At a Glance:
Gas cooktops have long been a staple in kitchens, offering a perfect cooking solution for everyone. Although tradition is on their side, that doesn't mean they haven't followed technological advancements, and nowadays, they give kitchen enthusiasts the possibility to take advantage of a well-known kitchen appliance with modern power and features.
If you are looking for new appliances for your kitchen, this is a great gas cooktop buying guide for you!
Find Your Ideal Gas Cooktop
Discover the ultimate cooking experience with our premium gas cooktops at Plaza Appliance Mart. Tailored for chefs of all levels, these cooktops combine modern design with unparalleled performance, ensuring every meal preparation is a culinary adventure
Shop Gas CooktopsAbout Gas Cooktops
Gas cooktops are a trendy choice for cooking appliances. In terms of price, they typically range from around $400 to $2000, with variations based on brand, size, and features. Gas cooktops are often considered more affordable than their induction counterparts but can be pricier than electric options.
Sizes and configurations vary, commonly in 4-burner and 5-burner models, with the latter offering more cooking space and versatility. Additionally, downdraft gas cooktops are equipped with built-in ventilation systems, ideal for kitchens where traditional venting isn't feasible.
Gas options provide instant heat, allowing for quicker temperature adjustments than electric cooktops. They also offer better control over heat distribution, but they might be slightly more challenging to clean due to the grates and burners. Induction cooktops, on the other hand, offer even faster and consistent heat control. While induction cooktops are energy-efficient and provide a smooth surface that's easier to clean, they often come at a higher initial cost than gas cooktops.
When deciding between gas, electric, or induction cooktops, it's important to consider personal preferences, cooking habits, and kitchen design. Gas cooktops, preferred for their immediate heat control and precision, offer various types of gas cooktops, each with a range of sizes and configurations to accommodate different needs and preferences. However, understanding whether a gas cooktop is better than induction involves comparing these factors to your specific requirements and preferences.
→ Learn More: Is a Downdraft Cooktop Effective?
Induction vs. Gas Cooktops
Induction and gas cooktops both offer unique advantages, catering to various cooking styles and preferences. When considering if induction cooktops are better than gas, it's important to weigh these differences according to your specific needs and kitchen setup.
In terms of speed, induction cooktops often cook faster than gas. They use electromagnetic technology to heat cookware, directly providing rapid and consistent heat. While quick to adjust, gas cooktops might take longer to heat up and maintain a constant temperature across the cooking surface.
Efficiency leans toward induction cooktops. They are incredibly efficient because they directly heat the cookware without wasting excess heat. Gas cooktops can lose some heat in the process, especially in older models, and may not be as energy-efficient overall (which is why it's essential to go for modern models that include better-developed features)
Gas cooktops attract buyers who prefer traditional cooking methods, immediate heat control, and visual cues (like flame size) for cooking. They're favored by chefs who enjoy the familiarity and flexibility of gas flames, especially for techniques that require nuanced heat adjustments.
→ Learn More: 3 Benefits of Induction Cooking
Electric vs. Gas Cooktops
While gas cooktops offer immediate heat and precise control, electric cooktops, particularly radiant or coil types, might take longer to heat up and cool down. However, some electric cooktops with induction heating can match gas cooktops' responsiveness and speed.
Regarding precision, gas cooktops provide more immediate and nuanced control over heat, allowing for precise adjustments during cooking. At the same time, electric ones usually maintain a more consistent heat across the cooking surface.
Electric cooktops can be more energy-efficient than gas cooktops, as the latter can lose some heat in the cooking process, especially in older models without advanced technology.
→ Learn More: Top 5 Electric Cooktops
Gas Cooktop Pros & Cons
Considering the advantages and disadvantages of gas cooktops is crucial if you're planning to buy one. This list will provide deeper insights to help you make an informed decision.
Pros
- ✅ Immediate Heat Control: Gas cooktops provide instant heat when ignited, allowing quick temperature adjustments. The flames offer visual cues, which is super handy for making sure your burner is on.
- ✅ Even Heat Distribution: The flames spread heat evenly across the cookware's base, which helps in consistent cooking results, particularly in techniques like searing and stir-frying.
- ✅ Versatility: As long as there's gas, they work, even during power outages, making them reliable when electricity is unavailable.
- ✅ Compatible with Various Cookware: Gas cooktops are compatible with most cookware materials, offering flexibility in choosing pots and pans.
- ✅ Familiarity: Many chefs and home cooks prefer gas due to the familiarity and control it provides, especially for those used to traditional cooking methods.
Cons
- ❌Installation Constraints: Gas cooktops require a gas line, which might necessitate professional installation and could be challenging in some kitchens.
- ❌Cleaning Challenges: The grates and burner components might require more cleaning than smooth electric or induction surfaces.
- ❌Potential Safety Concerns: There's a risk of gas leaks or open flames, which require cautious handling and regular maintenance to ensure safety.
- ❌Heat Loss: In some cases, gas cooktops might lose some heat to the surrounding environment, making them slightly less energy-efficient than induction cooktops.
- ❌Initial Cost: While not always the case, gas cooktops can have a higher initial cost than some electric models, although this can vary based on features and brand.
→ Learn More: The Best Way to Clean a Gas Cooktop
Recommended Gas Cooktops
Now that we've explored gas cooktops, let's dive into some of the top rated gas cooktops for your kitchen.
Frigidaire Professional 30'' Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
Shop Frigidaire 30'' Gas Cooktop
This Frigidaire gas cooktop embodies modern efficiency and culinary precision. Crafted with five sealed burners, including a high-powered center burner, it accommodates various cooking needs. The continuous grates provide a stable surface for pots and pans, ensuring even heat distribution and easy maneuverability.
Frigidaire Model FPGC3077RS Customer Review
★ "This stovetop is the best! It offers amazing balanced heat on all burners! Looks so elegant, and I love the five burners!" ★
Electrolux 36" Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
Shop Electrolux 36" Gas Cooktop
The Electrolux 36" gas cooktop combines elegant design with powerful functionality. With five sealed burners, including a versatile dual-flame burner and a continuous grate design, it offers flexibility for various cooking styles and comes with a grill.
Electrolux Model ECCG3668AS Customer Review
★ "We like our new Electrolux Cooktop. The grates are hefty duty, and the knobs have the nice feature of the backlight. Installation was fairly straightforward." ★
GE 36" Stainless Steel Built-In Gas Cooktop
The GE 36" stainless steel built-In gas cooktop comes in a sleek stainless steel construction, featuring five burners. With continuous grates, maneuvering pots, and pans becomes effortless, ensuring even heat distribution across the surface of this GE gas cooktop.
GE model JGP5036SLSS Customer Review
★ "I've never cooked with gas, and I have to say I LOVE this cooktop!!" ★
KitchenAid 30" Stainless Steel Gas Downdraft Cooktop
Shop KitchenAid 30" Gas Downdraft Cooktop
The KitchenAid 30" gas downdraft cooktop seamlessly integrates into modern kitchens while offering a powerful downdraft ventilation system that eliminates the need for an overhead hood, saving space and maintaining a clean aesthetic. The KitchenAid gas cooktop is equipped with four burners and continuous grates.
KitchenAid Model KCGD500GSS Customer Review
★ "I bought this eight months ago, and I am glad we did. I am thrilled with my stove top." ★
Café 30" Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
The Café gas cooktop is crafted in premium stainless steel, with five versatile burners, including one for high-power cooking and precise simmering options. Maintenance becomes hassle-free with continuous grates providing a stable surface and dishwasher-safe components.
Café Model CGP95302MS1 Customer Review
★ "Lovely to look at, lovely to cook on! A smooth grate surface makes it easy to move cookware around. Powerful burners that bring up the temperature quickly & also lower it to hold a simmer. Burner placement is a good use of the space, and the light under the burners makes it easy to ensure you don't leave a burner on accidentally." ★
Thermador Masterpiece Pedestal Star 36" Stainless Steel Natural Gas Cooktop
Shop Thermador 36" Natural Gas Cooktop
The Thermador natural gas cooktop has distinctive pedestal-style burners, exuding elegance while delivering exceptional performance. Boasting five Star burners, including a powerful center burner for rapid boiling and precise simmering capabilities, The Thermador natural gas cooktop easily accommodates diverse cooking needs.
Bosch 500 Series 30" Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
The Bosch gas cooktop integrates into contemporary kitchens, offering durability and modern design. It features five sealed burners, including a powerful center burner for rapid boiling and precise simmering.
Bosch Model NGM5058UC Customer Review
★"Decided to upgrade our cooktop when we updated our kitchen. This is the bomb! I love everything about it. It is so easy to regulate the heat, and I love having a fifth burner. It is beautiful and exceeded all my expectations."★
If you're looking for new kitchen appliances, check out all the products available at Plaza Appliance Mart. We carry many choices from other brands so you can find the perfect one for your kitchen. Please browse our online catalog or visit one of our four North Carolina showrooms today.
Why Trust Plaza Appliance Mart?
Plaza Appliance Mart is a local, family-owned, appliance store in North Carolina where you can get personalized, expert service that you won’t find at the big box stores. Plaza Appliance Mart is YOUR source for competitive prices with knowledgeable in-store professionals here to help you every step of the way, whether you need to replace an old appliance, or if you're remodeling and need an entire kitchen full of new brand-name products. And, our delivery and installation specialists will ensure that your new appliances arrive safely and are installed properly.
If you were to ask the employees at Plaza Appliance Mart about their roles in the company, they'd say they're not just employees, they're family. So as you might imagine. a team of professionals like this who are already so tightly knit and bonded together make for a perfect partner with the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte. Apart from their community ties, Plaza Appliance is an accredited Better Business Bureau company with an A+ Rating.
Shop Gas Cooktops at Plaza Appliance Mart
Stop by Plaza’s Charlotte, Huntersville, Matthews, or Pineville locations to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop cooking appliances online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you learn even more about gas cooktops — whether you call us at 704-568-7600, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.