Induction Cooktop vs. Gas: Is Induction Better Than Gas?

Induction and gas cooktops are both reliable and durable options for your kitchen, but they have different advantages and features. The main difference between the two is that gas cooktops require a gas line and use an open flame, while induction cooktops use electromagnetism to turn compatible cookware into its own source of heat. Read on to learn more about induction vs gas cooktops and decide which option is right for you.

Butter melting in pan on induction cooktop, blue flames on gas cooktop

What’s the difference between gas vs induction cooktops?

The main difference between the two is the way they generate heat to cook food. Gas cooktops heat cookware using an open flame, while induction cooktops generate heat using electromagnetism, and turn your cookware into its own source of heat.

Black induction cooktop on white countertop

INDUCTION COOKTOPS

Induction cooktops use electromagnetism to directly heat induction-compatible cookware, such as stainless steel or cast iron. Induction cooktops house a copper coil beneath a ceramic-glass surface and generate an electromagnetic charge that creates heat directly within pots and pans. They resemble electric cooktops at first glance, but they do not have burners. Induction cooktops stay cooler than other cooktops because the cookware is the source of heat, which can result in less burned on spills and splatter. They are easy to clean-up, as they feature a smooth, flat surface. Induction cooktops are plugged into electrical outlets and do not require gas hook-ups.

Silver Maytag® gas cooktop with black grates

GAS COOKTOPS

Gas cooktops utilize an open flame produced by natural gas or propane under grates, and therefore require both an electrical outlet and a gas hook-up. They are a popular and easy-to-use choice because they are compatible with all types of cookware, and they allow you to use the open flame to try different cooking techniques such as charring or flambéing.

Induction vs Gas Cost: What are the considerations?

Cooktops come in a wide range of styles, features, and price points to fit your cooking needs and your budget. Maytag^® gas cooktops range in price from about $700 - $1,000, while induction cooktops range from about $1,000 - $1,500.

Cooked steak, asparagus, tomatoes, and potatoes on grill pan

Cooking with induction vs gas: What can I expect?

Cooking may be different depending on the type of cooktop you use. When cooking with induction, the cookware heats up more quickly, so the total cook time may be reduced. You will want to monitor your food to avoid overcooking.

When cooking with gas, the open flame allows you to try new and different methods of cooking. For instance, you might try charring peppers or tortillas or roasting marshmallows for s’mores directly on the open flame. Gas cooktops work with just about any type of cookware and the flame can easily reach the sides of woks and stir-fry pans.

What are the advantages of induction vs gas?

You can’t go wrong with either choice, but both induction and gas cooktops have unique advantages depending on your priorities and cooking needs.

Red sauce in a pan on induction cooktop with a hand wiping a small splatter

Induction Cooktop Advantages

Sleek top makes for easy clean-up
Quick heating and cool down
Thorough, even heating

Steak and mushrooms in cast iron skillet on gas cooktop

Gas Cooktop Advantages

Ability to manipulate the open flame
Ability to reach all sides of cookware, such as woks and stir-fry pans
Great for experimenting with cooking styles, such as charring and flambéing
Compatible with all cookware

Induction or gas cooktops: Which has better efficiency?

Induction cooktops can be three times more energy efficient than gas cooktops according to ENERGY STAR™. With induction cooking, less energy is lost to the surrounding air because the cookware itself becomes the source of heat, and the workload of the HVAC system overall is reduced.

Black induction cooktop with grill pan on gray countertop

Induction cooktops vs gas: Which is right for you?

Deciding between a gas or induction cooktop will depend on your cooking preferences and kitchen layout. Induction cooktops provide a new approach to cooking but may require you to replace your non-compatible cookware. Gas cooktops allow you to experiment with different cooking styles, have easy-to-remove grates to allow for a simple clean-up, and require access to both a gas and electrical hook-up.