Induction brewing is an efficient, compact, and clean method for homebrewing beers. It’s especially interesting for apartment brewers or those with limited space. The induction process doesn’t put off any exhaust or even much residual heat.
There are a few options for induction burners. Here’s our list of the best you can buy with some tips on what to look out for.
For a run-down on induction brewing, click here for our complete guide.
What Is The Best Induction Burner for Homebrewing?
The best induction burner for homebrewing is the Avantco IC3500. Built like a tank and super easy to use, this portable induction cooktop is a great solution for brewing 5 gallon batches of beer. With a power range all the way up to 3500 watts, you’ll be able to raise wort temperature quickly and be guaranteed to hold a rolling boil.
For smaller batches and extract beers, our favorite induction burner is the Avalon Bay IC100B. With a great price and reliable functionality, you’ll be brewing smaller batches with confidence and consistency.
1. Avantco IC3500 Countertop Commercial Induction Cooker 3500 Watt
Our Pick
This 3500-watt induction burner competes with other top countertop ranges in performance and heats at lightning speed.
The Avantco IC3500 is an all around high-quality and well-built induction cooktop. With a maximum power of 3500 watts, it’s got enough juice to quickly bring your strike water and wort to temperature. It’s perfect to brew a 5 gallon batch. You might be able to go as big as 10 gallons but keep in mind the maximum suggested weight for the cooker is 65 lbs.
The Avantco is easy to use and very sturdy, making it the most reliable and functional cooker for homebrewing, all at a great value.
Features:
- Power range: 500-3500W
- Dimension: 12” W x 15.5”L x 4.25” H
- 10 1/4″ maximum kettle diameter
- 240V electrical connection with NEMA 6-20P plug
| Burner | Verdict? | Power | Voltage | Dimension (W x L x H) | Recommended batch size |
| Avantco IC3500 | Our top pick | 500 – 3500W | 240V | 12” W x 15.5”L x 4.25” H | 5 to 7 gallon |
| Max Burton 6535 | Nicest design and control panel | 500 – 3000W | 240V | 17.3” W x 12.3” L x 4.75” H | 5 to 7 gallon |
| Mai Cook | Best for 10 gallon batches | 500 – 3500W | 240V | 13.9” W x 17.5′ L x 4.1” H | 5 to 10 gallon |
| Duxtop 8100MC | Best budget 120V | 200 – 1800W | 120V | 11.4″ W X 13″ L X 2.5″ H | 3 to 5 gallon |
| Vollrath 59300 Mirage Cadet | Best high-end 120V | 200 – 1800W | 120V | 12″ W x 16″ L x 3.13″ H | 3 to 5 gallon |
2. Max Burton 6530 ProChef 3000 W
This cooktop's dollars-per-kilowatt ratio makes it the best "bang-for-the-buck" in its power range for a true commercial-grade unit.
With a maximum power of 3000 watts, the Max Burton 6530 is a great solution for 5 gallon batches. Like the Avantco, you can quickly and easily bring wort to a boil.
This cooker has a smaller heating element, at about 6” wide, making it a bit less efficient. Still though, we really like the clean, beautiful design of the control panel and top quality build.
Features:
- 10” maximum kettle diameter
- Power range: 500-3000W with 13 power levels
- Dimension: 17 2/7” W x 12 2/7” L x 4 3/4” H
- 240V electrical connection with NEMA 6-20P plug
3. Mai Cook Stainless Steel 3500W Electric Induction Cooktop
This smooth ceramic glass induction cooking surface performs great with an industrial look.
Similar to the Avantco, the Mai Cook 3500W cooker is extremely powerful. With 3500 watts of maximum power, you can quickly and easily brew 5 gallon batches. Because of the higher weight loading, the Mai Cook is the best bet for 10 gallon batches.
A stainless steel construction and quality build makes this cooker a great option if you’re willing to pay a bit more.
Features:
- Power range: 500-3500W
- Dimension: 13.9” W x 17.5′ L x 4.1” H
- 10 1/4″ maximum kettle diameter
- 240V electrical connection with NEMA 6-20P plug
- Maximum load 133 lb
4. Duxtop 8100MC 1800-Watt Portable Induction Cooktop
This Duxtop Induction Cooktop uses a 120V, 15 amp electrical outlet which is standard in all North American homes.
For a budget option 120V burner, the Duxtop 8100 MC is a really great product. It has a compact build and makes a nice burner for smaller batches and extract beers.
When brewing 5 gallons, it might be a little bit slower than the other burners, but it will still get the job done with some patience.
Features:
- 10” maximum kettle diameter
- Power range: 200-1800W in 10 power levels
- Dimension: 11.4″ W X 13″ L X 2.5″ H
- 120 Volts and 15 Amps of electricity (standard in all North American homes)
5. Vollrath 12″ Mirage Cadet Countertop Induction Range
Take your cooking away from the stovetop with the 12" Vollrath Mirage Cadet portable induction range.
For a tank of a 120V induction cooker, look no further than the Vollrath 59300. With a stainless steel frame and very sturdy build, this induction burner is made for restaurants so you know it’s built to last.
You’ll be paying a premium for this cooker, but it might be worth it if you’re one to be tough on appliances.
Features:
- Power range: 200-1800W in 20 power levels
- 10 1/4″ maximum kettle diameter
- Dimension: 12″ W x 16″ L x 3.13″ H
- 120 Volts and 15 Amps of electricity (standard in all North American homes)
Final Thoughts
Using an induction burner for homebrewing is a minimalist and easy-to-use solution for brewing indoors. The efficient operation and simple set-up makes homebrewing a breeze to get into if you’re a beginner.
Even for seasoned pros, induction is definitely worth trying, especially if you want to get indoors and out of the cold during winter brew days.
Our favorite is the Avantco IC3500 so ditch the propane burner and plug into induction – you’ll be surprised at how streamlined and clean the brewing process can be.
This 3500-watt induction burner competes with other top countertop ranges in performance and heats at lightning speed.
