Cooktops

A cooktop is a flat cooking surface with burners for boiling, frying or simmering that's also known as a stovetop or a countertop stove. A cooktop can be a standalone unit or part of a one-piece unit that also includes an oven, which is an enclosed unit for baking or roasting. Swapping that one-piece unit for a separate cooktop and a wall oven is an attractive option for many people because it allows you the flexibility and convenience of being able to do multiple cooking tasks at the same time. You can learn more on the differences beween a cooktop and a range in our Discover & Learn. Built-in cooktops are also becoming increasingly popular because people like the seamless, streamlined look they offer modern kitchens. When you’re considering making this change, it's important to keep in mind that you’ll likely need new cabinetry to house the cooktop. Additionally, you may need to reinstall either gas or electric lines and the downdraft system or vent hood.

As for cooktop options, you can select gas, electric or induction. Unlike gas or electric, induction passes electromagnetic energy directly to the cookware, causing it to generate the heat without the first step of having to heat up a burner. Induction technology is faster, allowing you to do things like boil water in half the time. Plus, other than any radiant heat from the pan, it leaves the cooktop cool to the touch.

You can also choose a smoothtop cooktop design, or one with coils or grates. You might also want to get a connected cooktop, so you can monitor it with your smartphone or tablet.  One with a bridge function is another option, which can combine heating elements and can be used with specialty long pans, like a large roaster. When it comes to choosing the number of burners, you can get a cooktop with a single burner or one with up to six burners that enables you to cook all your family’s favorites at once.

Plus, there's size to consider. While most cooktops are 30 inches or 36 inches, you can also get a cooktop as wide as 48 inches or one as small as 11 inches wide. Whether you’re looking for a 36-inch electric cooktop, a 30-inch gas cooktop, a 36-inch induction cooktop or a different size, you're sure to find what you need here at Best Buy.

How do you know which of the stovetops will be the best fit for your kitchen? Start by measuring the width, length and depth of the cutout where your cooktop will be mounted and determine if you have enough clearance. This includes the space directly below your cutout, the space between the back edge of the cutout and the back wall, and the space between the front edge of the cutout and the front of the cabinet. Finally, measure the distance between the countertop and your upper cabinet.

If this sounds overly complicated or if you have any questions, we offer professional cooktop installation services that will take all the stress, hassle and headache out of both positioning the unit, and connecting it to the power source. We also offer free in-home consultation and one of our expert advisers are happy to come to your home and help determine the right fit for your kitchen.