What Is the Difference Between a Cooktop and a Range?
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Cooktops and ranges are two different kitchen appliances that are often confused with each other. Making things even more complicated is the fact that there is another term you might run into as well: the range top.
If you’re in the market for cooking appliances, not only will you want to know the differences between each of these categories, but you’ll also be interested in their pros and cons. This way, you’ll be better able to evaluate which one is best when making your decision. Keep reading to understand exactly what item you are looking for when shopping for a new cooking appliance.
A range is an all-in-one appliance
A range is a cooking appliance that includes both exposed burners on top and a built-in oven below. This all-in-one kitchen appliance is sometimes referred to as a stove. There are gas, electric, or dual-fuel ranges (meaning the burners use gas but the oven uses electric heat).
There are many benefits to ranges. For example, most kitchens can easily accommodate these all-in-one appliances, making installation simple. Ranges are also efficient space savers because cooks can access both the oven and the range top without running around the kitchen. Interestingly, the downside of the range arises from the same design feature that can make it convenient: you can usually only access the range top from the front of the appliance, which blocks the access to the oven.
For many solo cooks, this is not a major problem, but it becomes more significant when you’re managing many dishes, or you have someone helping you in the kitchen. If you need to be stirring sauce at the same time someone else is braising vegetables or taking things in and out of the oven, the cooking dance becomes complicated. This is also true if you live in a house where lots of people like to make their own meals.
This kitchen conundrum is why many larger kitchens choose to install a separate wall oven away from the range top, allowing for independent access to each. Some kitchens even put the range top on an island with an island range hood above for ventilation. This way, cooks can access the burners from multiple directions, which is more convenient for preparation of large meals.
Understanding the difference between range tops and cooktops
Range top and cooktop both to refer to the burner space used for pots and pans. When the burners are a separate appliance from the oven, cooktop is the terminology used because then there is no “range” per se. By a more detailed definition, the cooktop is a slightly more compact unit installed only in the top of a counter with knobs that are also placed atop the counter as part of the unit. Alternatively, a range top extends over the edge of the counter with knobs that appear on the face (as they would on a full range) rather than on the top.
When further breaking down the differences between range tops and cooktops, cooktops are generally more popular because the unit fits fully within the countertop. Plus, the placement of knobs on top is safer when you have children around because they aren’t as easy for little hands to reach. However, range tops can be a better choice if you are installing the appliance in a counter along the wall, which is generally narrower than an island. By choosing a range top, you can maximize the cooking area by moving the knobs to the face of the counter. It’s also worth noting that even though there are distinct differences, you might still find both designs sold under the “cooktop” category, depending on the brand or merchant.
Consider whether you want gas, electric or induction heat
You are likely familiar with both gas and electric home appliance options, and kitchen appliances are no different. Electric cooktops are generally cheaper up front but may cost more over time through electric bills. They also do not offer the same level of instant heat that you can get by turning on a gas range. However, there is no risk of a gas leak with an electric unit, and some households are only fitted for electric. On the other hand, many people like the fact that you can still make dinner on a gas cooktop in the event of a power outage.
Another category to consider is the induction cooktop. An induction cooktop works by creating a magnetic field using an electrical current. Cookware that has a magnetic base quickly responds to the field and heats up the food inside it faster than a traditional electric cooktop would. Because the burners on these units produce no heat themselves, these cooktops offer a safer cooking experience. Some models even feature a visual indicator that let you know when the surface is cool to the touch. You will need to use them with pots and pans that have magnetic bases, but they are a great and effective alternative to both gas and traditional electric options.