Kenmore Elite 42800

The Kenmore Elite 42800 is an induction cooktop, meaning it uses electromagnetic energy to heat the pan directly. The advantages of this method are energy conservation and safety: The cooktop itself doesn't get hot enough to ignite paper. The disadvantage, besides price, is that it can only be used with cookware made of magnetic material like cast iron or stainless steel. If your heart isn't set on induction technology, you might want to consider a standard electric cooktop like the top-rated GE Profile PP945BMBB (*Est. $1,050) or the budget Kenmore 42732 (*Est. $630). If you'd rather stick with induction, reviewers say the Kenmore Elite 42800 performs comparably to high-priced models from designer brands like Viking and Electrolux.

ConsumerReports.org is the standout cooktop reviewer with separate ratings for electric, gas and induction models. The Kenmore Elite 42800 is subjected, along with eight other induction cooktops, to tests designed to simulate standard home kitchen cooking tasks. If you're considering the Kenmore Elite 42800, Sears.com is worth a visit for its good selection of user reviews. Epinions.com has a handful of posts as well.