Whether you are a professional chef or an amateur home chef, having a good cooktop can make a big difference during mealtimes. A cooktop is not only a wonderful aesthetic complement for your kitchen, it can also make cooking more intuitive. If you are planning on getting rid of your old range to a newer and sleeker cooktop, check out this ultimate guide on buying a cooktop.
PRICE
The price you will be paying for your cooktop is dependent on the type of cooktop you are going for. There are many different types of cooktops in the market with different price range. Before you start shopping for one, it is recommended to set a budget in mind.
TYPE
The type of cooktop you purchase will make a big difference in your cooking experience. Each type has its unique benefits as well as disadvantages. Choose a cooktop that works for you by gaining more clarity on your preferences and cooking habits at home. Here are the three main cooktop options available.
- Gas
- Electric
- Induction
Gas-powered cooktops are the most common ones in the market and tend to be less expensive compared to the other types. The advantages of having gas cooktops is that the burners will heat up immediately, allowing for more precise heating. It is also energy efficient and does not require any electricity to function. However, they can be harder to clean and do not always have all the latest trending features.Electric cooktops usually have various burner sizes to accommodate the different types of pots and pans in your home. The two major types of electric cooktops are smoothtop and coil-style. Both offer the benefits of even heating and are easy to use, but smoothtops tend to be look sleeker and are comparatively easier to clean.Induction cooktops are the latest trend in kitchen technology. These cooktops are much safer as the burners will not heat up unless a pot is placed on top of it, reducing the likelihood of accidental burns. Induction technology also allows pans to be heated extremely fast, taking half the time to boil water compared to a gas or electric cooktop. Although you can only use induction-ready cookware, there are now plenty of options available in the market.
HEAT CONTROL
Fluctuating heat temperatures can either make or break your dish. A cooktop that heats up too fast can be unpredictable and you may end up ruining or burning your food. It is important to choose one that is precise and has easy-to-use functions to control the heat.
FEATURES
Cooktops may not have many fancy functions compared to other smart-home appliances. However, there are still many special functions that are worth investing in to have an enjoyable cooking experience in your kitchen. Here are some popular features of cooktops:
- Touch controls
- Flexible heat elements
Many new models now integrate touch controls. They make your kitchen look sleeker and more modern, as well as make cleaning time much easier. It also allows for more control over the temperature, as you are able to set the burner temperature to the exact degree instead of the usual traditional low-medium-high settings.Flexibility is key in the world of cooktops, as it means increased convenience. You want to choose a cooktop that allows you to adapt it to your needs instead of being restricted by the size, shape, and arrangement that may not suit you. Many induction and electric cooktops have flexible heating elements that are adaptable. For instance, the size can change depending on the pot, or separate burners can combine into one to accommodate large pots and pans.
