Smeg just dropped its new portable induction cooktop — after testing it, I think it's a holiday season essential

Smeg portable induction cooktop with a range of cooked food to the side

(Image credit: SMEG)

I’m a big fan of induction cooking, but if you're nervous about making the switch, opting for a portable cooktop is the ideal way to test it out. Fortunately, Smeg has just launched its portable induction cooktop in the U.S, and it’s perfectly timed for the holiday season.

Not only will you get the chance to try out the joys of induction cooking without the full commitment of purchasing a built-in induction cooktop, but you also get the added benefit of extra cooking space while you’re hosting during the festivities.

What’s more, I got to try out induction cooking for the first time at Smeg’s test kitchen in the U.K., and have since reviewed the portable induction appliance in my own kitchen. I've tested Smeg's Portable Induction Cooktop, and I loved its slick design and ease of use.

Smeg’s Portable Induction Cooktop is available for $420, at Harrods, and is available in three matte colorways — black, white, and jade green.

Here's what you need to know.

Extra capacity when you need it

Smeg's portable induction cooktop — (Image credit: Smeg)

It won’t replace your normal cooktop, as it only has one pan space, but it gives you the option to extend your cooking capacity when you need it. Whether that’s at a dinner party, over the festive season, or when you’re camping. Although I think it’s a pricey bit of kit to take on an outdoor adventure!

Plus, it has some unique features that set it apart from the competition, which is reflected in the price tag. The budget-conscious might prefer IKEA’s TILLREDA Portable Induction Cooktop that's available for a fraction of the price, for $74 at IKEA.

Power boost
Apart from the touchpad controls, which allow you to select nine heat levels, this induction cooktop also features a power boost — and it happens to be my favorite feature. You won’t have to wait around for a pan of water to boil before popping in your pasta.

Temperature probe
It also comes with a temperature probe. It’s a super handy extra that plugs into the side of the appliance and enables you to check the temperature of your food from 104°F, right up to 210°F. What’s more, the probe can be attached to the top edge of your pan while cooking.

If you're looking for a portable appliance, whether it’s an induction cooktop, or any other kitchen essential, you’ll want to make sure it’s lightweight, otherwise it really can’t claim to be portable. In this case, the Smeg Portable Induction Cooktop weighs in at 7.3 pounds, and from my experience of testing the appliance, I can assure you it’s easy to move about.

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Camilla is the Homes Staff Writer and covers everything to do with homes and gardens. She has a wealth of editorial experience, mounting over 30 years, and covers news and features, tests products for reviews and compiles buying guides.

Her work has appeared in business and consumer titles, including Ideal Home, Real Homes, House Beautiful, Homebuilding & Renovation, and Kitchen & Bathroom Business. She’s even appeared on the cover of Your Home, writing about her own house renovation.

Although she’s obsessed with decorating her home, she also enjoys baking and trying out the latest kitchen appliances. But when she’s not inside, you’ll find her pottering about in her yard, tending to her vegetable patch or taking in her prized hydrangeas.

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