Kitchen Cooktop Buying Guide
1. Fuel Types
Electric Cooktop
Fuel Source: Electricity
Best For: Homes without gas connections or those who value steady, even heat
Pros
● Smooth ceramic glass surface is easy to wipe clean and looks sleek
Offers even, consistent heat for simmering and slow cooking
Often more affordable upfront than gas or induction model
Cons
- Slower to heat up and cool down compared to gas or induction
- Can crack or scratch under heavy use or improper cookware
- Doesn't work during power outages - fully dependent on electricity
Gas Cooktops
Fuel Source: Natural Gas or Propane
Best For: Cooks who want instant heat control and prefer to see a live flame
Pros
- Instant, visible flame for real-time temperature adjustments
- Compatible with all types of cookware - no special pots or pans needed
- Remains usable during power outages with manual ignition
Cons
- Requires a gas hookup - may need professional installation if not already available
- Burner grates and parts can be more difficult to clean
- Open flames pose a slightly higher fire risk, especially in tight spaces
Induction Cooktops
Fuel Source: Electricity + Electromagnetic Energy
Best For: Modern kitchens and cooks who want efficiency, speed, and precision cooking
Pros
- Heats cookware directly - much faster and more efficient than traditional methods
Easy to clean since spills don't burn onto the cool surface
Cooktop surface stays cool to the touch - safer for homes with kids
Cons
- Requires induction-compatible cookware (magnetic base—cast iron or some stainless steel)
Can produce a slight buzzing noise during high-power cooking
Higher price point than most gas or electric cooktops
2. Sizing and Installation Requirements
Before making your decision, make sure it fits in your kitchen setup.
Standard Cooktop Sizes
12" to 24" compact models available for smaller kitchens or apartments
Most Cooktops are 30” wide
36" to 48" models available
Professional-style or high-capacity
May come in 36”, 48”, or larger widths
Burner Configurations
Most cooktops feature 4 to 6 burners or cooking zones
Some Include specialty burners such as:
- High-output "Power" burners for boiling or searing
- Simmer burners for delicate sauces
- Bridge elements to connect two zones for griddles (especially on electric and induction models)
- Oval burners or griddle zones on select gas models
- Cooktop vs. Range: A cooktop is installed into your countertop and requires a separate wall oven, unlike a range which combines both
- Countertop Cutout: Always double-check the exact cutout dimensions - not all 30" or 36" cooktops are the same shape underneath
- Ventilation: You’ll need either a range hood above or a downdraft system (some cooktops have this built-in)
Measure your space
Always measure width, height, and depth of your current range and surrounding area. Consider clearance for oven doors, ventilation and connections
Connections and Requirements
Electric and Induction Cooktops: Require a 240V connection
Gas Cooktops: Require a gas line (natural gas or propane) and usually a 120V outlet for ignition
3. Key Features to Consider
Today’s cooktops offer more than just basic cooking capabilities. Depending on your budget and cooking style, you might want to consider these special features
Touch controls
Sleek and easy-to-clean alternative to knobs (common on electric and induction)
Only activates the cooking zone when a compatible pan is present (induction only)
Turns off the cooktop after a period of inactivity for added safety
Prevents accidental operation
On gas models, prevent spills from entering the interior of the cooktop
Found on electric and induction models for easy wiping
Makes cleaning faster and more thorough
Eliminates the need for an overhead range hood - ideal for island installs
Keeps food hot without further cooking
Allow different flame sizes on the same burner