Nuwave Flex Induction Cooktop Review: Is the $59.99 Price Worth It?

The Nuwave Flex portable induction cooktop offers 45 precise temperature settings and a shatter-resistant surface — here's who it actually makes sense for and what to watch out for before buying.

What you're actually getting with the Nuwave Flex

This is a single-burner portable induction cooktop aimed at people who need a reliable extra burner — think dorm rooms, small apartments, RVs, or anyone whose stove just doesn't have enough real estate. The standout feature is the temperature precision: 45 steps from 100°F to 500°F means you can hold a low simmer for chocolate or crank it up for a sear without guessing. The 10.25" glass surface is shatter-resistant, which matters more than it sounds when you're moving it around. It's not a replacement for a full range, but as a dedicated precision burner, it punches above its price.

The detail that'll determine if it works for your cookware

The heating coil underneath measures 6.5" — smaller than the glass surface suggests. That means pots and pans under roughly 8" in diameter will get the most even heat; larger skillets may heat unevenly toward the edges. Also non-negotiable with any induction cooktop: your cookware needs a magnetic bottom. Cast iron and most stainless steel work fine; copper, aluminum, and glass do not. If you're already cooking with induction-compatible pans and need a compact, precise second burner under $60, this is a genuinely competitive option. If you'd need new cookware too, factor that into the real cost.