Living in a small apartment or condo often means limited counter space. But that doesn’t mean you can’t cook like a pro. The right cooktop can transform even the tiniest kitchen into a functional and efficient cooking space. Whether you’re a minimalist, a home chef, or just someone who wants to make dinner without juggling pots and pans, choosing a compact, high-quality cooktop is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best cooktops for small kitchens and apartments, focusing on models that offer great performance, energy efficiency, and safety without taking up too much space.
Why a Compact Cooktop Is Perfect for Apartment Living
A compact cooktop offers all the benefits of a traditional stove but in a smaller, sleeker form. For renters or urban homeowners, a good cooktop can save space, reduce energy bills, and simplify your kitchen layout.
Main Advantages:
- Space-saving design fits small counters and studio apartments
- Easy installation – plug-in or portable models available
- Energy-efficient induction and ceramic options
- Sleek modern look for minimalist kitchens
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
Whether you prefer gas, electric, or induction, compact cooktops come in sizes ranging from 12 to 30 inches, providing powerful performance in small packages.
Key Features to Consider
When buying a cooktop for a small kitchen or apartment, focus on features that maximize functionality and safety:
| Feature | Why It Matters | Ideal Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Fits compact counters | 12-24 inches wide |
| Type | Determines efficiency and heat control | Induction, Electric, or Gas |
| Power | Impacts heating speed | 1200-1800W per burner (electric), 9K+ BTU (gas) |
| Controls | Affects usability | Touch or knob controls |
| Safety | Prevents overheating | Auto shut-off, child lock |
| Ease of Cleaning | Saves time | Smooth glass or sealed burners |
| Energy Efficiency | Reduces bills | Induction > Electric > Gas |
Top 10 Best Cooktops for Small Kitchens and Apartments
| Rank | Model | Type | Size | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop | Induction | 11 in | $129 | ★★★★★ |
| 2 | GE 21-Inch Built-In Gas Cooktop | Gas | 21 in | $349 | ★★★★★ |
| 3 | Cuisinart Double Induction Cooktop ICT-60 | Induction | 20 in | $199 | ★★★★☆ |
| 4 | Empava 24-Inch Electric Cooktop | Electric | 24 in | $399 | ★★★★☆ |
| 5 | Summit Appliance 12-Inch Dual Burner | Electric | 12 in | $219 | ★★★★☆ |
| 6 | Frigidaire Gallery 30-Inch Induction | Induction | 30 in | $649 | ★★★★★ |
| 7 | Gasland Chef GH30BF | Gas | 12 in | $229 | ★★★★☆ |
| 8 | True Induction Mini Duo | Induction | 12 in | $229 | ★★★★☆ |
| 9 | Thermomate 24-Inch Electric Radiant | Electric | 24 in | $359 | ★★★★☆ |
| 10 | IsEasy Built-In Gas Cooktop 2-Burner | Gas | 12 in | $189 | ★★★★☆ |
1. Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop – Best Overall
The Duxtop 1800W is one of the most popular compact induction cooktops in the market. Its portability and precision make it ideal for apartments or dorms.
Pros:
- Energy-efficient induction system
- Heats quickly with precise temperature control
- Lightweight and easy to store
Cons: - Single burner only
User Review:
“I live in a studio and use this daily. Heats fast, easy to clean, and perfect for small kitchens.”
2. GE 21-Inch Built-In Gas Cooktop – Best Gas Option
For those who prefer flame cooking, the GE 21-inch gas cooktop combines compact size with solid power.
Pros:
- 9,100 BTU burners
- Heavy-duty grates and knobs
- Easy ignition system
Cons: - Requires gas line installation
User Review:
“Love the classic feel of gas. Small, reliable, and heats evenly.”
3. Cuisinart Double Induction ICT-60 – Best Dual Portable
A fantastic portable choice with two induction zones that can operate simultaneously without overheating.
Pros:
- 8 temperature settings
- Touch controls and digital timer
- Energy-efficient performance
Cons: - Limited pot size for large cookware
User Review:
“I take this even on RV trips. Quiet, fast, and compact – a lifesaver.”
4. Empava 24-Inch Electric Cooktop – Best for Built-In Design
For a sleek look, Empava’s 24-inch electric model provides powerful heating elements and modern glass design.
Pros:
- Four cooking zones
- 9 power levels
- Child lock and overheating protection
Cons: - Requires 240V connection
User Review:
“Installed it in my apartment counter. Looks amazing and performs better than expected.”
5. Summit Appliance 12-Inch Dual Burner – Best for Tiny Counters
A simple but sturdy dual electric burner setup for minimalist or micro kitchens.
Pros:
- Compact footprint
- Affordable and durable
- Easy knob operation
Cons: - No timer or auto shut-off
User Review:
“Perfect for my small space. I can cook two dishes easily without clutter.”
6. Frigidaire Gallery 30-Inch Induction Cooktop – Premium Choice
If you want high-end performance in a modern compact format, the Frigidaire Gallery is a top pick.
Pros:
- Induction tech with even heating
- Sleek glass surface, touch control
- Safety lock and auto-off feature
Cons: - Slightly pricier
User Review:
“Cooks fast and quietly. My energy bill dropped noticeably.”
7. Gasland Chef GH30BF – Best Compact Gas Option
A stylish 12-inch gas cooktop for small kitchens that still delivers restaurant-level heat.
Pros:
- 2 burners up to 9,000 BTU each
- Black tempered glass finish
- LPG/NG convertible
Cons: - Manual ignition only
User Review:
“Compact but powerful! Fits my studio apartment kitchen perfectly.”
8. True Induction Mini Duo – Best Energy-Efficient Induction
True Induction’s dual cooktop design maximizes efficiency and reduces heat loss – ideal for modern apartments.
Pros:
- 1800W combined power
- Smooth touch controls
- Energy-saving technology
Cons: - Requires magnetic cookware
User Review:
“It’s powerful and stays cool to touch – perfect for kids around.”
9. Thermomate 24-Inch Electric Radiant – Best Midrange Built-In
An elegant option for apartment kitchens that need four burners without taking too much space.
Pros:
- Dual heat zones for different pan sizes
- Stylish frameless design
- Safety timer and residual heat indicator
Cons: - Glass surface can scratch easily
User Review:
“Perfect size for my condo. Looks sleek and performs like a pro.”
10. IsEasy 2-Burner Built-In Gas Cooktop – Budget Pick
An affordable, reliable gas cooktop for small kitchens.
Pros:
- Stainless steel body
- Compact, easy to clean
- High power for price
Cons: - Slight noise from burners
User Review:
“Installed it in my rental kitchen. Works perfectly and looks premium.”
Comparison Summary
| Model | Type | Burners | Price | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duxtop 1800W | Induction | 1 | $129 | Best overall single portable |
| GE 21-Inch | Gas | 2 | $349 | Best gas performance |
| Cuisinart ICT-60 | Induction | 2 | $199 | Best dual portable |
| Empava 24-Inch | Electric | 4 | $399 | Built-in modern kitchen |
| Summit 12-Inch | Electric | 2 | $219 | Tiny counter use |
| Frigidaire Gallery | Induction | 4 | $649 | Premium induction |
| Gasland GH30BF | Gas | 2 | $229 | Stylish compact gas model |
| True Induction Duo | Induction | 2 | $229 | Energy-efficient cooking |
| Thermomate 24-Inch | Electric | 4 | $359 | Balanced design |
| IsEasy 2-Burner | Gas | 2 | $189 | Budget-friendly pick |
Which Cooktop Type Is Best for You?
Induction: Most energy-efficient, fast, and safe. Great for modern apartments.
Electric: Easy to install, stylish, and affordable.
Gas: Offers real flame control and quick response for traditional cooks.
Maintenance Tips
- Always clean spills immediately to prevent residue buildup.
- Avoid sliding cookware to protect glass tops.
- Use compatible pans (magnetic for induction).
- Keep burners dry and clean for gas safety.
- Check cords and connections periodically.
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets with portable models.
Real User Experiences
“The Duxtop induction is my favorite – cooks faster than my full stove and takes up no space.”
“My Gasland Chef is perfect for small kitchens with real flame control.”
“The Cuisinart induction dual cooktop makes meal prep simple and quiet.”
“I replaced my bulky stove with an Empava 24-inch cooktop – it completely transformed my apartment.”
Final Verdict
If you live in a small apartment or have limited kitchen space, a compact cooktop can deliver all the power of a full stove without clutter.
- Best Overall: Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction
- Best Built-In Option: Empava 24-Inch Electric Cooktop
- Best Budget Gas Model: IsEasy 2-Burner Cooktop
- Best Premium Pick: Frigidaire Gallery Induction
Each of these models combines practicality, safety, and sleek design – proving that small kitchens can still be stylish and efficient.