Gas vs. Electric vs. Induction Cooktops: Which Is Better?

Posted on August 16, 2024

Did you know induction cooktops can boil water faster than gas? But they require specific cookware, which might mean buying new pots and pans.

This is just one example of the pros and cons you’ll need to consider when deciding between gas, electric, and induction cooktops. Each type offers unique benefits and some potential drawbacks. Let’s navigate these options and pick the perfect cooktop for your home.

Understanding Your Cooktop Options

Gas Cooktops: Gas cooktops are a favorite among chefs and foodies for their quick, responsive heat control. When you turn the knob, the flame adjusts instantly, giving you the precision to sear, sauté, or simmer with ease.

Plus, the visual feedback of a flame helps you stay connected to the cooking process. For those who prefer not to have an overhead hood, downdraft gas cooktops offer a convenient solution by integrating ventilation directly into the cooktop. Alternatively, telescoping downdrafts are also an option if you prefer not to have the downdraft as part of the cooktop itself. This pulls smoke and odors from your kitchen, making them a great option for kitchen islands or spaces with limited overhead clearance.

Electric Cooktops: Electric cooktops have a sleek, glass-ceramic surface with radiant or coil elements that provide consistent, even heat. While they may heat up slower than gas, they offer steady performance, which is ideal for slow simmering and maintaining temperature.

If you want to avoid an overhead hood, electric downdraft cooktops have built-in ventilation that pulls smoke and odors down through the cooktop. They are perfect for open kitchen layouts or islands.

Induction Cooktops: Induction cooktops are a high-tech option that uses electromagnetic energy to heat pots and pans directly. The cooktop itself stays cool, making it both energy-efficient and safe. Only the area where the cookware touches the surface gets hot, making it easier to clean up any spills. Beyond its quick boil perk we mentioned earlier, you get precise temperature control that can make even the most complex dishes easier to manage.

Remember that you’ll need cookware compatible with induction technology—typically, magnetic materials like cast iron or certain stainless steel.

Pros and Cons of Each Cooktop

Gas Cooktops:

• Pros: Instant heat control, visible flame, excellent for high-heat cooking, works even if the power goes out.
• Cons: Requires good ventilation, more cleaning due to grates and burners, an open flame can be a safety concern.

Electric Cooktops:

• Pros: Safe with no open flame and provides consistent, even heat.
• Cons: Takes longer to heat up, not as precise with temperature control, can be more expensive to run depending on your electricity costs, not easy to clean unless done after every use or done very frequently

Induction Cooktops:

• Pros: Fast heating elements, easy cleaning, energy-efficient, cool-to-touch surface to avoid risk of burning, and precise temperature control.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, needs compatible cookware.

What About Cost and Energy Efficiency?

Upfront, gas stoves usually fall in the middle of the cost spectrum, with installation needing a gas line and good ventilation. Over time, they’re pretty cost-effective, especially if you already have natural gas in your home.

Electric stoves tend to be cheaper to buy and easier to install since they just need a dedicated outlet. However, they can run up your electricity bill, especially if you cook a lot. Induction stoves are the priciest up front, but their energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills over time.

Cooking Style and Preferences

Your cooking style plays a big role in deciding which cooktop suits you best.

• Gas cooktops are ideal if you love to cook with high heat or enjoy the visual feedback of a flame.
• Electric cooktops work well if you want even heating and an easy-to-clean surface.
• Induction cooktops are perfect for those who value energy efficiency, fast cooking, and precise temperature control.

Consider your daily cooking habits, the meals you prepare most often, and your comfort level with each type of technology.

Safety Considerations

Safety is crucial, especially if you have young children or pets.

• Gas cooktops need proper ventilation and caution around the open flame. Make sure to check for gas leaks regularly.
• Electric cooktops are safer than gas since they don’t have an open flame, but the surface stays hot for a while after cooking.
• Induction cooktops are the safest option, with a cool surface that only heats up where your cookware touches. They often come with features like child safety locks and auto-shutoff.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

When it comes to installation, each type of cooktop has its own needs.

• Gas cooktops require a gas line and proper ventilation. If you already have these in place, installation is straightforward. Otherwise, there might be additional costs.
• Electric cooktops are easier to install and only need a dedicated electrical outlet. Maintenance mainly involves cleaning the smooth surface.
• Induction cooktops also need a dedicated electrical outlet and professional installation to ensure they work correctly. They’re the easiest to clean, as spills don’t burn onto the cooktop.

Top Cooktop Recommendations from Bray & Scarff

We offer a wide selection of high-quality cooktops. Here are some top picks:

• For Gas Cooktops: Bosch 800 Series Gas Cooktop (Model: NGM8659UC)
• For Electric Cooktops: GE Electric Radiant Cooktop (Model: JP256BMBB)
• For Induction Cooktops: JennAir Lustre Induction Flex Cooktop (Model: JIC4736HS)

Visit us online or stop by our showroom to see these options in person. We’re happy to help you find the perfect cooktop for your kitchen.

Find Your Perfect Cooktop Today

Ultimately, the right cooktop for your kitchen depends on your cooking habits, layout, and what you value most—whether it’s speed, efficiency, or simplicity. At Bray & Scarff, we’re here to help you weigh these factors and choose the perfect cooktop.

Ready to find the ideal cooktop for your kitchen? Visit or contact one of our appliance store locations in Virginia and Maryland to explore your appliance options. Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

For more tips and inspiration, check out our blog or schedule a consultation with our team today. Whether you’re upgrading your appliances or redesigning your kitchen, Bray & Scarff is here to help you create a space that elevates every cooking experience.

Related readings:

• The Best Way To Clean A Cooktop
• GE Profile 30" Built-In Cooktop Vs. Monogram 30" Deep Recessed Cooktop
• Jenn-Air vs. Thermador Induction Cooktop

FAQ: Gas vs. Electric vs. Induction Cooktops

What is better, a gas cooktop or an induction cooktop?
It depends on your cooking style. Gas cooktops offer quick heat control and are great for high-heat cooking. Induction cooktops are more energy-efficient, heat up faster, and provide precise temperature control, but require compatible cookware.

Do chefs prefer induction or gas?
Many chefs prefer gas for its instant heat and visual flame control. However, induction is becoming popular for its speed, efficiency, and precise temperature control. The choice often depends on personal preference and cooking needs.

What cannot be cooked on induction?
Induction cooktops require magnetic cookware, so glass, copper, aluminum (unless it has a magnetic base), or non-magnetic stainless steel won’t work. Traditional woks with round bottoms or very thin cookware may also not perform well. Beyond that, you can cook anything on induction on gas or electric, provided you have the right pots and pans.

Is GE Monogram considered high-end?
Yes, Monogram is considered a high-end appliance brand known for its premium materials and advanced features.

What is special about a Wolf stove?
Wolf cooktops are known for their professional-grade construction, precise heat source, and innovative features, making Wolf a top choice for serious cooks.