Fast, precise, dual-burner cooking for tight spaces, RVs, and busy weeknights.
Ever wish you had an extra burner on holidays or a safer cooktop in a tiny kitchen? That’s where a compact double induction unit shines. It heats fast, holds a steady simmer, and keeps your counters cool. I tested the Nuwave PIC Double in my small apartment and even in an RV weekend. It handled meal prep without crowding my counter, and cleanup took seconds. If you want quick boils, gentle sauces, and safe, portable power, this style of cooktop is a game changer.
Is Nuwave PIC Double Good?
Short answer: yes, for most people. The Nuwave PIC Double is ideal if you cook in a small kitchen, travel in an RV, or need extra burners for holidays. It gives you two 8-inch zones, precise temperature control, and three power options, so you can match your circuit and stay safe. If you have non-magnetic pans or expect two full-power burners at once all the time, it may not fit your needs.
In my kitchen, I boiled pasta on one side and kept a silky Alfredo at a steady 180°F on the other. Nothing scorched. When we took it to the RV, I switched to 900W mode to avoid tripping a breaker. It still seared chicken fast and held a steady simmer for rice. That flexibility is the reason I kept it on my counter.
My First Impression for Nuwave PIC Double
The unit arrived well-packed with foam and a snug box. The ceramic glass looked sleek and felt sturdy, and the controls were simple and clear. I liked that the body felt solid without being heavy, so moving it from counter to patio was easy. Setup took less than a minute: plug in, pick a temp, and it recognizes your pan.
My first run was a fry test and a low-temp chocolate melt. It hit searing heat fast, then dropped to a gentle hold without drama. I felt a little surprised at how evenly it spread heat across a compatible pan. I was excited because it promised the speed of gas with the control of sous vide, minus the fuss.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- 106 precise temperature settings from 50°F to 575°F in 5°F steps
- Two 8-inch induction zones with independent controls
- Selectable power modes: 900W, 1500W, or 1800W for circuit safety and RV use
- Shatter-resistant ceramic glass for durability and easy cleanup
- Induction tech heats the pan, not the surface, for cooler, safer cooking
- Compact, portable design for apartments, dorms, patios, and travel
What I Like
- Temperature accuracy makes simmering, candy work, and melting chocolate stress-free
- Fast heat-up for weeknight meals and quick boils
- Selectable wattage protects circuits in older homes and RVs
- Surface stays cooler around the pan; my kitchen also stays cooler
- Glass top wipes clean in seconds; no baked-on mess
- Independent zones mean I can sear and simmer at once
What Could Be Better
- Requires magnetic cookware; some aluminum or copper pans will not work
- Large pans can overhang an 8-inch zone; no bridge function for griddles
- Fan noise is present at high power; not loud, but noticeable
My Recommendation
If you want fast, safe, and precise cooking in a tight space, the Nuwave PIC Double is a smart buy. It shines for renters, RV owners, students, and anyone who needs a second “stove” during big meals. The power options make it easy to match your home or travel setup. For me, it replaced a hot plate and now handles 80% of my weekday cooking. If you cook with induction-ready pans and value control, this unit delivers strong value and is often in stock.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens and renters | Portable, slim, and needs only a standard outlet |
| RV, camper, and dorm use | Selectable 900/1500/1800W avoids tripping breakers |
| Holiday or party overflow | Two zones let you sear and simmer at once with precise temps |
Alternative Products You Can Consider
Duxtop 9620LS Portable Double Induction Cooktop — Great for users who like an LCD interface, many presets, and robust timer options. It offers quick heat and solid control, though the interface is busier. Compared to the PIC Double, it leans into presets rather than the ultra-fine 5°F steps. Best if you love one-touch programs and a bright display.
Cuisinart ICT-60 Double Induction Cooktop — Simple and sleek with quiet operation. Controls are straightforward and it’s very easy to live with. It does not chase extreme top-end searing like PIC Double’s 575°F setting, but for daily cooking, it’s smooth and reliable. Best for those who want set-and-forget simplicity.
True Induction TI-2C — A solid choice for built-in installs and RV cutouts. It’s clean-looking and designed to sit flush in a countertop. It tends to cost more, but if you want a semi-permanent solution, this is compelling. Choose it if you’re building a compact kitchen and value a built-in look.
| Product | Best For | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Nuwave PIC Double Portable Induction Cooktop | Precise control and flexible power on the go | 106 temp levels (50–575°F), dual 8″ zones, selectable wattage |
| Duxtop 9620LS Portable Double Induction Cooktop | Preset lovers and timer-heavy cooks | LCD UI with many presets; strong timer tools |
| Cuisinart ICT-60 Double Induction Cooktop | Simple daily cooking with low noise | Straightforward controls; less focus on high-temp searing |
| True Induction TI-2C | Built-in or flush-mount setups | Designed for installs; premium feel and price |
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want precise temperature steps, quick heat, and flexible power, the PIC Double is a strong pick. It suits apartments, RVs, dorms, and anyone needing an extra set of burners for big meals. Its strength is control: 50–575°F in fine 5°F increments and two 8-inch zones that cook evenly with the right pans.
Prefer an LCD interface and presets? The Duxtop 9620LS may fit you better. Want ultra-simple controls and quiet operation for everyday meals? The Cuisinart ICT-60 is an easy win. Need a built-in look? The True Induction TI-2C stands out. For most people, though, the PIC Double balances speed, safety, and control better than anything else in its price range.
FAQs Of Nuwave PIC Double Portable Induction Cooktop
Will my current pans work on this cooktop?
You need induction-ready cookware. If a magnet sticks to the bottom, it will work. Cast iron and most stainless steel are fine. Plain aluminum or copper usually won’t heat unless they have a magnetic base.
Can both burners run at full power at the same time?
Total power is shared. You can cook on both zones, but the unit manages output based on your 900/1500/1800W setting. In practice, you can still boil on one side and simmer on the other without issues.
How hot does it get?
It offers 106 temperature levels from 50°F to 575°F. That covers low holds for melting and high heat for searing. You can fine-tune in 5°F steps.
Is it safe for my countertop?
Induction heats the pan, not the surrounding surface. The glass around the pan stays cooler, and cleanup is easy. Keep vents clear and use it on a heat-resistant, level surface.
Do I need a special outlet?
No. It runs on a standard 120V outlet. Use 900W, 1500W, or 1800W to match your circuit. For older wiring or RVs, the 900W mode helps prevent breaker trips.
