A hot plate is a small, portable and self-contained tabletop appliance, which has one or more electric heating elements, and which is used to heat containers with liquids,[1]​ in a controlled manner.

In the laboratory, hot plates are generally used to heat glassware "Glassware (chemistry)") or its contents. They have a power selector that allows you to adjust the thermal emission and the time necessary to heat a certain container.

A typical analog board has dimensions of approximately 300 x 300 mm and a ceramic surface capable of resisting chemical attack. They reach maximum surface temperatures of up to 450°C, although such high temperatures are generally not used.

Its applications are very varied, although the heating of containers with liquids such as beakers, flat-bottomed flasks predominates... The instructions for use and maintenance must be followed and the safety requirements must be met to avoid accidents.[2]​.

Some plates also contain a magnetic stirrer, allowing the heated liquid to be stirred automatically if we introduce a small magnet or stirring bar into it.

The heater can be used as a single appliance, but is often used as a substitute for one of the kitchen stove's gas burners, which are used in food preparation, usually in locations where a gas stove would not be convenient or practical. Because an insulated hot plate can be easily moved from one location to another, care must be taken to ensure that there is sufficient space between the appliance and the location of combustible materials. Additionally, a hot plate should not be located in a location where the power control of the appliance is accessible to children and others unfamiliar with the operation.

This type of cooking equipment is typically powered by electricity, however, gas combustion hot plates were not uncommon back in the 20th century and are still available in different markets around the world. Heating plates can be environmentally acceptable, if the heat generated on them comes from renewable resources. Additionally, the low cost of the boards (usually just over €20 for a 1,000 Watt board) allows them to be used in the developing world or by those on a limited budget. As such, hotplates can be considered an appropriate technology.

Some heating plates are used in professional kitchens to maintain the temperature of already cooked food, in good heat and food safety conditions.[3]​.