Cooktops are standalone appliances featuring a cooking surface with burners or elements, but no oven. Cooktops provide kitchen layout flexibility since they install directly into countertops, can be placed on an island, and are available in gas, electric, induction and downdraft models in a wide range of sizes. Whether you’re building, remodeling or replacing, use this guide to learn why you might want a cooktop vs. a range and what the best type of cooktop might be for your family.
Shop electric cooktops from Whirlpool brand WCE77US0HB WCE77US6HS W5CE1522FB WCE55US0HB
An induction cooktop is a type of electric cooktop that uses electromagnetism to turn cookware into its own heat source. Induction technology transfers energy directly into magnetic cookware for fast cooking. The system allows for a rapid rise or drop in temperature and, because the cooking surface stays relatively cool, spills are less likely to bake onto it. Keep in mind that you can’t use aluminum or copper cookware on an induction cooktop unless it features a magnetic core. Learn more about induction cooking, induction cooktops vs electric cooktops, or check out our guide on the best induction cooktops, or explore the Whirlpool® 30-inch Induction Cooktop.
- Fast cooking with compatible cookware
- Instantly adjust heat strength with responsive controls
- Easy to clean surface
Shop the latest deals on select Whirlpool major appliances Shop Now
What are the main types of cooktops?
There are four types of cooktops: gas, electric, induction and downdraft. Each option has features and benefits that you may want to consider when choosing a new cooktop for your kitchen. Read on to learn more about different types of cooktops.
This type of cooktop uses an open flame to heat cookware. Gas cooktops offer responsive control over heat adjustments, making them ideal when making quick adjustments for delicate dishes as well as everyday meals. The flame can be adjusted instantly, so you don’t need to wait for an electric element to heat up or cool down. Gas heat is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Unit), with some burners offering higher heat, and often a larger flame than others for different cooking tasks. Gas cooktops usually feature removable grates, with some models offering a hinged design like the EZ-2-Lift™ Cast Iron Grates by Whirlpool brand, which are also dishwasher-safe.
- Quickly adjust heat levels
- Burners cool quickly
- Flames can get large enough to heat the sides of pots and pans
Shop the latest deals on select Whirlpool major appliances Shop Now
Gas, Induction, Electric: The Complete Guide to Kitchen Stovetops
Which type of stove is best?
Gas stoves are the most durable and responsive but can pose safety risks. Induction stoves offer the most safety and precision but are expensive. Electric stoves are versatile, easy to clean, and relatively inexpensive but heat up and cool down slowly.
Which cooktop style is best?
There’s no one cooktop style that’s overall better than the others. They each carry their own advantages and disadvantages. For example, gas cooktops with open flames allow for more flexibility when cooking, induction ranges offer high-speed heating, and electric ranges offer convenience and ease of use.
What are the different types of stoves?
The three main types of stoves are gas, induction, and electric. Each stove within these categories has unique features that impact the cooking experience, maintenance, and price within each category. Gas stoves are the most durable and responsive but can pose safety risks. Induction stoves offer the most safety and precision but are expensive.
Which electric stove should I buy?
Whether you want to shop by size, price, or purpose, we have recommendations. After sorting through nearly 60 electric slide-in ranges, we recommend the GE JS760 as a reasonably priced, reliable stove that’ll look good in most kitchens.