Quicklist: Cooktops, Rangetops and Stoves
- Gas
- Electric
- Induction
- Coil
- Radiant
- Portable
- Coal
- Commercial-Style
- Modular
- Wood
- Pellet
- Solar
Cooking grills and stoves have a long history. The earliest versions date back 4,000 years ago to the Indus Valley which then spread throughout Eastern Asia. Cooking grills, known as “kamado,” appear in Japan about 500 CE.
In Europe, the kitchen appliance wasn’t in use until the late 18th century when inventor Benjamin Thompson introduced a kitchen range with a cooktop. Gas and electric cooktops were added separately in the 19th century. Induction cooktops are the latest innovation — the technology was first introduced at Chicago’s Century of Progress World’s Fair in 1933.
Related: How Do Gas Stoves Work | Space Saving Oven Alternatives
A. Cooking Methods
1. Gas
Opting for gas cooktops or rangetops in your kitchen has a number of benefits. First, they provide almost instant heat due to their powerful flames. Additionally, gas offers control over the temperature that you use to cook your food and quick response time when you need to raise or lower the temperature.
Temperature changes are almost immediate and will allow you to quickly heat up or cool down the pan you are using. When you turn off your gas cooktop you will notice that it cools down quickly.
Because of the way the burners are designed on a gas cooktop or rangetop, you can use any kind of cookware without worrying about damaging them. You will need both electricity and gas to operate the appliance.
You have to make sure that you have some sort of ventilation in your kitchen if you have a gas cooktop or rangetop as you want to make sure that there are not any hazardous fumes left after cooking. Gas is a little more expensive than electric, but since they use a less expensive fuel they will generally save you money in the long run.
2. Electric
Source: Houzz
Electric cooktops are very popular, easy to find and generally inexpensive, making them a great choice for anyone who is looking for a new stove and is on a budget. They have the additional benefit of being easy to clean, no matter if you opt for a cooktop that has coils or one that is smooth-top.
You do not need an ignitor to heat up your stove and as soon as you turn on an element it will begin to heat up, although it does heat up slower than a gas cooktop. In addition, adjusting the temperature on your electric cooktop is more difficult as it is significantly slower to respond.
One disadvantage of an electric is that if you lose power at your home you won’t be able to cook on your cooktop. Additionally, with some electric cooktops you have to be careful about the type of cookware that you use as you can scratch, damage, or even shatter the surface.
3. Induction
For a cooktop that will heat up faster than any other type, you will want to buy an induction cooktop. These come with a hefty price tag but also have a number of benefits. Instead of the whole surface of the cooktop getting hot the way that it does with a gas or electric cooktop, the heat produced by an induction cooktop is transferred directly to the cooking pot.
As soon as a pot is removed from the induction cooktop then the heating will stop. This means that the surface of the cooktop won’t ever get as hot as a traditional cooktop will. The main problem with an induction cooktop is that you need to have cookware that has been specifically designed for use with this type of surface.
Energy Efficiencies of Cooktops
B. Stoves
1. Coal
As the name suggests, coal stoves use coal as a fuel source and comprise a firebox to heat the air inside the stove and chimney to produce residual smoke. The firebox and chimney are made from steel and brass materials, which function as flame retardants.
Coal stoves are used for heating a room, but newer models are being designed to allow for cooking, so they are multi-purpose units. Like with large-scale energy creation, coal is not the most environmentally friendly option on this list, even when used in a smaller unit, because they produce a lot of black exhaust.
2. Commercial-Style
A commercial-style stove is an appliance meant for a commercial kitchen, so it’s more powerful and larger than home kitchen stoves. This type usually has extra features like grill tops, griddles, and convection ovens integrated into the unit.
The benefits of this stove type include a variety of models, gas and electric options, faster cooking, and more useful features like convection cooking and self-cleaning. Several cons include an expensive unit, large and bulky size, and they need professional installation.
Additionally, due to the power of a commercial stove, they consume a significant amount of electricity, making them one of the least environmentally friendly options on this list.
3. Modular
A modular stove is constructed from modular components so the unit can be disassembled and reassembled for transport. The modularity of these stoves allows for more flexibility around configuration and size.
Also, one of the major benefits of this stove type is it has a smaller footprint compared to traditional stoves, making them ideal for small countertops.
Some of the major benefits of a modular stove include portability and lighter weight, making them the perfect option for camping, and assembly of the stove. Also, this stove type is efficient, allowing faster cooking times and fuel savings.
4. Wood
Wood burning stoves are the easiest and use wood as the primary fuel source. Although old-fashioned, wood stoves are making a return to the home because of their environmental friendliness and dual functionality in cooking and heating a home.
This stove is most found in more rural areas, but many are adding to their suburban and exurban homes. The construction of wood-burning stoves is an all-metal unit, usually cast iron or steel.
Technology has further advanced this stove type by allowing more energy efficiency and clean burning, thus including an EPA certificate, while maintaining a traditional, rustic design.
5. Pellet
Pellet stoves derive their name from the pellets of wood that are used for fuel. These pellets are recycled sawdust, wood shavings, or other biomass materials that are compacted to form long pellets. This option burns even cleaner than firewood because they are a more consistent and pressed material. The pellets are placed into a hopper which is fed into a burn chamber, which produces heat.
Although pellet stoves are used to heat homes, Italian manufacturer Rizzoli features models also designed for cooking. While the pellets aren’t expensive, the stove can be a significant investment. Also, while the burning is cleaner, the fuel can leave behind a mess, so this buy is best for those who want to channel their inner neat freak!
6. Solar
Solar cooker set up in Nepal.
As the most environmentally friendly option on this list, the solar stove is a sustainable choice that allows users to cook without firewood or coal. Solar stoves have two components; a box made from a transparent material such as glass, and a spherical structure.
The purpose of the box is to trap heat from the sun and the spherical structure reflects and focuses the sunlight to increase the heat. While this may seem like a complicated option compared to other stoves or cooktops on this list, the solar design is for simple assembly and installation without any special training.
C. Cooking Surfaces
1. Coil
Source: Wayfair
Coils on an electric stove offer very little stress for cooking and are affordable and durable. It is difficult to cause problems with an electric cooktop that has coils since they can stand up to a lot of use. They are so durable that you don’t have to worry about how hard you scrub the cooktop to get up any cooked or spilled food.
In addition, you can use almost any household cleaner that you want and aren’t restricted to having to buy and use specialized cleaners. You can use heavy cookware on coil cooktops such as cast iron pans and you won’t damage them.
The coils on the cooktops generally heat quickly, but they remain hot for a long period of time and don’t offer a lot of control over the temperature. If the coil’s connection to the power source in the cooktop becomes loose then you will have to deal with a failed burner. While placing groceries and other items on smooth cooktops can damage the surface, you don’t have this problem with coil cooktops.
2. Radiant
Radiant cooktops work by passing electricity through heating elements that are located under the ceramic top. The elements heat up your cookware without warming any air around your cooktop.
The smooth ceramic surface looks neat in your kitchen and will improve the appearance of any modern décor. You can even design your kitchen so that your countertop will be at the same height as the top of your cooktop, creating a seamless look.
The main problem that comes from a smooth cooktop is that using the wrong kind of cookware cause it to scratch or break. You have to use lighter cookware and make sure that you do not slide the cookware across the surface.
D. Features
1. Downdraft
If you do not like the way that having a range hood or a fan looks in your kitchen then you will want to consider installing a downdraft cooktop. These have a ventilation system that is built directly into the cooktop itself so that you don’t have to rely on a bulky hood to extract the steam and smoke that is produced when you are cooking.
There is a small vent either along the back of the cooktop or between the burners that will suck the steam and smoke away from your pots and pans and prevent them from rising to the ceiling.
You can opt for a downdraft extractor on both gas and electric cooktops, but you may need to have ventilation installed just like you would with a regular fan or range hood.
2. Overhead Hood
When you cook you will release a lot of steam and smoke into the air of your kitchen and it’s important that you remove this to make sure that not only is your air clean and safe to breathe but that you don’t have any problems with your kitchen overheating or smoke setting off your fire alarm.
While some people do not like the look of an overhead hood, this is a great way to make sure that you safely and thoroughly remove all of the steam and smoke from your kitchen while you are cooking. If your cooktop doesn’t have a built-in downdraft extractor then you will need to make sure that you have the space for a hood or fan in the kitchen.
3. LED Display
Source: Wayfair
Make it easy on yourself when you want to see the time by choosing a stove that has an LED display.
4. Speed Heat
Source: Home Depot
Speed heat elements can be heated on low or high heat. You can use the high heat setting to get a pot of water ready for pasta or to heat up your wok to searing temperature so you can stir-fry in very little time, helping you hurry up your dinner prep and get food on the table faster.
5. Safety
Source: Home Depot
There are a few safety features that you want to look for when you are buying a cooktop. Automatic shutoff means that your burners will switch off on their own when cooking is finished if you have set the timer for a heating element to run by itself.
Another valuable safety feature to look for is a heat indicator — the light will remain on for as long as your cooktop is still warm.
6. Portable
Source: Hayneedle
When most people picture a cooktop they think of a large, multi-heating element item that is installed permanently in the kitchen.
You can also purchase smaller, portable ones that will allow you to cook in a hotel room or to add an extra heating element to your home kitchen if you need additional space to cook. These generally only come with one or two heating elements on them and are either electric or induction.
7. Stovetop Griddles
Source: Wayfair
Some stoves come with a griddle built into them making it easy to fry up eggs, pancakes, quesadillas, and other items. They are preferable to using a removable griddle that you put across the cooktop because they heat up evenly and quickly.
8. Wi-Fi
Source: Home Depot
Sync to an app that you can download on your phone or tablet, allowing you to monitor your appliance from other locations.
9. Continuous Grates
Source: Home Depot
Gas appliances come with the option of having continuous grates across the top, which creates a very professional and attractive look in your kitchen.
10. Automatic Re-Ignition
Source: Wayfair
From time to time, on a gas cooktop or rangetop, you may experience your burner flame going out. Automatic re-ignition restarts the flame, saving you the difficulty and frustration of dealing with it yourself.
11. Knobs
Source: Home Depot
Most people are comfortable using knobs to control the different heating elements on their cooktops. They turn easily, often are lit up by LED lights, and can sometimes be removed to be cleaned. The knobs are a great option and available on most types of cooktops.
12. Digital Touch Controls
Digital touch controls enable fast and intuitive management of the temperature you’re using to cook with.
E. Number of Burners
1. Two Burners
These are going to be significantly smaller than typical cooktops which is great if you are cramped for space but it will take some creative cooking to make sure that you are able to create meals for your family. The cooktops are also a great option if you already have a main stove in your home and are looking for something secondary.
2. Four Burners
Source: Houzz
Most homeowners opt for a cooktop that has four burners or heating elements. This is the most common size which means that there are a lot of different options that you can choose from.
3. Five Burners
Source: Home Depot
If you want a little extra room on your cooktop for cooking but don’t have a lot of extra space in the kitchen for a significantly larger cooktop then you may benefit from a cooktop with five burners.
This extra burner can really make a difference in your cooking and provide you with a little extra space for heating up a meal. These types of cooktops are generally gas or induction.
4. Six Burners
Source: Wayfair
For the most professional cooking experience you will want to opt for a cooktop that has six burners. This provides you with ample room for cooking and is great if you have a large family or do a lot of entertaining at your home.
When buying a cooktop this size you will want to make sure that your kitchen is large enough, as these cooktops tend to be much bigger than ones with four burners.
F. Top Brands
KitchenAid
Source: KitchenAid
Historically, KitchenAid has been known for marketing smaller appliances but as its moved into full-size kitchen needs they haven’t lost a step.
Their slogan for their cooking appliances, “Designed to spark creativity,” accompanies a wide range of styles, heating sources and designs. Current trends they are focusing on include kitchen islands with a built-in range or cooktop and a move towards commercial-style appliances with enhanced capabilities.
GE
Source: GE
GE has long been one of the industry’s leaders in providing options in gas, electric and induction cooktops. Company innovations in cooktops and stoves over the last few years have included: introduction of the first voice-controlled oven, addition of Wi-Fi Connect appliances, launch of Café electric slide-in range featuring precision cooking probe monitored through smart technology, and further advances in Artificial Intelligence computer-vision-cooking technology.
Samsung
Source: Samsung
Being tech-savvy and incorporating innovation into every appliance is something Samsung is known for, and this is certainly true of the products in their BESPOKE line, including slide-in ranges and over-the-range microwaves.
Samsung appliances offer unique features such as SmartDial cooking presets and SensorCook heat adjustment technology connected through the SmartThings control hub.
Bosch
Source: Bosch
You will pay more for Bosch appliances, but the quality and longevity of their product line is why they are found in kitchens everywhere.
Bosch offers all types of options in cooktops and stoves, matching a theme and often the centerpiece of the kitchen where they will reside. Their new industrial-style ranges feature die-cast metal front control knobs, pedestal feet, 30-inch and 36-inch gas and dual fuel options, easy-to-clean enamel surfaces and dishwasher safe grates.
G. Where to Buy
Cooktops and stoves are one of the most important appliances in your kitchen. Not only do they provide a place to cook food, but they also add extra countertop space. With all of the different types and brands available, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
Summit Appliance
Up first, we’ve got Summit Appliance. Anyone in the market for a designer stove will want to check out Summit Appliance’s cooktop selection. Summit offers a wide range of cooktops, from sleek and modern glass models to classic gas ranges.
They have gas, induction, electric stoves, ranges, and cooktops. You name it. They’ve got it. And with prices starting at just $449, Summit has something for everyone.
Best of all, they offer a wide range of stoves and cooktops that are perfect for tiny homes and micro-kitchens. These appliances are designed to meet the needs of small spaces and offer various features that make cooking and food preparation effortless and convenient.
For example, many of Summit’s stoves and cooktops come with adjustable legs to be installed at the perfect height for your kitchen. In addition, many models come with removable drip pans, making them easy to clean.
And because Summit appliances are designed for small spaces, they’re also very energy-efficient. So if you’re looking for appliances that are perfect for your tiny home or micro-kitchen, Summit Appliance is the place to start.
Viking
Headquartered in Greenwood, Mississippi, Viking is an American manufacturer of indoor and outdoor kitchen appliances. The company’s cooking division produces ovens, rangetops, cooktops, microwaves and warming drawers in several series of price levels starting from basic home (Series 3) through to professional grade (Series 7 and Tuscany).
Viking introduced commercial-style cooking appliances for home kitchens in 1987. You’ll have to request a quote here. They don’t list the prices, but the ranges do come in all the colors you could imagine.
Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove
Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, have long been the gold standard for kitchen appliances. Wolf is the separate cooking line.
They’ve got some nice closeups over at the Wolf site, as well as an owner resources section. At Wolf, there are outdoor grills, built-in ranges and cooktops, coffee systems, and a host of other kitchen appliances.
Not only are these kitchen appliances a great companion to dinner, they offer top-of-the-line cooking performance while also looking fantastic in any kitchen.
H. Best Cooktops for Various Purposes
Cooktops are great for those who want to save space in their kitchen or want more control over their cooking. You can easily store it for more space or bring it to a party. Take a look at some of the best choices.
Best Cooktop for the Environment
Some environmentally friendly cooktops have features like a built-in water filter or an automatic shut-off function.
An induction cooktop is an excellent option for those looking for an environmentally friendly option. Induction cooktops use less energy than other options, making them more efficient. Plus, they generate less heat, so your kitchen will stay cooler.
The Fisher Paykel Induction Cooktop has an automatic shut-off function that kicks in when the cooktop is not in use. This feature helps to conserve energy and save money on your energy bill.
Propane
Propane cooktops are an excellent option for those who want to save money on their energy bill.
Propane cooktops are less expensive to operate than electric cooktops. They offer more temperature control, so you can easily adjust the heat to suit your needs. A propane cooktop is a good choice if you’re looking for an affordable option that still offers great features.
The Samsung 36-Inch Gas Cooktop With 22K BTU Dual Power Burner cooktop even has WifI connectivity so that you can control it from your smartphone. The Samsung Gas Cooktop has a built-in skillet perfect for cooking breakfast foods or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Best Cooktop For Cast Iron
A smooth, glass-top cooktop is ideal for cast iron pans.
If you’re looking for a cooktop designed explicitly for cast iron pans, then a smooth, electric cooktop is a good choice. These cooktops have a smooth surface that is easy to clean and offers even heat distribution. Plus, they come with handy features like temperature control and a timer.
Source: GE Appliances
The GE Profile Series Induction Cooktop has a built-in child lock function that keeps little hands from turning on the stove. Plus, the GE Profile Series Induction Cooktop has a pan size sensor that automatically adjusts the heat to perfectly accommodate your pan.
No matter your needs, a cooktop is sure to be perfect for you. With so many options available
Best Cooktop for RV Camping
Source: Coleman
If you’re looking for a cooktop designed explicitly for RV camping, then the Coleman Classic Propane Stove is a good choice. This cooktop is compact and lightweight, so it’s easy to take with you on your travels. Plus, it has two burners that can accommodate large pots and pans.
A propane cooktop is a good choice if you’re looking for an affordable option that still offers great features. The Coleman Classic Propane Stove is an excellent choice for those who want to save money on their energy bill. This cooktop is compact and lightweight, so it’s easy to take with you on your travels.
Best Cookstove for Woks
The Iwatani 35FW Butane Stove is an excellent choice for those who want to stir-fry their food. This cooktop is designed explicitly for woks and offers even heat distribution. Plus, the Iwatani Butane Stove is easy to set up and use.
If you’re looking for a cooktop specifically designed for woks, then the Iwatani 35FW Butane Stove is a good choice. This cooktop offers heat distribution and is easy to set up and use.
Best Cooktop for Non-stick pans
The Cuisinart Double Induction Cooktop is an ideal cooktop for those who have non-stick pans. This cooktop uses two induction burners that offer even heat distribution. The Cuisinart Double Induction Cooktop has a built-in child lock function that keeps little hands from turning on the stove.
Best Downdraft Cooktop
30 in. Electric Downdraft Cooktop in Black with 4 Elements is an excellent choice for those who want a downdraft cooktop. This cooktop has four elements that offer even heat distribution. Plus, the 30 in. Electric Downdraft Cooktop has a built-in child lock function that keeps little hands from turning on the stove.
The 30 in. Electric Downdraft Cooktop is an excellent choice for those who want a downdraft cooktop. This cooktop has four elements that offer even heat distribution and a built-in child lock function.
Best Portable Cooktop
The Duxtop 8300ST induction cooktop is an excellent choice for those who want a portable cooktop. This cooktop is lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to take with you on your travels. Plus, the Duxtop 8300ST induction cooktop has a built-in child lock function that keeps little hands from turning on the stove.
The Duxtop 8300ST induction cooktop is an excellent choice for those who want a portable cooktop. This cooktop is lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to take with you on your travels. Plus, the Duxtop 8300ST induction cooktop has a built-in child lock function that keeps little hands from turning on the stove.
I. Frequently Asked Questions
How wide are stoves?
A typical standard stove is 30 inches wide and 36 inches tall. It is intended to fit into a standard cutout that is about 34 1/4 inches wide.
How long do stoves last?
You can expect a stove to last between 13 years to 15 years. However, if you provide regular care for your stove, you can extend its life. This includes cleaning after each use and a regular check of the burners.
When were stoves invented?
The first gas stove was created in the early 1820s. The first patent occurred in England in 1826. It was marketed in 1828.
What are induction cooktops?
An induction cooktop is similar to standard glass-top electric cooktops. The difference is an induction stovetop uses electromagnetic waves to heat pots and pans, which basically turns them into their own heat source. As a result, induction cooktops are efficient, allow precise control, and have a rapid increase or decrease in temperature. The controlled temperature allows it to heat faster.
How do induction cooktops work?
Induction cooktops use electromagnetic currents that pass through a copper wire that is under the cooking surface. This action creates a magnetic current through your cookware. Despite this, the cookware stays cool to the touch.
Are induction cooktops safe?
Yes, induction cooktops are a safe cooking option. There is no chance of leaking gas or fumes. Since there is no flame, there is no risk of getting burned. It has smart sensors that turn off, so there is also no risk of leaving the cooktop on.
Do induction cooktops get hot?
No, the surface of an induction cooktop does not get hot to the touch.
Do induction cooktops make noise?
You may hear noises like buzzing, pulsing, or clicking noise from your induction cooktop. This is more likely to happen when on a low setting and not on a higher setting. These sounds are normal and related to the magnetic fields. The noises may change based on the pots and pans being used.
How long do induction cooktops last?
An induction cooktop lasts as long as eight years to 10 years.
Can you use cast iron on induction cooktops?
Yes, cast iron works well on an induction cooktop. Many stainless steel pans also meet specifications. Aluminum or copper, unless they are explicitly built for induction, are not recommended.
Do aluminum pans work on induction cooktops?
If it is an aluminum-only pan, it will not work on an induction cooktop. However, if it has a magnetized base and is designed for induction, it will work.
Can you use cast iron on glass cooktops?
Yes, cast iron can be used on any glass cooktop or smooth-top cooktop.
Does cast iron scratch glass cooktops?
Yes, cast iron can scratch your glass cooktop if you drag it across the surface.
How do gas stoves work?
A gas stove sends gas to a burner on the cooktop. Then the gas is ignited, and the burner produces a continuous flame. You can use this continuous flame to cook. Today gas stoves use an electronic ignition system, so you do not have to ignite the gas burner manually. As a result, gas stoves are more efficient and cost less to operate.
Are gas stoves dangerous?
A gas stove is not necessarily dangerous. However, there is a chance of a gas leak if the gas line is not hooked up correctly.
Do gas stoves work without electricity?
When there is no electricity, you are able to light the surface burner of a gas cooktop with electric ignition. First, however, you must use a lighted match to light it.
Are gas stoves bad for your health?
A gas stove may release harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde into the air. This can be toxic to both pets and people.
How do pellet stoves work?
A pellet stove uses a combustion blower to pull outside air into the stove via a fresh-air vent. Then it blows out the smoke and fumes through an exhaust vent that is stainless steel. A pellet stove also has a convection blower to pull air from the room into the stove. Then heated air is blown into the room through heat-exchange tubes.
What are pellet stoves?
Pellet stoves are heating stoves or stove inserts that are freestanding. They can heat one room or an entire house. A pellet stove is similar in looks to traditional wood stoves. However, they are more efficient and burn wood pellets which produce less ash.
How do wood stoves work?
To get a wood stove to work, you light a fire inside it, and the heat warms the stove. A wood stove also warms the air in the room. The chimney of the stove draws the smoke from the fire and out of the house. You can control the amount of air in the stove with the damper. This impacts how large the fire can grow.
How hot do wood stoves get?
A wood stove’s internal temperature can get above 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the exterior temperatures can get as high as 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do rocket stoves work?
A rocket stove is a hot-burning stove that uses wood fuel that is a small diameter. This is an efficient way to create hot. That fuel burns in a simple combustion chamber that contains an insulated vertical chimney.
How do electric stoves work?
An electric stove uses an electric current to activate a heating element. The heat moves directly from the coils to the cookware if the electric stove has coils.
Sources:
- Worstroom.com
- Civiconcepts.com
- Blog.frontiersin.org
- Summitappliance.com
- Vikingrange.com
- Subzero-wolf.com
- homedepot.com
Related: Types of Cookers for Making All Kinds of Dishes | Small Toaster Oven Options
