To see product details, add this item to your cart.
FREE Returns
Return this item for free
You can return this item for any reason: no shipping charges. The item must be returned in new and unused condition.
Read the full returns policy How to return this item: - Go to Your Orders to start the return
- Print the return shipping label
- Ship it!
Ships from: Amazon.com Sold by: Amazon.com
To see product details, add this item to your cart.
FREE Returns
Return this item for free
You can return this item for any reason: no shipping charges. The item must be returned in new and unused condition.
Read the full returns policy How to return this item: - Go to Your Orders to start the return
- Print the return shipping label
- Ship it!
Ships from: Amazon Sold by: Amazon Warehouse
Other Sellers on Amazon
69% positive over last 12 months
91% positive over last 12 months
Image Unavailable
Color:
-
-
-
- To view this video download Flash Player
- 7 VIDEOS
NUWAVE Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass, 6.5” Heating Coil, 45 Temps from 100°F to 500°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900 & 1300 Watts, 9” Duralon Ceramic Pan Included
Return this item for free
You can return this item for any reason: no shipping charges. The item must be returned in new and unused condition.
Read the full returns policy- Go to Your Orders to start the return
- Print the return shipping label
- Ship it!
Return this item for free
You can return this item for any reason: no shipping charges. The item must be returned in new and unused condition.
Read the full returns policy- Go to Your Orders to start the return
- Print the return shipping label
- Ship it!
Return this item for free
You can return this item for any reason: no shipping charges. The item must be returned in new and unused condition.
Read the full returns policy- Go to Your Orders to start the return
- Print the return shipping label
- Ship it!
Purchase options and add-ons
Color | Black |
Material | Plastic |
Special Feature | Manual |
Brand | Nuwave |
Heating Elements | 1 |
Product Dimensions | 10"D x 12"W x 2"H |
Wattage | 1300 watts |
Controls Type | Push Button |
Burner type | Open |
Included Components | Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass, 6.5” Heating Coil, 45 Temps from 100°F to 500°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900 & 1300 Watts, 9” Duralon Ceramic Pan Included See more |
About this item
- MAKE ADJUSTMENTS ON-THE-FLY – Want hotter temperature or need to cook it longer? No problem; Simply adjust on-the-fly any time; No need to start over; Flex’s intuitive digital controls are easy to operate, and the response is immediate.
- 45 PRE-PROGRAMMED TEMPS - Select from the 6 convenient preset temperature settings or fine tune your own temperature from 100°F to 500°F in 10°F increments; You can also add or deduct cooking time at any time.
- PRECISE TEMPERATURE CONTROL – With 45 precise temperatures at your fingertips, you can keep delicate sauces warm at 100°F to grilling a juicy steak with serious grill marks at 500°F.
- SHATTER-PROOF CERAMIC GLASS – The heating surface is heavy-duty shatter-proof ceramic glass; It was rigorously tested to withstand intense heat without shattering; It is one of the safest cooktops on the market.
- FAST & EFFICIENT – Flex heats the pot directly transferring 85%~90% of its electro-magnetic energy to heat energy! Traditional stovetops only convert about 30% of their heat for cooking; Flex cooks faster; saves energy; and is safer than any stovetop.
- SAFETY BUILT-IN – Even if you forget, Flex will shut off automatically when the set cook time is completed; When the cookware is removed from the cooktop, Flex will not start; There are no hot coils or open flames reducing the risk of burns and fire.
- PERFECT FOR DORMS & RV’S – Flex is light-weight and portable; It performs flawlessly in RV’s, dorms, campsites, and smaller apartments; Its 3 wattage settings of 600, 900 & 1300 watts are designed to work well anywhere even when the power is limited.
- MELT CHOCOLATE - Mastery of the double boiler is not necessary; Simply set the Flex at 120°F; add chocolate and stir; It will never burn; Even preparing the most delicate sauces like Hollandaise, Beurre Blanc & Beurre Fondue are no longer daunting.
- 9” DURALON CERAMIC FRYING PAN INCLUDED – The hard-anodized, ultra-nonstick, induction-ready frying pan is non-toxic, PTFE & PFOA free, oven safe, and compatible with all cooktops.
- HELPING YOU LIVE WELL FOR LESS SINCE 1993 – At NUWAVE, we are driven by the pursuit of providing safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly products with the latest technology that will improve your quality of life.
Customer ratings by feature
Frequently bought together
Compare with similar items
This Item Nuwave NUWAVE Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass, 6.5” Heating Coil, 45 Temps from 100°F to 500°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900 & 1300 Watts, 9” Duralon Ceramic Pan Included | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | |
Price | -10% $98.99$98.99 List: $109.99 | $79.99$79.99 | $59.18$59.18 | $78.14$78.14 | $69.99$69.99 | -9% $91.18$91.18 List: $99.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Temperature Control | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.1 | — | 4.0 | 4.3 |
Easy to clean | 4.7 | 4.7 | — | — | 5.0 | 4.7 |
Heat output | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.7 | — | 3.6 | — |
Easy to use | 4.5 | 4.5 | — | — | 4.2 | 4.4 |
Energy efficiency | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.5 | — | 4.3 | — |
Sold By | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
heating element type | Open | Induction | Radiant | Sealed | Radiant | Induction |
heating elements | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
controls type | Push Button | Push Button | — | Push Button | — | Push Button |
material | Plastic | Ceramic Glass | Ceramic Glass | Ceramic Glass | Ceramic Glass | Ceramic Glass |
power source | induction | induction | induction | induction | induction | induction |
weight | 4 pounds | — | 5.15 pounds | — | 6.49 pounds | 6.45 pounds |
Discover similar items
Similar items that may deliver to you quickly
- Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass, 6.5” Heating Coil, 45 Temps from 100°F to 500°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900 & 1300 Watts, BlackFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27
- Nuwave Precision Induction Cooktop Gold, 12” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass Surface, Large 8” Heating Coil, Portable, 51Temp Settings 100°F to 575°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900, and 1500 WattsFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27
- Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop, Countertop Burner Induction Hot Plate with LCD Sensor Touch 1800 Watts, Silver 9600LS/BT-200DZAmazon's Choicein Countertop BurnersFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27
- Nuwave PIC Flex Induction Cooktop, 45 Temps 100°F-500°F, 600-1300W, 6.5" Coil, for Dorms/RVs/Hotels, with 4Qt Ceramic PanFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27
- Nuwave PIC Flex Compact, Portable, Powerful Induction Cooktop With 9-inch Duralon Healthy Ceramic Non-Stick Fry PanFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27
- Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass, 6.5” Heating Coil, 45 Temps from 100°F to 500°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900 & 1300 Watts (Renewed), BlackFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27Climate Pledge FriendlyProducts with trusted sustainability certification(s). Learn more
PRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)
Pre-owned Certified: Electronics products are inspected, cleaned and (if applicable) repaired to excellent functional standards. Buying Pre-owned extends a product's life, reducing e-waste and raw material extraction.
From the brand
-
NuWave is an American manufacturer based in Vernon Hills, IL that is focused on developing affordable, green conscious appliances using the latest culinary technology.
Our customers are always our top priority, and we are absolutely dedicated to building a foundation of trust and dependability to help people Live Well For Less.
-
Live Well for Less
We are driven by the pursuit of safe, green products that can improve the quality of life for less.
Product Description
Videos
Videos for this product
16:03
Click to play video
Should You Buy? Ecoflow Delta Pro 3600Wh Power Station
Should You Buy?
Videos for this product
8:02
Click to play video
Should You Buy? nuwave Portable Induction Cooktop
Should You Buy?
Product information
Color | Black |
---|---|
Material | Plastic |
Special Feature | Manual |
Brand | Nuwave |
Heating Elements | 1 |
Product Dimensions | 10"D x 12"W x 2"H |
Wattage | 1300 watts |
Controls Type | Push Button |
Burner type | Open |
Included Components | Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop, 10.25” Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass, 6.5” Heating Coil, 45 Temps from 100°F to 500°F, 3 Wattage Settings 600, 900 & 1300 Watts, 9” Duralon Ceramic Pan Included |
Power Source | induction |
Item Weight | 4 Pounds |
Item Weight | 4 pounds |
Department | Unisex-Adult |
Manufacturer | Nuwave |
ASIN | B01AV7JW2S |
Country of Origin | China |
Item model number | PIC Flex with 9" Pan |
Customer Reviews |
4.5 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #2,556 in Kitchen & Dining (See Top 100 in Kitchen & Dining) #7 in Countertop Burners |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | January 20, 2016 |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Looking for specific info?
Product guides and documents
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the temperature control, value, cleanability, ease of use, and compatibility of the countertop burner. For example, they mention that it heats quickly to the desired temperature, it's a great buy, and it saves them money on eating out all the time. They appreciate the ease of cleaning and the fact that it works with most existing kitchen appliances.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the temperature control of the countertop burner. For example, they say it heats quickly, cooks evenly, and has good regulation. Some say that it cooled quickly and was easy to just wipe down. That said, they appreciate the multiple temperature choices and the fact that temperature adjustments feel instantaneous.
"...The precise temperature control has been a game-changer for me, as it allows me to cook with accuracy and consistency, whether I'm simmering..." Read more
"...The temperatures are accurate. The unit heats quickly to the desired temperature & cools down quickly when not in use.. Easy to operate & clean." Read more
"This is a nice one pot unit. Very quick to heat up. Great way to get precision temperature control and very responsive...." Read more
"...- Heat does travel to the outer edge of the unit, so if using a larger pan for long periods of time, don't do like the picture on the box and put..." Read more
Customers like the compatibility of the countertop burner. They mention that it works great, easily on the Nuwave unit, and works nicely for steamed rice, soft scrambled eggs, and slow cooking small batches. They also say that it's compatible with most existing cookware and that the temperature settings and timer work well.
"...Everything worked flawlessly. The only issue was User Error - I was unaware of the Countdown Timer which I assume defaults at one hour...." Read more
"The temperature settings & timer work well & it is easy to learn how to set & adjust them." Read more
"...I have cooked many things on it. It has performed as I expect induction to perform...." Read more
"...induction cooktop works with magnetic tech, so if no conductivity, no function. easily remedied with a metal plate..." Read more
Customers like the quality of the countertop burner. They say it's a fantastic cook method, very user friendly, and cooks precisely and very evenly. They also say it cooks everything with ease and convenience. Customers also mention that the burner has wattage settings so you can cook based on the food requirements. Overall, customers are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.
"...The built-in timer and programmable cooking functions have made meal prep a breeze, and I've been able to experiment with new recipes..." Read more
"...your wattage (600w/900w/1300w) and temperature, this is a great all-round single burner for environments where space or power is a concern...." Read more
"This is a nice one pot unit. Very quick to heat up. Great way to get precision temperature control and very responsive...." Read more
"I had one of these years till the off switch broke. This one was listed as used for much less money...." Read more
Customers find the countertop burner easy to use. They mention that it's convenient, easy to set, and control. They also appreciate the safety and convenience features. Customers say the cooking functions have made meal prep a breeze. They say it has an easy to read manual with a great selection of cooking recipes. Customers also mention that the receipt book is easy to follow.
"...The built-in timer and programmable cooking functions have made meal prep a breeze, and I've been able to experiment with new recipes..." Read more
"...to the desired temperature & cools down quickly when not in use.. Easy to operate & clean." Read more
"The temperature settings & timer work well & it is easy to learn how to set & adjust them." Read more
"...a good amount of stainless steel cookware so it makes it easy for both of us to cook at the same time...." Read more
Customers like the size of the countertop burner. They say it has a small footprint, making it easy to place anywhere in the kitchen. Some say it's the right size to use in an RV and that it'll fit in a corner of the kitchen counter when not in use. The performance, portability, and safety features make it a standout. Customers also mention that it does good job cleaning, fits under objects well, and that the 9" pan fits nicely on the device.
"...Its performance, portability, and safety features make it a standout product in its category, and it has truly elevated my cooking experience...." Read more
"...The benefit of this one is the smaller size, so if one is trying to save space and isn't planning to use larger pots/pans - Get This! :)..." Read more
"...Fits well on any countertop. The portability is great for traveling & makes it nice to save money on eating out all the time...." Read more
"...The unit is also small enough to be highly portable. I am very glad to have it." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the cleanability of the countertop burner. They mention that it is easy to operate and clean.
"...temperature & cools down quickly when not in use.. Easy to operate & clean." Read more
"...This hotplate runs consistently, is easy to clean and cools quickly. I love the temperature control, too. I definitely recommend!" Read more
"...Verdict: We like it! Very easy to control, cooks fast, cleans easily. And only takes 110v; one doesn't have to plug it into a 220v outlet...." Read more
"It heats up pretty fast, easy to clean and easy to use. I did so much research on these before buying one and I'm glad I went with this" Read more
Customers like the speed of the countertop burner. They say it cooks and boils water quickly and efficiently. They also like that it turns on quickly and heats up the pan quickly. Customers also say it responds instantly and transitions quickly.
"...Its performance, portability, and safety features make it a standout product in its category, and it has truly elevated my cooking experience...." Read more
"...Great way to get precision temperature control and very responsive. A little be noisy with the cooling fan...." Read more
"...Verdict: We like it! Very easy to control, cooks fast, cleans easily. And only takes 110v; one doesn't have to plug it into a 220v outlet...." Read more
"...The egg white cooks quickly in 4" diameter circle in the center of the pan. The heat works its way out to the edges within two or three minutes...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the value of the countertop burner. They mention that it is a great buy, it saves them a lot of restaurant bills, and is small enough to keep in your home or garage.
"...The portability is great for traveling & makes it nice to save money on eating out all the time...." Read more
"This piece is awesome and heats up super fast honestly worth the money just keep in mind you’ll need the newer cookware with magnetic bottoms if not..." Read more
"...I highly recommend this induction cook pad. It saved us a lot of restaurant bills and its small enough to keep in your home or garage for..." Read more
"Very economical to use in my camper. The size is space friendly too." Read more
Reviews with images
-
Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
First and foremost, the precision and efficiency of this cooktop are outstanding. The induction technology heats up incredibly quickly, allowing me to start cooking in no time. The precise temperature control has been a game-changer for me, as it allows me to cook with accuracy and consistency, whether I'm simmering delicate sauces or searing meats.
The portability of the Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop is another huge plus. I love that I can easily move it around my kitchen or even take it outdoors for some al fresco cooking. The compact design makes it perfect for small spaces, and the sleek look adds a modern touch to my kitchen.
The versatility of this cooktop is also worth mentioning. I appreciate the range of temperature settings and the ability to use different sized cookware with ease. The built-in timer and programmable cooking functions have made meal prep a breeze, and I've been able to experiment with new recipes confidently.
Furthermore, the safety features of the Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop give me peace of mind. The automatic shut-off feature and the cool-to-the-touch surface make it a safe choice for any home cook.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop to anyone in the market for a reliable, efficient, and versatile cooking solution. Its performance, portability, and safety features make it a standout product in its category, and it has truly elevated my cooking experience. Five stars all the way!
UPDATE: Wow! The level of control on this is amazing. I could take something from "boiling" to "not boiling" by using the +/- with the temperature settings with just a five degree difference. Also let something cook on 600w rather than 900w - still boiled. Amazing.
Items of note:
- Usable "HOT" area in center ring area is a diameter of 6 3/4".
- Max recommended pot/pan size if 10.3". Material in the 3.5" zone outside the inner ring will take longer to heat, etc.
- PIC Flex is about 10.1" wide. 11 3/4" long, and 2 1/2" inches high.
- Does not have an "Off" switch so may (or may not) use Vampire Power.
- Can be set for 600w/900w/1300w, but cooking times are obviously "longer" for lower settings.
- "Exhaust" vent looks to run from "9-oclock to 1-oclock" position. Air seems to exit around "11-oclock".
- "Another vent ("Intake"?) looks to be around the "2-oclock to 3-oclock" position.
- 32" cord is permanently attached at comes out "from the right" in between the two vents.
- Area around the exhaust vent can get on the toasty side.
- Digital thermometers are very useful to keep an eye on the temperature.
- Heat does travel to the outer edge of the unit, so if using a larger pan for long periods of time, don't do like the picture on the box and put your hand on the surface.
- Looks like it "cools reasonably fast". I wouldn't put my hand on it immediately after use, but it's certainly safer than a conventional stove top. If I had the remodel to do all over again, I could envision stealing the stove top's 40a breaker and instead just having a counter top with outlets for multiple NuWaves. Hmm..... Always The Future...
Although it maxes out at 1300 watts, I am on the Paranoid Side so will be running it at 900 watts. Kitchen circuit is 20a, but never hurts to be safe. I like that they include a two quick-reference pages for those who tend to skip reading manuals, but even the "instructions" section of the "manual" is only about nine pages with the rest being recipes. A PDF version of the manual is also available. They list additional "accessories" for purchase in the manual. Ex: if I plan to store the PIC Flex rather than leave it on the counter, I would want to consider getting the Carrying Case (31115) to protect the PIC Flex from being bumped or scraped. One could also purchase an "induction ready cast-iron grill" (with drip tray) to actually "grill" on the PIC Flex (32023). Unfortunately, the carrying case (31115) does not appear to be listed on Amazon :( but the manufacturer sells it for (at present) $14.95 ***PLUS*** another $11.95 in shipping/handling/etc. $27.00 is a bit too much for a bag, so I may try the PIC Gold's slightly larger case (31111) as that is $18.95 and Free Shipping for Prime Members.
Set at 900w, It boiled half a quart of water in a short amount of time, and one of the quick start pages also gives examples of times/wattage. Going to assume the temp was set to either "High" (425F) or "Max/Sear" (500F) .
1 cup water at: 600W / 900W / 1,300W
Time: 4:15m 2:00m 1:30m
I finally gave "cooking soup" a try, and that would be about 4.75 quarts of veggies and water and such. The bottom of the pot (usable area) was 7 1/4", so only 1/2" was outside the inner ring. I set the PIC Flex for 380 degrees and after thirty minutes it was showing signs of beginning to boil. I cheated and pushed it to 400 and it started boiling a few minutes later. After that, I turned it down to 360 and it was still bubbling away. I was too much of a coward to try adding the lid as didn't want to risk things spilling over. Everything worked flawlessly. The only issue was User Error - I was unaware of the Countdown Timer which I assume defaults at one hour. I wanted to let it boil for 45 minutes, but my ignoring the timer meant it shut off before this. I switched it back on and let things finish up. I pressed the "clear" button twice to deactivate the unit, and gave it a few more minutes to let the fan run to exhaust any additional heat. Then pressed the "off" switch on the device (rated for 1800w) that I had the PIC Flex plugged into.
This unit is smaller than other models, so if one wanted to cook with larger pots/pans, one should opt for a larger NuWave unit. The benefit of this one is the smaller size, so if one is trying to save space and isn't planning to use larger pots/pans - Get This! :)
Combined with the ability to choose your wattage (600w/900w/1300w) and temperature, this is a great all-round single burner for environments where space or power is a concern. The Countdown Timer is an added safety feature. Should one get called away, fall asleep, etc, the PIC Flex will shut itself off - less concern of burning food or worse. Where was this when I was in college? Hot Plate = Stone Knives & Bear Skins!
Negative Stuff... :(
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Concerns
=================================
The manual mentions "This appliance emits an electromagnetic field that is STRONGEST within TWO FEET of the cooking surface." The manual also mentions "Do not place devices or objects that are sensitive to magnetic fields on top of or next to the NuWave(tm) PIC Flex. (Eg: credit cards, cell phones, radios, TVs, video recorders, etc.). This may well be "CYA Boilerplate" documentation, but still something to consider. If one exists in the 21st century, then one may have on one's person a cell phone and/or some credit cards. And if one is operating the PIC Flex without Plastic Man Arms (or a long stick) then one is going to be well inside the "electromagnetic field that is STRONGEST within TWO FEET of the cooking surface." So one could interpret the manual to infer that it might be wiser to keep one's wallet and cell phone "elsewhere" when using the PIC Flex.
Some Annoyances
===============
- There is no "off" switch so may be using "Vampire Power". As I don't like things that could be switched on by an accidental touch, will be plugging this into something that will function as an "off" switch (rated for 1800w).
- Cord is a bit on the short side and comes out from the "right" so this limits where one might place the PIC Flex. If the cord was centered in the rear or a bit longer, this wouldn't be much of an issue as I want to avoid Stretching the Cord.
- Above mentioned concern about "EMI".
- The ads state that the unused area "remains cool" and that is not a completely accurate statement. One can't banish physics, and there isn't a vacuum (or a force field) to keep the heat contained inside the 6 3/4" inner ring. Heat will radiate out from the center to the unused area. Not much, but it is noticeable. Ex: I was using a pot with a "contact area" of about 5 1/2" to boil water. When I started, the digital thermometer said the overall surface temp was about 72 degrees. When I took the pot off the PIC Flex later, then "center" area was around 170 degrees and the outer ring was 84 degrees. Obviously the heat will radiate outward from the center, with the points closest to the pot/pan being the hottest. Since humans operate at 98.6 degrees, 84 degrees is nothing to worry about, but just mentioning that heat will radiate out from the center. I assume the bigger the pot/pan, the hotter the temp, and the longer the time, the hotter the outside area will be. Ex: Place a HOT pot/pan on a table, and the surface of the table is going to heat up.. etc. UPDATE: When I was cooking soup, the area of the ring behind the pot was pushing 115 degrees. No force fields, so the heat is going to radiate out from the center.
- If one is going to use this with an "off" switch, do NOT turn it "off" immediately after use. The internal fan will be running for at least a minute after you stop using the PIX Flex, so wait at least 90 seconds to allow the fan to dissipate heat from the unit.
- The heat has to go SOMEWHERE (physics again). The exhaust vent doubles as a mini space heater. I was measuring temps of 115 degrees coming out the vent, but obviously if the surface of the unit is pushing 360 degrees, the waste heat has to go somewhere. Ex: My Dyson Slim vacuum cleaner has excellent power/suction, but the cost is the heat it puts out the exhaust vent while operating.
Minor annoyances aside, this was a GREAT purchase. I currently live in a Gas Stove World, but am eventually moving to an Electric Stove World. The PIC Flex will be excellent for trying out new cookware as I get ready for the transition from Anodized to Stainless Steel. It also never hurts to have an extra - portable - burner on hand and would serve as an excellent backup in case something happens to the main stove. This would work great during a kitchen remodel or even something more mundane like "waiting for the kitchen floor to dry". Grill lovers in confined spacers could get the grill add-on (32023) and have fun.
Reviewed in the United States on November 5, 2017
UPDATE: Wow! The level of control on this is amazing. I could take something from "boiling" to "not boiling" by using the +/- with the temperature settings with just a five degree difference. Also let something cook on 600w rather than 900w - still boiled. Amazing.
Items of note:
- Usable "HOT" area in center ring area is a diameter of 6 3/4".
- Max recommended pot/pan size if 10.3". Material in the 3.5" zone outside the inner ring will take longer to heat, etc.
- PIC Flex is about 10.1" wide. 11 3/4" long, and 2 1/2" inches high.
- Does not have an "Off" switch so may (or may not) use Vampire Power.
- Can be set for 600w/900w/1300w, but cooking times are obviously "longer" for lower settings.
- "Exhaust" vent looks to run from "9-oclock to 1-oclock" position. Air seems to exit around "11-oclock".
- "Another vent ("Intake"?) looks to be around the "2-oclock to 3-oclock" position.
- 32" cord is permanently attached at comes out "from the right" in between the two vents.
- Area around the exhaust vent can get on the toasty side.
- Digital thermometers are very useful to keep an eye on the temperature.
- Heat does travel to the outer edge of the unit, so if using a larger pan for long periods of time, don't do like the picture on the box and put your hand on the surface.
- Looks like it "cools reasonably fast". I wouldn't put my hand on it immediately after use, but it's certainly safer than a conventional stove top. If I had the remodel to do all over again, I could envision stealing the stove top's 40a breaker and instead just having a counter top with outlets for multiple NuWaves. Hmm..... Always The Future...
Although it maxes out at 1300 watts, I am on the Paranoid Side so will be running it at 900 watts. Kitchen circuit is 20a, but never hurts to be safe. I like that they include a two quick-reference pages for those who tend to skip reading manuals, but even the "instructions" section of the "manual" is only about nine pages with the rest being recipes. A PDF version of the manual is also available. They list additional "accessories" for purchase in the manual. Ex: if I plan to store the PIC Flex rather than leave it on the counter, I would want to consider getting the Carrying Case (31115) to protect the PIC Flex from being bumped or scraped. One could also purchase an "induction ready cast-iron grill" (with drip tray) to actually "grill" on the PIC Flex (32023). Unfortunately, the carrying case (31115) does not appear to be listed on Amazon :( but the manufacturer sells it for (at present) $14.95 ***PLUS*** another $11.95 in shipping/handling/etc. $27.00 is a bit too much for a bag, so I may try the PIC Gold's slightly larger case (31111) as that is $18.95 and Free Shipping for Prime Members.
Set at 900w, It boiled half a quart of water in a short amount of time, and one of the quick start pages also gives examples of times/wattage. Going to assume the temp was set to either "High" (425F) or "Max/Sear" (500F) .
1 cup water at: 600W / 900W / 1,300W
Time: 4:15m 2:00m 1:30m
I finally gave "cooking soup" a try, and that would be about 4.75 quarts of veggies and water and such. The bottom of the pot (usable area) was 7 1/4", so only 1/2" was outside the inner ring. I set the PIC Flex for 380 degrees and after thirty minutes it was showing signs of beginning to boil. I cheated and pushed it to 400 and it started boiling a few minutes later. After that, I turned it down to 360 and it was still bubbling away. I was too much of a coward to try adding the lid as didn't want to risk things spilling over. Everything worked flawlessly. The only issue was User Error - I was unaware of the Countdown Timer which I assume defaults at one hour. I wanted to let it boil for 45 minutes, but my ignoring the timer meant it shut off before this. I switched it back on and let things finish up. I pressed the "clear" button twice to deactivate the unit, and gave it a few more minutes to let the fan run to exhaust any additional heat. Then pressed the "off" switch on the device (rated for 1800w) that I had the PIC Flex plugged into.
This unit is smaller than other models, so if one wanted to cook with larger pots/pans, one should opt for a larger NuWave unit. The benefit of this one is the smaller size, so if one is trying to save space and isn't planning to use larger pots/pans - Get This! :)
Combined with the ability to choose your wattage (600w/900w/1300w) and temperature, this is a great all-round single burner for environments where space or power is a concern. The Countdown Timer is an added safety feature. Should one get called away, fall asleep, etc, the PIC Flex will shut itself off - less concern of burning food or worse. Where was this when I was in college? Hot Plate = Stone Knives & Bear Skins!
Negative Stuff... :(
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Concerns
=================================
The manual mentions "This appliance emits an electromagnetic field that is STRONGEST within TWO FEET of the cooking surface." The manual also mentions "Do not place devices or objects that are sensitive to magnetic fields on top of or next to the NuWave(tm) PIC Flex. (Eg: credit cards, cell phones, radios, TVs, video recorders, etc.). This may well be "CYA Boilerplate" documentation, but still something to consider. If one exists in the 21st century, then one may have on one's person a cell phone and/or some credit cards. And if one is operating the PIC Flex without Plastic Man Arms (or a long stick) then one is going to be well inside the "electromagnetic field that is STRONGEST within TWO FEET of the cooking surface." So one could interpret the manual to infer that it might be wiser to keep one's wallet and cell phone "elsewhere" when using the PIC Flex.
Some Annoyances
===============
- There is no "off" switch so may be using "Vampire Power". As I don't like things that could be switched on by an accidental touch, will be plugging this into something that will function as an "off" switch (rated for 1800w).
- Cord is a bit on the short side and comes out from the "right" so this limits where one might place the PIC Flex. If the cord was centered in the rear or a bit longer, this wouldn't be much of an issue as I want to avoid Stretching the Cord.
- Above mentioned concern about "EMI".
- The ads state that the unused area "remains cool" and that is not a completely accurate statement. One can't banish physics, and there isn't a vacuum (or a force field) to keep the heat contained inside the 6 3/4" inner ring. Heat will radiate out from the center to the unused area. Not much, but it is noticeable. Ex: I was using a pot with a "contact area" of about 5 1/2" to boil water. When I started, the digital thermometer said the overall surface temp was about 72 degrees. When I took the pot off the PIC Flex later, then "center" area was around 170 degrees and the outer ring was 84 degrees. Obviously the heat will radiate outward from the center, with the points closest to the pot/pan being the hottest. Since humans operate at 98.6 degrees, 84 degrees is nothing to worry about, but just mentioning that heat will radiate out from the center. I assume the bigger the pot/pan, the hotter the temp, and the longer the time, the hotter the outside area will be. Ex: Place a HOT pot/pan on a table, and the surface of the table is going to heat up.. etc. UPDATE: When I was cooking soup, the area of the ring behind the pot was pushing 115 degrees. No force fields, so the heat is going to radiate out from the center.
- If one is going to use this with an "off" switch, do NOT turn it "off" immediately after use. The internal fan will be running for at least a minute after you stop using the PIX Flex, so wait at least 90 seconds to allow the fan to dissipate heat from the unit.
- The heat has to go SOMEWHERE (physics again). The exhaust vent doubles as a mini space heater. I was measuring temps of 115 degrees coming out the vent, but obviously if the surface of the unit is pushing 360 degrees, the waste heat has to go somewhere. Ex: My Dyson Slim vacuum cleaner has excellent power/suction, but the cost is the heat it puts out the exhaust vent while operating.
Minor annoyances aside, this was a GREAT purchase. I currently live in a Gas Stove World, but am eventually moving to an Electric Stove World. The PIC Flex will be excellent for trying out new cookware as I get ready for the transition from Anodized to Stainless Steel. It also never hurts to have an extra - portable - burner on hand and would serve as an excellent backup in case something happens to the main stove. This would work great during a kitchen remodel or even something more mundane like "waiting for the kitchen floor to dry". Grill lovers in confined spacers could get the grill add-on (32023) and have fun.
Reviewed in the United States on January 19, 2024
Heats up fast
Gives off less heat then using our gas stove in the RV
Top reviews from other countries
Would recommend to anyone with an older stove or for camping.