Gas cooktops use a burner flame, radiant electric cooktops heat an element beneath a glass surface, and induction uses an electromagnetic field to heat compatible cookware. Compare the home's available utilities, cookware compatibility, cooking zones, cleaning and installation requirements for the exact model. ENERGY STAR's general comparison says about 85% of induction heating energy transfers to cookware, compared with about one third for gas; that figure is not a household energy-bill estimate.
Start with the cooktop you have, the cookware you own and the utility connections available in your kitchen. Gas heats with a flame, radiant electric uses a resistance element, and induction transfers energy to compatible cookware through an electromagnetic field. Installation details and controls vary by model.
Compare the heating methods
| Cooktop type | What the method changes |
|---|---|
| Gas | A gas flame heats the pan. Check the supply connection, burner layout, grate fit and the manufacturer’s installation directions. |
| Radiant electric | An electric resistance element beneath a smooth glass surface heats the cookware. Check the element sizes, surface indicators, pan base and cleaning directions for the model. |
| Induction | An electromagnetic field heats compatible cookware. Test a pan base with a magnet, check the manufacturer’s compatibility notes and match its base to the cooking zone. |
ENERGY STAR’s published comparison says about 85% of induction heating energy transfers to cookware, compared with about one third for gas. Treat this as a general energy-transfer comparison, not a prediction of your energy bill; household costs depend on usage and local utility rates.
Check cookware, cutout and utilities
Before choosing induction, inventory the pans you want to keep. A magnet that sticks to the base is a useful first check, but verify the cookware mark and maker instructions as well. Our induction-compatible cookware guide explains the pan check in more detail.
For any replacement, measure the countertop opening and confirm the exact product’s width, required power connection or gas supply, clearance and ventilation instructions. A cooktop with the same nominal width may still have different installation requirements. Ask a qualified installer to assess the setup when the utility connection, cabinet cutout or local rules are uncertain.
If you are comparing a cooktop and a full range, note whether you need a separate oven. For ventilation fit and ducting decisions, see the range hood buying guide. For pan materials, see the cookware materials guide.
Official sources
Checked November 5, 2026.
- U.S. Department of Energy: Consumer conventional cooking products
- GE Appliances: Electric cooktops
- ENERGY STAR: Electric cooking products
Related guides
Common questions
Is radiant electric the same as induction?
No. GE describes radiant cooktops as electric elements beneath a smooth glass surface. Induction uses a magnetic field to heat compatible cookware.
Will my current pans work on induction?
A magnet sticking to the pan base is a useful check, but also look for the induction mark and verify the exact pan's instructions. See our induction-compatible cookware guide.
Can I replace a gas cooktop with induction in the same opening?
Do not assume the existing connection and cutout will work. Compare the new model's dimensions, electrical requirements, ventilation and installation instructions, and consult a qualified installer where needed.
Does induction always cost less to run than gas?
ENERGY STAR publishes a general energy-transfer comparison, but household operating cost depends on the appliance, local electricity and gas rates, and how it is used.