
RANGE VS. COOKTOP: WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
While a range is a classic, dependable choice for many kitchens, a cooktop plus wall oven configuration can offer some unique benefits. A range is an all-in-one appliance that’s simple to install, while a cooktop plus wall oven can add versatility and spread out kitchen tasks.
Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling or just updating appliances, it’s definitely worth taking the time to analyze all your options. Use this guide to get a better idea of the differences among ranges, cooktops and rangetops, what they can offer, and how to find the right appliances for your kitchen and cooking style.

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.
SHOP MAYTAG® COOKTOPS WITH POWER BOOST
Elevate your cooking game with the Maytag® Induction Cooktop with Power Boost. Boil water 2x faster than traditional electric cooktops1 and get dinner right the first time with No Guess Presets like sauté, simmer and more. The XL Cooking Zone lets you mix and match cookware as needed, while Temp Cook™ Induction Technology automatically adjusts the heat to help keep temps steady. Plus, rely on Maytag brand’s 10-Year Limited Parts Warranty2 for lasting quality.
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

Maytag® wall ovens
WHERE POWER MEETS PRECISION
Get dinner done quicker with features on select Maytag® wall ovens that deliver serious cooking power
SHOP MAYTAG® WALL OVENS
Maytag brand offers single, double and combination wall ovens. Some Maytag® wall ovens come with True Convection With Fan & Third Element, which uses a powerful third heating element and a sturdy fan to circulate even temperatures for more consistent roasting and baking. Other wall ovens from Maytag brand feature Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, which is easy to clean and keeps your oven looking as good on the outside as it works on the inside.

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
SHOP MAYTAG® RANGES WITH AIR FRY
Enjoy crispy, golden results without the wait with No Preheat Air Fry on select ranges from Maytag brand. Strapped for time? No Preheat Air Fry eliminates the preheat process and cooks fried foods fast—delivering a crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside taste using little to no additional oil1.
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.
SHOP FOR THE RIGHT MAYTAG® RANGE OR COOKTOP
Find the right appliance for your kitchen and cooking style with Maytag brand. Whether you’re looking for a gas or electric range, or a separate cooktop and oven setup, Maytag brand offers durable, reliable options to help meet your needs. Explore features on select Maytag® models like Power™ Burners for a slow, even sauté and the Precision Cooking™ System, which uses sensor heating to help ensure each meal is cooked evenly.
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DISCOVER MORE FROM MAYTAG BRAND
1. Compared to MEC8836HS.
2. Warranties may vary by model. See product warranty for details.
3. Compared to traditional deep frying