What is a Kitchen Range?

What is a Kitchen Range?


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A kitchen range is a common household cooking appliance that combines a cooktop for boiling, sautéing, or simmering, and an oven for baking, broiling, or roasting food.

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The Range is the Cornerstone of the Kitchen.

Take a second to picture your dream kitchen— what appliances come to mind? A refrigerator? A dishwasher? Maybe a microwave? What about the kitchen range? What even is a kitchen range? Well, a kitchen range is a two-in-one appliance that combines an oven and cooktop into a single unit, which is why the terms range, oven, and stove are often used interchangeably.

In this post, we’re digging deeper into what a kitchen range is and the different configurations, features, and options available for modern kitchen ranges to help you discover your dream kitchen range.

Kitchen Range Components

As we mentioned earlier, kitchen ranges are really two appliances in one. By combining a cooktop and an oven into one unit, the range saves you space and time.

The Cooktop

The cooktop of the range is the top portion that is used for cooking with pots and pans. All ranges feature cooktops with multiple burners or heating elements individually controlled by a knob or button for adjusting heat levels.

Gas cooktops cook by igniting gas below a cooking surface, while electric cooktops use heating elements such as metal coils or ceramic glass. Induction stovetops use an electromagnetic field to directly heat cookware, leaving the cooktop itself cool to the touch. Read more about induction cooktops here.

Some ranges also feature specialty burners for specific cooking needs, like a griddle burner for pancakes and burgers or a wok burner for stir-fry and seafood. 

Standalone cooktops are usually just called cooktops, but may occasionally be called stovetops or rangetops, and are either dropped or slid into a kitchen counter. 

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The Oven

The oven of the range is located below the cooktop and can be used for baking, roasting, and broiling. Ovens generally have two heat sources above and below multiple racks that are enclosed in an open space and sealed by a door.

Unlike cooktops, which cook by heating food directly, ovens cook by circulating very hot and dry air around the food, which allows for consistent and even cooking on a wide variety of foods.

Standalone ovens are called wall ovens and can be built into kitchen cabinets.

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Range Options and Configurations

Now that you know the components of the kitchen range and the differences between an oven and a cooktop, let's take a look at some of the options and configurations available for kitchen ranges.

Range Sizes

Kitchen ranges come in standardized sizes across most of the world. In North America, you’ll be able to find kitchen ranges as small as 20 inches wide to as large as 60 inches wide. Choosing the right size primarily depends on the space you have in your kitchen and the type of cooking you will be doing with your range.

For smaller spaces and lighter cooking duty, a 24”, 30”, or 36” kitchen range will provide a single oven and up to 6 burners. For larger kitchens or higher cooking duty, a 40”, 48”, or 60” range will usually feature two ovens and up to 10 burners.

Range Fuel Types

Kitchen ranges come in 3 categories of fuel types: gas, electric, and dual-fuel. Choosing the right fuel type comes down to personal preference, cooking style, and electrical requirements.

Gas Ranges

Gas ranges feature a gas-powered stove and oven, and can be run on either liquid propane or natural gas in most instances. Gas ranges are popular in areas where natural gas is cheaper than electricity or in areas with unreliable electrical service. They are sometimes preferred for their ability to immediately adjust heat levels and their high-heat capabilities. Gas ranges require additional ventilation capabilities to safely remove gas byproducts. Shop gas ranges.

Electric Ranges/Induction Ranges

Electric and induction ranges feature an electric-powered cooktop and oven and are popular in areas where electricity is cheaper than natural gas or liquid propane. They are preferred by some home cooks and chefs for their precise oven temperature control, induction cooking capabilities, and easier-to-clean stovetops. Most electric ranges require a 220/240v electrical installation due to their high power requirements. Shop electric/induction ranges.

Dual Fuel Ranges

Dula fuel ranges combine the cooking strengths of both all-gas and all-electric ranges by harnessing the precise oven temperature control of an electric oven and the high-heat and immediate heat adjustment of a gas cooktop. Most dual-fuel kitchen ranges require a 220/240v electrical installation and a gas connection. Shop dual-fuel ranges.

Freestanding vs. Slide-in Kitchen Ranges

It’s important to consider where a kitchen range will be placed and how it will look in a finished kitchen. Unlike many other kitchen appliances, kitchen ranges do not come panel ready. However, there are plenty of options for making your kitchen range match the rest of your kitchen.

The majority of kitchen ranges are known as freestanding ranges and will be finished on all 4 sides. Freestanding ranges are designed to be placed anywhere in the kitchen, including between other appliances or heat-resistant cabinets.

A minority of kitchen ranges, known as slide-in ranges, are built specifically to slide in between cabinets or countertops and will be unfinished on the sides, which allows for a seamless, streamlined look. Slide-in ranges often require additional installation effort to fit properly, but can result in a beautifully minimalist and modern look.

Finding the Perfect Kitchen Range

Now that you know what sizes and fuel types are available for ranges, it’s time to go back to your dream kitchen, more precisely, your dream kitchen range! Can you picture it? How many burners does it have? Is it a duel-fuel range or a gas range? Maybe it’s an induction range? Is it used mostly for stir-frying meals for 7 on a dual-wok burner or for baking a small batch of late-night cookies? Is it next to the refrigerator or in an island configuration?

There are a lot of questions that need to be answered before deciding on a kitchen range, and we’re not here to tell you what your dream kitchen range should look like, but if you want some additional help in deciding, we’ve compiled some of the best kitchen ranges available today and shared them below.

Best Dual Fuel Range

ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Dual Fuel Range with 6 Burner Gas Cooktop and Electric Convection Oven in Stainless Steel (SDR36) 

The ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Dual Fuel Range (SDR36) is a strong choice for homeowners who want professional-grade performance without stepping into ultra-luxury pricing. As part of the Paramount Series from ZLINE Kitchen & Bath, this range is designed to balance refined aesthetics with serious cooking capability, making it especially relevant for kitchens where performance, durability, and value are equally important.

The six Italian-made gas burners deliver the responsiveness and control cooks expect from gas, including a powerful Dual Function Burner that transitions seamlessly from an ultra-low 800 BTU simmer to an intense 20,000 BTU sear. This range accommodates everything from delicate sauces to high-heat wok cooking without compromise. Automatic reignition enhances safety and consistency, ensuring uninterrupted heat during everyday use. The heavy-duty porcelain cooktop and cast iron grates reinforce the professional feel while keeping cleanup manageable, which is increasingly important for high-use kitchens.

On the oven side, the electric convection system provides the precision and consistency that gas ovens often struggle to match. Digital thermostat technology enables fast preheating and stable temperature control, while the high-wattage convection fan distributes heat evenly for reliable baking and roasting across multiple racks. The spacious 5.2 cu. ft. capacity comfortably fits oversized pans and large meals, supporting modern cooking habits that favor batch cooking and entertaining. Triple-layer glass insulation, an aluminum mesh seal, and a quiet cooling fan improve efficiency by retaining heat while keeping exterior surfaces and surrounding cabinetry cooler.

ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Dual Fuel Range with 6 Burner Gas Cooktop and Electric Convection Oven in Stainless Steel (SDR36)

ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Dual Fuel Range with 6 Burner Gas Cooktop and Electric Convection Oven in Stainless Steel (SDR36)

$3,239.99 $3,599.99

Luxury isn’t meant to be desired - it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Dual Fuel Range with 6 Burner Gas Cooktop and Electric Convection Oven in Stainless Steel (SDR36) combines the versatility of… Read More

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Best Gas Range

LG 30 in. 6.3-Cu. Ft. Smart Wi-Fi Enabled ProBake Convection InstaView Gas Slide-in Range with Air Fry, Stainless Steel (LSGL6335F)

If all-gas ranges were supposed to be reminiscent of a simpler time, nobody told LG when they were designing this kitchen range. The LG 6.3 cu ft. kitchen range tastefully combines the simplicity of an all-gas range with modern technology like Wi-Fi-enabled app control and an InstaView™ glass door that allows you to check on your food without letting precious heat escape. Plus, LG’s ProBake Convection® can turn this kitchen range into an air fryer and air sous vide to add more variety to your favorite dishes.

LG 30 in. 6.3-Cu. Ft. Smart Wi-Fi Enabled ProBake Convection InstaView Gas Slide-in Range with Air Fry, Stainless Steel (LSGL6335F)

LG 30 in. 6.3-Cu. Ft. Smart Wi-Fi Enabled ProBake Convection InstaView Gas Slide-in Range with Air Fry, Stainless Steel (LSGL6335F)

$2,099.00

No matter what you’ve got cooking, this versatile LG range has you covered. Quickly air fry enough hot wings to feed a crowd. Own the holidays with ProBake Convection for the perfect roast and racks of evenly baked cookies. Get… Read More

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Best Electric/Induction Range

ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Induction Range with 5 Element Cooktop and Electric Convection Oven in Stainless Steel (SINR36)

The ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Induction Range (SINR36) is a forward-looking choice for homeowners who want cutting-edge cooking technology paired with professional-grade design. As part of the Paramount Series from ZLINE Kitchen & Bath, this induction range reflects where premium kitchens are headed in 2026, emphasizing efficiency, safety, durability, and refined aesthetics without pushing into ultra-luxury price territory.

The primary benefit of the SINR36 is its advanced induction cooktop, which delivers fast, highly responsive heat while remaining cool to the touch around the cookware. The five flexible cooking zones accommodate a wide range of pot and pan sizes, while the seamless bridge function allows adjacent elements to combine into one large heating zone for griddles or oversized cookware. Power Boost mode provides an immediate surge of heat for rapid boiling or high-heat searing, and nine precise cooking levels allow for fine control from gentle melting to aggressive frying. Compared to traditional electric or gas cooking, induction offers faster heat transfer, greater energy efficiency, and more consistent results, all of which align with modern cooking expectations.

Durability and usability are standout advantages of this induction range. The nanotechnology-reinforced glass cooktop achieves a 7.5 rating on the Mohs hardness scale, making it stronger than quartz and exceptionally resistant to scratches and wear. The anti-glare matte surface reduces reflections from overhead lighting, repels fingerprints, and minimizes oil buildup, resulting in a cleaner appearance with less daily maintenance. Certified non-toxic and tested against hundreds of high-concern substances by European safety standards, the cooktop also addresses growing homeowner demand for healthier, safer kitchen environments.

ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Induction Range with 5 Element Cooktop and Electric Convection Oven in Stainless Steel (SINR36)

ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Induction Range with 5 Element Cooktop and Electric Convection Oven in Stainless Steel (SINR36)

$3,739.99 $4,399.99

Luxury isn’t meant to be left desired—it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Induction Range with 5 Element Cooktop and Electric Convection Oven in Stainless Steel (SINR36) combines the versatility of a nanotechnology-reinforced anti-scratch… Read More

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Best Luxury Range

ZLINE Autograph Edition 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Gas Range with 6 Burner DuoPro™ Cooktop and Convection Gas Oven in Stainless Steel with Champagne Bronze Helix Handle and Accents (PSGRZ-36-KCB)

The ZLINE Autograph Edition 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Gas Range (PSGRZ-36-KCB) is a compelling luxury choice for 2026 because it delivers true professional cooking power while elevating kitchen design through refined materials and distinctive detailing. As part of the Autograph Edition lineup from ZLINE Kitchen & Bath, this range is positioned for homeowners who want premium performance and statement-level aesthetics without the price escalation typically associated with legacy luxury brands.

The defining advantage of this range is the DuoPro™ cooktop system. Each of the six Italian-crafted dual-ring brass burners offers independent inner and outer flame control, allowing every burner to operate across a full heat spectrum. This means any position on the cooktop can handle an 800 BTU simmer, a rolling boil, or a high-output sear reaching up to 20,000 to 25,000 BTUs. With a combined output of up to 130,000 BTUs, the cooktop eliminates the traditional limitation of “power burners” versus “simmer burners,” enabling simultaneous high-precision cooking across all zones. Auto-reignition further enhances safety and consistency, while the heavy-duty porcelain cooktop and continuous cast iron grates support effortless pan movement and simplified cleanup.

The gas convection oven reinforces the luxury positioning by pairing traditional gas heat with modern convection efficiency. Stainless steel tubular bake and broil burners promote even combustion and balanced heat distribution, while the convection system supports multi-rack cooking without temperature fluctuation. A generous 5.2 cu. ft. capacity accommodates oversized cookware and entertaining-scale meals, and the Horizon oven window with triple-layer glass and aluminum mesh seal improves visibility while maximizing heat retention. This insulation strategy not only enhances cooking consistency but also keeps exterior surfaces cooler, an increasingly important consideration in premium kitchen design.

Aesthetically, the Champagne Bronze Helix handle and matching control accents distinguish this range as a true design centerpiece. The knurled Helix handle provides a confident, tactile grip while resisting fingerprints and wear, blending form and function in a way that aligns with 2026 luxury trends focused on texture, contrast, and material authenticity. Paired with corrosion-resistant 430-grade stainless steel, the finish coordination allows the range to anchor both modern and transitional kitchens with visual authority.

From a long-term ownership perspective, the PSGRZ-36-KCB reinforces its luxury credentials through durability and warranty support. StayPut hinges imported from Italy, smooth-glide ball-bearing oven racks, dual halogen lighting, and an industry-first lifetime warranty on DuoPro™ burners speak to a product designed for sustained, high-performance use. In 2026, this range stands out as a luxury gas option because it delivers uncompromising burner versatility, professional oven performance, and elevated design details while maintaining ZLINE’s core promise of attainable luxury.

ZLINE Autograph Edition 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Gas Range with 6 Burner DuoPro™ Cooktop and Convection Gas Oven in Stainless Steel with Champagne Bronze Helix Handle and Accents (PSGRZ-36-KCB)

ZLINE Autograph Edition 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Gas Range with 6 Burner DuoPro™ Cooktop and Convection Gas Oven in Stainless Steel with Champagne Bronze Helix Handle and Accents (PSGRZ-36-KCB)

$6,099.99

Luxury isn’t meant to be left desired—it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE Autograph Edition 36 in. 5.2 cu. ft. Paramount Gas Range with 6 Burner DuoPro™ Cooktop and Convection Gas Oven in Stainless Steel with Champagne Bronze Helix Handle… Read More

Add to cart

Conclusion

In conclusion, a kitchen range is an essential appliance in most modern North American kitchens today. Combining a stovetop and an oven, a kitchen range saves valuable space in your kitchen. Whether you’re a professional chef looking to try out new recipes, a parent scrambling to feed a hungry family of five, or a weekend warrior experimenting with your “world-famous” chili recipe, you need a kitchen range that is reliable, versatile, and convenient. And if you’re in the process of turning your dream kitchen into reality, you’ll also want to make sure your kitchen range matches the rest of your kitchen.

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FAQs

What is a kitchen range?

A kitchen range is a single appliance that combines a cooktop on top with an oven below, creating an all-in-one cooking station for boiling, sautéing, simmering, baking, broiling, and roasting.

Is a range the same thing as a stove or oven?

In everyday conversation, people often use “range,” “stove,” and “oven” interchangeably. Technically, the range includes both the stove (cooktop) and the oven in one unit, while a stove can refer to just the cooktop, and an oven refers to the enclosed baking compartment.

What are the two main components of a kitchen range?

A range has a cooktop for pots and pans and an oven for baking and roasting. The cooktop can be gas, electric, or induction, and the oven can be gas or electric, depending on the range type.

What is the difference between gas, electric, and induction cooktops on a range?

Gas cooktops use a flame for immediate heat response and easy visual control. Electric cooktops use heating elements or radiant glass surfaces that heat up and transfer heat to cookware. Induction cooktops use electromagnetic energy to heat compatible cookware directly, which improves speed, efficiency, and keeps the cooktop surface cooler around the pan.

What is a dual fuel range?

A dual fuel range pairs a gas cooktop with an electric oven. This setup is popular because it combines gas responsiveness on the cooktop with the consistent, even baking performance typical of electric ovens.

What sizes do kitchen ranges come in?

In North America, kitchen ranges commonly start around 20 inches and can go up to 60 inches wide. Many households choose 24-inch, 30-inch, or 36-inch ranges for a single-oven setup, while 48-inch and 60-inch ranges often include double ovens and expanded burner layouts for higher cooking capacity.

How do I choose the right range size for my kitchen?

Start with the available width in your cabinetry cutout or the space where the range will sit, then match size to cooking needs. Smaller ranges are ideal for apartments and compact kitchens, while larger widths make sense for frequent entertaining, larger households, or multi-dish cooking where extra burners and oven capacity matter.

What is the difference between a freestanding range and a slide-in range?

Freestanding ranges are finished on all sides and can be placed in a wider variety of locations, often with a backguard. Slide-in ranges are designed to fit between countertops for a more built-in appearance, typically with unfinished sides and a front-control layout for a streamlined look.

Do ranges require special electrical or gas hookups?

Gas ranges need a gas connection and usually a standard electrical outlet for ignition and controls. Electric and induction ranges typically require a dedicated 240-volt circuit. Dual fuel ranges require both a gas connection and a 240-volt electrical circuit.

Do I need a range hood with a kitchen range?

A range hood is strongly recommended for any cooking setup to remove smoke, grease, heat, and odors. It is especially important with gas cooking because ventilation helps manage combustion byproducts and improves overall kitchen air quality.

What features should I look for when comparing kitchen ranges?

Key factors include burner output and layout, oven capacity, convection cooking, cleaning convenience, control style, and durability features like heavy-duty grates and quality door hinges. Design considerations such as finish options and hardware styling also matter if you want the range to coordinate with the rest of your kitchen.

What is a strong “best overall” range option for shoppers who want performance and value?

Many homeowners choose a dual fuel range when they want balanced performance across the cooktop and oven. Within that category, ZLINE’s dual fuel models are often positioned as a strong value option because they focus on professional-style performance, durable construction, and design-forward styling while staying aligned with attainable luxury pricing.

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