The Best Electric Cooktops

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• An electric cooktop should have the capacity to fit your largest pot or pan. If you cook with several large pots and pans at once, seek a cooktop that has large burners that are not placed close together. Smooth-top cooktops are easier to clean than those with exposed coils. If you want to cook foods quickly and with the least amount of energy, seek a cooktop that also includes induction technology. Many cooktop models include built-under ovens, which can help save space as well as the cost of installing a built-in oven. When selecting a cooktop, you should be comfortable with the controls to regulate heat. Such controls can be at the front cooktop or on the backsplash. If you have children, consider a cooktop model with a control lockout button to prevent the ranges from turning on or off in the event of tampering.

Common Pitfalls

• The best cooktops are generally the most expensive. While smooth-top cooktops are easier to clean, they take longer to heat up and can become scratched or worn with time. Cooktops with exposed coils are more difficult to clean, particularly if you cannot remove or lift the burner from the range. Some consumers fail to measure the dimensions of the cooktop needed and end up purchasing an appliance that is too large or small. In addition, if you want to use an electric cooktop that is also an induction cooktop, you must purchase special magnetic cookware for it to work properly.

Comparison Shopping

• Cooktops can be made with stainless steel or a black or white finish. Features that you can find on electric cooktop include catalytic linings, griddles, fish burners and wok supports. Newer electric cooktops may come with the ability to integrate a gas burner in a dual-fuel system.

Costs

• According to Consumer Reports in 2011, cooktops range in price, starting at $400. The most expensive electric cooktops cost as much as $7,000. The average price of an electric cooktop is between $500 and $1,500. Cooktops that are more expensive have a stainless steel exterior, an electric and gas dual-fuel system, as well as steam-assist and convection technologies.