RANGE VS. COOKTOP: WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A RANGE AND COOKTOP?

A range is a common kitchen appliance you can find in many kitchens. It combines a stovetop, also called a cooktop, and an oven. A cooktop is the flat, open surface you sear and sauté on that does not have an oven below it, but instead integrates into countertops. Some people use the term “cooktop” when referring to the top of a range rather than the standalone appliance, but that can be called a “stovetop,” as well.

Both ranges and cooktops come in gas and electric options in a variety of sizes, like these gas ranges and electric ranges from Maytag brand. Most people who opt for a cooktop vs. a range will also buy a single or double wall oven for all their baking, roasting and broiling needs. Learn more about your range options by reading this article on different range and oven types.

IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COOKTOP VS. RANGETOP?

Cooktops and rangetops are very similar. The major difference is that cooktops integrate more fully into countertops while rangetops mimic the look of a range. Cooktops are surrounded by countertops on all sides, including the front and back, while rangetops only have them on either side, much like a slide-in range.

Control location: Cooktops feature controls that are built into the cooking surface while rangetops position them in front, facing the user.

Aesthetics: Cooktops have a clean, built-in look while rangetops tend to have a more commercial appearance.

Installation: Cooktops drop into a countertop cutout from the top and rangetops slide into them from the front. Some rangetops feature an overhang trim to cover the gaps between the appliance and the countertop.

Fuel types and features: While rangetops are most often designed with commercial-style gas burners, some rangetops are also available in electric or induction. And although cooktops tend to offer a sleeker alternative to rangetops, they also provide professional-style features like high BTU gas burners.

Maytag brand offers a variety of cooktops. Discover different types of cooktops in this guide, or explore electric cooktop options and features.

COOKTOPS VS. RANGES: PROS AND CONS

If you’re weighing a range vs. a cooktop plus wall oven configuration, consider these pros and cons.

COOKTOP PLUS WALL OVEN PROS AND CONS

Pros

• Blends in with countertops and cabinets for a streamlined, built-in look

• Available in several dimensions. Double wall ovens offer large capacities up to around 10 cubic feet

• Spreads out cooking tasks by offering multiple work zones

• Reduces the need to bend or crouch to access the oven since wall ovens are typically installed at eye level

• Fits into a variety of kitchen layouts, as the cooktop and wall oven can be placed in different locations

Cons

• Costs more, generally, because of the need for two appliances and two installations

• Can potentially take up more space in the kitchen overall, depending on your layout

RANGE PROS AND CONS

Pros

• An all-in-one appliance where both cooking and baking happen

• A simple, single appliance installation

• Can be an economical, space-saving option

Cons

• Requires bending over to use the oven

• Harder for two people to be working near the range at the same time

SHOULD I CHOOSE A COOKTOP OR RANGE FOR MY KITCHEN?

When deciding between a cooktop or a range for your kitchen, it's important to think about how each option will fit into your cooking habits and space. Both appliances have their unique benefits, and choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle, kitchen layout and cooking preferences. Consider the following questions to help guide your decision:

DO YOU HAVE A SMALLER KITCHEN?

A range can help make the most of the space you have by concentrating cooking appliances in one spot.

DO YOU OFTEN COOK WITH A PARTNER?

The ability to separate the oven and cooktop allows one person to sear, saute or boil on the cooktop while the other attends to dishes in the oven.

ARE YOU ON A BUDGET?

Ranges offer a huge variety of prices and styles. You may find more options to fit your budget if you go with a range.

DO YOU WANT A LARGE AMOUNT OF OVEN SPACE?

The largest double wall ovens tend to have more capacity than the largest double oven ranges. Of course, you could also have a range and a wall oven.