COOKTOP VS. RANGETOP: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Major differences between rangetops vs. cooktops lie in control features and installation. Rangetops may be installed between countertop sections as slide-in units with controls on the front while cooktops may be installed as drop-in units placed in a cut-out in a countertop with controls on the cooktop surface.
While the differences between them may seem subtle, both cooktops and rangetops work to fuel your cooking, as well as your culinary imagination. If you're moving to a home with new and unfamiliar appliances, or if you're looking to give your kitchen layout an upgrade, this guide will help you learn the similarities and differences between cooktops and rangetops.
WHAT IS A RANGETOP?
With similar dimensions to those of a standard range without the oven, rangetops can be installed to sit prominently above your kitchen counters or cabinets. The rangetop extends from the front of the counter to the backsplash, leaving ample room for counter space on either side of the appliance.
On a rangetop like these models by KitchenAid brand, the controls are accessible at the front of the appliance, offering a familiar yet sleek design that helps you create delicious recipes like homemade tomato soup, stir-fried vegetables or seared steaks.
PROS OF A RANGETOP
If you’re wondering about the differences between rangetops vs. cooktops or if you’re considering one of these models over a standard range, it’s important to consider the various benefits unique to each model. Some pros of a rangetop include the following:
Controls placed on the front face of the appliance, providing familiar control placement
Custom installation between countertop sections
Sturdy construction flanked by countertop sections
Ample cooking space for pots and pans
Commercial-styling available for a professional kitchen look
SHOP KITCHENAID® RANGETOPS
With the bold, commercial-style design of KitchenAid® rangetops, you’ll be able to help elevate your recipes with easy access to all of your heating controls. Explore rangetop models by KitchenAid brand to find the appliance that suits your unique kitchen.
WHAT IS A COOKTOP?
Usually installed as drop-in units placed inside a precisely measured space cut out from a countertop, cooktops feature controls on the front of the cooktop surface or along the side of the appliance. Some cooktop models may have features like downdraft configurations or commercial-style cooking options.
Cooktop models like these by KitchenAid brand come in a variety of fuel types, including induction, electric and gas cooktops. Depending on your needs and preferences, a cooktop model combines form and function to help you realize your culinary aspirations with a placement that complements your cooking preferences and kitchen layout.
KitchenAid® cooktops
Cooktops made for every culinary adventure
KitchenAid® gas, electric and induction cooktops offer the versatility, performance and craftsmanship you need to create your favorite recipes
PROS OF A COOKTOP
Cooktops also offer a unique set of benefits that you should consider alongside those of a standard range or rangetop before committing to a particular appliance or design. Some of the pros of cooktops include the following:
Controls placed at the front or along the side of the cooktop surface for easy access
Flexible design for seamless integration with countertops and cabinets
Available in a wide range of sizes
Sleek, minimal style with a low profile cooking surface
SHOP KITCHENAID® COOKTOPS
Whether you choose an induction, electric or gas model by KitchenAid brand, a cooktop can give you the ability to help transform your kitchen while sticking to your specific preferences for cooking elements and personal design. Choose from a variety of features like Temp Cook™ Induction Technology, which helps maintain the precise temperature you set. Or, make cleanup easier with a WipeClean™ Coating, which eliminates scraping, intense scrubbing and harsh cleaners, making this the easiest induction cooktop coating to clean1. Explore KitchenAid® cooktops to help you create creamy pilafs or a delicately seared salmon.
1. When compared with cooktop with same heating technology at similar power output.
COOKTOP VS. RANGETOP SIMILARITIES
Despite their differences, cooktops and rangetops share a number of key similarities that make them great options for those looking to create a customized space for their culinary pursuits. Some of the key similarities between cooktops vs. rangetops include the following:
They do not feature ovens and will need to be paired with a separate appliance, such as a wall oven.
Both styles are available with gas heating options.
Both types can be incorporated into existing kitchen layouts, depending on your kitchen.
COOKTOP VS. RANGETOP DIFFERENCES
Control and installation differences, along with styling are what set rangetops and cooktops apart from each other. As you shop for a new appliance, keep in mind the following key differences between a rangetop vs. cooktop:
Rangetops feature a deeper front face on which the controls sit, while cooktops feature controls on the surface, without a front face.
During installation, rangetops require an entire section of a countertop to be cut out for slide-in placement, while cooktops can be placed as drop-in units in a hole or space in the countertop.
While rangetops usually utilize commercial-style gas burners to heat food, cooktops may come in two additional heating options: induction and electric.
Many rangetops take styling cues from professional kitchens and are available with commercial-style finishes, knobs and other features.
Cooktops tend to offer a sleeker alternative with a low profile, but can still provide professional style features like high BTU gas burners.
RANGE VS. COOKTOP VS. RANGETOP: WHAT TO CONSIDER
A kitchen range refers to the entire appliance—oven plus stovetop—whereas cooktops and rangetops are flat surfaces that integrate into countertops and do not include an oven. When choosing between ranges, cooktops and rangetops, consider the following:
Kitchen Size: If you have a smaller kitchen, it may make sense to get a range since it creates an all-in-one, centralized cooking location. Otherwise, if the space allows, placing a cooktop in a kitchen island can offer additional storage space.
Kitchen Layout: Wall ovens can be installed in cabinets or available wall space, while cooktops can generally be placed anywhere a range can. Installing a cooktop on an island can help create a better workflow when cooking.
- Cooking Style: Ranges allow you to quickly move between the stove and oven, while double wall ovens can offer increased capacity for those who do a lot of cooking and baking.
RANGE VS. RANGETOP VS. COOKTOP: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Choosing between the three depends on your wants and needs. If you have a larger kitchen and like a professional or streamlined look for your cooking surface, you might choose a rangetop or cooktop. However, if you want to create a centralized cooking location and streamline your kitchen’s flow, a range may be best.
