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Tuesday, June 6th, 2023

15 Best Portable Single Burner | Reviews + Buyer’s Guide

Best Portable Single Burner 1

You can’t take your kitchen along while traveling, but how about carrying a portable single burner?

After all, there are very few feelings that can match the delight of having a home-cooked meal. However, it’s not only the portability that makes these appliances a customer favorite. The high power output can give bigger stoves a run for their money.

That’s why we thought of getting one immediately. But that wasn’t to be as the plethora of options left us confused. But did we give up? Absolutely not!

To make things a little less complicated, we have narrowed down the 15 best portable single burners that money can buy. On top of that, we’ve also included a comprehensive buyer’s guide at the end for our readers to take the right pick.

With all said and done, let’s begin!

Best Portable Single Burners  

Copper turk with coffee on gas burner on the background of river and hills. Coffee preparing on the banks of mountain river on portable gas stove during hiking trip. Tourism concept.

  1. Elite Gourmet Countertop Electric Hot Burner

We get the ball rolling with the Elite Gourmet Countertop Electric Hot Burner. It sports a simple design but is highly effective for medium-duty cooking and heating needs. With a straightforward operation, this portable burner won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Sale
Elite Gourmet ESB-301F Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner,...
  • EASY TO CLEAN: 6.4-inch Cast Iron flat cooking plate is...
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Quickly reach and sustain...

Why Did We Like It?

For starters, we fell back on the positive customer feedback to put our trust in this product. Featuring a sturdy plastic body, it has a high power output of 1000 watts for fast and efficient cooking. Moreover, the compact design is ideal for crowded cooking platforms. And it wouldn’t take up much space in the luggage either.

But its plastic construction and small footprint should not be mistaken for inferior quality. In fact, its heating ability is at par with most traditional cooktops. The non-stick cast iron plate ensures proper heat distribution, which is especially beneficial for larger containers. Besides, the temperature control knob is conveniently located at the front with off, low, med, warm, and high settings. 

We loved how the cool-touch base stays true to its purpose even when the heat is cranked up to the highest. This means you can easily place the burner on any surface without worrying about heat-related damage.

Finished with a stable base supported by four small leg-like structures, this unit leaves very little room for complaint. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

Although not very alarming, we should mention that the cast iron plate doesn’t cool down very quickly. Hence, we’d suggest you unplug it as soon as you switch it off and wait for at least 20 minutes before putting it away. Other than that, there is nothing else we can crib about.

Pros
  • Easy-to-clean heating plate
  • Sealed knob burner
  • Non-skid rubber feet
  • Power indicator light
Cons
  • The heating plate takes time to cool off
  1. Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop

Next up, we have the Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop. This lightweight unit is integrated with multiple user-friendly features for a hassle-free experience. What’s more, the diverse temperature range and power settings allow you to cook a range of dishes.

Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop Countertop Burner,...
  • Duxtop Induction Cooktop uses 120V 15 amp electrical outlet...
  • Digital control panel. Built-in count-down digital timer...

Why Did We Like It?

At first glance, it was the black crystal-glass plate that got our attention. It’s just the right size to accommodate most of your standard induction-compatible magnetic cookware without actually taking up too much space. And since there’s no open flame or heating element, cleaning the top takes the least effort. So, that’s a bonus!

However, its biggest highlight is the digital control panel, which takes the versatility factor a notch higher. Starting from the left, you’ll find the power button, LED display box, plus-minus buttons, and three operational controls, viz., the temperature, power setting, and timer. 

While the temperature ranges between 140 to 460 degrees Fahrenheit, the power level has 10 increments from 200 to 1800 watts. Likewise, the built-in timer has 1-minute increments of up to 170 minutes. 

We also appreciate that the unit has an auto-pan detection feature to conserve power. This means it’ll automatically turn off after 60 seconds if no cookware is detected. And finally, there’s a low/high voltage warning system to prevent malfunctioning. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

For all things good, there are a few aspects that we’d like to improve. Firstly, the fan sound becomes very loud when the unit is placed in a cramped space. Secondly, the induction doesn’t have the most compact design, so be prepared to make significant room on the countertop. 

Pros
  • Intuitive control panel
  • Uniform heat distribution for long service life
  • Easy-to-read display
  • 2-year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
  • Loud fan
  • Not very compact
  1. IMUSA GAU-80305 Electric Single Burner

Another of our top recommendations is the IMUSA GAU-80305 Electric Single Burner. This simple unit is super-affordable and lets you cook anywhere you have a plug. With a high power output, it can well become your go-to cooking appliance.

IMUSA USA GAU-80305 Electric Single Burner 1100-Watts, Black
  • Can Be Used for Cooking Outdoors or in the Office
  • Features a Temperature Regulating Knob with Heat...

Why Did We Like It?

The IMUSA GAU-80305 Electric Single Burner doesn’t have a charming appearance, but its effectiveness and utility are at par with many high-end units. Unlike the Elite Gourmet Countertop Electric Hot Burner, it has an aluminum build, making it extremely resistant to regular rough use. Additionally, the metal construction contributes to its stability.

Coming to the rest of the design, the unit mainly functions with a 1,000-watts heating coil that’s responsible for consistent heat distribution. Even if the cookware base doesn’t cover the entire coil, it won’t result in a longer cooking time. It took us around 45 minutes to prepare a full-fledged hotpot with frozen ingredients.

But what appealed to us the most is the stainless steel drip tray, which protects the accumulation of food and liquid on the hot plate. Not only that but the heating coil can also be easily removed for cleaning purposes.

Complete with an indicator light and temperature control knob, this single burner is ideal for people who are on a tight budget.  

What Could’ve Been Better?

Owing to the all-metal construction, the unit tends to get heated up when running for prolonged periods. Hence, the brand recommends operating it only for 60 minutes at a time and allowing it to fully cool down before the next use.

Pros
  • Non-slip rubber feet for reinforced stability
  • Removable heating coil
  • 3 temperature settings
  • Available in a stainless steel variant
Cons
  • The body heats up during use
  1. CUSIMAX CMHP-C150N Electric Hot Plate

When it comes to portable single burners, Cusimax is a name that hardly needs any introduction. And the CMHP-C150N Electric Hot Plate totally justifies that reputation. With its fast heating abilities, this unit definitely packs a punch for its size.

CUSIMAX 1500W Electric Hot Plate, Hot Plate for Cooking...
  • [Portable Hot Plate]--Features compact stainless steel body,...
  • [Works With All Types of Cookware]--Pots and pans ranging to...

Why Did We Like It?

Hot plates compatible with varied cookware are always a big yes, and this unit is no exception. Its 1500-watt cast iron hot plate has a 7.5-inch diameter and sits atop a stainless steel housing that’s built to resist the wear and tear of everyday use. For optimum heating, the brand recommends using pans and skillets not more than 7.4-inch diameter.

Furthermore, the bottom comprises 4 anti-slip feet-like extensions, responsible for stabilizing the unit even on slippery surfaces. In addition, they raise the cooktop to the right height to prevent the surface below from developing any heat-related damage. Once the unit cools down post-cooking, you can wipe it with a soft clean cloth.

The adjustable thermostat control knob is placed on top of the housing instead of the commonly used side panel. In hindsight, this smart design negates the need for extra clearance in tight areas. Lastly, the unit has a low-noise operation that won’t hammer your eardrums. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

One significant issue that may cause some trouble is that the stainless steel housing gets heated to the point where the slightest touch may cause burns. Hence, you may want to put on a pair of good-quality mittens while using the cooktop.

Pros
  • Hot plate retains heat after disengaging power supply
  • No radiation, no noise
  • Corrosion-resistant housing
  • Automatic shutoff for high temperature
Cons
  • Metal housing gets very hot
  1. Ovente BGI101S Single Hot Plate Electric Countertop

The Ovente BGI101S Single Hot Plate Electric Countertops is one of the sleekest units on our list. But there’s more than just the design that earns our praise. Made from a blend of stainless steel and glass, it heats up in a quick time.

Sale
OVENTE Electric Single Infrared Burner 7 Inch Ceramic Glass...
  • HASSLE-FREE COOKING EXPERIENCE – Powered by 120V (1000W),...
  • COMPATIBLE WITH ALL COOKWARE – This countertop burner...

Why Did We Like It?

This Ovente BGI101S surpasses its predecessor in terms of the technology used. The infrared technology accounts for powering the smooth top with high power for quick cooking on the go. As a result, the electric plate gets heated up without leaving any cold spots. 

Unlike a lot of other induction cooktops that don’t support a range of cookware, this one is compatible with almost all types of cookware. However, we found this induction to be most effective with the flat-bottomed ones, which are close to the 7-inch diameter of the plate.

On that note, both the crystalline ceramic glass top and metal housing can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth. Just a few swipes and the induction becomes as good as new!

Operation-wise, you’ll notice that the hot plate emits a bright red light as soon as you turn it on. After a few seconds, the light becomes dim, meaning that the plate is just warm enough. You can then control the heat using the 5-setting knob located at the front. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

We’d have liked the plate to be a tad bit bigger to better accommodate larger cookware. Moreover, we observed that there’s very little difference between the highest and lowest heat setting. So, it may not be suitable for temperature-sensitive cooking tasks.

Pros
  • Ideal for small studios, RVs, and kitchenettes
  • Compatible with stainless steel and ceramic cookware
  • Light indicator
  • Non-slip rubberized feet
Cons
  • Doesn’t have a wide temperature range
  1. SUNAVO HP102-D2 Electric Single Burner Hot Plate

The Sunavo HP102-D2 Electric Single Burner is the latest addition to the brand’s long line of electric burners, and as such, finds a mention on our list. With a compact yet durable design, it’s bound to meet all your cooking needs.

SUNAVO 1500W Hot Plates for Cooking, Electric Single Burner...
  • 1500W High Power Hot Plate: The latest hot plate is 1500W...
  • Works with all Cookwares: Works with flat cookwares such as...

Why Did We Like It?

From a visual point of view, the Sunavo HP102-D2 comes across as a modified version of the Ovente BGI101S. In fact, this similarity is what tempted us to try this product in the first place. At the heart of the unit is a 1500-watt high-power hot plate that works with all cookware. From steak plates to frying pans and more, no variant is a mismatch!

Beyond that, it’s powered by an exclusive heating tube technology, which is a class apart from traditional heating tubes. Aside from increased heating efficiency by up to 20%, it’s made to be corrosion-resistant for prolonged service life. Similarly, the threaded cast iron heating plate reduces cooking time by ensuring adequate heat distribution. Plus, the rotating knob facilitates 6 temperature levels.

Much like the Elite Gourmet Countertop Electric Hot Burner, this one is also integrated with an overheating protection mechanism. The hot plate will automatically turn off when the heat is too high and turn on when the temperature normalizes. And the insulated handles allow trouble-free transportation. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

Due to its heat-retaining properties, you can’t put the single burner in the cupboard or carry bag right after use. Similar to the Elite Gourmet model, it takes a minimum of 20 minutes to lose all that heat. But you can speed up the process by placing a pot of cold water to replicate a heat sink.

Pros
  • 6 levels of precise temperature control
  • Anti-rust heating tube
  • Safe to carry with insulated handles
  • Non-slip rubber feet
Cons
  • Doesn’t cool down easily
  1. Proctor Silex 34103 Electric Single Burner

If you’re looking to get an extra burner for a small cooktop, then consider the Proctor Silex 34103 Electric Single Burner. With a powerful 1000watts output, its sturdy heating coil prevents the cookware from sliding around.

Proctor Silex Electric Single Burner, Compact and Portable,...
  • Easy to Clean: The Burner Coil Lifts Up, Providing Easy...
  • Compact and Portable: the Petite Size of This Burner Makes...

Why Did We Like It?

Having tried the nearly identical IMUSA GAU-80305 Electric Single Burner, we were curious to find out what this one had to offer. And gladly, the performance wasn’t too different either. For one, the familiar heating plate is replaced by a hinged coil that perfectly allocates the heat to all parts. 

Moreover, it has a removable design to provide complete access to the stainless steel drip pan below. Just use a non-abrasive damp sponge to get rid of any spills post-cooking. 

Unlike some of the other units on the list, there’s almost zero hat transmission to the body. In combination with the less than 3 pounds weight, the Proctor Silex 34103 certainly ticks off untroubled portability.

In addition, the temperature control knob can be adjusted from anywhere between low and high settings and also doubles up as the on/off the controller.

Finally, the base is equipped with quadruple rubber feet for enhanced stability on varied surfaces, whether indoors or outdoors. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

The Proctor Silex 34103 with almost the same performance can be considered an expensive version of the IMUSA GAU-80305 burner. And weirdly enough, its 1200-watt variant is cheaper than this 1000-watt burner. You might as well go for the latter if you’re tight on budget.

Pros
  • Easy to clean
  • LED indicator
  • Stainless steel drip pan
  • 1-year limited warranty
Cons
  • Expensive
  1. CUSIMAX B101 Electric Hot Plate Single Burner

Now that we’re halfway through the list, allow us to talk about the Cusimax B101 Electric Single Burner. Its stylish design and dual engagement system make for the perfect addition to any culinary setup.

Why Did We Like It?

Before we take you through the technicalities, allow us to award this single burner with brownie points for the classy appearance! Its stainless steel back body is a fit for both indoor and outdoor decors. On top of that, the silver hot plate and control knobs make it look like a million bucks.

Moving on, the first thing that grabbed our attention was the 1500watts output, which is, in turn, based on 7 thermostatically controlled heat settings. Long story short, there are 7 heat settings that can be achieved by the silver knob on the right. It has numerical markings for greater convenience.

A good thing about this unit is the dual engagement mechanism, meaning the ignition won’t start until both knobs are turned on. This is a great way to ensure optimum safety while preventing any chances of overheating the plate. 

Last but not least, it’s safe to use with all cookware measuring 7.4 inches in diameter. Overall, the Cusimax B101 Electric Single Burner is one of the most cost-effective units on the market. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

Even at the lowest setting, the plate tends to heat up quicker than normal. Hence, we had to keep a constant watch so as not to burn the food. And while at it, you may also experience significant heat transmission to the knobs.

Pros
  • High-quality cast iron plate
  • Anti-slip rubber feet
  • Auto shutoff feature
  • Stainless steel housing can be cleaned with a damp cloth
Cons
  • Heats up very fast
  • Knobs may become hot to touch
  1. Cuisinart Cast-Iron Single Burner

With simplicity in mind, we thought it’d be fair to include the Cuisinart Cast-Iron Single Burner. Boasting a compact size and one knob control, it’s an ideal match for users who don’t want to wrack their brains figuring out the operation.

Why Did We Like It?

For the unversed, Cuisinart made a name with its line of food processors before venturing into this category. And we must say that the brand knows how to go about the business. Firstly, the 1300watts cast iron plate has a no-delay heating mechanism so that you don’t have to wait for cooking. 

That said, the guidelines recommend preheating the plate for 4 minutes before the first use to burn off any manufacturing residue.

Having been disappointed with a few adjustable temperature systems, we decided to test this for noting down the temperature at the lowest setting. Our pot of water boiled at around 140 degrees, which is above the 135 degrees mark for the safe handling of cooked food. There are two LED indicators to tell you when the induction is on and fully heated up for cooking.

Moreover, the sides didn’t feel too hot to touch. This feature will prevent accidental burns in the absence of insulated carrying handles. And lastly, the rubber feet stabilize the induction for safe use. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

The stainless steel housing of this unit isn’t very easy to clean compared to some other models with the same construction. This was a real problem, especially when we tried to remove spill stains since we couldn’t begin without letting the unit cool down. The longer we waited, the more stubborn the stain became.

Pros
  • 6 adjustable temperature setting
  • Coil-less cooking surface
  • Rubber feet
  • Two light indicators
Cons
  • Can’t be easily cleaned
  1. Techwood Portable Electric Coil Single Burner

Another popular unit in the electric coil burner category is this portable model from the house of Techwood. This seemingly humble single burner is equipped with just the right features to provide users with a fast and reliable cooking experience.

Techwood 1100W Portable Electric Coil Hot Plate Single...
  • 🍳 MINI SIZE & PORTABLE - Techwood Electric Coil Burner...
  • 🍳 MULTIPURPOSE - Techwood Electric Hot Plate efficiently...

Why Did We Like It?

By this time, you may have figured out our obsession with stainless steel housings, but that’s not the only reason why we opted for this model. The electric coil burner runs on a 1100watts supply to heat food faster than conventional ranges of single burners. At the same time, the metal housing and plastic handles are resistant to high temperatures.

The brand has emphasized making this unit a multi-purpose portable burner to cook a wide variety of dishes like scrambled eggs, soup, pasta, etc. For this, the temperature output can be controlled via a knob located below the coil on the right. 

Like most of our other recommendations, the knob also doubles up as the on/off controller. And there’s a small LED light to indicate the status of the burner. 

Furthermore, we were pleasantly surprised to find out that the coil comes with an overheat protection mechanism, which will cut off the ignition if the temperature becomes too high. If you see the LED lit up, you know that the temperature is back to normal. 

 What Could’ve Been Better?

Perhaps the biggest disappointment with this product is that the adjustable burner doesn’t have level markings. Hence, you have to largely rely on assumptions to set the temperature between high and low settings, which will be pretty challenging for first-time users.

Pros
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Works with non-magnetic cookware
  • The slip-resistant base for stability
  • Cool handles for safe transportation
Cons
  • No temperature setting markings
  1. Techwood Hot Plate Infrared Ceramic Single Burner

Since Techwood caters to different burner technologies, we decided to test an infrared ceramic single burner from the brand. The flat cooktop makes it suitable for use in compact spaces like dorms, RVs, and camp tents.

Sale
Techwood Hot Plate, 1200W Countertop Infrared Ceramic Single...
  • 🍳 HOME USE SIZE & PORTABLE - Techwood Hot Plate used...
  • 🍳 MULTIPURPOSE - Techwood portable single burner heats...

Why Did We Like It?

Straight off the bat, we were happy that this single burner counters a basic problem we faced earlier- an unmarked temperature control knob. Even in the absence of level markings, the gradually increasing white strokes (ranging from the off to minimum settings) give users a fair idea about the temperature range. 

Other than that, the cast iron plate is integrated into the stainless steel housing for a small and compact footprint. Not only is it compatible with multiple brands of cookware, but you can also use non-magnetic frying pans and kettles. The thread circulation heating ensures proper heating, irrespective of the material.

In our opinion, its biggest advantage is the pair of stay-cool handles. Unlike some of our recommendations, these full-grip handles are separated from the housing, thanks to the quadruple plastic joints. Despite using it at the highest temperature setting, we don’t feel the handles becoming hot.

Last but not least, the product comes with an 18-month warranty and friendly customer service to answer all your queries. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

As we have already mentioned, the handles extend beyond the stainless steel housing, meaning you need some clearance on the sides. Also, the plate gets hot very quickly at the lowest setting, so you may have to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Pros
  • Ceramic panel withstands frequent use
  • No-water cleaning
  • LED indicator
  • Temperature range from 392 to 1166 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
  • Spreaded handles require some space
  1. CUKOR Hot Plate Electric Single Burner

Cukor strives to provide you with an extra burner with this electric hot plate. Scoring high on multi-utility and eco-friendly parameters, this unit is backed by high-quality construction for long-lasting service life.

CUKOR Hot Plate,Electric Single Burner for Cooking,1500W...
  • COMPATIBLE WITH ALL COOKWARES: Works with 120V/1500W power...
  • ECO-FRIENDLY& EFFICIENT: The burner cycles on and off to...

Why Did We Like It?

First things first, the cast iron hot plate is built to emit zero radiation and carbon monoxide making it extremely safe for indoor use. It has a protective coating, which needs to be burned off during the first use. That’s why the brand suggests keeping the burner switched on in an outdoor location for at least 15 minutes.

Moreover, the hot plate employs a dual safety mechanism for overload protection. In this regard, it uses a combination of thermal fuse and continuous burner on-off cycles to maintain the desired temperature. We noticed that it requires around 10 minutes of preheating, which is an effective way to prevent the food from getting burnt at the lowest setting.

With a wide-ranging temperature from 80 to 1058 degrees Fahrenheit, it saves 30% more electricity than some other 1500watts models. We also liked its compatibility with almost any flat-bottomed cookware made from aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic, or glass. 

Lastly, there’s a 30-day return and 18-month free-replacement policy in case you’re not satisfied with the product. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

Simmering water for a few minutes gives off some sort of zapping sound that’s often confused as a sign of malfunctioning by users. And at 22 pounds, this isn’t the most lightweight unit out there. These little annoyances aside, there isn’t a lot that can turn away potential customers.

Pros
  • Corrosion-resistant cast iron heating elements
  • Big controlling knob
  • Anti-slip base
  • LED working indicator
Cons
  • May give off a zapping sound during simmering
  • Slightly heavy
  1. Brentwood TS-322 Single Electric Burner

If a complicated burner operation gives you the jitters, then our next recommendation may just be the one for you. The Brentwood TS-322 Single Electric Burner is a super-compact and lightweight unit built for basic cooking anywhere, anytime.

Brentwood TS-322 1000w Single Electric Burner, White
  • Fast-Heat Up, Cast Iron Heating Element
  • Durable, Easy to Clean Powdered Housing

Why Did We Like It?

The Brentwood TS-322 Single Electric Burner doesn’t make fancy promises but stays true to its purpose of basic heating. For this, the unit uses a cast iron heating element in the form of a hinged coil, which rests above a stainless steel drip tray. Like the Proctor Silex 34103, you can remove it to clean the tray for effortless maintenance.

Apart from that, the die-cast housing was a break from the monotony of stainless steel constructions. It has a brushed powdered finish that resists temperature and moisture accumulation. And despite being reasonably sturdy for its size, the lightweight design doesn’t affect portability. Weighing at around 2 pounds, you don’t have to break your back for carrying it around.

The four rubberized feet provide it with the right elevation to protect the surface underneath. Complete with a 1000watts output and temperature adjustment knob, it facilitates brisk quicking at all times. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

There are a couple of things that need to be addressed by the brand. Firstly, the heating coil doesn’t distribute the heat properly, especially in the case of larger cookware. Secondly, the cooking element doesn’t retain heat properly during temperature adjustment. 

We had to constantly fidget with the knob to get the temperature up and down as required. But  this may also be a manufacturing defect.

Pros
  • Power light indicator
  • Fast heat up
  • 6 level heating adjustment
  • Non-slip base
Cons
  • Doesn’t retain adequate heat while cooking
  1. Ovente BGI201S Single Hot Plate Electric Countertop Stove

Towards the end of this list, we’re back with a second single burner from Ovente. The BGI201S Single Hot Plate Electric Stove is a robust and affordable unit that fits in cramped spaces for fast cooking.

Sale
OVENTE Electric Single Infrared Burner 7.5 Inch Ceramic...
  • HASSLE-FREE COOKING EXPERIENCE – Powered by 120V (1000W),...
  • COMPATIBLE WITH ALL COOKWARE – Unlike induction cooktops,...

Why Did We Like It?

Honestly, the efficiency of infrared technology in the Ovente BGI101S got us hooked, and we thought of trying another one. 

Similar to the BGI101S, this one also has a 1000watts ceramic glass top for facilitating even distribution of heat minus the hassle of cold spots. This is one of the main reasons why this single burner is compatible with types of cookware, including those made of aluminum and glass. It supports a maximum of 11 pounds, making large-scale cooking a breeze.

Aside from the LED indicator beside the temperature control knob, the glass top emits a red light through cooking. This way, you don’t always have to come close to the unit to see if the hot plate is being heated.

The temperature control knob has a small handle for easy gripping with mittens. Here, we should mention that there are 6 temperature settings to choose from, and the knob also functions as the on/off the controller.

Lastly, the non-slip rubber feet design prevents the unit from tipping over on any surface. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

Oddly, the ceramic hot plate has a slippery coating that doesn’t go away even after a couple of uses. While we understand that it might protect the bottom of the cookware, this also means that containers with curved bottoms may not be suitable for use with this unit.

Pros
  • Slim and lightweight construction
  • Metal housing with indicator light
  • Perfect for everyday and camping use
  • Easy-to-clean durable ceramic burner
Cons
  • Slippery hot plate
  1. Courant Single Countertop Electric Burner

Before wrapping up the list, here’s a traditional heating coil single burner from Courant. Sporting a familiar design, it has garnered popularity due to its compact structure and multi-purpose utility.

Sale
Courant Electric Burner, Single Buffet Countertop Hotplate,...
  • Great for student, offices, camping, RV/caravans, man cave...
  • Features a Temperature Regulating Thermostat control knob,...

Why Did We Like It?

It didn’t take us long to figure out how well this electric burner works for different types of cooking with different types of cookware. We used it to stir fry some vegetables and meat, and the coil got heated up to the highest setting in merely 3 minutes. 

Likewise, the change in temperature while turning the knob didn’t make us wait forever. But the 1000wattst output doesn’t burn the food and cooks everything evenly. Similarly, the lower settings maintain a gentle simmering.

For its small construction and one-knob operation, we certainly weren’t expecting the auto shutoff mechanism that disengages operation if the temperature becomes too high.

The power indicator and control knob is conveniently located close to each other for users to keep a constant eye on the on/off status. We also appreciate how the brand doesn’t shy away from warning its users about the housing becoming hot, as is evident from the sticker on the left side. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

Some users have reported that the unit breaks down at the 6 month-mark, thereby raising questions about its durability in the long run. Besides, the markings on the control knob got wiped away when we tried cleaning it after use. Hence, we’d advise using number stickers for this purpose.

Pros
  • Hinged electric coil for even heating
  • The stainless steel drip tray
  • LED power indicator
  • Quick heating
Cons
  • Not very durable
  • Knob markings don’t last long

Portable Single Burner Buyer’s Guide

Portable Single Burner Buyer’s Guide

Sure, portable single burners will not cause you a fortune. But that doesn’t mean you should pick the first unit that you come across, since it may not cater to all your needs. So, if you’re thinking about how to pick the best one from our recommendations, we’ve got your back with a buyer’s guide that consists of the key points to consider before making a purchase.

  1. Capacity

Generally, the capacity of a portable single burner is measured in watts. And there’s no rocket science here- the higher the watts, the more is the cooking power. That’s why most single burners offer a range between 500 and 2000 watts, with the 1000 watts models being common for regular cooking jobs. According to your needs, you may even opt for a 1500watts model. 

However, one thing that you should keep in mind is that a high watts capacity may put significant pressure on the hot plate, especially when operated for longer hours. Hence, always look for quality constructions with a long service life.

  1. Size And Weight

For any single burner to be portable, small size and low weight are two critical aspects to fulfill. It’s useless to buy a single burner that occupies very little space but weighs 20 pounds. Thus, we’d strongly suggest going for a unit not heavier than 12 pounds. 

As far as the size is concerned, you can choose a bigger model with low weight that will ultimately enhance the portability factor, but it can make storage difficult.

  1. Type

Usually, most single burners are powered by infrared, induction, or electric coil technology. While infrared burners use an infrared heating wave paired with a cast iron hot plate, induction models utilize magnetic power to heat up things. And electric coils are directly heated up once the cord is plugged into the outlet.

Today, a majority of single burners are designed to reduce cooking time while ensuring uniform heating. So, you don’t have to really fret over choosing the right technology. However, induction cooktops may only be compatible with magnetic cookware, so that’s something you should look out for.

  1. Material

Except for electric coil burners, portable single burners are mostly made of stainless steel, which is highly resistant to corrosion, and moisture and is easy to clean. But in our opinion, almost all stainless steel housings become somewhat hot with continuous operation.

  1. Insulated Handles

Thermo-insulated handles are the best way to counter the aforementioned problem. While some handles may be closely attached to the housing, others may spread out to ensure a comfortable grip, but they may require more space on the countertop. 

  1. Rubberized Feet

Not only do rubberized feet reinforce the stability of the burner on varied surfaces, but they also keep the unit from damaging the countertop through heat. We’d strongly advise keeping this feature on the top of your priority list!

  1. Drip Tray

Only applicable for electric coil burners, a stainless steel drip tray will catch all the spillage to keep the rest of the housing clean. The coils have a hinged design so that users can remove them to wipe away any accumulation on the tray. But make sure the burner is completely cooled before you touch the coil.

  1. Temperature Range

Most homeowners prefer buying a single burner that supports a wide range of temperatures, simply because it’ll facilitate versatile cooking needs. You can always go for more heating levels, which correlate to a broad temperature range. The settings can vary between 4 and 6 levels.

  1. Auto Shutoff Feature

No matter how cheap or expensive a single burner is, it usually doesn’t miss out on the auto shutoff mechanism. This is a good way to prevent wasting electricity while also extending the service life of the heating elements.

  1. LED Indicator

Depending on the overall design of the burner, the operation indicator may be a big or small LED adjacent to the temperature control knob.

  1. Cookware Limit

Apart from the material limitation, many brands specify the maximum weight that you can put on the burner. Remember that this includes both the weight of the empty cookware and the food being cooked.

Tourist kettle on a gas burner. Cooking in field conditions. Using a tourist gas burner

Verdict

Phew! That was a long list. But we wanted to make sure that we aren’t missing any name that’s worth consideration. After all, the benefits of a portable single burner make it hard not to get one today.

And that brings us to the end of today’s guide. Now, we know that it will take some time for our readers to process all that information. Meanwhile, we’ll assist you further by naming our top 3 picks from the list.

The Elite Gourmet Countertop Electric Hot Burner is a compact and powerful model in its price range, while the Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop makes things easier with its digital control panel. Finally, the IMUSA GAU-80305 Electric Single Burner is an affordable unit for fast cooking.

Hopefully, our efforts will help you find your “right match”. And when you do so, don’t forget to let us know in the comments down below!

Till the next time, stay happy and take care!

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