We really like the Kenmore Elite 42800 30 inch Electric Induction Cooktop, available for $1,620 at Sears.com for both it's reasonable cost and included features. It has four cooking zones, including a 10", an 8", a 7" and a 6" element, with each zone having 15 power settings to provide precise control. Features like Pan Detection and Pan Size Detection automatically sense propper cooking utensils and the appropriate size to heat; Hold Warm allows you to keep food at exactly the temperature you decide; and Power Boost, which provides a concentrated amount of power to heat faster than any conventional cooktop, all add to the great value.

Besides bringing 4 quarts of water up to boiling in record speed, the induction cooktops we tested remained relatively cool, with most of the heat going into the pan, and not the surrounding kitchen. Having this cooler cooktop surface will greatly reduce any burnt-on spills.

If you've ever accidently left on a burner, you'll appreciate how the induction element automatically turns off when a pot is removed, even if you forget to turn it off.

Costs have come down slightly since induction cooktops were introduced to the home consumer market a few years ago, however they still retail between $1,500 - $3,500.

Another thing to remember is that induction cooktops will require you to use cast iron, or enameled steel cookware. Some stainless steel cookware will work, however aluminum and copper will not. A quick and easy test is to see if a magnet will stick to it - if it does, it will work on your induction cooktop.