Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF vs Imusa GAU-80305 Countertop Burner
If you need a simple, affordable countertop burner that plugs into a standard outlet and gets out of your way, these two models come up constantly. The Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF and the Imusa GAU-80305 both sell for under $17, use knob controls, and have aluminum bodies in a compact black design. The real differences show up in wattage, footprint, and the size of the buyer base backing each one. Sorting out which one actually fits your situation takes a closer look at the specs each unit brings to the table.
Quick winner
The Imusa GAU-80305 wins on raw output at 1,100 watts, making it the better pick for anyone who wants a bit more heat from their budget burner, while the Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF edges it out on rating and review volume for shoppers who weight community confidence.
Key differences, measured
- The Imusa GAU-80305 is 18% cheaper ($14.00 vs $16.99).
- Amazon buyers rate the Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF 0.2 stars higher across 45,200 combined reviews.
Side-by-side specs
| Spec | Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Burner | Imusa GAU-80305 Countertop Burner |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $16.99 | $14.00 |
| Rating | ||
| Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Controls | Knob | Knob |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 9 X 9.2 X 3.25 In | 9.06 X 9.45 X 3.54 In |
The two contenders
Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Burner
The Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF is priced at $16.99 and carries a 4.4-star rating across more than 25,100 reviews, one of the largest review pools in its price tier. It runs on 120V and uses a knob control, keeping operation straightforward. The aluminum body measures 9 x 9.2 x 3.25 inches, a compact square that fits easily on a small kitchen counter or dorm cart. With over 1,000 units sold per month, it clearly has an active base of regular buyers who keep coming back to this model.
Buy this if: The Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF makes the most sense for someone who wants the most buyer-reviewed option under $17 and values a slightly higher average star rating. It is a good fit for dorm rooms, RVs, or as a backup burner where simplicity and proven popularity matter more than knowing the exact wattage spec.
Check price on AmazonImusa GAU-80305 Countertop Burner
The Imusa GAU-80305 sells for $14.00 and is rated 4.2 stars by more than 20,100 buyers, a strong showing for a burner at this price. Its listed wattage is 1,100 W, giving it a known power figure that the ESB-301BF does not publish. The aluminum build measures 9.06 x 9.45 x 3.54 inches and weighs 2.57 lb, making it light enough to toss in a bag for a camping trip or tailgate. Knob controls keep heat adjustment quick and tactile without any menus or buttons to navigate.
Buy this if: The Imusa GAU-80305 is the better choice if you want a published wattage figure to compare against your cooking needs, or if you prefer the lowest possible upfront cost at $14.00. Its 2.57 lb weight also makes it the more portable of the two, useful for anyone who moves the burner between locations regularly.
Check price on AmazonFrequently asked questions
Which burner is more powerful, the Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF or the Imusa GAU-80305?
The Imusa GAU-80305 lists a wattage of 1,100 W. The Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF does not publish a wattage spec for the B00C8C5I7I ASIN, so a direct power comparison cannot be made from the available data. If knowing the exact wattage before buying is important to you, the Imusa gives you that number.
Are these burners about the same size?
They are very close. The Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF measures 9 x 9.2 x 3.25 inches and the Imusa GAU-80305 comes in at 9.06 x 9.45 x 3.54 inches. Either one will fit in the same tight counter space, though the Imusa is marginally taller.
Which one has more customer reviews?
The Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF has over 25,100 reviews at a 4.4-star average, compared to more than 20,100 reviews at 4.2 stars for the Imusa GAU-80305. Both numbers are large enough to reflect real-world reliability, but the Elite Gourmet has the larger pool and the higher average.
Can either burner be used in a dorm room or small apartment?
Both plug into a standard 120V outlet and have a footprint under 10 inches square, so either fits a dorm or small kitchen setup. Check your building rules on hot plates before buying, since many dorms restrict open coil electric burners regardless of brand.