Cooktops & Rangetops Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Cooktops and rangetops provide a streamlined and efficient cooking surface in your kitchen, allowing for more flexibility in terms of installation and style compared to traditional ranges. Cooktops are typically installed into the countertop, while rangetops are installed with their front control panel exposed, resembling a range without the oven. Both options are available in various styles, fuel types, sizes, and configurations, making it easy to find one that fits your cooking needs and kitchen layout.

This buying guide will walk you through the key aspects of cooktops and rangetops, including their types, appearance, sizes, control locations, burner configurations, and additional features.

Cooktops vs. Rangetops

Cooktops

A cooktop is installed into the countertop, providing a sleek, streamlined look. Cooktops often have the controls located on the surface, offering a minimalist appearance with easy access. Cooktops come in gas, electric, and induction varieties.

• • • • • • • Pros: Space-saving, easy-to-clean surface, streamlined design.
            • Cons: Less powerful than rangetops in general, fewer burner configurations.

Rangetops

A rangetop is similar to a cooktop but has front-facing controls like a full range. It is installed into the countertop with a portion of the front exposed. Rangetops tend to have more powerful burners and a more rugged, professional look.

• • • • • • • Pros: More powerful burners, front controls, professional-grade features.
            • Cons: Takes up more space, bulkier installation, often more expensive.

Fuel Types

1. Gas Cooktops and Rangetops

• • • • • Gas models provide instant heat and precise flame control, making them ideal for high-heat cooking like searing or stir-frying.
        • Key Features: High BTU burners for powerful heat, low simmer burners for gentle cooking, sealed burners for easy cleaning.

2. Electric Cooktops and Rangetops

• • • • • Electric models provide consistent, even heating and are typically easier to clean than gas models. They often feature smooth, glass-ceramic surfaces.
        • Key Features: Radiant heat elements, easy-to-clean smooth surface, consistent heating, and dual-ring elements for versatility.

3. Induction Cooktops

• • • • • Induction cooktops use electromagnetic technology to heat the cookware directly, making them highly efficient and responsive.
        • Key Features: Instant temperature control, energy-efficient, safe (the surface remains cool to the touch), and fast heating times.

Appearance and Styles

Cooktops and rangetops come in a variety of finishes to match your kitchen decor. Common finishes include:

• • Stainless Steel: The most popular finish, known for its professional look and durability.
  • Black or White Ceramic Glass: Found mostly on electric or induction cooktops, these provide a smooth, sleek surface that’s easy to clean.
  • Custom Panel-Ready: Some high-end rangetops are panel-ready, allowing you to integrate them seamlessly with your cabinetry.

Control Styles:

• • Knobs (Rangetops): Located on the front, similar to a range. Typically found on gas and induction rangetops, offering easy access to powerful burners.
  • Touch Controls (Cooktops): Often found on electric and induction cooktops, offering a sleek, modern look with digital precision.
  • Push-to-Turn Knobs: Found on gas cooktops, offering safety by requiring the user to push and turn to ignite.

Sizes and Burner/Element Configurations

Cooktops and rangetops come in various sizes and configurations:

• • 30-Inch Models: Typically have 4 burners or elements.
  • 36-Inch Models: Usually feature 5-6 burners or elements, offering more cooking flexibility.
  • 48-Inch Models: Found mainly in rangetops, they can have up to 8 burners and include specialty cooking surfaces like griddles or grills.
  • 60-Inch Models: Rare but available in high-end professional-grade kitchens, offering multiple burners, grills, or griddles.

Burner/Element Types:

• • Standard Burners: Used for everyday cooking.
  • Power Burners: High-BTU burners for quick boiling and high-heat cooking.
  • Simmer Burners: Low-heat burners for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or simmering sauces.
  • Dual-Ring Burners: Feature two heat zones for versatile cooking.
  • Bridge Elements (Electric/Induction): Combine two burners for larger pans or griddles.

Notable Features

1. • Sealed Burners (Gas Cooktops and Rangetops): These are easier to clean since spills are contained.
   • Griddles and Grills (Rangetops): Some rangetops come with built-in griddles or grills, providing additional cooking options.
   • Continuous Grates (Gas Cooktops): Allow you to easily slide pots and pans from one burner to another without lifting them.
   • Smart Features: Many induction cooktops feature smart controls and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for remote control and monitoring.
   • Wok Rings: Specialized burner attachments for high-heat wok cooking.

Series and Brands

• • Viking: Known for high-performance gas and induction models with features like VariSimmer™ burners and TruConvec™ convection.
  • Thermador: Offers induction cooktops with FlexInduction™ zones, allowing for flexible placement of cookware.
  • Bosch: Offers both gas and induction cooktops with sleek designs and advanced features like AutoChef™ for precise cooking control.
  • Wolf: Premium gas and induction cooktops featuring high BTU burners and dual-stacked burner technology for precision control.

General Features to Consider

• • Power Output (BTUs or Watts): Higher BTU output (gas) or higher wattage (electric/induction) translates to more powerful cooking performance.
  • Downdraft Venting: Some cooktops come with built-in downdraft ventilation, eliminating the need for an overhead hood.
  • Induction Zones: Some induction models offer Flex Zones that adjust to different cookware sizes.
  • Touch Control Panels: Available on electric and induction models for sleek, modern control.

Technical Details and Voltage Requirements

• • Gas Models: Typically run on 120V power and requires a natural gas or propane connection.
  • Electric and Induction Models: Most require 240V outlets due to their higher power demands.
  • Induction Compatibility: Induction cooktops require cookware made from magnetic materials (such as cast iron or stainless steel).

Rebates and Promotions

Many high-end brands like Viking, Wolf, and Thermador offer rebates or promotions when purchasing multiple appliances or specific models. Some promotions include free delivery, extended warranties, or discounts on additional kitchen appliances.

• • Manufacturer Rebates: Check out the latest promotions from manufacturers for bundled appliance packages or cashback offers.
  • Store Promotions: Many retailers offer seasonal discounts or financing options, particularly around holidays like Black Friday and Memorial Day.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cooktop or rangetop depends on your cooking style, kitchen layout, and desired features. Whether you need the precision of an induction cooktop, the powerful heat of a gas rangetop, or the sleek look of an electric model, there are plenty of options to fit your needs.

Explore a wide range of cooktops and rangetops at Homery.com and find the perfect fit for your kitchen today!