Appliance Talk: Difference Between a Rangetop & Cooktop?
When remodeling your kitchen, or designing a brand new one, then you’ll need to think about which appliances you need. There are essential appliances every well designed kitchen needs and this includes a cooking appliance such as you range or a cooktop to cook on. Will you choose a range top or cooktop? To make your purchase with confidence we have decided to break it down for ya!
In this comparison between the range top vs cooktop, you will discover the similarities and differences between these two kitchen applications.
First, Let’s discuss the similarities. Rangetops and cooktops have either gas or electric models, and either one offers the ability to have a more flexible kitchen layout, so oven and rangetop or cooktop can be placed separately.
Now, on to the differences.
The major difference between rangetops and cooktops is the control features and installation method, which will determine how your countertop and cabinets are designed.
The Pros of a Range Top
These are the perks:
- A rangetop is very much like a hybrid of a range and a cooktop.
- rangetop slides into an opening directly into your countertops
- Range tops are sturdy and can handle heavy use.
- Range tops can either be powered by electric or gas.
- Range tops have knobs and controls on the front, which come in handy when trying to manage you’re cooking with multiple items on the burners.
- Range tops have a larger cooking surface.
- Range tops typically come with more professional features than others of its kind on the market.
The Cons of a Range Top
These aren’t exactly cons but these are a few things to consider.
- The front knobs and controls of the range top may be a safety concern where small children are concerned.
- Range tops may be too large and bulky for smaller kitchens.
The Pros of a Cooktop
Cooktops have their pros too that make them a popular choice among many people.
- Cooktops are available in electric, gas, or induction cooking methods.
- In general a Cooktop are smaller than Rangetops so they take up less space in your kitchen.
- The knobs and controls of cooktops are found on top of the unit. This allows an increased level of safety since they are more difficult for young kids to reach.
- Cooktops are often easier to clean.
The Cons of a Cooktop
Cooktops have they’re drawbacks, too!
- Cooktops are more compact, with less room or space to move around.
- Cooktops often come with less professional features than range tops do.
Rangetops are going to require more space but they are perfect for those who do a lot of cooking and want the normal grates and feeling of a stove top. On the other hand, if space, efficiency, and simple is what you are after, then a cooktop may be your ideal appliance.
When determining which one is right for your kitchen before you waste your money, consider the following:
- The size of your kitchen is going to have a great impact on which one you choose. You will need to determine the space available and how much of it you are willing to give up.
- Determine the amount of cooking you typically do you are going to need something hefty, sturdy, and large to withstand your level of use.
- Think about the method of cooking electric, gas, or induction?
- What level of professional features are you looking for, do you prefer something simpler or more advanced for your needs?
Getting a new appliance for your kitchen is always exciting. However, it is important to remember that appliances are not the type of item you buy on a whim. They require installation and space, in addition to the purchase itself.