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Kitchen Range Buying Guide

Kitchen Range Buying Guide

Your kitchen range is the centerpiece of your cooking space, where functionality meets design. Whether you’re upgrading a rental, remodeling a forever home, or building a chef’s kitchen from scratch, this guide will help you choose the right fuel type, size, and configuration, and point you to top-quality brands like ZLINE, Thor Kitchen, ILVE, Forno, and more.

Fuel Types: Gas vs. Dual Fuel vs. Electric

Gas Ranges

Gas ranges remain a top choice for home cooks who want instant flame control, powerful heat, and fast responsiveness. Gas models from brands like Thor Kitchen, Capital, and Kucht feature open or sealed burners, high BTUs, and durable stainless finishes.

Pros:

  • Instant flame control

  • Compatible with power outages (manual ignition)

  • Widely available in 30", 36", and 48" sizes

Kucht 48 Inch Professional 6.7 Cu. Ft. Liquid Propane Stainless Steel Range with Sealed Burners, Griddle/Grill, Double Oven and Convection Oven in Green Oven Door Open

Dual Fuel Ranges

Dual fuel ranges pair a gas cooktop with an electric oven. This gives you the high-heat control of gas on the burners and the even, dry heat of electric for better baking.

Perfect for:

passionate home chefs, bakers, and frequent entertainers.

Cosmo 48 Inch Lumin Collection 5.5 Cu. Ft. Double Oven Dual Fuel Stainless Steel Range with 8 Burners and Convection Oven - COS-DFRP488K OPpen

Electric Ranges

While less common in the premium tier, electric ranges can be a smart choice in apartments, condos, or areas with limited gas access. If you prefer plug-and-cook convenience, look for smooth top electric ranges from Cosmo and Forno.

Cosmo 36 Inch Commercial Style 6.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Stainless Steel Range with 5 Burner Glass Cooktop and Convection Oven - COS-ERC365KBD Main

What Range Size Do You Need?

30-Inch Ranges

30-inch ranges are the standard for most homes — compact, efficient, and fit most kitchen layouts. Available from nearly every brand. 

Kucht 30 Inch Professional 4.2 Cu. Ft. Liquid Propane Gas Stainless Steel Range with Sealed Burners and Convection Oven in Blue Oven Door Open

36-Inch Ranges

36-inch ranges are the most popular upgrade size for semi-pro kitchens. More burners, larger ovens, and better performance — without needing a commercial install.

Ideal For

medium to large families, frequent cooks, remodelers

ILVE 36 Inch Nostalgie II Noblesse Freestanding Induction Range with 5 Elements, Griddle with Copper Trim Midnight Blue

48-Inch Ranges

48-inch ranges are a serious investment for serious kitchens. Usually includes 6+ burners, a griddle or grill, and a double oven setup. 

zline 48-Inch Ranges

Pro-Style, Slide-In & Freestanding — What’s the Difference?

Pro-Style Ranges

It is modeled after restaurant ranges, and it features a thick stainless steel build, heavy-duty knobs, high-output burners (up to 22,000+ BTUs), and durable cast iron grates.

Slide-In Ranges

Slide-in ranges offer a seamless, built-in look. The controls are front-mounted, and there is no backguard. Clean lines pair well with tile backsplashes or minimalist kitchens.

Freestanding Ranges

Freestanding ranges are easy to install and versatile. The controls on the backguard make them suitable for most retrofits or rentals.

Great for

replacing old units without major renovation.

Cosmo 30 Inch Slide-In Freestanding Gas Stainless Steel Range with 5 Sealed Burners, Cast Iron Grates, 4.5 Cu. Ft. Capacity Convection Oven - COS-EPGR304 Open

Range Details That Really Matter

Feature Why It’s Important Brands
Convection Oven Even heat for baking & roasting ZLINE, ILVE, Thor
High-BTU Burners Better searing & fast boiling Capital, Thor Kitchen
Integrated Griddle More cooking surface flexibility Kucht, ZLINE
Dual Ovens Cook multiple dishes at different temps ILVE, ZLINE
Luxury Finish Options Colored enamel, brass accents, matte black ILVE, ZLINE

Bonus Tip

For high-BTU gas models, choose a properly rated hood. We recommend Victory Range Hoods for full coverage.

Range Packages & Matching Suites

Complete your kitchen with a matching suite — range, hood, fridge, and dishwasher. Bundling from one brand improves design cohesion and often unlocks discounts.

Shop Appliance Packages:

🔗 Explore Appliance Packages »

Kitchen Package with Refrigeration 30 Stainless Steel Dual

FAQs: Range Buying Questions Answered

What’s better — gas or dual fuel?

Dual fuel gives you gas control on the cooktop and electric precision in the oven — best of both worlds. We recommend ZLINE or ILVE dual fuel models for serious cooks.

What’s the difference between pro-style and slide-in ranges?

Pro-style ranges are bigger, stronger, and built for performance. Slide-in ranges are sleeker and perfect for design-forward remodels.

Are 48-inch ranges worth it?

If you cook for large groups or want the full chef-kitchen aesthetic, yes. ILVE and Capital offer 48-inch models with premium features.

Which range brands are best for style?

ILVE is the standout for color and European luxury. ZLINE balances performance and design at a more accessible price.

What size hood do I need for a 36-inch range?

Match your hood width to your range (or go 6" wider), and ensure your hood’s CFM rating supports your range's BTUs.

Ready to Buy?

Choosing the right range means balancing performance, fuel type, space, and kitchen design. Whether you lean toward a pro-style Thor gas range, a luxurious ILVE in emerald green, or a versatile ZLINE dual fuel setup, you're investing in the workhorse of your kitchen.

Need help matching a range to your hood or kitchen style? Chat with us for expert product guidance or browse the collections above to get started.

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