Gas cooktops are an ideal choice for individuals who prefer a wall or double-wall oven, and they can even be placed on a kitchen island to make the space more functional.
Natural gas flame heats up pans quickly and doesn’t require electricity or induction technology to operate, making it more dependable in the event of a power outage. But with all the different sizes, finishes, and features to choose from, selecting a gas cooktop can be difficult. Continue reading to identify some of the key features to look for when choosing a gas cooktop and learn more about our top picks.
- BEST OVERALL: Frigidaire 36″ Gas Cooktop in Stainless Steel
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Deli-Kit 34″ Gas Cooktop Dual Fuel
- UPGRADE PICK: KitchenAid 36″ Gas Cooktop in Stainless Steel
- BEST TEMPERED GLASS: Empava 36″ Built-in Tempered Glass Gas Cooktop
- BEST WITH GRIDDLE: Whirlpool 36″ Gas Cooktop in Stainless Steel
- BEST WITH DOWNDRAFT: KitchenAid 36″ Gas Downdraft Cooktop
- MOST VERSATILE: Frigidaire Gallery 30” Built-In Gas Cooktop
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Gas Cooktop
As you shop for the best gas cooktop for your space and needs, it’s important to consider a wide range of features and factors. Use the shopping considerations outlined below to help you narrow down your options and choose the right gas cooktop to match your cooking style, needs, and preferences.
Size
Before purchasing a new gas cooktop, measure the available space in the kitchen or the existing cooktop to ensure a proper fit. Gas cooktops are most commonly found in 30- and 36-inch lengths. However, there are also nonstandard sizes available for those looking for something smaller or larger.
Generally speaking, most gas cooktops are between 21 and 22 inches deep. This depth ensures a proper fit on a standard countertop, which is 25.5 inches deep.
In addition to considering the size of the cooktop and whether it will fit on the counter or island, it is also essential to ensure that there is sufficient clearance around the unit. Gas cooktops get very hot and could cause damage to walls or cabinets. When measuring for a new gas cooktop, make sure that there is at least 30 inches of space between the top of the cooktop and unprotected cabinets, at least 6 inches between the edges of the cooktop and the sides of the cabinets next to it, and at least 2.25 inches between the back of the cooktop and the wall behind it.
Number of Burners
One key difference between many gas cooktops is the number of burners. While most gas cooktops offer five burners, some models have as few as two or up to six or more. Consider how many burners you foresee using at the same time to find a cooktop that will satisfy your needs.
In addition to the number of burners, also consider the overall layout and available cooking surface of each cooktop. Many five-burner cooktops offer a larger center burner, while others may place the larger burner off to one of the sides. Make sure the burners are spaced out enough to fit comfortably the pots you most commonly cook with.
Power and Range
British thermal units (BTUs) measure the maximum heat output for each burner on a stove. Burners on gas cooktops can be rated up to 20,000 BTUs. The higher the BTU rating, the more powerful the burner. In most cases, each cooktop will have a different BTU rating for each burner.
While having a few gas burners with a higher BTU rating is important for searing or boiling water, the best gas cooktop should also be able to simmer sauces and other more delicate dishes. Finding a model that offers burners with a variety of BTU capabilities is important.
Safety Features
Safety should be an important consideration when shopping for a gas cooktop. Gas models use an open flame for cooking, which is a key difference between gas and induction or electric stoves. Choosing a model with safety features can be important for everyone but especially those with younger children. Some important features to look for include:
- Electric ignition: Finding a gas stove with an electric igniter means that less gas will be needed to light each burner. Minimizing the amount of gas needed can prevent leaks and accidents.
- Flame failure: Gas cooktops and stoves are required to have a flame-failure feature, also called a flame supervision device. This device closes a valve and prevents the gas from reaching the burner after the flame has been extinguished. This important feature can prevent silent and dangerous gas leaks.
- Knobs along the back or side: Those with young children may want to look for a gas stove with knobs along the back or side as opposed to the front. This can help prevent children from playing with the stove or accidentally causing a fire.
Additional Features
Finally, consider whether there are any additional features you’d like to see incorporated into the design of your gas cooktop. A few features some manufacturers incorporate into their products include:
- Integrated griddle: Some cooktops include a griddle that can be placed directly over two of the burners. This design can come in handy when making pancakes, grilling vegetables, and more.
- Downdraft ventilation: This special ventilation system is integrated into the design of the cooktop and eliminates the need to purchase a separate ventilation hood.
- Full-width cast-iron grates: Full-width cast-iron grates allow cooks to move pots and pans around the surface of the cooktop more easily without them getting caught up on one of the burners.
Our Top Picks
The top picks come from some of the most trusted brands for kitchen appliances and offer a variety of features and benefits to simplify cooking tasks. Continue reading to discover some of the best gas cooktops for the kitchen.
Photo: overstock.com
This 36-inch stainless steel gas cooktop from Frigidaire provides five sealed gas burners. It features one 18,000-BTU Quick Boil Burner to bring water to a boil quickly as well as one 5,000-BTU Simmer Burner for sauces and more delicate items. The cooktop also includes two 9,500-BTU burners and one 12,000-BTU burner. It boasts corner-to-corner cast-iron grates that allow users to slide heavier pans between burners without needing to lift them up.
A number of additional features ensure easy cleanup of this gas cooktop. The grates are dishwasher-safe, and the cooktop features seamless recessed burners. It offers a SpillSafe design to keep spills contained within the cooktop. This model also features angled front controls that allow for ergonomic use while adding an element of style and aesthetics. If desired, this gas cooktop can be converted for use with liquid propane gas.
Product Specs
- Size: 36 inches
- Number of burners: 5
- Burner BTUs: 5,000; 9,500; 9,500; 12,000; and 18,000
Pros
- 5 burners including a 18,000-BTU Quick Boil burner
- Dishwasher-safe continuous cast-iron grates
- Recessed burners for easy cleanup
- Angled front controls for more upscale look
Cons
- Surface scratches easily
- Knobs not as durable as those on other models
Get the Frigidaire 36″ gas cooktop on Overstock.
Photo: amazon.com
An ideal choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option, this 34-inch stainless steel gas cooktop from Deli-Kit offers five burners in four different sizes with a variety of BTUs to match specific cooking needs.
One burner features a triple ring for rapid heating with 11,262 BTUs of power; three are semi-rapid burners—one with 9,385 BTUs and two with 5,972 BTUs—and one with 3,413 BTUs is ideal for simmering and slow cooking. Each burner is designed to provide even heat distribution for a range of cooking tasks, from boiling to stir-frying to steaming and more.
This economical gas cooktop features a brushed stainless steel finish that resists corrosion and allows for simple cleanup. It also boasts durable and stable cast-iron grates. The knobs to control this cooktop are located along the front for quick and easy access. Preset natural gas nozzles are included with the cooktop, but if needed, a professional can replace them with liquid propane gas nozzles.
Product Specs
- Size: 34 inches
- Number of burners: 5
- Burner BTUs: 3,413; 5,972; 5,972; 9,385; and 11,262
Pros
- Triple-ring burner for efficient heating
- Corrosion-resistant and easy-to-clean brushed stainless finish
- Wok stand included with purchase
- Budget-friendly price tag
Cons
- No power burner
- Nonstandard size may not fit in an existing opening
Get the Deli-Kit 34″ gas cooktop on Amazon.
Photo: bestbuy.com
KitchenAid’s 36-inch stainless steel gas cooktop satisfies the needs of those looking to bring a premium feel to their kitchen. It features five burners offering a wide range of BTUs for optimal results. The 20,000-BTU power burner provides dual rings and can alternate between one and two flames based on cooking needs.
This gas cooktop also offers one 6,000-BTU EvenHeat simmer burner; one 7,000-BTU burner; and two 10,000-BTU burners. An electronic ignition eliminates the need for a standing pilot light as it automatically lights the burners. This cooktop also includes full-width cast-iron grates that make it easy to move heavy pots and pans while also enhancing the overall look.
KitchenAid designed this gas cooktop to be easy to clean. It boasts dishwasher-safe grates, sealed burners, and a special CookShield finish to protect against stains. The control knobs are metal for added quality, durability, and a sophisticated look. Although designed to be used with natural gas, this cooktop can be converted by a professional for use with liquid propane.
Product Specs
- Size: 36 inches
- Number of burners: 5
- Burner BTUs: 6,000; 7,000; 10,000; 10,000; and 20,000
Pros
- 5 burners including a 20,000-BTU high-heat burner
- Full-width cast-iron grates
- Sealed burners and dishwasher-safe grates for easy cleaning
- High-quality metal knobs
Cons
- Higher price tag
- Larger pots on front burners may block access to knobs
Get the KitchenAid 36″ stainless steel gas cooktop at Best Buy.
Photo: amazon.com
This five-burner, 36-inch gas cooktop from Empava provides four different burner sizes to deliver excellent results. It offers one dual-ring 12,000-BTU power burner; one 10,000-BTU burner; two 6,500-BTU burners; and one 4,000-BTU simmer burner. Empava equips this cooktop with a thermocouple flame-out failure system that will automatically shut it off to prevent a gas leak.
The cooktop includes heavy-duty cast-iron grates that are dishwasher-safe. It also features durable control knobs along its front to allow users to adjust the temperature of each burner easily. This model is designed to be used with natural gas, but LPG nozzles are included for converting it for use with liquid propane.
Product Specs
- Size: 36 inches
- Number of burners: 5
- Burner BTUs: 4,000; 6,500; 6,500; 10,000; and 12,000
Pros
- Auto-shutoff safety feature
- Sealed burners reduce messes
- Dishwasher-safe grates
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Highest burner BTU is only 12,000
- Stainless steel surface scratches easily
Get the Empava 36″ tempered glass gas cooktop on Amazon.
Photo: bestbuy.com
Frigidaire offers this five-burner, 36-inch gas cooktop that comes with a removable griddle ideal for searing steaks, cooking pancakes or bacon, grilling vegetables, and much more. When in use, the griddle covers the two right-sided burners, leaving the other three burners available for additional cooking needs. The five burners provide two rows of flames for even heat distribution with a range of BTUs to accommodate a plethora of cooking needs. The cooktop features one 18,000-BTU power burner; one 12,000-BTU burner; two 9,100-BTU burners; and one 5,000-BTU simmer burner.
The cast-iron grate extends to cover the entire width of the cooktop and boasts a hinged design to make cleaning beneath it possible without the need to fully remove it. However, it can be removed for cleaning and is dishwasher-safe. This model also features sealed burners and raised edges to contain spills and prevent further messes.
Product Specs
- Size: 36 inches
- Number of burners: 5
- Burner BTUs: 5,000; 9,100; 9,100; 12,000; and 18,000
Pros
- Comes with removable griddle
- Includes 5 burners with a range of BTU levels
- Hinged cast-iron grate for easier cleaning
- Raised edges and sealed burners minimize messes
Cons
- Higher price point
- The surface scratches easily
Get the Whirlpool 36″ gas cooktop at Best Buy.
Photo: homedepot.com
No separate ventilation hood is necessary with this 36-inch gas downdraft cooktop from KitchenAid. The special downdraft ventilation feature—with a 300-cubic-feet-per-minute exhaust rating—works to eliminate smoke and odors at the surface of the burners rather than from above with a traditional ventilation hood. The cooktop offers five burners—one 17,000-BTU professional burner for cooking at high temperatures or simmering; one 15,000-BTU burner; one 12,000-BTU burner; one 10,000-BTU burner; and one 5,000-BTU burner. One burner offers a special melt cap that shields the flame for a more gentle heat, which is ideal for melting butter or chocolate or simmering sauces.
The cooktop features continuous cast-iron grates, helping cooks to maximize the cooking surface and easily shift pots and pans around the top of the stove. With its sleek stainless steel finish and premium stainless steel knobs, this gas cooktop will enhance the visual appeal of any kitchen while also helping users cook delicious meals.
Product Specs
- Size: 36 inches
- Number of burners: 5
- Burner BTUs: 5,000; 10,000; 12,500; 15,000; and 17,000
Pros
- No ventilation hood required
- 2 high-BTU burners for searing and boiling
- Melt cap low-power burner for melting and simmering
- Continuous cast-iron grates
Cons
Get the KitchenAid 36″ downdraft gas cooktop at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Enjoy versatility and select the ideal setting for each recipe with the five burners on this 30-inch gas cooktop from Frigidaire. Adjust the large center burner between 450 BTUs and 18,000 BTUs to allow for both rapid boiling and gentle simmering on the same burner. The four remaining burners are rated at 12,000; 9,500; 7,500; and 5,000 BTUs for even more flexibility when cooking a variety of meals. The cooktop also features continuous cast-iron grates to facilitate the seamless transition of pots and pans between burners.
The gas cooktop boasts recessed burners, and the cast-iron grate on this model is dishwasher-safe. The cooktop also offers angled control knobs along the front for easy temperature adjustments.
Product Specs
- Size: 30 inches
- Number of burners: 5
- Burner BTUs: 5,000; 7,500; 9,500; 12,000; and 18,000
Pros
- 5 burners with wide range of BTUs
- Continuous cast-iron grates
- Angled control knobs
- Reasonably priced
Cons
Get the Frigidaire Gallery 30″ gas cooktop on Amazon.
Our Verdict
When you’re ready to purchase a new gas cooktop, the Frigidaire 36″ gas cooktop can meet all your needs in the kitchen with its five sealed burners, including an 18,000-BTU Quick Boil burner. If you’re looking for more flexible placement options or don’t want to install a ventilation hood, the KitchenAid 36″ downdraft gas cooktop is an excellent alternative to consider.
How We Chose the Best Gas Cooktops
The list of recommended gas cooktops shared above was compiled following extensive research and product comparisons. To narrow down the numerous gas cooktops available on the market, we considered a variety of features including brand reputation, customer service, and reviews from past customers.
Then, to finalize the list, we looked at the specific features of each model, such as the size, number of burners, BTU output of each burner, and overall design. Finally, we worked to select a variety of products that would meet different budgets, without sacrificing on quality or safety.
FAQs
Q. Which gas stove brands are most reliable?
Generally speaking, gas stoves and cooktops last longer than electric cooktops, with an average lifespan of 15 years compared to 13 years. That said, some manufacturers are known for their reliable and long-lasting gas or dual-fuel ranges and cooktops. Some of these top brands include KitchenAid, Frigidaire, and Empava.
Q. How do you install a gas cooktop?
Before installing a gas cooktop, it is important to ensure that it has been set up for the type of gas fuel that will be used. Check with the requirements from your manufacturer before converting the fuel type or attempting to install the cooktop yourself; some manufacturers state that these tasks must be completed by a trained technician or licensed professional.
If attempting to install the cooktop yourself, follow the steps below:
- Turn the outdoor gas shutoff valve to the off position.
- Remove the existing cooktop.
- Confirm that the new cooktop fits in the existing opening.
- Connect the electrical supply.
- Connect the gas supply.
- Check for gas leaks
- Install the seals and gaskets provided by the manufacturer.
- Turn the gas supply back on and check again for leaks.
Q. Do gas cooktops use electricity?
Yes, while a gas stove doesn’t use as much electricity as an electric cooktop, it does still use electricity. Gas cooktops have electric ignition systems along with the gas pilot light. A key difference between gas and electric stoves, however, is that you can still cook on a gas cooktop in the event of a power outage. You’ll just need to use a match to light the burners very carefully.
Q. Do gas cooktops need to be vented?
Yes, gas cooktops should be vented. Proper venting helps minimize smoke, gas byproducts, steam, and dirt from the air.
Q. How do you clean a gas cooktop?
Cleaning a gas cooktop is a bit more involved than cleaning a glass cooktop, but it is still not too complex. Start by ensuring the surface is completely cool and that all of the burners are off. Then, remove the grates, the caps covering the burners, and each of the burners. Put the grates in the sink and spray them with a degreaser. Leave the degreaser soaking on the grates while you continue cleaning the rest of the cooktop.
Spray the cooktop with the degreaser and let it sit for a few minutes before using a soft scouring pad to scrub off grease and grime. Use a nylon scrub brush to tackle baked-on messes. Then, wipe off the grime and degreaser and rinse the stove with water. Dry the stove and consider doing one final wipe down with a Magic Eraser to remove any residue that remains.
Clean the grates and burner caps using a nylon brush. Clean the burners with hot water and scrub gently with the nylon brush; avoid using any harsh cleaners on the burners. Finally, reassemble the cooktop.
