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Induction vs. Electric vs. Gas Cooktops: Which One Is Best?
Posted on 02.29.24
Finding the best cooktop can be complicated if you aren't sure what you are looking for. You can choose between electric cooktops, gas cooktops, and induction cooktops. However, what is the difference and what should you look out for? We will go over what the major differences are between the cooktops and how to choose the right one for your home. 
Purchasing a New Cooktop
At DeWaard and Bode, we have various cooktops you can choose from online or in-store at our appliance store in Bellingham or Burlington locations. Our product specialists know the ins and outs of kitchen appliances and can get you acquainted with the perfect cooktop for your home design and needs.
What Are Induction Cooktops?
Induction cooktops are a unique type of electric cooktop that generates power from induction technology and magnetic copper induction coils. This essentially means that it develops its energy from an electromagnetic field that is under the glass cooktop surface and transfers the current directly to the magnetic cookware, which results in it heating up.
If you are looking for an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient cooktop that produces perfectly prepped food, then induction is a great choice to go with. Induction cooktops have less energy consumption than other options on the market. Other benefits of induction stoves include built-in safety features, fast cooking time, and easier meal prep.
According to Energy Star, “the per unit efficiency of induction cooking tops is about 5-10% more efficient than conventional electric resistance units and about 3 times more efficient than gas.”
Benefits of Induction Cooktops
• Quick Cooking: Induction cooktops heat up fast, reducing cooking time.
• Safety Operation: Safer to use as the cooktop stays cool, lowering the risk of burns.
• Energy Saver: Highly energy-efficient, resulting in lower energy bills.
• Easy Cleanup: Smooth surfaces make it easy to clean, with no open flames or burners.
• Modern Look: Sleek design adds a modern touch to your kitchen.
Disadvantages of Induction Cooktops
• Higher Cost: Initial price is higher compared to traditional stoves.
• Special Cookware: Requires specific pots and pans with a magnetic base.
• Learning Curve: Takes time to get used to precise temperature control.
What Are Electric Cooktops?
Electric cooktops and induction cooktops are similar, however, the way the heat is generated makes them different. Under the glass or ceramic cooktop, there are metal coils that are heated with an electrical current. Once the coil is heated, it will start to glow and transfer the heat from the surface to the cookware and then to the food you want to heat. When it comes to induction vs. electric efficiency, induction cooktops are considered by many people as more efficient cooktops.
Electric cooktops are considered reliable with simple installation that doesn't take any particular equipment to set up which means there won't be much of a learning curve when you buy one. Another feature that many electric cooktop owners love is the ability to make use of the residual heat. The cooktop typically stays warm after it is turned off, which helps you keep your food warm.
Benefits of Electric Cooktops
• Affordability: Electric cooktops are generally more budget-friendly compared to induction.
• Widespread Compatibility: Compatible with a variety of cookware, no special pots or pans required.
• Ease of Use: Simple to operate, no learning curve for users transitioning from traditional stoves.
• Widespread Availability: Widely available, making them easy to find and replace.
Disadvantages of Electric Cooktops
• Slower Heating: Takes longer to heat up compared to induction cooktops.
• Energy Consumption: Slightly less energy-efficient than an induction cooktop
• Limited Temperature Control: Less precise temperature control compared to induction cooktops.
• Heat Retention: The cooktop surface can remain hot after cooking, posing a burn risk.
What Are Gas Cooktops?
Gas cooktops are the most common types of cooktops that most people are familiar with. A gas cooktop is considered a standard and traditional cooktop that works with propane burners and natural gas. Many professional chefs and cooking masters prefer gas stoves due to their ability to produce quick temperature changes with a range of flame sizes and you are able to use almost any type of cookware on them.
Benefits of Gas Cooktops
• Quick and Precise: Instant heat control and responsiveness for precise cooking.
• Versatility: Compatible with various cookware types, no specific pots or pans required.
• Traditional Cooking Feel: Familiar and preferred by many for the classic cooking experience.
• Affordability: Generally more affordable than induction cooktops and competitive with electric.
• High Heat Output: Provides high heat levels for tasks like searing and boiling.
• Energy Independence: Operates without reliance on electricity, usable during power outages.
Disadvantages of Gas Cooktops
• Safety Concerns: Open flames and exposed burners can pose a higher risk of burns or accidents.
• Cleaning Challenges: Can be more challenging to clean due to the presence of burners and grates.
• Energy Inefficiency: Not as energy-efficient as induction cooktops.
• Environmental Impact: Burning natural gas contributes to environmental concerns and emissions.
• High Heat Output: Provides high heat levels for tasks like searing and boiling.
• Space Requirements: Requires more counter space and may limit kitchen layout options.
Our Favorite Induction Cooktop, Electric Cooktop, & Gas Cooktop
Cafe Café™ Series 36" Built-In Touch Control Induction Cooktop (CHP90361TBB)
Why We Like It:
Enhance your cooking time with this Café cooktop featuring 19 heat settings, responsive controls, and a sleek design illuminated by white LED lights. Enjoy easy cleanup with the smooth glass surface and spill-resistant technology. Follow guided recipes for perfect meals, and boil water rapidly with induction elements. Achieve precision with temperature control and sync elements for a larger cooking surface.
Ensure safety with automatic detection of cookware, and stay connected with built-in WiFi. Our cooktop fits seamlessly into your kitchen with a 36" cut-out guarantee and offers a smart cookware rebate for added convenience. Upgrade your cooking experience with efficiency, safety, and style.
Frigidaire 36" Electric Cooktop (FFEC3625UB)
Why We Like It:
Experience speedy cooking with our Frigidaire electric cooktop, featuring a powerful 3,000W quick boil element to get meals on the table faster. Keep your dishes warm until everything is ready with the convenient keep warm zone. The SpaceWise expandable element accommodates various cookware sizes, offering flexibility in your cooking setup. Enjoy a beautiful and easy-to-clean ceramic glass cooktop.
Easily manage your cooking temperature with Ready-Select controls, and stay informed with the hot surface Indicator alerting you when the cooktop is too warm to touch. Our cooktop is approved for installation above any Frigidaire single electric wall oven, and with the Frigidaire Fit Promise, we guarantee it will fit your existing countertop cutout or reimburse you for modification costs up to $100
KitchenAid 30" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop (KCGS350ESS)
Why We Like It:
Experience precise cooking control with our KitchenAid cooktop's 5,000 BTU Even-Heat Simmer Burner. The diffuser plate provides more flame control at the lowest setting, perfect for simmering and melting with precision. Enjoy the convenience of electronic ignition, automatically lighting burners without the need for a standing pilot light.
The cooktop's aesthetic is elevated with full-width cast-iron grates, enhancing its beauty and allowing easy movement of cookware across the entire cooking surface. Complete the polished look with Multi-Finish Knobs, adding to the sturdy construction of the cooktop surface.
Overall Verdict: Which Type of Cooktop Is the Best?
When it comes to which cooktop is the best, it can depend on the consumer, budget, and needs of what you are looking for. Many people wonder if induction is really better than gas and the answer isn't so straightforward because everyone can have a different preference when it comes to their preferred method of cooking.
Either way, our product specialists at DeWaard & Bode have many kitchen appliances you can choose from. Stop by at any of our convenient locations in Bellingham or Burlington, Washington, near Geneva, Ferndale, and Custer. Our kitchen appliance store delivers to Whatcom County, Skagit County, and Island Counties.
Related readings:
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooktops
Which cooktop type is the most energy-efficient - Induction, Electric, or Gas?
Explore the energy consumption and efficiency of induction, electric, and gas cooktops to make an informed decision on minimizing your environmental impact and utility bills.
What factors should be considered when choosing between these cooktops?
Consider installation costs, safety features, maintenance, and compatibility with cookware to select the cooktop that seamlessly integrates with your kitchen renovation plans.
How do Induction, Electric, and Gas cooktops compare in terms of cost and long-term affordability?
When comparing the cost and long-term affordability of Induction, Electric, and Gas cooktops, it's essential to consider various factors. Induction cooktops tend to have higher initial costs due to advanced technology but boast energy efficiency, potentially leading to lower long-term utility expenses. Electric cooktops fall in the mid-range for upfront costs and offer moderate long-term affordability. Gas cooktops generally have a lower initial cost, but their long-term affordability is influenced by operational expenses, dependent on fluctuating gas prices.
Factors such as energy efficiency, maintenance costs, and the availability and cost of the energy source play crucial roles in determining the most financially viable option based on individual preferences and regional considerations.
