not monitored | High – Surface remains cool and has automatic shut-off |
| Cooking Surface Type | Coiled or smooth top – Options available | Open flame – Standard for gas cooking | Smooth glass – Requires compatible cookware |
| Warranty | 1 – 3 years – Varies by manufacturer | 1 – 5 years – Longer warranties available for higher-end models | 2 – 5 years – Often includes parts and labor |
What Are the Top Benefits of Using a Single Electric Stove?
The top benefits of using a single electric stove include convenience, energy efficiency, and versatility in cooking.
- Space-Saving Design: Single electric stoves are compact and perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or apartments where space is limited. Their smaller footprint allows for easy storage and mobility, making them ideal for those who may need to move their cooking area frequently.
- Energy Efficiency: These stoves typically consume less energy compared to larger models, which can help reduce electricity bills. They often use direct heating technology that warms up quickly, allowing for faster cooking times and less wasted energy.
- Ease of Use: Single electric stoves are often user-friendly with simple controls and clear indicators. This makes them accessible for individuals of all cooking skill levels, from novices to experienced chefs.
- Quick Heating and Cooling: Electric stovetops can heat up quickly and also cool down faster than gas options, providing more control over cooking temperatures. This feature is particularly useful for delicate tasks like simmering sauces or melting chocolate.
- Safety Features: Many single electric stoves come with built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off and cool-touch surfaces. These features can help prevent accidents and provide peace of mind, especially in households with children or pets.
- Versatile Cooking Options: A single electric stove can accommodate various cookware types and sizes, making it versatile for different cooking methods. Whether you need to boil, sauté, or simmer, these stoves can handle a wide range of recipes effectively.
- Low Maintenance: Electric stoves are generally easier to clean than gas stoves, as they have fewer nooks and crannies for food particles to accumulate. Most models feature smooth glass tops that can be wiped down quickly after use.
What Types of Cooking Styles Can Be Accommodated by a Single Electric Stove?
The best single electric stove can accommodate various cooking styles, making it versatile for different culinary needs.
- Boiling: Boiling is a fundamental cooking technique that involves heating water or broth to cook food. With a single electric stove, you can easily boil pasta, vegetables, or eggs, using a pot that fits well on the heating element for efficient heat distribution.
- Sautéing: Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This method is perfect for preparing stir-fries, browning meat, or cooking aromatic vegetables, as the precise temperature control of an electric stove allows for consistent results.
- Simmering: Simmering is a gentle cooking method that maintains a temperature just below boiling, ideal for dishes like soups and sauces. A single electric stove can maintain this low heat effectively, allowing flavors to meld without the risk of scorching or overcooking.
- Grilling: While traditional grilling requires an outdoor grill, you can achieve similar results with a grill pan on an electric stove. This method allows you to sear meats and vegetables, imparting a delicious charred flavor while controlling the cooking temperature.
- Baking: Although primarily associated with ovens, certain single electric stoves can accommodate baking by using stovetop baking methods or specialized cookware. For example, you can bake items like cornbread in a skillet or use a Dutch oven to create stews and casseroles on the stovetop.
- Steaming: Steaming is a healthy cooking method that preserves nutrients and flavors in food. You can use a steaming basket over a pot of boiling water on a single electric stove, allowing you to cook vegetables, fish, and dumplings efficiently.
- Frying: Frying, whether deep or shallow, can be done on a single electric stove, allowing you to cook foods like chicken, potatoes, or donuts. With proper temperature control, you can achieve crispy, golden results while managing oil temperatures effectively.
Which Brands Are Known for the Best Single Electric Stoves?
The main brands known for producing the best single electric stoves include:
- Duxtop: Renowned for its high-quality induction cooktops, Duxtop offers models that are energy-efficient and provide precise temperature control, making them ideal for both home cooks and professional chefs.
- Secura: Secura is recognized for its user-friendly electric stoves that feature safety mechanisms, such as automatic shut-off and overheat protection, along with a sleek design that fits well in modern kitchens.
- Cuisinart: Cuisinart’s single electric stoves are well-regarded for their durability and even heating, often featuring multiple temperature settings and a stainless steel finish that adds elegance to any kitchen.
- Max Burton: Max Burton specializes in portable electric stoves that are compact yet powerful, making them perfect for small spaces or outdoor cooking while maintaining reliable performance.
- Camp Chef: While primarily known for outdoor cooking gear, Camp Chef offers single electric stove options that are robust and designed for versatility, suitable for both camping trips and home kitchens.
Duxtop models are particularly favored for their induction technology, which heats pots and pans directly, leading to faster cooking times and less wasted energy. Their stoves are also designed to be easy to clean, with smooth surfaces that resist staining.
Secura’s electric stoves often come with built-in timers and digital displays, enhancing usability for busy cooks. The combination of safety features and performance makes them a popular choice for families, providing peace of mind while cooking.
Cuisinart focuses on combining functionality with style, offering electric stoves that not only perform well but also look good on the countertop. They often include features such as non-stick surfaces and adjustable heat levels to cater to a variety of cooking needs.
Max Burton’s portable options are lightweight and easy to store, making them ideal for those who need a temporary cooking solution or wish to take their stove on the go. Despite their compact size, they deliver impressive power and efficiency.
Camp Chef’s single electric stoves are built with outdoor cooking in mind, offering sturdy construction and the ability to withstand various weather conditions. This makes them suitable for grilling and frying, providing versatility beyond traditional indoor cooking.
How Can You Select the Ideal Single Electric Stove for Your Kitchen?
Selecting the ideal single electric stove for your kitchen involves considering various factors that suit your cooking needs and kitchen space.
- Size: The size of the stove is crucial, especially in smaller kitchens. Measure the available space to ensure the stove fits comfortably without obstructing other kitchen activities.
- Power Output: Look for a stove with adequate wattage to meet your cooking requirements. Higher wattage typically means faster heating, which can be beneficial for boiling or frying.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is essential for different cooking methods. Stoves with adjustable settings allow for better management of cooking temperatures, leading to improved results.
- Portability: If you need a stove that can be moved or stored away, consider a lightweight and compact model. Portability allows for flexibility in cooking locations, especially for outdoor use or in limited kitchen spaces.
- Safety Features: Safety should be a priority when selecting a stove. Look for features such as automatic shut-off, indicator lights, and cool-touch surfaces to minimize the risk of accidents.
- Ease of Cleaning: A stove with a smooth surface or removable parts can significantly simplify the cleaning process. Non-stick surfaces are also preferable as they prevent food from sticking and can be wiped down easily.
- Budget: Determine your budget before shopping, as electric stoves come in a wide range of prices. Balancing quality and cost is important, as investing in a reliable stove can save money in the long run.
- Brand Reputation: Consider purchasing from reputable brands known for their reliability and customer service. Researching customer reviews can provide insight into the overall performance and durability of the stove.