Updated on March 12, 2023
The Best Cooktops For Every Lifestyle
You can put a stand-alone cooktop practically anyplace that you have counter space, and they come in a variety of different designs. If you’re looking for a broad variety of cooktop alternatives, a separate cooktop and oven set-up is a better option than a whole kitchen range. A cooktop’s functionality and ease of use must be taken into account while making a purchase. A cooktop that’s both multifunctional and simple to clean is ideal for those who are passionate about food preparation but also for those who are less organised in the kitchen. The following is a list of the most prevalent cooktop kinds and how they may meet your family’s needs.
Electric Coil Cooktop
The most stress-free option among electric cooktops is one with electric coils. With these cooktops, you’ll get the best of both worlds: affordability and toughness in one package. As a result, you don’t have to worry about damaging the cooktop or the drip pans while using these products. It’s best to utilize a coil cooktop if you often cook with heavy cookware such as cast iron or another non-resilient material. Electric coil cooktops may not be the first choice of home cooks, but they will make your time in the kitchen much easier.
Electric Smooth Top
A glass cooktop is a great option for those who want to maintain their kitchen appearing sleek and contemporary. Using a cooktop with a smooth surface, you may match the look and feel of your kitchen to your countertop. Also, those who want a simple clean-up after cooking will appreciate the smooth surfaces. Spilled food won’t have a place to hide since there are no gaps or crevices. To avoid scratching or cracking the glass top, use only smooth and light cookware to avoid damaging the surface.
Induction Cooktop
A good induction cooktop is a must-have whether you have young children, dogs that like to explore the kitchen, or adults who are prone to forgetting to turn off a burner after they’ve finished cooking. It is only when the burners come into contact with induction cookware or other magnetic metals that the electromagnetic heating mechanism of induction burners produces heat. There are no exposed flames, no heated coils, and no hot surfaces to cool down.. Remove your cookware and you’ll be safe to touch immediately if the burner has been turned off after cooking. It takes just half as long as other cooktop technologies to heat up to high temperatures when using this technology. Induction cooktops are low-maintenance and worry-free thanks to their superior safety, easy-to-clean smooth surface, and efficient cooking. As long as you don’t already have any magnetic cookware, you won’t have to worry as much about kitchen accidents.
Gas Cooktop
Gas cooktops are a must-have for anyone who like cooking, thanks to their fast temperature adjustments, uniform cooking, and compatibility with almost any cookware. With this cooktop, you can heat sauce and reduce it to simmer on one burner while cooking meat in another pot and stir-frying veggies in another round-bottomed wok at the same time. All of this is possible because of the adaptability of a gas cooktop. Using a gas cooktop may save you money on your monthly utility bills since it uses less energy than an electric cooktop and, in the event of a blackout, most gas cooktops can continue to cook. If you live in an area prone to power outages due to weather, you’ll be glad you have a gas stove when you’re able to make supper even if the power goes out.
Downdraft Cooktop
A range hood or fan is usually included with most stovetops and cooktops. A downdraft cooktop is an option if you don’t want or need a range hood, but don’t want to deal with the hassle of installing one. A cooktop with a downdraft ventilation system has the ventilation system built right into the stove itself. You may use a tiny vent between your burners to remove smoke and steam while you cook. In addition, the space above your stove may now be used for cupboards, a pot rack, or more headroom, as well. Downdraft extractors are available for both electric and gas cooktops, however additional ventilation, such as a range hood or kitchen fan, may be required.
Modular Cooktop
If you can’t find a cooktop that meets all of your needs, it may be time to design your own. With modular cooktops, you may mix and match your preferred cooking components to create the ideal cooking space. A range of cooking modules may be combined to create a completely bespoke cooking area directly on your countertop, including electric, induction and gas burners. When the weather isn’t ideal outdoors, an indoor grill module will allow you to cook steaks and hamburgers in the comfort of your kitchen. A deep fryer module makes it simple to prepare all of your favourite fried foods, while a steamer module offers a more healthful alternative. Even downdraft ventilation may be included. Check out our Buying Guide for Complete Kitchen Ranges for more information on what to look for when purchasing a cooktop with a range.
