We recommend portable induction cooktops with a CHOICE Expert Rating of 85% and over.

We assess how well the portable induction cooktop melts chocolate on the low heat setting.

This overall score is made up of cooking performance (50%) and ease of use (50%).

Cooking performance is calculated using simmering, turn-down and high heat scores, weighted equally.

We rate how easy it is to use the controls, the size, type and positioning of cooking zones as well as ease of cleaning.

We assess how well the portable induction cooktop heats a white sauce on low heat setting.

We cook boiled rice on the portable induction cooktop to assess turn-down capacity.

We assess how well the portable induction cooktop cooks a stir-fry on high heat setting for a short time.

Time taken to boil water in power boost mode, where available. For models with no boost, the highest setting is used.

'Tested model' refers to portable induction cooktops that are currently available in shops and online. 'Discontinued model' refers to portable induction cooktops that are no longer available in shops, but may be available second-hand.

The manufacturer's recommended retail price. Prices are generally flexible, so shop around both online and in stores for options.

Based on $0.40 per kWh, using the appliance 3 times a week for 30 minutes at a time.

We measure the weight of the portable induction cooktops.

To use temperature controls and manage cooking zones, you slide and/or touch the cooktop surface.

Air needs to circulate around the cooktop, usually 10-12cm of space is needed on all sides.

A frameless model won't catch any spillage but could be easier to clean.

A good range will allow you to cook at various power levels.

Consider the dimensions to see how much bench space the cooktop will take up.

There is a claimed country of origin somewhere on the model itself. This should be taken with a grain of salt, given it's rare that all the materials for a product came from the one country.

To reduce the chance of a child operating the controls.

This is essentially a simmer setting that can be used to keep food warm. Some can also use residual heat.

Whether you can pause during cooking and then resume.

This gives the cooking zone a boost of power to help heat up food or liquid quickly.