A good cooktop is essential in any kitchen, and if you plan on cooking a lot, it's critical to get a cooktop that stands up to the task. With so many options available, however, it can be difficult to know which cooktops are the best. This is why we've curated a list of the three most reliable cooktops of 2021.
Frigidaire Professional FPGC3077RS
The Frigidaire Professional FPGC3077RS is a powerful, modern, professional gas cooktop. At 30 in. wide, it can be installed over a standard sized oven or in a cutout of your countertop. Its PowerPlus® center burner can deliver up to 18,200 BTU of energy, which is enough for anything you put on it (even stir-fry). The PrecisionPro Controls™ maximize your control over the power settings, allowing you to sear, sauté, simmer, boil, or even melt chocolate. There's also a griddle accessory that maximizes the number of things you can cook on it. Its durable cast-iron grates are continuous, allowing you to shift heavy cookware between burners easily. They're even dishwasher safe, so you don't have to worry about cleaning any spills.
GE JP3030DJBB
If you're looking for one of the most reliable cooktops on the market and you prefer a smoothtop electric model, the GE JP3030DJBB is an excellent option. In its 30 in. width, it contains four large ribbon elements. The 8-in. radiant Power Boil elements have an output of up to 2,500 W of power while still being able to melt foods like butter or chocolate without scorching them. The 6-in. elements even have a Keep Warm setting that uses GE's most gentle heat. The ceramic glass surface is easy to wipe clean, and it comes with a hot surface indicator to let you know even when residual heat from cooking makes the cooktop too hot to touch. Meanwhile, it's fully compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act, making it an excellent choice for chefs with limited mobility.
Bosch NGM5656UC
Hailing from the 500 Series, the NGM5656UC is one of Bosch's most reliable cooktops. At 36 in. wide, it's also the largest one on this list. The five sealed gas burners have continuous cast iron grates above them, allowing you to move heavy cookware between burners without risk of splashing, and the central OptiSim® burner provides gentle heat for light simmering all the way up to a maximum output of 16,000 BTU. The stainless steel body is a single piece, making post-meal cleanup even simpler and giving it a fully integrated look. The heavy-duty black push-to-turn knobs coordinate with the grates and are designed to automatically reignite the burners when the flame goes out. To top it all off, it can be installed anywhere in your kitchen with a gas line, even above wall ovens.
Related Questions
What should I look for when buying a cooktop?
The first thing you should consider when choosing a cooktop is what type of cooktop you want. There are excellent gas, electric, and induction cooktops on the market, so you won't have a shortage of options. Then look at the size of your space and choose a cooktop that will fit where you need it to go. Next, think about the layout of your kitchen: will the controls be well-placed or in the way? Finally, look at other features related to your specific cooking needs.
Why do chefs prefer gas stoves?
Many professional chefs swear by gas cooktops for their versatility and speed, as well as their quick response times.
Is it better to have a gas or electric stove?
Gas stoves heat up faster than electric ones and provide finely-tuned control over the heat provided. Electric stoves, however, are easier to clean and maintain, don't require a gas hookup, and provide extra safety when cooking.