Induction ranges promise faster, more foolproof cooking at a lower price. Chris Olsen has the latest test results of more than 50 to see which ones are really cooking!

Chef Jehan de Noue, the resident chef at Albano Appliance in New York, does lots of cooking demonstrations on induction ranges and likes their convenience.

"The induction range is faster, easier to maintain, easier to clean, and it's extremely energy efficient compared to the alternatives," he said.

Induction ranges like this use a magnetic field to heat pots and pans more quickly. And they're not hot to the touch!

The induction ranges are usually pretty pricey –- costing$ 2,400 or more. Consumer Reports just tested both regular and induction ranges in their test kitchen.

Each range is put to work on everyday challenges. First, testers heat tomato sauce to see how well a stovetop can hold a steady, low heat.

"If the sauce simmers without boiling or splattering, the burner is doing a good job," Sara Brown of Consumer Reports said.

Next, dozens of cookies are baked in each oven. When they're done, testers use this device to see how evenly the cookies are browned.

The tops and bottoms of each cookie are also checked for even browning.

Finally, burgers are broiled to see which ovens can turn out a pan of patties with a well browned crust -- and which ovens can't!

Consumer Reports recommends digital controls, but they might take some getting used to.

"Ranges have evolved over the years, so if you haven't seen a new range or cook-top in a while, the digital controls might be a little more difficult to follow," Brown said.

That's true of the Samsung induction range, model number FTQ307NWGX, but Consumer Reports' tests show it does a great job for $2,400 less than many of its competitors. It rated excellent overall.

If a regular range is all you need, you can get an excellent one for much less. The Kenmore model number 60622 does a great job at simmering, and is very good at baking and broiling.

It costs $600.

Be aware that if you opt for an induction range or cook-top you may have to change your pots and pans. If a magnet sticks to your cookware it will work -- if it doesn't it will not.

With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen.