6 Best Hot Plates To Boil Water: Prepare Hot Beverages And Meals In No Time




Need a hot plate to boil water?

Not sure which one to choose?

We’ve got you covered!

Here you can read about the differences in types of hot plates and find out which features to have in mind so that you can choose the best model of you. Check out the reviews of models with different features, including single burners, induction, and electric models.

The Rundown

Ovente Hot Plate For Boiling Water RundownOvente BGI102S Double Burner
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★★
Suitable for different spaces, it has two burners with adjustable temperatures and works with different kinds of cookware.
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Cuisinart CB30 Hot Plate RundownCuisinart Cast-Iron Single Burner Hot Plate
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★☆
The stainless housing with a single burner is ideal for any countertop space and boils water fast with 6 temperature settings.
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IMUSA RundownIMUSA USA GAU-80305 Hot Plate
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★☆
The 1100-Watt coil with adjustable temperature can boil water in any space with an available power plug.
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Can You Use A Hot Plate To Boil Water?

Yes, almost every hot plate can do that. The only difference is the time spent for that specific amount of water. Weaker hot plates are made for small amounts. The stronger the hot plate, the shorter the time it will need to finish the task.

Do Hot Plates Get Hot Enough?

They can get hot enough for cooking pasta, even preparing some meat. A temperature knob is the best way to adjust the hot plate’s wattage to your needs for that moment. You can adjust the temperature to the amount of water you need to boil. But, keep in mind that it is best to use 80% of power for best performance.

Hot plates are hot enough to boil water

What To Consider About This Hot Plates For Boiling Water?

Before you start looking for it, there are a few things you should be aware of. This guide provides you answers to all questions, doubts and confusion that might cross your mind.

What Hot Plate Wattage Do You Need?

If you want use it for personal use, for example, to make coffee, tea, a 500w hot plate should do the trick. If you want to boil it for cooking pasta or vegetables, you will need a stronger hot plate so a 1,000W or 1,500W hot plate is for you. On the other hand, if you need to boil, for example, 5 gallons, then you should consider checking out commercial hot plates because they are a much safer option for that amount of water.

How Big Hot Plates Need To Be?

The size depends on the amount of water you need to boil. The ideal ratio is that the ring should be at least an inch wider than the pot you use. The pot can be smaller than the ring, but it mustn’t be bigger due to safety reasons like accidentally tipping over, breaking the ring under the pressure of the pot, etc.

size of a hot plate for boiling water

How Does Number Of Burners Affect Performance?

In general, it doesn’t. But, the fact that wattages depend on the number of burners does. That means, for example, if you have a two burner hot plate with 1500W, the bigger burner will have 1000W and the smaller 500w. If they are the same size, then they will both have the same wattage 750W. So, if a double burner hot plate is advertisted as 1500W, keep in mind that it is a total wattage of both burners together.

Why Is Weight Capacity Important?

Weight capacity shows the maximum weight you can put on a hot plate. That means if you buy a small hot plate you won’t be able to boil a water in 5-gallon pot on it because it will most likely exceed capacity and break the appliance.

Induction, Infrared or Electric?

You can warm up water on every hot plate type. It really doesn’t matter whether you use induction, infrared or simple electrical one. But, what you need to know is that induction hot plates require special cookware.

How To Use A Hot Plate For Water Boiling?

This is actually a very simple task.

  1. You have to decide on the amount of water you need.
  2. Make sure the pot you chose isn’t too big for a hot plate and it doesn’t exceed its weight capacity.
  3. Plug in the hot plate, turn it on and place a pot on the heating element.
  4. Wait 5-10 minutes for the water to boil. Stronger heating elements will do it faster.
  5. Once the water is boiled, turn off the device and make sure you plug it out. Don’t touch the heating element until it cools off completely.

Use A Hot Plate To Boil Water

Best 6 Hot Plates To Boil Water

Ovente Double Infrared Burner Hot Plate BGI102S

SPECIFICATION:

Material: SS & Ceramic Glass
Dimensions: 18 x 9.5 x 2.75 inches
Weight: 5 Pounds
Heating Element: 2
Controls Type: 5 Levels Knob
Power: 1700W

Two Burners In Different Sizes
The Ovente BGI102S features two burners sized 6.5 inches and 7 inches. The burners are made of high-quality crystallite glass that can endure high temperatures. Each burner comes with an indicator light that lights up when they are turned on to indicate heating up. This hot plate is powered by 1700 Watts (120 Volts).

Ovente Hot Plate For Boiling Water Review

Supports Different Cookware
Unlike induction units, you can use any kind of cookware on this model as it uses infrared technology. This technology helps to heat up food and water quickly and evenly. The burner plates are best suitable for medium-sized cookware. It can deal with boiling and cooking other things on the other burner at the same time.

Convenient Temperature Adjusting
The two control dials allow you to choose the temperature by adjusting the knob so that you prepare the meal in the pace you want. It is 18.3 inches long, 9.5 inches wide, and 2.8 inches tall so that it can fit into almost any space when you need it to.

Ovente Hot Plate For Boiling Water

Suitable For Use In Different Spaces
The infrared hot plate has a stainless steel housing and weighs only 4.5 pounds. Wiping it with a damp cloth is simple and will keep it clean. This makes it perfect for fitting into different surroundings such as small kitchens in studio apartments and dormitories. It can even be used for camping.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★★
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★☆
Quality: ★★★★★
Capacity: ★★★★★
Funcionality: ★★★★★

PRICE RANGE

from $40 to $60 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair) and discounts

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Indicator lights that light up when heating element is heating up
  • You can use different material cookware

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • The temperature settings wear off on buttons

Cuisinart Cast-Iron Single Burner Hot Plate

SPECIFICATION:

Material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 11.5 x 11 x 2.5 inches
Weight: 6.85 Pounds
Heating Element: 1
Controls Type: 5 Levels Knob
Power: 1300W

Sturdy Design For Countertops
This countertop Cuisinart model features a combination of brushed stainless steel silver and black housing with a cast-iron plate. The heavy-duty material makes it durable for long-lasting use. It is 11.5 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 2.5 inches tall. That way it should be able to fit any countertop with ease. It also has non-slip feet with rubber so that it can be sturdy on any countertop surface.

Cuisinart CB30 Hot Plate Review

Six Settings For Temperatures
The 1300 Watts countertop hot plate heats up quickly and keeps the heat throughout cooking so that boiling water is an easy and quick task. The knob offers an off position, a minimal heat, and six temperatures settings. This wide variety means that you can adjust and control the heat to the one that best fits your cooking and water boiling needs.

Coil-Less Plate Design
Two indicator lights warn you about the hot plate being on and ready for use. The cooking surface can be easily cleaned as it is coil-less so you don’t have to worry about stains. The hot plate can be used to boil, but also to keep food warm or cook a meal.

Cuisinart CB30 Hot Plate

Lightweight & Compact 
As it is compact with a weight of 8.2 pounds, it can be used as an addition to your kitchen stove by placing it on the countertop. However, it can also be placed on other countertop surfaces without a kitchen, so that you can use it in your dormitory, office, patio, boat, etc.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★☆
Quality: ★★★★☆
Capacity: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★★

PRICE RANGE

from $55 to $65 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Wayfair, Home Depot) and discounts

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Non-slip feet with rubber to prevent slipping
  • Large heating element with 1300W

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • It has drop in temperature after using for a while

IMUSA USA GAU-80305 Electric Single Burner

SPECIFICATION:

Material: Aluminum
Dimensions: 3.54 x 9.84 x 9.05 inches
Weight: 1.9 Pounds
Heating Element: 1
Controls Type: Perilla
Power: 1100W

1100-Watt Burner
This electric hot plate features a single burner with 1100 Watts. It comes in black color and is usually cheap and very affordable. It is advised to read the manual before you use this product. It should not be used for over 60 minutes in 2 hours. It can be used in any space with a plug so that you can boil water or heat food.

IMUSA

Compact & Portable
This model features a stainless steel drip tray under the coils with an indicator light and temperature knob at the front side. It is compact for portability so that you can use it in small confined spaces such as dorm rooms or offices, as well as on your patio, and any other space with an available plug. The rubber feet are non-slippery for any countertop surface.

Low, Medium & High Temp
The 1100-Watt coil is lifted off the drip tray so that it can be easy to clean. Water can be boiled as fast as you like, with the turning knob that features low, medium, and high heat settings. The indicator light will let you know when it is in use to prevent burning or any other accidents.

IMUSA Review

How To Boil Water?
Boiling water is easy by filling a pot with water and turning the small hot plate on. It can be used for making your favorite hot drink in the office, dormitory room, recreational vehicle, etc. The continuously variable knob lets you choose any position on the low, medium, or high heat.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★☆
Quality: ★★★★☆
Capacity: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★☆

PRICE RANGE

from $10 to $20 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and discounts

REASONS TO BUY:

  • The cheapest option on the list, good if you need a basic product
  • Non-slippery rubber feet to prevent moving around

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • It can’t be used for more than 60 minutes straight

Aroma Housewares AHP-303 Single Burner Hot Plate

SPECIFICATION:

Material: Metal
Dimensions: 9.4 x 3.1 x 8.5 inches
Weight: 1 Pounds
Heating Element: 1
Controls Type: 4 Levels Knob
Power: 1000W

Hygienic Die-Cast Construction 
This single burner hot plate has a durable die-cast construction that is easy to clean after cooking. The 1000 Watts hot plate is a great extension to any kitchen and can also be used when on the go as it is easy to transport. The finish is durable black metal and is also hygienic as food can’t fall inside thanks to the solid surfaces.

Aroma Single Burner Hot Plate

Compact Size For Different Spaces
The 10-inch width and length make it ideal for fitting into your office to prepare your favorite hot drink or heating up your meal. It can also be used for camping, or simply as an added fixture to your kitchen stove when needed for larger gatherings and parties. Other applications are using it in your dormitory or any other space away from home.

Four Temperature Settings
The single burner hot plate comes with a light indicator and a knob with four temperature settings. Therefore, you can boil water quickly as per need. It works for fast heating with a curved design that improves contact with the cooking pot.

Aroma Housewares

First Time Use
When using the appliance for the first time, it is advised to run it for about 15 to 20 minutes on a high setting to burn off the residue. The black design makes it easily fit into different decors so it is great for use when traveling and on the go.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★☆☆
Quality: ★★★★☆
Capacity: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★☆

PRICE RANGE

from $15 to $20 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart, Home Depot) and discounts

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Made of durable die-cast metal
  • Choose one out of four temperatures for different meals
  • Stable legs suitable for traveling

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • It is rather slow in reaching the maximum temperature

Duxtop 1800W Induction Hot Plate 8100MC/BT-180G3

SPECIFICATION:

Material: Glass+PP
Dimensions: 13 x 11.5 x 2.5 inches
Weight: 6.51 Pounds
Heating Element: 1
Controls Type: 10 Levels – Push Button
Power: 1800W

Adjustable Time, Temperature & Power
This Duxtop 8100MC/BT-180G3 comes in a black design and is available to purchase with gold or silver detailing. The 1800 Watts hot plate uses 15 Amps or 120 Volts and features a digital control panel. The timer on the panel has one-minute increments and can time up to 170 minutes. The 10 power levels allow you to choose between 200 and 1800 Watts, and the temperature also comes in the range between 140 and 460 Fahrenheits.

Duxtop 1800W Hot Plate

Cookware For Magnetic Induction
It requires cooking pots and other cookware to be compatible with magnetic induction. This cookware includes cast-iron, a magnetic bottom on stainless steel, etc. The LED display is easy to read and the whole control panel is made intuitive for convenient use.

Easy-To-Clean Glass Surface
As you can easily adjust the time, the temperature, and the power, this cast-iron hot plate lets you boil as quickly as you want it to happen. The glass surface gives off a sleek design and is easy to clean at the same time. You will have to wait for the plate to cool down after use to clean it.

Duxtop 1800W Hot Plate Review

Cookware Sensor Detector
The bottom comes with a 7-blade fan that works to dissipate the heat rapidly for longer runtime. The sensor detects if there is no cookware on the hot plate and shuts it off after 60 seconds of no detection. It can be transported or even stored as it is lightweight with a compact design.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★☆☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Power: ★★★★★
Quality: ★★★★☆
Capacity: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★☆☆

PRICE RANGE

from $50 to $90 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and discounts

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Digital control panel for easier temperature control
  • One of the strongest ones on the list with 1800W
  • Auto-pan detection shuts off hot plate if cookware isn’t on it

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • Trouble with dispersing temperature equally on the heating plate
  • You have to use special cookware

CUSIMAX Electric Hot Plate B101

SPECIFICATION:

Material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 2.71 x 11.6 x 7.79 inches
Weight: 5.58 lb.
Heating Element: 1
Controls Type: 7 Levels Knob
Power: 1500W

Compact Size For Portability
This single burner features a cast-iron heating plate and a knob for adjusting the temperature. The 7.4-inch heating ring has 1500 Watts with 7 levels. Its compact size with 2.71-inch height, 7.79-inch width, and 11.6-inch length make it easily portable. Therefore, it can be used while traveling or living in smaller spaces, including dorm rooms, recreational vehicles, offices, or when camping.

Cusimax Hot Plate

7 Temperature Settings 
This unit can be used with any kind of cookware and is suitable for a maximum size of 7.1 inches. The 7 settings on the adjusting knob allow you to control the temperature according to whether you need to boil, heat up the food, or cook a meal. It can be used as an extra electric hot plate in the kitchen when you need to prepare more food than usual.

Black Stainless Steel Design 
This timeless-looking piece comes in a black stainless steel body that can fit into different decors and withstand regular or everyday use. After using, you should let it cool down and then wipe it clean with a damp cloth. The non-slip feet allow you to safely use this kitchen appliance on any surface.

Cusimax Hot Plate Review

When Using For The First Time
This electric double burner heat plate heats itself and then transfers the heat to the cookware, so you can burn yourself by touching it. When using it for the first time, there might be some smoke that should dissipate after 30 minutes, due to the protective coating. After using it, it takes about 20 minutes for it to cool down.

OUR RATINGS

Overall: ★★★☆☆
Safety: ★★★☆☆
Power: ★★★★☆
Quality: ★★★★☆
Capacity: ★★★★☆
Funcionality: ★★★★☆

PRICE RANGE

from $40 to $70 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair) and discounts

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Has 7 different temperature settings for cooking
  • Both heating elements can work together making cooking easier and faster

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • Knobs can get too hot to touch after a while

People Also Ask

Is It Safe To Use Hot Plates?

The biggest safety issue you can have with a hot plate is the plate moving around. Due to that, buy only hot plates with a rubberized bottom to prevent the hot plate from moving. Also, check the weight capacity on a hot plate and buy only ones that can handle the weight of the full pot you plan to use.

What Cookware Can You Use On It?

If you have then you can use any type of cookware to boil water. Glass is a common material for making tea, coffee and other hot beverages. Stainless steel is more common for cooking and making lunch or dinner. If you have induction hot plate then you must use only compatible cookware or cookware with magnetic bottom.

Cookware To Boil Water On a Hot Plate

Can You Boil 5 Gallons Of Water On a Hot Plate?

You can’t boil 5 gallons on a regular appliance. That amount of water is too big and too heavy for a model made for home use. Even the strongers commercial models would have hard time boiling 5 gallons in short time.

What If Hot Plate Doesn’t Want To Heat Up?

If you are experiencing issues with your hot plate, make sure it is plugged in a working socket and turned on. If those things are ok, then you might have a faulty hot plate that doesn’t work. Every hot plate should be able to heat up.

To Wrap It Up

To sum up this article, I would recommend the Ovente hot plate for this job. It is a double burner that uses infrared technology and can work with any kind of cookware. Each burner has its own temperature control dial and indicator light so that you can deal with more cooking at once. It is also lightweight. If you want to check out models suitable for camping use, read this post with my selection of the best camping hot plates. If you are struggling with ways to keep your food warm, find out about the offer of hot plates to keep food warm on the market.



Meghan
Meghan began her career as a journalist in 2016 after graduating with a Master’s degree. Through her work as a journalist, she has built relationships with many industry leaders, including experts in cooking which prompted her interest in cuisine. In 2018, she joined a cooking course where she explored many tips and tricks she presents in her articles and reviews. Meghan joined the Kitchentoast team in 2020 and since then, she has been focusing on writing about cooking, baking, design, kitchen appliances, and more.