What are the Different Types of Cooktops? Gas, Electric, Induction, or Rangetops?

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated September 10, 2022

The cooktop is one of the most important parts of the kitchen. It’s where we prepare our food and we want it to be as efficient as possible.

The most common types of cooktops are gas, electric, induction, and ceramic. Each has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks.

In this article, I’ll discuss the different types of cooktops and what you should look for when buying one.

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Types of Stovetops: Which One to Choose?

Electric cooktops are a popular option for many homeowners due to their affordability and ease of use. They come in two types: coil and smooth top. Here are some features to consider when shopping for an electric cooktop:

• Coil cooktops are cheaper compared to smooth tops, but they require a bit more effort to clean.
• Smooth top cooktops are easier to clean and produce a more even heating process.
• Electric cooktops usually take a little longer to heat up compared to gas cooktops.
• Electric cooktops are powered by electricity, which means you’ll be paying more for energy compared to natural gas.
• Electric cooktops are a safer option for families with children since the surface doesn’t get as hot as gas cooktops.
• Electric cooktops allow for greater control over the temperature, making them a better option for cooking delicate foods.

Gas Cooktops

Gas cooktops are a traditional option that many professional chefs prefer due to their high heat output and instant temperature control. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a gas cooktop:

• Gas cooktops are usually more expensive compared to electric cooktops.
• Gas cooktops require a natural gas line to power them.
• Gas cooktops produce a high amount of heat, making them a great option for cooking foods that require a hot surface.
• Gas cooktops are less efficient compared to electric cooktops since they lose heat through the burner.
• Gas cooktops require a bit more effort to clean since food can get stuck in the burner.
• Gas cooktops are a great option for those who prioritize performance over cost.

Induction Cooktops

Induction cooktops are a new and attractive option that uses a mixture of electricity and magnetism to heat the surface. Here are some benefits of choosing an induction cooktop:

• Induction cooktops are more efficient compared to electric and gas cooktops since they only heat the cookware and not the surface.
• Induction cooktops are safer since the surface doesn’t get hot, making them a great option for families with children.
• Induction cooktops allow for greater control over the temperature, making them a better option for cooking delicate foods.
• Induction cooktops are easier to clean since the surface doesn’t get hot enough to burn food.
• Induction cooktops are usually more expensive compared to electric and gas cooktops.

Radiant and Bridge Elements

Radiant and bridge elements are additional options that you can find in electric cooktops. Here’s what you need to know about them:

• Radiant elements are a type of electric cooktop that uses a heating element under a smooth glass surface to heat the cookware.
• Bridge elements are a feature that allows you to combine two elements into one large cooking surface.
• Radiant and bridge elements are a great option for those who want a large cooking surface without having to buy a professional cooktop.

Choosing the Right Cooktop for You

When choosing a cooktop, it’s important to consider your needs and priorities. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• If you prioritize cost and safety, an electric cooktop may be the best option for you.
• If you prioritize performance and don’t mind paying a little extra, a gas cooktop may be the way to go.
• If you want an efficient and easy-to-clean option, an induction cooktop may prove to be the best choice.
• If you want a large cooking surface without having to buy a professional cooktop, consider a cooktop with radiant or bridge elements.

No matter which type of cooktop you choose, be careful when shopping and read reviews and ratings to help you find the best option for your kitchen and cooking needs.

Gas Cooktops: The Traditional Choice for High-Quality Cooking

Gas cooktops are considered the best choice for high-quality cooking due to their unique features and benefits, including:

• Ability to reach high temperatures quickly
• Efficient and adjustable controls for precise temperature control
• Open flame burners that allow for maximum heat and temperature control
• Quickly adjustable from maximum heat to a simmer
• Controlled heat allowing for exact cooking temperatures
• Preferred by chefs and home cooks alike for their ability to produce consistent and high-quality meals

Gas Cooktops vs. Electric Cooktops

Gas cooktops and electric cooktops are the two main types of cooktops available on the market. While electric cooktops are known for their modern designs and fast heating, gas cooktops offer a number of advantages that make them a preferred choice for many cooks, including:

• Gas cooktops offer more temperature control than electric units, making it easier to achieve proper cooking temperatures
• Gas cooktops are generally faster than electric cooktops, allowing for quicker meal preparation
• Gas cooktops utilize an open flame, which is preferred by many chefs for its ability to produce consistent and high-quality meals
• Gas cooktops require less time to heat up and cool down, making them more efficient and easier to use

Important Considerations When Choosing a Gas Cooktop

When choosing a gas cooktop, there are a number of important considerations to keep in mind, including:

• The number of burners required for your cooking needs
• The quality of the appliance and the burners
• The size and design of the cooktop surface
• The maximum temperature the burners can reach
• The ability to simmer and control the heat of the burners
• The comfort and ease of use when cooking meals
• The addition of any premium features, such as adjustable controls or a magnetic surface for preferred cookware
• The need for a minor or significant kitchen remodel to accommodate the gas cooktop

Note that having a gas line installed in your home may be required to use a gas cooktop, and it is important to have a professional install the appliance for proper and safe use.

Electric Cooktops: A Smooth and Sleek Option for Your Kitchen

When it comes to electric cooktops, there are numerous types and models to choose from. Here are some of the most relevant ones to consider:

• Radiant Electric Cooktops: These units include a burner that sits under a smooth glass top. The heat generated by a wire coil or a spiral flattened coil heats up the glass, which then transfers the heat to your cookware. The settings allow you to adjust the temperature and the size of the heating area, and the burner heats up quickly.

• Induction Electric Cooktops: These units use electromagnetism to transfer heat to your pots and pans. They require conductive and magnetic cookware, and they tend to be pricier than other versions. However, they reach high temperatures quickly and are recommended for fast cooking.

Features and Benefits of Electric Cooktops

If you’re considering bringing an electric cooktop into your kitchen, here are some features and benefits to keep in mind:

• Smooth and sleek: Electric cooktops lie flat on your countertop and offer a cool, modern look. They’re easy to clean and require minimal maintenance.

• Variety of sizes: Electric cooktops come in a range of sizes, from small two-burner units to larger five-burner models. You can choose the size that best fits your cooking needs and the available space in your kitchen.

• Numerous settings: Electric cooktops offer a variety of settings that allow you to adjust the temperature and size of the heating area. This gives you more control over your cooking and helps you achieve the desired results.

• Additional features: Some electric cooktops include features like a warming zone, a fast boil option, or a bridge element that connects two burners to accommodate larger cookware.

Differences Between Radiant and Induction Electric Cooktops

While both types of electric cooktops operate similarly, there are some differences to consider:

• Heat generation: Radiant electric cooktops use a wire coil or a spiral flattened coil that sits inside the unit or is suspended above it. Induction electric cooktops have an embedded coil that generates heat through electromagnetism.

• Heat transfer: Radiant electric cooktops transfer heat through the glass top, which heats up and glows orange. Induction electric cooktops transfer heat through the cookware, which heats up while the surface of the cooktop remains cool.

• Caution when touching: Radiant electric cooktops can be peskier to clean, as spills and drips can bake onto the glass top. Induction electric cooktops require caution when removing cookware, as the surface can remain warm even after the heat is turned off.

Maintenance and Energy Efficiency

When it comes to maintaining your electric cooktop and keeping it energy-efficient, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Clean up spills and drips promptly to avoid them baking onto the surface. Use a damp cloth or a specialized cleaner to swipe the surface clean.

• Use cookware that is the right size for the heating area, to avoid wasting energy.

• Consider the quality and brand of the product when choosing your electric cooktop. Higher-end models tend to be more energy-efficient and easier to maintain.

• If you want to save on energy costs, consider an induction electric cooktop, which tends to be more energy-efficient than radiant electric cooktops.

Induction Cooktops: The Future of Cooking

Induction cooktops offer a variety of features and benefits that make them highly desirable for many users. Some of these include:

• Faster cooking times: Induction cooktops heat up much faster than traditional electric cooktops, meaning that you can start preparing your dish right away.
• Consistent heat: Because the electromagnetic field creates a consistent level of heat, you don’t have to worry about hot spots or uneven cooking.
• Energy efficiency: Induction cooktops are highly energy efficient, meaning that they use less power to achieve the desired temperature.
• Easy to clean: Because the cooking surface doesn’t get as hot as a traditional electric cooktop, spills and splatters are less likely to stick and burn onto the surface.
• Lightweight and portable: Induction cooktops are typically smaller and more lightweight than traditional electric cooktops, making them convenient for use outside of the kitchen or in small spaces.

Learning to Utilize Induction Cooktops

While induction cooktops are similar in design to traditional electric cooktops, there are some key differences to keep in mind:

• Magnetic cookware: As mentioned earlier, induction cooktops require magnetic cookware in order to work.
• Extreme heat: Induction cooktops can produce extremely high temperatures, so be careful when handling hot cookware.
• Limited material options: Because induction cooktops require magnetic cookware, your material options are more limited compared to traditional electric cooktops.
• Drop in energy supply: If you’re not used to using an induction cooktop, you may notice a drop in your energy supply as your cooktop uses more power than you’re used to.
• Scientific principles at play: While you don’t need to be a scientist to use an induction cooktop, it’s helpful to understand the basic principles at play in order to get the most out of your appliance.

Overall, induction cooktops offer a great variety of benefits and features that make them a highly desirable option for many chefs and home cooks. If you’re looking for a convenient, energy-efficient, and consistent way to cook, it’s definitely worth giving induction cooktops a try.

Rangetops: A Great Alternative for Those Looking for Powerful and Convenient Cooking

Rangetops are a type of cooktop that is designed to be placed directly into your kitchen countertop. They are typically larger and more powerful than traditional cooktops, making them a great choice for those who need a lot of cooking power.

What Makes Rangetops Better Than Other Types of Cooktops?

Rangetops offer a number of benefits that make them a great alternative to other types of cooktops. Here are some of the main advantages:

• More powerful: Rangetops are generally more powerful than other types of cooktops, which means that they can deliver faster and more consistent cooking results.
• More convenient: Rangetops are designed to be placed directly into your countertop, which means that they are easier to work with and require less space than other types of cooktops.
• More versatile: Rangetops typically come with a number of additional features that make them more versatile than other types of cooktops. For example, they may have multiple heating elements or allow you to achieve different cooking temperatures quickly and easily.
• More suitable for professional use: Rangetops are often used in restaurant kitchens because of their superior cooking power and ability to deliver consistent results. If you’re looking for a cooktop that can handle heavy-duty cooking, a rangetop is a great choice.

What Should You Consider When Buying a Rangetop?

If you’re thinking about buying a rangetop, there are a number of things that you should consider. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:

• Power: Rangetops require a significant amount of electricity to run, so make sure that your kitchen is able to handle the additional power requirements.
• Size: Rangetops are typically larger than other types of cooktops, so make sure that you have enough space in your kitchen to accommodate the unit.
• Design: Rangetops come in a variety of designs, so make sure that you choose one that fits with the overall design of your kitchen.
• Cost: Rangetops are generally more expensive than other types of cooktops, so make sure that you’re willing to spend the additional money for the benefits that they offer.
• Safety: Rangetops can get very hot, so make sure that you’re careful when using them to avoid burns or other injuries.

How Do Rangetops Work?

Rangetops work by using a heating element to produce heat, which is then transferred directly to the cookware that is placed on top of the unit. The heating element is typically made of a heavy-duty material that can withstand high temperatures and is designed to deliver consistent heat over time.

How Do You Clean a Rangetop?

Cleaning a rangetop is relatively easy, but it does require a little bit of effort. Here are some tips to help you keep your rangetop clean:

• Use a smooth-edge scraper to remove any food or debris that has been burned onto the surface of the rangetop.
• Use a non-abrasive cleaner to clean the surface of the rangetop, making sure to remove any remaining debris.
• Rinse the surface of the rangetop with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth.

Are Rangetops Suitable for Regular Home Use?

Rangetops are a great choice for those who are looking for a powerful and convenient cooking option. However, they may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some factors to consider:

• Cost: Rangetops are generally more expensive than other types of cooktops, so they may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget.
• Power: Rangetops require a significant amount of electricity to run, so make sure that your home is able to handle the additional power requirements.
• Safety: Rangetops can get very hot, so make sure that you’re careful when using them to avoid burns or other injuries.

Ultimately, whether or not a rangetop is suitable for regular home use depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a powerful and convenient cooking option and are willing to spend a little extra money, a rangetop may be a great choice for you.

How Your Choice of Cooktop Affects Your Cooking Process

Electric cooktops are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their sleek style and numerous features. They are also considered safer than traditional gas cooktops since they don’t require an open flame. Here are some essential things to consider when shopping for an electric cooktop:

• Electric cooktops come in numerous types, including standalone models, smooth tops, and coil burners.
• They require electricity to function, which means you need to have a proper supply of energy in your kitchen.
• Electric cooktops are generally cheaper than gas cooktops, but the price can vary depending on the brand, size, and extra features.
• They are designed to offer better control over the cooking process, with precision heat and temperature settings.
• Electric cooktops heat up faster than typical gas cooktops, but they also take longer to cool down.
• They require careful maintenance to keep them clean and in good working order, but they are generally easier to maintain than gas cooktops.

Induction Cooktops: Fast, Efficient, and Precise

Induction cooktops are a relatively new addition to the market, but they have quickly gained popularity due to their fast and efficient cooking process. Here are some things to consider when shopping for an induction cooktop:

• Induction cooktops use electromagnetic particles to heat up the cookware directly, unlike electric cooktops that heat up the entire surface.
• They are designed to be energy-efficient, which means they use less electricity compared to other cooktops.
• Induction cooktops offer precise temperature control, making them suitable for cooking delicate dishes that require a specific heat range.
• They are generally more expensive than electric and gas cooktops, but the price can vary depending on the brand, size, and extra features.
• Induction cooktops require special cookware that is made of magnetic materials such as stainless steel or cast iron.
• They heat up and cool down quickly, making them a great option for busy cooks who want to save time.
• Induction cooktops are considered safer than gas cooktops since they don’t require an open flame.

Ceramic Cooktops: A Stylish and Easy-to-Clean Option

Ceramic cooktops are a popular choice for homeowners who want a stylish and easy-to-clean option. Here are some things to consider when shopping for a ceramic cooktop:

• Ceramic cooktops are designed to be smooth and sleek, making them a great addition to modern kitchens.
• They are generally more expensive than coil burners but cheaper than induction cooktops.
• Ceramic cooktops require proper maintenance to keep them clean and in good working order.
• They offer precise temperature control, making them suitable for cooking delicate dishes that require a specific heat range.
• Ceramic cooktops heat up and cool down faster than traditional gas cooktops, but they take longer to cool down compared to electric cooktops.
• They require special cookware that is flat and smooth, such as glass or ceramic pans.

Gas Cooktops: A Traditional Option with High Heat

Gas cooktops are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their high heat and traditional style. Here are some things to consider when shopping for a gas cooktop:

• Gas cooktops require a gas supply to function, which means you need to have a proper gas line in your kitchen.
• They offer high heat, making them suitable for cooking dishes that require a lot of heat, such as stir-fries and seared meats.
• Gas cooktops require proper maintenance to keep them clean and in good working order.
• They offer precise temperature control, but it can be challenging to maintain a consistent temperature due to the open flame.
• Gas cooktops are generally more expensive than electric cooktops but cheaper than induction cooktops.
• They require special cookware that is suitable for use with a gas flame, such as cast iron or stainless steel pans.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- the different types of cooktops and how to choose the right one for you. 

Now you’re ready to get cooking on the stovetop!

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

Try it out for free with Kindle Unlimited:

Read for free

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.