Induction vs Infrared Cooktop — Which Is Better for Indian Kitchens?

Choosing between induction and infrared comes down to your cookware and budget. Induction heats faster and saves energy; infrared works with any pan.

• Induction cooktops cost Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 8,000, and use only magnetic-base cookware.
• Infrared cooktops cost Rs. 1,400 to Rs. 5,000, and work with aluminium, clay, and copper.
• An induction cooktop typically uses 20 to 30% less electricity than an infrared one.
• Bajaj Finance lets you repay either type across a tenure of 3 to 60 months.

Convert the cost of your new cooktop into Easy EMIs using Bajaj Finance's financing options at over 1.5 lakh partner stores such as Reliance Digital and Croma, or find a partner store near you. Check your loan eligibility before getting started.

A common kitchen upgrade question is whether an induction or an infrared cooktop suits everyday Indian cooking better. Induction offers faster heating, energy efficiency, and a cool surface, while infrared works with all cookware and feels closer to a traditional gas stove. The right choice depends on your pots, cooking style, and family needs.

An induction cooktop uses electromagnetic energy to heat cookware directly, without heating the surface itself. When a magnetic-base vessel sits on the glass surface, an electromagnetic field heats the metal in the vessel rapidly and evenly, and the surface stays cool while the cooktop switches off automatically once the vessel is removed.

Induction cooktops are available in India between Rs. 1,500 and Rs. 8,000, and are popular in compact urban apartments for their safety and energy efficiency. The main limitation for Indian households is cookware compatibility, since aluminium, copper, and clay vessels will not work on induction.

An infrared cooktop heats your cookware using infrared radiation, similar to how the sun warms your skin. It heats the glass surface underneath your vessel, which then passes the heat up into your pan or pot, so the surface itself gets quite hot during cooking.

In India, infrared cooktops are priced between Rs. 1,400 and Rs. 5,000, making them one of the more affordable electric cooking options. The advantage for Indian households is that they work with every type of cookware you already own, including aluminium, clay, copper, steel, and non-stick, so you do not need to buy new vessels.

Beyond price, a few practical factors matter most to Indian households choosing between the two. Here is a full side-by-side comparison:

Understanding the price difference across budget tiers helps you make a more informed purchase. Here is how entry-level, mid-range, and premium models typically compare:

• Entry-level (Rs. 1,400 to Rs. 2,500): Both types sit at similar price points here. Entry-level infrared cooktops from brands like Pigeon, Surya, and Usha start at Rs. 1,400 to Rs. 1,800, while entry-level induction cooktops from Philips, Havells, and Bajaj start at Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,000. Both offer basic touch controls and auto-shutoff.
• Mid-range (Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 4,000): The two types begin to differ more here. Mid-range induction cooktops from Prestige, Glen, and Usha add more preset cooking modes and better temperature control. Mid-range infrared cooktops from Pigeon, Glen, and Philips add feather-touch controls and higher wattage options.
• Premium (Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 8,000): Premium induction cooktops offer auto heat adjustment, keep-warm functions, and app connectivity on select models. Premium infrared cooktops are less common in this range, since most premium spending in India tends to go toward induction technology.

Real, named models give you a clearer starting point than price ranges alone. Here are popular picks from each category:

Top-selling induction cooktops

Top-selling infrared cooktops

Disclaimer: Product features, availability, and prices may differ based on location and time. For the latest and most accurate details, visit a partner store.

Please note: Easy EMIs are applicable on purchases above Rs. 5,000.

Consider pairing your purchase with induction-compatible cookware — such as a magnetic stainless steel pressure cooker, an induction-compatible cast iron tawa, or a cookware set — to get more from your order and make the most of Easy EMI options available on purchases above Rs. 5,000.

Power consumption directly affects your monthly electricity bill, so it is worth understanding before you buy. Here is how the two compare:

Induction cooktops

• Typical wattage ranges from 1,200W to 2,000W.
• Energy conversion efficiency is very high, since electromagnetic heating generates heat directly inside the cookware.
• Heat loss during cooking is minimal, so almost all the electricity consumed goes into actual cooking.
• Actual electricity used per session is lower than the wattage suggests, thanks to this efficiency.
• Uses 20 to 30% less electricity than an infrared cooktop for the same task, such as boiling water or simmering curry.

Infrared cooktops

• Typical wattage ranges from 1,000W to 2,000W, similar to induction.
• Energy conversion efficiency is moderate, since the glass surface heats first before transferring heat to the cookware.
• Heat loss during cooking is higher, as some energy escapes as ambient heat.
• Monthly electricity cost is slightly higher than induction for the same everyday cooking tasks.
• The cost difference is modest for daily use, typically Rs. 50 to Rs. 150 per month, though it adds up over a full year.

One trade-off worth knowing: infrared cooktops often cost less upfront and skip the need for new cookware, but induction cooktops tend to save more on your electricity bill over time. If your existing vessels are not induction-compatible, factor in cookware replacement cost before assuming infrared is the cheaper overall choice.

Choosing between induction and infrared mostly comes down to your existing cookware, budget, and what matters more to you day to day, speed and running cost, or upfront price and flexibility. Here is a quick way to decide:

• Choose induction if you want faster cooking and lower running costs, since it heats water and food quicker and uses less electricity over time.
• Choose induction if your kitchen already has magnetic-base cookware, such as most stainless steel and cast iron pots and pans.
• Choose induction if safety is a priority, since the cool surface and auto-shutoff suit households with children.
• Choose infrared if you have aluminium, clay, or copper cookware and do not want to buy new vessels.
• Choose infrared if you want a lower entry price, since basic infrared models are among the cheapest electric cooktops available.
• Choose infrared if you prefer something closer to a traditional gas stove in look and feel.

One trade-off worth knowing: infrared cooktops often cost less upfront and skip the need for new cookware, but induction cooktops tend to save more on your electricity bill over time. If your existing vessels are not induction-compatible, factor in cookware replacement cost before assuming infrared is the cheaper overall choice.

Thinking of buying a new cooktop?

Before you do that, explore the latest offers from Bajaj Finance. You may find a great deal on a model that matches your needs.

Bajaj Finance offers two ways to convert your cooktop purchase into affordable monthly payments. Both options are available at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India.

How to choose?

Both options require you to be physically present at a partner store. The Insta EMI Card is ideal for shoppers who want to purchase across multiple categories over time. The Easy EMI Loan suits buyers looking to finance a higher-value cooktop purchase in a single transaction.

With over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities, Bajaj Finance's network means you can finance a cooktop purchase whether you live in a metro or a Tier 2 city such as Jaipur or Lucknow.

Upgrading your kitchen with an induction or infrared cooktop is simple and affordable with Bajaj Finance's Easy EMI options. The entire process usually takes just 10–15 minutes. Follow these steps:

1. Browse models on Bajaj Mall: Explore both induction and infrared cooktops, comparing wattage, cooking modes, and safety features before heading to the partner store.
2. Find a partner store near you: Use the Bajaj Finance store locator to find a nearby partner outlet such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or other authorised retailers.
3. Check the cooktop in person: Visit the partner store and check cookware compatibility, wattage, and safety features to find the type that suits your kitchen.
4. Choose a suitable EMI option: At checkout, ask the store executive about the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Easy EMI Loan. Confirm available tenure options and whether your chosen model comes with a zero down payment offer.
5. Complete payment and take your cooktop home: Once approved, your purchase is processed immediately, and you can start cooking with your new cooktop the same day.

You can also check your loan eligibility online in advance by entering your mobile number and OTP, helping you plan your purchase better.

Bajaj Finance’s Smart Savings Calculator helps you unlock maximum savings every time you shop at partner stores. It brings together all available brand, dealer, and scheme offers—so you can see your total savings instantly and shop smarter with Easy EMIs.

1. Dealer offers - Grab exclusive in-store deals at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across India. Enjoy local discounts and special prices you will not find online.

2. Brand offers - Access limited-time discounts from top brands across electronics, appliances, and more. Discover brand-specific savings selected just for you.

3. Bajaj offers - Unlock exclusive Bajaj Finance deals on popular products—available only to our customers. More rewards, more value.

4. Scheme offers - Take advantage of time-sensitive offers on select EMI schemes. Get extra benefits after paying just 3 EMIs—visible during EMI selection at checkout.

Calculate your extra savings today!