ranges, ovens & cooktops

Modern cooking appliances offer convenient features that help streamline meal preparation tasks. Here’s what to look for when you shop for ranges, ovens, and cooktops.

Whether you opt for an all-in-one range or a separate cooktop and wall oven, new appliances can help you prepare food faster and customize your cooking experience.

Ranges

Most traditional ranges—with four burners on top and an oven below—are 30 inches wide, but 24- and 36-inch models are also available. Commercial-style models are 48 or 60 inches wide to accommodate six burners or a combination of burners and a griddle or grill. Some models boast two ovens or a built-in warming drawer. Bakers often prefer the even heat of electricity, which has led to the introduction of dual-fuel models that pair an electric oven with gas burners on top. Ranges can be freestanding (with finished side panels) or made to slide between cabinets. Typically, purchasing a range is less expensive than a separate cooktop and oven.

Ovens

Built into a wall or under a counter, 30- or 36-inch-wide ovens offer thermal or convection (or combination) cooking in single or double cavities. Convection models use a fan to circulate air for faster and more even baking. Built-in, speed-cook ovens typically combine thermal, convection, and microwave functions for added convenience—but usually come with a higher price tag. Some ovens combine steam and convection; steam helps food stay moist and preserves valuable nutrients. If you often cook meals for large gatherings, choose an oven with a large capacity, or opt for two ovens or a range with an additional wall oven.