Ranges are one of the most important and money-saving features in the kitchen. They combine the stove and oven cooking features, providing great flexibility.

Buying or replacing a range can be an exciting but overwhelming decision. As a combined appliance, you will need double considerations to choose the perfect one for your kitchen.

This guide will help you understand the available options and what to consider during your search to ensure you buy the best range for your kitchen.

Types of ranges

You will find three types of ranges in the market: gas, electric, and induction.

Gas ranges

Many homeowners prefer gas ranges because of their immediate heat build-up and ease of control. It requires either natural gas or propane to operate.

Electric ranges

Electric ranges may require a 240-volt electric line to operate the heating element. They radiate heat through a coil, ceramic or glass top, which can be easily cleaned.

Induction ranges

Unlike gas and electric ranges, induction ranges do not use a flame or burner to heat the pot or pan; instead, it generates energy from an electromagnetic field below the glass cooktop surface. It heats the cookware directly, delivering the fastest cooktop heat and fantastic simmering.

Popular range brands

Although many brands have dominated the market for pro-style ranges over the years, there is a stiff THOR vs. Viking Ranges competition.

Most pro-style ranges are either gas or dual-fuel. Dual-fuel ranges may feature a gas cooktop with an electric oven.

They come in standard widths of 30, 36, 48, and 60 inches—the larger the width, the more burners and oven space.

Factors to consider when choosing a range for your kitchen

Kitchen space

There is a range with perfect width for almost all kitchen sizes. Identify the space you would like the range installed, then measure it.

For small kitchens, there are 20 to 24 inches ranges that will fit perfectly. Larger kitchens can take up to 60 inches range.

Aside from measuring the space to install the range, also take the measurement of the doorways and hallways leading to the kitchen. The new range should be able to fit for delivery and installation.

The height, however, varies by brand and model; therefore, if you are replacing an old range with a newer model, you may need to adjust the cabinetry.

Kitchen design

For optimal aesthetics, it is recommended that the installed range perfectly blends with your kitchen design and layout.

Regarding this, there are two main range types ― slide-in and freestanding.

• Slide-in ranges: They are designed to fit between your kitchen cabinets. The control is located at the front of the range for easy access and use. These ranges are suitable for most custom cabinets.
• Freestanding ranges: Offer more flexibility as they can be easily incorporated into most kitchen layouts. They can be installed within cabinets or as stand-alone.

You will likely find stand-alone ranges in various colors and finishes, hence more options that easily blend with the kitchen.

However, your kitchen design and layout will decide which is the best for your home.

Fuel type

There are three major fuel types for ranges: gas, electric, and induction. Some models feature a dual-fuel range.

The best fuel type for your kitchen largely depends on the existing fuel hookups. For instance, installing a gas range instead of electric may require plumbing; switching from gas to electric might also require hiring an electrician. To enjoy both worlds, go for the dual-fuel range.

Different types of ranges are considered better for cooking different things. Many chefs prefer gas ranges for cooking, while bakers choose the ranges with electric ovens for baking.

However, this is mostly a matter of choice and not reality. A test conducted by Consumer Reports showed that gas narrowly outperforms electric ranges in baking.

Burner types

Depending on the fuel type, ranges come with different burners for varying cooking needs. Gas ranges typically have 4 to 5 burners ranging from small to extra-large.

The small burners are best for low-flame cooking, such as simmering. The large burners are great for faster cooking.

Electric range burners may feature electric coils or smooth tops. Coils are durable, while smooth tops tend to heat cookware more evenly.

Induction ranges are perfect for cooking at a wide range of temperatures. They do not get hot unless a pan is placed on it, hence safer than other types.

Budget

There are many range choices in the market. Determining how much you are willing to spend before shopping is important. Small ranges are quicker to heat up and cheaper. Larger ranges, on the other hand, will allow you to cook more food at once, but are usually more expensive.