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The Spruce / Chloe Jeong
The right stove, range, or cooktop is essential for any kitchen, regardless of your culinary skill level. We researched dozens of models from the top brands, evaluating functionality, durability, and value.
Here are the best stoves, ranges, and cooktops.
Best Gas Stove
LG LSGL6335F Smart Wi-fi Enabled ProBake Convection InstaView Slide-In Gas Range with Air Fry
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Home De Pot
Convection oven with air fry function
20,000 BTU power burner for faster boiling
InstaView feature to see inside oven without opening door
Cast iron grates are harder to clean than enamel
Control panel can be hard to see in dim light
The LG LSGL6335F 6.3-cubic-foot Smart Convection Gas Slide-In Range makes quick work of kitchen tasks with smart features and multiple functions. This gas stove combines some of the latest innovations in appliances, such as a convection oven that is capable of air frying functions, an impressive 20,000 BTU power burner for faster boiling, and steam cleaning for easier maintenance. Plus, it takes advantage of LG’s InstaView feature, which illuminates the oven interior when you knock on the door twice. Cooks and bakers alike will love keeping an eye on what is inside the oven without losing heat by opening the door.
With a capacity of 6.3 cubic feet, this is one of the most spacious gas ranges on the market for home cooks. It has enough capacity to cook a 20-pound turkey, with room to spare for cooking other dishes at the same time. The convection cooking ability is important to note since it's a feature emphasized by home contractor Deane Biermier. He points out that "convection ovens save on energy, cook food better, and bake better bread." Despite its large size, the oven heats to 350 degrees in about 15 minutes. Since it’s Wi-Fi enabled, you don’t have to stand around waiting while it preheats. Instead, receive a notification on your phone or use a voice assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Home to let you know the oven is ready for use.
You can also easily air fry in this gas oven, and an air frying tray is included with the oven’s racks. However, note that it doesn’t include a drip pan for this purpose. The manufacturer recommends using a foil-lined baking sheet under the air fry tray to minimize any mess. This stove is equipped with a fast, 10-minute self-cleaning mode to loosen cooking grease and grime quickly.
On the range top, four round burners and an elongated center burner give you plenty of heating power. It’s especially worth noting that the LG LSGL6335F features a burner with up to 20,000 BTU. This is great for boiling water quickly or high heat searing.
Price at time of publish: $2,099
Fuel Type: Gas | Cooking Process: Convection | Range Type: Slide-in | Capacity: 6.3 cubic feet | Dimensions: 37.13 x 29.88 x 29.28 inches | Cleaning Type: Steam-cleaning | Number of Burners: 5
Best Electric Stove
Samsung NE63A6111SS 6.3 cu. ft. Smart Electric Range with Steam Clean
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Home De Pot
Offers rapid boil burner
20-minute steam cleaning cycle
Hidden bake element inside oven
Easy to clean
Lacks convection oven
Smart features aren’t compatible with Amazon Alexa
For an efficient electric stove, look no further than this well-equipped option from Samsung. Like other popular ranges on the market, this model doesn’t skimp on capacity. It has 6.3 cubic feet to give you plenty of room for baking multiple trays of cookies or roasting large cuts of meat. The smooth glass cooktop features five burners, including two 3,300-watt burners for rapid boiling. Plus, cleaning a glass cooktop is straightforward since there are no burner grates to clean under or around; you just have a smooth, sleek surface to wipe down after cooking.
The Samsung NE63A6111SS Smart Electric Range is Wi-Fi equipped, so you can use the SmartThings app on your smart device to monitor and control the stove’s operation. However, Google Home or Amazon Alexa users should note that this appliance doesn’t offer voice control through these popular smart home assistants. Despite that, other features make this electric stove simple to use. It has a hidden bake element for a smooth, easy-to-clean oven interior. A 20-minute steam clean cycle is also handy for removing baked-on food and keeping your oven spic-and-span.
Price at time of publish: $949
Fuel Type: Electric | Cooking Process: Standard | Range Type: Freestanding | Capacity: 6.3 cubic feet | Dimensions: 46.6 x 29.9 x 28.6 inches | Cleaning Type: Steam-cleaning | Number of Burners: 5
Best Induction Stove
FRIGIDAIRE GALLERY FGIH3047VF 30 in. 5.4 cu. ft. Front Control Induction Range with Air Fry
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Ajmadison
Convection oven also has air fry function
Burners are equipped with pan size sensor
Front controls for convenience and built-in look
Only has four burners instead of five
Slightly smaller oven capacity
This slide-in induction range from Frigidaire Gallery is ready to reduce your stovetop cooking time, thanks to the power and precision of induction cooking. Instead of relying on radiant heat or gas to heat the burner, magnetic forces generate heat, which ensures a fast heat-up time and a safe stovetop. The burners of the Frigidaire Gallery FGIH3047VF have sensors to determine the presence and size of any pot or pan you place on top. This translates to a more efficient cooking experience but also means that once the pot or pan is removed, the burner cuts off heat. Gourmet cooks may wish for the convenience of a fifth burner, but the 4-burner cooktop is sufficient for the cooking needs of most households.
The oven of this induction stove is electric and takes advantage of convection technology for more even cooking and browning. And while it’s not the only oven equipped with air fry functionality, it’s worth noting that this Frigidaire model was the first to boast the feature. At 5.4 cubic feet, there’s enough space inside for cooking multiple dishes, but it’s not quite as cavernous as some 30-inch ranges on the market. However, the oven does make life easy with both a self-cleaning mode and a 30-minute steam clean option to loosen tough messes.
Price at time of publish: $2,099
Fuel Type: Induction | Cooking Process: Convection | Range Type: Freestanding | Capacity: 5.4 cubic feet | Dimensions: 36.63 x 29.88 x 25.75 inches | Cleaning Type: Self-cleaning | Number of Burners: 4
Best Budget Stove
Amana AER6303MFS 4.8 Cu. Ft. Freestanding Electric Range
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Best Buy
Smooth cooktop
Digital control panel
Dual bake elements
Stainless steel accents are minimal
No self-cleaning mode
The Amana AER6303MFS 4.8-cubic-foot Electric Range is the absolute best option for a budget-friendly stove. It stands out from the competition by offering a smooth glass cooktop and a stylish stainless steel finish. Budget ranges usually skip these features in favor of savings, but this electric range delivers both. The 4-burner cooktop includes two 1,300-watt elements and two 1,800-watt elements to handle everything from melting butter to searing steak. When compared to budget stoves with coil burners, many people prefer the even heating surface of a smooth glass burner.
The oven of the Amana AER6303MFS is roomy enough for most roasting or baking tasks, with 4.8 cubic feet of space. There are dual bake elements for more even heat distribution, though it should be noted that they’re not hidden elements, so you’ll have to work under and around them when cleaning the oven. On that note, the biggest compromise of this budget stove is that it lacks a self-cleaning mode. You’ll have to use some elbow grease and an oven cleaning solution to restore sparkle to your appliance.
Price at time of publish: $869
Fuel Type: Electric | Cooking Process: Standard | Range Type: Freestanding | Capacity: 4.8 cubic feet | Dimensions: 46.88 x 29.88 x 27.75 inches | Cleaning Type: Manual | Number of Burners: 4
Best Gas Cooktop
GE JGP5030SLSS 30-Inch Gas Cooktop with 5 Burners Including Power Burners
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Best Buy
Accommodates large cookware
Features five burners, including one for rapid boil
Compatible with a griddle
Control knobs can scratch easily
Sealed grates are tricky to remove
A gas cooktop like the GE JGP5030SLSS gives you cooking power independent of a stove, and it sits nearly flush with your countertop for a sleek, built-in look. Features that make this gas cooktop from GE stand out include its 5-burner configuration, which gives you enough space to cook with large pans or a Dutch oven. It also has a 15,000 BTU burner to more quickly boil water or sear steaks using high heat. At the other end of the spectrum, it has a 5,000 BTU burner that provides consistent, low-temperature output to keep sauces simmering at the right temperature. You can slide your pots and pans around as needed, thanks to the edge-to-edge grate system.
The GE JGP5030SLSS has a recessed cooktop to catch and contain any spills or messes. However, it should be noted that the grate system can be tricky to remove due to its heft and tight fit. Once you lift it off, however, it’s great to know that the stove grates are dishwasher-safe for faster clean-up. The biggest complaint about this otherwise well-equipped gas cooktop is its control knobs. They’re made of plastic, and some home cooks have found them quick to show scratches or a chipped finish.
Price at time of publish: $1,443
Fuel Type: Gas | Dimensions: 5.5 x 30 x 21 inches | Max Power Level: 15,000 BTU | Number of Burners: 5
Best Induction Cooktop
Frigidaire Gallery FGIC3066TB 30-Inch Smooth Electric Induction Cooktop
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Ajmadison
Sensors detect pan presence and size
Digital control pad
Easy to use
No fifth element
Can't fit two large pieces of cookware at once
This induction cooktop from the Frigidaire Gallery series is sure to impress you with its sleek surface and precise temperature control. The 30-inch cooktop has four burners, each equipped with a sensor to detect pan presence and size. As an efficiency and safety measure, the burner is only active with a pan on top. If you remove the pan, the burner shuts off. Plus, it’s worth noting that the surface of an induction cooktop doesn’t become overly hot with use—only the pan becomes heated. You’ll love the intuitive, digital control pad at the front of the cooktop surface. Everything is within easy reach, and you can adjust the settings of each burner with your finger.
The Frigidaire Gallery FGIC3066TB cooktop has a burner with 3,800 watts of heating power, which can boil water in about 90 seconds, according to the manufacturer. Three other burners range in heating power from 2,000 to 2,800 watts. Kitchen enthusiasts may wish for a fifth burner, but most people will find that the power output of the four burners is enough for average cooking needs. Keep in mind, though, that the size and layout of this cooktop may mean you can only use one large piece of cookware at a time.
Price at time of publish: $1,799
Fuel Type: Induction | Dimensions: 2.88 x 30.75 x 21.50 inches | Max Power Level: 3,800 watts | Number of Burners: 4
Best Budget Cooktop
Empava EMPV-30GC5B70C 30 in. Gas Stove Cooktop with 5 Sealed Italy Sabaf Burners
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Amazon
Easy to install
Dishwasher-safe grates
Features five burners
Doesn't heat evenly
No smart features
Whether you’re outfitting a small kitchen with a cooktop or looking for a budget-friendly alternative to a conventional kitchen range, the affordable and well-equipped Empava EMPV-30GC5B70C is our top recommendation. This cooktop makes the most of its 30-inch footprint with five sealed burners and front knob controls to put everything within easy reach. Plus, an edge-to-edge grate system lets you shuffle pots and pans as needed when you’re making multiple dishes at once.
If you choose this budget cooktop, you get the precision of gas cooking at an affordable price. However, you’ll forgo a few features, too. For example, the highest power burner of this cooktop is 12,000 BTU, which falls a bit short when compared to models with a 15,000 BTU power burner. Plus, the heat output can sometimes be a bit inconsistent, leading to complaints of longer than expected cook times. Still, most home cooks will find this gas cooktop to be an affordable, easy-to-install option.
Price at time of publish: $388
Fuel Type: Gas | Dimensions: 4.13 x 29.92 x 20.08 inches | Max Power Level: 12,000 BTU | Number of Burners: 5
Best for Camping
Coleman Triton Gas Camping Stove
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Amazon
Dual burner design
Economical fuel consumption
Removable grate for easy cleaning
Can be tricky to control burner flame
No built-in ignition switch
Prepare a meal in the great outdoors with the help of the Coleman Triton Gas Camping Stove. This small but mighty folding stove has two gas burners that can accommodate a 10- and 12-inch pan simultaneously. The stove is powered by a portable propane cylinder, and it’s very fuel-efficient, according to most customers.
In comparison to the Coleman Classic Camping Stove, this version has increased heating power at 11,000 BTU per burner (the Classic model is 10,000 BTU per burner). While turning up the flame on each burner is no problem, it can be more challenging to adjust the flame to a low setting that won’t scorch sauces. This gas stove for camping also lacks a built-in ignition switch, but it’s easy enough to light the flame using an ignitor.
Price at time of publish: $90
Fuel Type: Gas | Dimensions: 7.8 x 24.8 x 15.9 inches | Max Power Level: 11,000 BTU | Number of Burners: 2
Best Wood-Burning Stove
Ashley Hearth AW1820E 1,800 Sq. Ft. Wood Stove Insert
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Amazon
Includes ash drawer for easy clean-up
Meets EPA guidelines
Top and bottom ignition tubes
Small firebox
Blower is sold separately
A wood-burning stove is a great option for heating your home independent of a furnace. Many people find a wood-burning stove to be an economical alternative to traditional home heating methods. The Ashley Hearth AW1120E-P model is equipped to heat spaces up to 1,200 square feet in size and has a heat output of 68,000 BTU. It’s also worth noting that this popular model meets the EPA’s 2020 emissions standard for wood-burning stoves.
This Ashley Hearth wood-burning stove is compact but efficient. The dimensions of the firebox can accommodate logs up to 18-inches in size. The tradeoff for the compact size of this wood stove is the fact that it will require more frequent refilling than larger models, but it’s a task that is to be expected when using a wood-burning stove for primary or supplementary heat. A noteworthy feature of the design is top and bottom ignition tubes, which cause the logs to burn from multiple directions, resulting in greater heating efficiency. In addition, a built-in ash drawer makes the regular cleaning of the stove simpler and less messy.
While the radiant heat from this wood-burning stove will feel warm and cozy on a chilly night, keep in mind that a blower (sold separately) may be necessary to distribute the warm air around the room.
Price at time of publish: $1,672
Fuel Type: Wood | Heating Capacity: 1,200 square feet | Dimensions: 31.7 x 22.5 x 21 inches
Best Pellet Stove
Castle Serenity Stove 12327 Wood Pellet with Smart Controller
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Amazon
Smart controller allows for multiple operation modes
Meets EPA emissions guidelines
Five feed rates to choose from
Hopper only holds a 40-pound bag of pellets
Expensive
The Castle Serenity Wood Pellet Stove can heat up to 1,500 square feet and requires minimal installation. Unlike a wood-burning stove, this model can be direct-vented to the outside, eliminating the need for a chimney and flue. It puts out up to 31,960 BTU per hour, but you can choose between five different feed rates to adjust the heat output to suit your needs.
A standout feature is the smart controller, which gives you multiple options for operating the Serenity wood pellet stove. Create a program for each day of the week or set it to cycle on and off based on the built-in thermostat. Of course, you can also manually operate this wood stove. Regardless of how you regulate the temperature, the key to consistent heat output is keeping the 40-pound hopper filled. Some people point out that a larger capacity hopper would be more convenient, since many wood pellets are sold in 50-pound bags.
Price at time of publish: $1,350
Fuel Type: Wood pellets | Heating Capacity: 1,500 square feet | Dimensions: 34 x 18.25 x 23.75 inches
If you're in the market for a new stove or cooktop, there's a lot you need to consider, such as whether you prefer gas, electric, or induction heating. When it comes to a gas range, our top pick is the LG LSGL6335F 6.3 cu. ft. Slide-in Gas Range because it offers convection oven cooking, a 5-burner cooktop, and a steam-cleaning mode for quick clean-ups. If you're shopping for a sleek and efficient induction cooktop, the Frigidaire Gallery FGIC3066TB is our top recommendation. The 4-burner cooking surface offers up to 3,800 watts of heating power and is controlled with an intuitive digital control pad.
What to Look for in a Stove, Range, and Cooktop
Type
Your new kitchen appliance can either be a range, which is also called a "stove," or a cooktop. To find the right type for you, consider the layout of your kitchen and what you want out of your experience. A range is a two-in-one appliance that includes a cooktop and oven and eliminates the need for any separate purchases. It can include helpful amenities like a temperature probe and compatible griddle, in addition to a space for baking, roasting, and warming dishes. In comparison, a cooktop is a perfect fit for homes with an existing wall oven and RVs. It serves a single purpose, is typically less expensive, and can even be portable.
Fuel source
Whether you purchase a range or cooktop, you need to decide on a fuel source that'll power your new appliance. Your options are gas, electricity, and induction technology, and your decision will be based on the layout of your home, your budget, and your personal preferences—including your cooking style. Gas models are typically the least expensive, and have very precise controls. Electric models are more expensive upfront, but can be cheaper to operate, easier to install, and a great pick for bakers, as their oven cavities heat evenly and consistently. A range or cooktop powered by induction technology is the most expensive choice. The cooking surface looks sleek and is precise like a gas-powered model, but it also requires compatible cookware that'll pair with its magnets.
Burner features
When it comes to the burners of your range or cooktop, you'll want to consider how many there are, as well as the features they have. Most models will have either four or five elements—the latter giving you more space to prep large meals and multiple side dishes at a time. If they're powered by gas, they may have a continuous grate design to expand your cooking surface even more, flip to accommodate large cookware like a wok, or include a griddle. If they're powered by electricity or induction technology, the burners may stretch or sync to accommodate larger cookware. One burner may also be dedicated as a "warming" burner, which will help keep your dishes ready to eat while others finish up.
Standout Features
Self-cleaning mode
A self-cleaning mode in any gas, electric, or induction range uses high heat to rid your oven cavity of grease, oil, and grime. Now, this feature can generate a lot of heat, so your space should be spacious and well-ventilated to use it. However, it will eliminate the need to scrub grime and apply oven cleaner yourself and is more effective than a steam clean which can only tackle light messes.
Virtual flame technology
If you're cooking on an induction range or cooktop, you may have a hard time knowing when a burner is turned on and hot. Virtual flame technology tackles this issue by giving any active burner a glow, so you know where to move your pan and where you shouldn't place your hand or utensil. Any household with children can benefit from this feature that ultimately makes cooking safer and more streamlined.
Griddle
A griddle can primarily be found in gas ranges, and it either sits over a central burner or is integrated in between two sets of burners. This feature eliminates the need for a separate appliance, so it's a good add-on for households who don't have much storage space. It also allows you to prepare breakfast or lunch food, like hot sandwiches and pancakes, using the consistent heat from your stovetop. If you're always cooking this type of food, you could benefit from this feature.
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How do you clean a stove or cooktop?
To clean a stove, first make sure the appliance is off and cooled down. From there, you can clean the oven cavity by using a self-cleaning mode—if your appliance has one and there isn't a ton of grime on the inner surfaces. You can also scrub the grime away yourself. For the latter, remove your racks and anything else you may store inside, and spray the cavity with oven cleaner. Avoid sensitive areas like gas vents when doing so. For a more natural alternative, you can also use baking soda and vinegar to do this.
To clean a cooktop, first figure out what cleaning method is best for the type of cooktop you have. If you have a gas cooktop, you might need to lift or remove the grates before wiping down the surface. Any household with an induction cooktop should apply a cleaning solution and gently wipe it away, as it's very easy to scratch this type of appliance.
For the step-by-step processes, see our guides on how to clean an oven and how to clean a stovetop.
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Do you need a range hood above a stove or cooktop?
While your living space may not require it, it's always a good idea to install a range hood over a stove or cooktop. Range hoods collect toxic fumes, odors, and smoke in your air that are a result of the cooking process, and filter them out. When removed, the air is safer for you and your household to breathe. For more, see our guide on the best range hoods.
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Do you need a professional to install a stove or cooktop?
It's highly recommended that you have a professional install a stove or cooktop in your home. You can follow the steps and safety guidelines in your manual. However, a professional knows how to work and handle the wires, gas lines, and tools that may be involved. Most retailers will connect you to someone locally who offers appliance installation services or offer a delivery and installation package at the time of purchase.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Erica Puisis, who has been contributing to The Spruce since 2017. Puisis specializes in researching large and small home appliances, including ranges, cooktops, washers, dryers, vacuums, and more. To find the best options for stoves, she considered popular picks for both gas and electric models. Capacity, cleaning mode, and burner options factored into her research since these features impact the day-to-day use of these appliances. Similarly, when selecting cooktops, the type, features, and number of burners were evaluated to find the best options for induction, electric, and gas models.
In addition, Puisis spoke with Deane Biermeier, an experienced home contractor and a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board. Biermeier spoke about what to consider when deciding between a gas and electric range and offered insight on the features to look for that make a difference in how quickly or efficiently food cooks. In addition, Biermeier weighed in on the benefits of a pellet stove for home heating needs.