Cooktops and Stoves Buying Guide

Cooktops and Stoves

Fuel Type:
Electric ovens can offer more even baking, but many cooks prefer gas burners, which turn on and off instantly and provide greater control for simmering. Dual-fuel models combine a gas cooktop with an electric oven.

Baking:
Conventional thermal models use heat elements to cook food; they can result in uneven cooking. Convection units use fans to circulate the heated air throughout the oven, resulting in more even heat distribution. They warm up faster but can dry out some foods.

Convenience:
Self-cleaning ovens include a high-temperature cycle that burns food stains into a powder for easy cleanup. Textured walls in continuous-cleaning ovens absorb burn spatters. Smooth-top ceramic glass cooktops are easy to clean, as are sealed gas burners, which confine spills to the cooktop. Continuous grates make it easier to slide pots around the cooktop.

Safety:
Range and cooktop control locks make sure children can't accidentally turn on the unit. Hot surface indicators prevent burns for children and adults alike.

Size:
Standard (four-burner) ranges are 30 inches wide, but professional-grade models can be had in 36-, 48-, or 60-inch units.