Electric Cooktops

Electric cooktops are available in radiant, smoothtop, and induction configurations with two to six burners depending on the size. Standard widths include 24, 30, and 36 inches to fit common countertop cutouts. Construction features glass-ceramic surfaces on smoothtop and induction models, and coil or solid disk elements on traditional radiant models.

The Trade Table carries electric cooktops from ZLINE, Forno, Cosmo, Kucht, and Thor Kitchen in radiant, smoothtop, and induction configurations for kitchen remodels, new builds, and cooktop replacements.

Electric Cooktops | Smoothtop, Induction & Built-In Countertop Stoves

Electric cooktops install by dropping the unit into a cutout in the kitchen countertop. The cooktop rests on the counter surface with a flush or slightly raised edge, and the electrical connection runs through the cabinet below. This built-in installation creates a clean, integrated cooking surface that sits level with the surrounding countertop.

Smoothtop electric cooktops use radiant heating elements beneath a flat glass-ceramic surface. The elements heat the glass, which transfers heat to the cookware. The flat surface is easy to clean and provides a modern, seamless appearance. Most smoothtop models include touch controls, indicator lights showing which burners are still hot, and multiple heat settings per element.

Induction cooktops use electromagnetic coils beneath the glass surface to heat cookware directly through magnetic induction. The cooktop surface itself stays relatively cool because the heat is generated in the pan, not in the glass. Induction offers the fastest heat response and most precise temperature control of any electric cooking technology — but requires magnetic-compatible cookware such as cast iron or magnetic stainless steel.

Traditional radiant cooktops use exposed coil elements or solid disk burners and are the most affordable electric cooktop configuration. These models are durable and straightforward but lack the flat surface and easy cleanup of smoothtop and induction designs.

Electric Cooktop Options

• Smoothtop glass-ceramic cooktops with radiant heating elements
• Induction cooktops with electromagnetic heating for magnetic cookware
• Traditional radiant cooktops with coil or solid disk elements
• 24, 30, and 36 inch widths for standard countertop cutouts
• Two-burner, four-burner, five-burner, and six-burner configurations
• Touch controls and knob controls depending on model and brand
• Hot surface indicator lights and residual heat warnings
• 240V hardwired and plug-in electrical connections

Benefits of Electric Cooktops

• Built-in countertop installation that separates cooktop from oven placement
• Flat glass-ceramic surface on smoothtop and induction models for easy cleaning
• Induction technology that heats cookware directly for faster response and precision
• No gas lines or venting required — electric connection only
• Multiple width options to fit existing countertop cutouts from 24 to 36 inches
• Touch controls and indicator lights for precise heat management and safety

Common Uses for Electric Cooktops

• Kitchen remodels separating the cooktop and wall oven for a custom layout
• Replacing an existing electric cooktop in the same countertop cutout
• Homes without natural gas service where gas cooktops are not an option
• Island cooktop installations with the cooking surface centered in the kitchen
• Upgrading from a coil-element cooktop to a smoothtop or induction model
• New construction builds with dedicated 240V countertop cooking circuits

Why Buy Electric Cooktops from The Trade Table?

The Trade Table helps customers select the right electric cooktop based on countertop cutout dimensions, preferred cooking technology, burner count, and control style. Our team provides guidance on choosing between smoothtop, induction, and radiant configurations and assists with verifying cutout compatibility before purchase. We carry electric cooktops from ZLINE, Forno, Cosmo, Kucht, and Thor Kitchen.

Also Referred to As

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Electric Cooktop FAQs

What is the difference between a smoothtop and an induction cooktop?

A smoothtop cooktop uses radiant heating elements beneath a glass-ceramic surface — the element heats the glass, which heats the cookware. An induction cooktop uses electromagnetic coils to heat the cookware directly through magnetic induction, leaving the glass surface relatively cool. Induction heats faster, offers more precise temperature control, and is more energy efficient, but requires magnetic-compatible cookware.

What size electric cooktop do I need?

Electric cooktops are available in 24, 30, and 36 inch widths. Measure the existing countertop cutout width and depth and match those dimensions to the cooktop's specification sheet. If replacing an existing cooktop, the same size typically fits the existing cutout without modification. If installing new, the cutout is made to the cooktop manufacturer's specifications.

Do I need special cookware for an induction cooktop?

Yes. Induction cooktops require cookware made from magnetic materials — cast iron, carbon steel, and magnetic stainless steel all work. Aluminum, copper, and non-magnetic stainless steel will not heat on an induction surface. A simple test is to hold a magnet to the bottom of the pan — if it sticks, the cookware is induction compatible.

Can an electric cooktop be installed in a kitchen island?

Yes. Electric cooktops are commonly installed in kitchen island countertops, placing the cooking surface in the center of the kitchen. The countertop cutout and electrical connection are routed through the island base. Downdraft ventilation or an overhead island hood is recommended to manage cooking exhaust when no wall is available for a standard range hood.

Do electric cooktops require 240V?

Most built-in electric cooktops require a 240V dedicated electrical circuit, similar to the circuit used for an electric range or dryer. Some compact two-burner models may operate on 120V. Check the specific model's electrical requirements before purchasing and confirm that the appropriate circuit is available or can be installed at the cooktop location.