Kitchen Range Buying Guide

Kitchen Ranges

Kitchen Range Buying Guide

Before buying a new kitchen range read our range buying guide for expert tips on choosing the right range for your home. 

 1. Fuel Types

Electric Range

Electric Ranges

Before buying a new kitchen range read our range buying guide for expert tips on choosing the right range for your home.


Fuel Source: Electric Cooktop + Electric Oven
Best For: Homes without gas connections or casual cooks


Pros

● Smooth-Top models are easy to clean.

● Generally provide more even oven heating.

● Often less expensive upfront.

Cons

● Slower to adjust temperatures.

● Coil elements can be harder to clean.


Gas Range

Gas Ranges

Fuel Source: Gas Cooktop + Gas Oven - Natural Gas/Liquid Propane Options


Pros

  • Instant heat and immediate temperature control
  • Visible flame makes it easy to monitor heat
  • Preferred by many professional chefs
  • Works during power outages

Cons

  • Requires a gas line

  • Oven temperatures can be less even 

  • Harder to clean cooktops - burners and grates must be removed

Dual Fuel Range

Dual-Fuel Ranges

Fuel Source: Gas Cooktop + Electric Oven

Best For: Serious home cooks who want the best of both worlds


Pros

  • Gas burners for fast, responsive cooking
  • Electric oven for consistent baking results

Cons

  • Higher price point

  • Requires both gas and electrical connections

  • May require professional installation

Induction Range

Induction Ranges

Fuel Source: Electricity (magnetic induction)

Best For: Tech-savvy cooks looking for efficiency


Pros

  • Fastest heat-up and boil of all range types
  • Precision Temperature control with near-instant responsiveness
  • Cooktop stays cool to touch
  • Very energy efficient

Cons

  • Requires induction-compatible cookware (must be magnetic; aluminum, copper, or glass wont work unless layered with magnetic materials)

  • Typically more expensive

  • Some users may experience a learning curve adapting to the precision controls

 2. Sizing and Installation Requirements

Before making your decision, make sure it fits in your kitchen setup.


Standard Range Sizes
Most freestanding and slide-in ranges are 30” wide


Professional-style or high-capacity 

May come in 36”, 40”, 48" or larger widths


Types of Installations

  • Freestanding: Finished sides, control panel in the back. Most versatile and common
  • Slide-In: Sleek, built-in look with controls in front. Requires precise fit.
  • Drop-In: Installed between cabinets, often with a built-in base cabinet. Less common in modern kitchens

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

Gas Ranges need a properly installed gas line and sometimes a 120V electrical outlet for lights and igniters

Electric Ranges require a 240V outlet

Dual-Fuel Ranges need both gas and 208V/240V electric hookups

Always check your home’s setup or consult a professional installer to ensure compatibility



 3. Key Features to Consider


Today’s ranges offer more than just basic cooking capabilities. Depending on your budget and cooking style, you might want to consider these special features


Convection Oven

Uses a fan to circulate hot air for even baking and roasting. Great for baked goods, roasting meats, or multi-rack cooking

Self-Cleaning Function
Saves time and effort by using high heat or steam to break down spills. Some models offer multiple cleaning modes (standard, steam, etc)


Air Fry Mode
Built-in fryer lets you prepare crispy food with little to no oil. Convenient for healthier cooking without an extra appliance


Wi-Fi Connectivity & Smart Features

Allows remote control and monitoring via smartphone apps. Receive notifications, access recipes, and sync with other smart devices


Double Ovens
Two independent ovens let you bake and roast at different temperatures. Ideal for large families or entertainers


Warming Drawers
Keeps food warm without overcooking. Also used for proofing dough or slow cooking


Expandable or Bridge Elements (Electric)
Lets you combine burners for griddles or larger cookware


Griddle or Grill Attachments (Gas)
Built-In accessories make it easy to cook pancakes, steaks, or sandwiches.


Open Burner vs. Sealed Burner

Open burners generate higher heat output and even distribution, leading to faster boiling and better results with pan/wok cooking.

Sealed burners have a protective cover over the flame that prevents spills from entering the internal components, making them easier to clean and maintain with slightly reduced cooking effectiveness


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