Induction vs. Gas cooktops and ranges

Induction and gas cooktops are both versatile options for your kitchen, each empowering you to get creative in different ways. Gas cooktops require a gas line and rely on an open flame, while induction cooktops use electromagnetism to transform compatible cookware into its own source of heat. Each style comes with unique advantages and features, making the right choice dependent on your cooking habits and kitchen design.

Read on to learn more about induction vs. gas cooktops and decide which option is best for the way you make.

Induction cooktops and ranges

Induction cooking uses coils beneath the glass surface to create a magnetic field. When induction-ready cookware is placed on the cooktop, the field generates heat within the pan, making it the heat source so food cooks and water boils quickly.

Induction ranges typically include an electric oven, which many chefs prefer for its dry heat, as it helps achieve nicely browned results in dishes like bread, roasted chicken and vegetables.

Induction cooktop and range pros

• Features a sleek, quick-cooling surface that helps make cleanup simple

• Heats up and cools down quickly

• Delivers thorough heating across cookware

• Eliminates the need for an existing gas hookup

• Helps reduce heat loss between stovetop and cookware

• Offers control to move from a boil to a simmer quickly

• Can sometimes accommodate large, oddly shaped, or multiple pans with flexible cooking zones

• Provides flush installation on certain models for a streamlined, built-in look

Induction cooktop and range cons

• May require replacing cookware if it isn’t induction-compatible

• Often comes with a learning curve for those who are new to induction technology

• Can produce slight humming or buzzing noises at higher settings, along with fan sounds

• Home chefs may not be able to char or flambée on an induction cooktop or range

Shop KitchenAid®induction cooktops and ranges

KitchenAid^® induction ranges and cooktops offer you the precise temperature control you need when experimenting with new dishes and creating old favorites. Select cooktop models, like this one from KitchenAid brand, are equipped with features like the Bridge XL Even-Heat^™ Zone, which optimizes your cooking surface to your flow—with plenty of room for pots, pans, griddles and roasters of various shapes and sizes.

Gas cooktops and ranges

Gas ranges and cooktops use a dedicated gas line, installed by a professional if needed. Burners offer optimal heat control, from gentle melting to searing at high temperatures. In the oven, the flame cycles to maintain steady heat for cooking.

For added versatility, some kitchens feature a dual fuel range, which combines a gas cooktop with an electric oven. This option delivers the responsive temperature control of gas burners alongside the benefits of an electric oven.

Gas cooktop and range pros

• Responsive stovetop heat with instant flame adjustments

• Works with all types of cookware

• Open flame reaches the sides of pans like woks or skillets

• Great for expanded techniques, such as charring, flambéing or grilling with cast iron

• Fast oven preheating gets food cooking

Gas cooktop and range cons

• Grates can be harder to clean than a smooth electric or induction cooktop

• Some heat is lost into the air vs. induction cooking

• Purchase and installation can sometimes cost more than other types of cooktops and ranges

Shop KitchenAid®gas cooktops and ranges

Whether you are trying a new creation or baking your tried-and-true cake recipe, a gas cooktop or range from KitchenAid brand can help you achieve your desired results. Select cooktops, like this one from KitchenAid brand, include a 19,000 BTU Multiflame Burner that works as an all-purpose professional burner, providing the ability to use both high- and low-temperature cooking methods so you can go from a boil to a simmer without changing burners.

Gas vs. Induction: how to choose the best option for your kitchen

Gas offers responsive flame adjustments and typically works with most cookware, making it a favorite for specialty cooking styles. Induction delivers rapid heating, quick cooldowns and sleek surfaces that pair with electric ovens for evenly browned results. Dual-fuel ranges combine both for added versatility.

The decision between a gas or induction cooktop is ultimately up to you, the look you want in your kitchen and your priorities for energy use. Explore the considerations below to compare gas vs. induction cooking.

Explore KitchenAid®cooktops and ranges

Whether you’re simmering a pot of tomato bisque or slow-roasting prime rib for a dinner party, a KitchenAid^® cooktop or range has features to complement the way you create. Whether you choose induction, gas or electric, you can find models with features like Temp Cook^™ Smart Presets that set and hold the ideal temperature for popular cooking methods and alert when to add ingredients, so you can perfectly sear salmon, gently simmer sauces and quickly boil water. Other models include the SatinGlide^™ Roll-Out Extension Rack that makes it easier to cook with large or heavy bakeware.