What is a Hot Plate and What Are They Used for?
In short, a hot plate is a portable cooktop appliance that has one or more electric burners that can be used in much the same way an electric stove burner is used. These are great for people with limited space and those who live in dorms or similar style housing.
One of the benefits of a hot plate is that it can be used even in areas where there is no electricity. There are gas versions available, but electric hot plates are the most common style. Gas versions are generally powered by propane or butane.
While this is not the same as having a full-on stovetop, you can cook anything you can cook on a stovetop on a hot plate. If you can cook it in a frying pan, a saucepan, or a stockpot, you can use a hot plate to cook.
A hot plate is a versatile cooking device that allows you the benefits of an electric burner without the need for all the space wasted or even a formal kitchen at all. They open up many possibilities for people who live in very rural areas or who live in small spaces where a full kitchen just isn’t feasible. Many campers love hot plates as a way to cook their favorite foods, even while in the wilderness.
Our Top 10 Picks for Best Hot Plates
There are tons of different choices on the market that range in size, features, and the type of energy used to power them. The best hot plate for your needs will depend on where you live, what type of power you have access to, how many burners you want or need, as well as your cooking preferences. Any of the options we review below are quality choices that will do the job well. We try to cover a variety of price points, styles, and features so as to provide options for everyone.
While this list is, of course, not exhaustive, we have picked out our top ten picks for the best hot plate and will look at each briefly in turn.
1. Cukor 1800W Dual Electric Hot Plate
Cukor is an up-and-coming maker of a range of different high-quality, well-made kitchen appliances. They make products ranging from toasters and portable grills to hot plates. Their designs are well constructed and utilize the latest technology and only the highest quality materials in construction.
Their dual burner electric hot plate is a great value and provides you with two solid cooking surfaces that heat evenly. The unit is small and lightweight and is easy to clean. The hot plate needs to be preheated for about ten minutes prior to use and then the hot plate is ready to go for any type of stovetop style cooking.
The hot plate is cast iron and features a powerful, yet efficient, 1800 watts, providing you with the power you need to cook pretty much anything you might desire. The burner can handle cookware as heavy as 22 pounds and is made from durable, sturdy stainless steel.
The burner cycles on and off, providing for more efficient heating. It also has a thermal fuse to prevent overheating. It uses 30% energy than a comparable induction cooker, so it is a great choice for people looking to reduce their energy consumption.
The dual hot plate comes with a 30-day return policy and 18-months free replacement for added peace of mind.
Key Features:
- 1800W
- Cast iron hot plate
- durable aluminum body
- suitable for any type of cookware
- lightweight
- energy efficient
- safety features to prevent overheating
- warranty
Specifications:
Brand: Cukor
Model: B0827W1R1K
Weight: 9.63 pounds
2. Cuisinart Single Burner Cast Iron Hot Plate
Cuisinart is a trusted and reputable maker of a wide range of kitchen products. Their line of products ranges from small appliances to kitchen utensils. They are known for making high-quality products that are a great value for the money.
Their single burner cast iron hot plate is a great choice for those who want a high-quality hot plate that won’t break the bank in the process. The hot plate is made from heavy-duty cast iron for a durable and long-lasting appliance.
It is a powerful, yet efficient, 1300W, giving you enough power to cook pretty much anything. The hot plate features six different, adjustable temperature settings so you can easily find the best temperature for whatever you are cooking. It is a flat, coil-free cooking surface that provides for steady, even heating and easy cleanup as well.
The hot plate has ready and on indicator lights so you know when the surface is hot enough to begin cooking. It also features non-slip rubber feet so you don’t have to worry about it moving across the surface you are trying to cook on.
The cooker also features a year-long limited warranty.
Key Features:
- heavy duty cast iron construction
- 1300W
- adjustable heat settings
- easy cleanup
- lightweight
- indicator lights
- one year limited warranty
Specifications:
Brand: Cuisinart
Model: CB-30P1
Weight: 6.85 pounds
3. iSiLER 1800W Induction Cooktop
iSiLER is an up-and-coming brand that makes a range of small appliances ranging from space heaters to induction hot plates. They combine form and function into quality appliances that appeal to the senses.
Their electric induction hot plate is a unique type of hot plate that provides you with adequate power and an efficient, high-quality cooktop. The hot plate is made from wear-resistant glass that is really easy to clean.
It is suitable for use with any type of cookware and even has a timer and safety lock for added utility and security. The hot plate has 18 different power levels to choose from and is even powerful enough to deep fry. The control panel is an easy-to-read touch screen. The hot plate also features a child lock and overheating protection for added peace of mind.
Key Features:
- premium glass top
- induction technology
- touch screen
- 18 power levels
- child lock
- overheating protection
- lightweight
Specifications:
Brand: iSiLER
Model: B07FDXPTNP
Weight: 6.56 pounds
4. Maxi-Matic Double Plate Hot Plate
Maxi-Matic is a reputable and trusted maker of a wide range of varied kitchen products. Their line of products features different kitchen appliances from grills to egg cookers to hot plates.
Their dual hot plate is a great value for the money and provides you with two high-quality electric burners that can cook pretty much anything you want. The hot plate features a 7- and a 6-inch flat cast iron cooking surfaces that are nonstick and allow for easy cleanup.
The hot plate is a powerful 1500W allowing for fast, even, and efficient cooking. It has dual adjustable temperature panels so you can adjust each burner individually. It has a power indicator light so you know when it is on and hot and ready to go.
This is an energy-efficient and space-saving cooktop that is suitable for use with any type of cookware.
Key Features:
- cast iron, flat cooking surfaces
- adjustable temperature controls
- two burners
- space saving
- safety indicator lights
- lightweight
Specifications:
Brand: Maxi-Matic
Model: EDB-302BF
Weight: 5.87 pounds
5. Techwood 1800W Double Ceramic Hot Plate
Techwood is a reputable and trusted maker of a wide range of useful and novel kitchen appliances. They are known for making high-quality, high-end products that meet the needs of even experienced home cooks. Their product line ranges from indoor/outdoor grills to smokeless grills to hot plates.
Their double infrared ceramic hot plate is an excellent choice for people who are looking for high-end, efficient, and powerful portable or space-saving cooking surfaces. The hot plate is suitable for use with any type of cookware.
The hot plate is lightweight and features stay-cool handles that allow you to move the hot plate around without the need for oven mitts. It is made from high-quality ceramic, which provides for a fast-heating, even cooking surface.
The hot plate also features adjustable thermostats, allowing for independent temperature selection. The hot plate also features non-slip rubber feet so you don’t have to worry about it sliding across surfaces when it uses.
The cast iron plate and brushed stainless steel housing not only make for an attractive appliance, but it also makes for easy cleanup.
Key Features:
- 1800W
- infrared, ceramic cooking surface
- independent temperature control
- cast iron and stainless steel body make for easy cleaning
- overheating protection
- lightweight
Specifications:
Brand: Techwood
Model: B07M5JKSWQ
Weight: 10.18 pounds
6. GasOne Portable Butane Gas Stove
GasOne is a trusted and well-known maker of a range of portable products with an emphasis on products that enhance the outdoor experience. Their range of products includes portable stoves and burners to kettles and LP regulators and accessories.
Their portable gas hot plate utilizes butane as its fuel and uses a powerful, yet efficient 7650 BTU of even, steady heat for an easy cooking experience. It is an automatic starter with safety off system so you have peace of mind that the hot plate is easy to start and safe to use.
The hot plate is incredibly quiet and is lightweight and easy to move around. The hot plate also comes with a carrying case, making it ideal for people who want a portable cook surface, such as those who enjoy camping.
Key Features:
- butane powered
- powerful 7650 BTU
- enhanced safety features
- lightweight
- quiet operation
Specifications:
Brand: GasOne
Model: GS-1000
Weight: 2 pounds
7. Shinestar 7200 BTU Portable Single Burner Gas Stove
Shinestar is an up-and-coming maker of a wide range of products and gas-powered appliances and accessories. Their product line features items that range from propane hoses and regulators to gas-powered hot plates.
Their 7200 BTU portable gas-powered hot plate is a great value and is safe for use with either propane or butane, giving you more freedom in the type of fuel you use. It provides for powerful, even heating in an efficient appliance.
The hot plate is CSA certified and has enhanced safety features for added peace of mind. The stove comes with a converter regulator hose which will allow you to hook your cooktop directly to a small propane tank. It provides reliable, even heating that can handle most cooking jobs.
It is lightweight and portable and comes with a carrying case for easy transport.
Key Features:
- great value
- can use propane or butane as fuel
- lightweight
- enhanced safety features
- comes with a carrying case
Specifications:
Brand: Shinestar
Model: B07KM5DQH
Weight: not listed
8. Chef-Master 10,000 BTU Countertop Stove
Chef Master is a well known and trusted maker of professional-quality products for the home and professional cook alike. They make a wide range of kitchen products that are great for use in home kitchens as well as professional kitchens. Their product line ranges from hibachi grills to heat lamps to portable gas stove hot plates.
Their hot plate is incredibly powerful and is a great option for someone who is looking for a high-end, but great value. It is a powerful butane powered stove that is great for either indoor or outdoor use. It has an automatic transmission as well as a safety stop to prevent overheating.
The hot plate is powerful with adjustable temperature settings and a brass burner that resists warping and corrosion. It also features a pressure sensing shut-off as well as other additional safety features for added peace of mind. The hot plate is incredibly lightweight, easy to clean, and is safe for use with any type of cookware.
Key Features:
- 10,000 BTU
- adjustable temperatures settings
- automatic ignition for easy start
- enhanced safety features
- lightweight
- easy to clean
Specifications:
Brand: Chef Master
Model: 90011
Weight: 1.99 pounds
9. Coleman Portable Butane Stove
Coleman is a trusted and well-known manufacturer that specializes in creating high-quality, useful, and unique products with an emphasis on outdoor products. They make a huge range of products from coolers and tents to grills and portable hot plates.
Their butane-powered hot plate is a powerful and easy to use portable cooking solution that is suitable for use with any type of cookware. The hot plate features a large burner that can accommodate a pan up to 10 inches.
The hot plate is also an automatic start and features 7650 BTU of power, making it powerful enough to handle most cooking needs. One butane cylinder can last for as long as 1.25 hours when on high, so is a very efficient option.
The stovetop is adjustable allowing for easy temperature control. The hot plate features a porcelain grate which is easy to clean and a durable aluminum burner that will last for years to come. The cooktop also comes with a carrying case.
Key Features:
- 7650 BTU
- instant start
- fits up to a 10-inch frying pan
- energy efficient
- adjustable temperature control
- carrying case included
Specifications:
Brand: Coleman
Model: 2000020951
Weight: 4.68 pounds
10. Techef Portable Butane Gas Stove Burner
Techef is a relatively new and up-and-coming brand that makes a range of unique kitchen products, including gas-powered hot plates. Their hot plate features 11,000 BTU, making it powerful enough to handle any everyday cooking needs.
The hot plate also boasts an automatic start and locking system for added safety. The automatic safety stop will shut off the flow of butane if the pressure rises to an unsafe level.
The hot plate also features a sleek and stylish low profile design and is perfect for use in homes with a modern look and feel. The hot plate is safe for use both indoors and outdoors.
Key Features:
- sleek, stylish design
- 11,000 BTU of power
- enhanced safety features
- lightweight
- suitable for any type of cookware
Specifications:
Brand: Techef
Model: AG28BK
Weight: 3.99 pounds
Hot Plate Buying Guide and FAQ
Hot plates are a unique kitchen appliance that is versatile and can be used even in areas where electricity may not regularly be available. There are tons of different options when looking for the best hot plate, so what do you need to consider when looking for one that will meet your needs?
Size
Hot plates can come in a variety of sizes. There are single burner hot plates, dual hot plates, and even larger ones still. If your meals tend to take more than one pan, you will want a dual hot plate or larger. If you do a lot of one-pot cooking, a single burner hot plate will work fine.
Efficiency
Hot plates, like any other kitchen appliance, use energy and some suck more juice than others. You want to look for a hot plate that provides for steady, even heating, but that doesn’t use an excessive amount of energy.
Power Type
Hot plates are typically either electric or gas and what will work best for you will depend on where you live and your preferences. If you live in a place without regular access to electricity, a gas hot plate is likely the better option. Some people prefer cooking with gas, others prefer electric, so where you fall on this spectrum will also help determine which will work best for you.
Hot Plate Buying FAQ
What is a hot plate?
A hot plate is a portable cooking surface that can be gas or electric. It performs the same function as a burner on a stove serves, but with the benefit of being portable and small.
Do I need a hot plate?
If you live in dormitory-style housing or another small living space, a hot plate is a great way to provide yourself with the means to cook your own meals without the need for a kitchen.
What type of hot plate should I buy?
Most often, hot plates are available in gas and electric versions. If you have access to regular electricity, an electric hot plate makes a great option. If you don’t, gas might be a better choice. It also depends on your cooking preferences, some people like cooking with gas a lot more or vice versa.
See Also: 8 Best Portable Electric Stoves and 10 Best Wok for Electric Stove
- What is a Hot Plate and What Are They Used for?
- Our Top 10 Picks for Best Hot Plates
- 1. Cukor 1800W Dual Electric Hot Plate
- 2. Cuisinart Single Burner Cast Iron Hot Plate
- 3. iSiLER 1800W Induction Cooktop
- 4. Maxi-Matic Double Plate Hot Plate
- 5. Techwood 1800W Double Ceramic Hot Plate
- 6. GasOne Portable Butane Gas Stove
- 7. Shinestar 7200 BTU Portable Single Burner Gas Stove
- 8. Chef-Master 10,000 BTU Countertop Stove
- 9. Coleman Portable Butane Stove
- 10. Techef Portable Butane Gas Stove Burner
- Hot Plate Buying Guide and FAQ
- Hot Plate Buying FAQ
