Our top pick is the GE JGP5030SLSS 30-inch Gas Cooktop because it has five burners for more space to prepare a meal, with edge-to-edge cooking grates that are dishwasher-safe. Front controls give you quick access to the burners and the stainless steel finish is a stylish choice for any kitchen. Here, the best gas cooktops for every household, lifestyle, and budget. We recommend the GE JGP5030SLSS for most home cooks looking for a versatile, well-equipped gas cooktop. It makes the most of its 30-inch footprint with a five-burner cooktop, edge-to-edge grate system, and sealed burners for easier clean-up. The GE JGP5030SLSS is outfitted with a 15,000 BTU center burner for high heat cooking tasks. But for more delicate heat output, it also has a 5,000 BTU burner. For heat that falls somewhere in between, pick from a 12,500 burner or two burners with 9,500 BTU each. It’s worth noting that the maximum heat output of this cooktop isn’t as powerful as some cooktops that reach 18,000 BTU (or more) on a single burner, but it doesn’t pose a problem when it comes to rapidly boiling water, searing steak, or most other everyday cooking tasks. The standard dial control knobs of the GE JGP5030SLSS are front and center on the cooktop, making them easy to see and reach. The continuous grate system also means that it’s easy to slide heavy pots and pans from one burner to another as you start or finish cooking tasks. The sealed cooktop and grates make for easy maintenance. In fact, the cast-iron grates have a special finish that makes them dishwasher-safe, although they take a little effort to remove from the cooktop. These features and functions are packaged together in a stainless steel or black finish for a retail price under $1,500. Price at time of publish: $1,443 This 30-inch budget gas cooktop has five burners that range from 4,000 to 12,000 BTU. While the 12,000 BTU option is described as a ‘power burner’ by Empava, it’s worth noting that its heating power falls short when compared to the power burners of other gas cooktops. However, it does have a dual-ring design for more even heat distribution and it still is capable of handling a wide range of cooking tasks. The sealed burners mean that liquids or food debris won’t fall into the ports of the burner, reducing the chances of a mess or malfunction. The cast iron grates span the entire width of the cooktop, making it easier to manage your cookware. Plus, the grates are dishwasher-safe to reduce hands-on cleaning time. There are no smart features to speak of, but an auto shut-off ensures that if the flame goes out, the gas supply is cut off to avoid a gas leak. Price at time of publish: $378 You’ll find the Maytag MGC9536DS has enough room to accommodate even large pans like a wok or oversize skillet. Sliding hefty pots and pans from one burner to another is also easier with the edge-to-edge grate system—though the grates could be seated more deeply on the cooktop, according to users. The cooktop has a sturdy feel, thanks to the die-cut metal knobs, heavy-duty cast iron grates, and shiny stainless steel finish. If your culinary creations leave their mark on your cooktop, you’ll appreciate the easy cleaning ability of this Maytag model. The cooktop itself is coated with a protective finish that makes it easier to wipe grease, sauce, or other splatters from the surface. The cast iron grates are dishwasher-safe, so you won’t have to spend time scrubbing them by hand. This 36-inch gas cooktop is only available in stainless steel. It costs less than $1,500, making it a good value given its expanded 36-inch size and powerful burner set-up. Price at time of publish: $1,309 This 30-inch gas cooktop is available in a stainless steel or fingerprint-resistant black stainless steel finish. Regardless of which option you choose, the metal control knobs illuminate when a burner is in use. The blue LED light gives you a visual reminder that the cooktop is on. But with this smart cooktop, you can also use Samsung’s SmartThings app on your device to check the operating status and power levels of the burners. Of course, remotely monitoring the cooktop isn’t a substitute for being present in the kitchen while the burners are active, but it’s handy for verifying that the cooktop is off after you’ve left the room or the house. Another feature of this smart cooktop is the option to check and change the cooktop’s kitchen timer. Price at time of publish: $1,649 While there are only four burners on this gas cooktop, it’s well-suited for any of your meal prep needs. The highest-power burner has 15,000 BTU to boil water for pasta or give your meats an even sear. For less substantial heat, there are 12,000 BTU and 9,100 BTU burners to choose from. And like any well-equipped gas cooktop, the Whirlpool WCG55US0HS has a low-power burner with 5,000 BTU for warming, melting, or simmering functions. You control each burner with a control knob, which is the biggest weakness of this four-burner cooktop. The knobs are chrome-plated plastic, which can be less durable than metal versions. The most impressive thing about this gas cooktop is its unique hinged grate system. Instead of lifting heavy cast iron grates from the cooktop, this model allows you to lift each half of the grate system independently so you can wipe underneath. For a deeper clean, the grates are removable and dishwasher-safe. Price at time of publish: $1,059 Factors that have made the KitchenAid KCGS950ESS a popular model include two burners that have been optimized to provide even, consistent heating functions. Described as Even-Heat technology, KitchenAid includes a 10,000 BTU torch burner and a 6,000 BTU simmer burner with a special design to ensure that you can accurately control the flame and heat output for your cooking tasks. A 17,000 BTU burner with a professional-style dual-ring design is also worth mentioning, especially if you frequently cook with high heat. The components and finish of this KitchenAid model are durable and long-lasting, adding to its credentials as the most reliable gas cooktop. A special finish on the stainless steel cooktop prevents discoloration and makes it easier to wipe up any spills. The metal control knobs have a sturdy feel and the added benefit of LED lighting underneath the knob when the matching burner is active. The cast iron grates offer edge-to-edge coverage and are dishwasher-safe. If there’s anything not to like about this gas cooktop, it may be its spendy price tag or the fact that it has no smart features. Price at time of publish: $1,949 Many other dual power gas cooktops only offer between 18,000 and 20,000 BTU, so this Samsung model is the one to choose if you want maximum heat output from your cooktop. In total, the cooktop can supply up to 61,000 BTU across the five burners. There’s plenty of room for large cookware on the continuous grate system and Samsung includes extras like a wok grate and a cast iron griddle. You can choose between stainless steel and black stainless steel finishes. Either option features Samsung’s metal analog control knobs with LED illumination. The metal knobs and cast iron grates are dishwasher-safe for easy clean-up. Price at time of publish: $1,949 The downdraft system on this gas cooktop has a fan rated for 300 CFM, which pulls in the heat and smoke produced during your high-heat cooking tasks. We especially like the fact that the exhaust fan better matches your ventilation needs with three speeds, giving you more options than basic exhaust fans with only one or two speed settings. Out of the box, the integrated ventilation system is designed for ducted installation but an optional duct-free installation kit is available, too. Because this 30-inch model makes room for the ventilation system down the center of the cooktop, there are only four burners to work with. But you’ll still find a well-equipped set-up, since KitchenAid equipped this gas cooktop with a high-power 17,000 BTU burner, plus 15,000 BTU and 10,000 BTU options. A 5,000 BTU simmer burner uses the brand’s Even-Heat technology to provide a gentle simmer for soups and sauces. Price at time of publish: $2,499 This Bosch 800 series cooktop stands out for offering unique flame control known as FlameSelect technology. It enables you to make precise, consistent flame height adjustments across a span of 9 settings. As expected of a high-end cooktop, you’ll find five burners. A dual-ring power burner is capable of cranking out 17,000 BTU while a 3,400 BTU simmer burner with melt cap provides gentle, even heat for delicate heating tasks. For general cooking tasks, you’ll have a 10,300 BTU burner and two 6,000 BTU burners to work with. The quality of materials and finish will match your expectations for a high-end gas cooktop. It has durable metal knobs with LED lighting when an element is in use, continuous cast iron grates that are dishwasher-safe, and available stainless steel or black finishes. There are no smart features on this gas cooktop, but it’s a still smart buy for a powerful gas cooktop. Price at time of publish: $1,499 Cooktops generally require 1 to 2 feet of clearance on either side of the appliance and 30 inches below overhead cabinetry, but you should check the manufacturer’s specifications before installation.
Number of Burners
Four burners is standard for a gas cooktop. However, you’ll also commonly see five-burner cooktops for both 30-inch and 36-inch models. Trying to decide whether you need an additional burner? Consider how often you prepare multiple items on the stovetop. If you typically only use one or two pots and pans at a time, a four-burner cooktop may be all you need. However, if you frequently are preparing more complex meals with several pots and pans at once, then a gas cooktop with five burners is a better fit. More burners also gives you a wider range of BTU to work with and usually includes a low-power melt or simmer burner.
Power Level
When compared to electric cooktops, Jenny points out that gas cooktops are typically more powerful, as they provide instant and adjustable heat. “This makes them ideal for experienced cooks who want to be able to control and adjust the intensity of the heat quickly,” Jenny adds. Keep in mind that not all gas cooktops are made with the same maximum power level. Look for the most powerful burner that a model is equipped with to see if it meets your needs for high heat cooking. Most gas cooktops have a power burner of 15,000 BTU or more, with models that feature a professional-style dual-burner packing even more heating power. For example, our top pick for a dual-power gas cooktop is the Samsung NA36N7755TS with a 22,000 BTU burner.
Safety Features
Safety features like control lockout and indicator lights that notify you when a burner is on will make your gas cooktop more comfortable to use. Most models have these basics, so the cooktop isn’t such a hazard in your home. However, high-end ones tend to include extra features like flame failure protection, which will turn off the gas that’s fueling the appliance, and pilotless ignition, which makes creating a flame a breeze. Push-to-turn knobs are another good safety feature to look out for, as they prevent you from accidentally turning on a burner.
Power Levels
While gas cooktops have much more precise controls compared to their electric counterparts, it’s still important to take note of the appliance’s power levels. Power levels typically vary between each of an appliance’s burners. They determine how quickly heat is applied to your cookware and the amount of gas that’s used in the process. Typically, a gas cooktop will have burners ranging from 4,000 to 12,000 BTU. The former is ideal for simmering, while the latter is good for boiling pasta water. Some cooktops can get up to 15,000 to 20,000 BTU, which is ideal for searing meat.
Standout Features
Smart Features
Some gas cooktops are equipped with Wi-Fi to allow for smart features, like remote monitoring of the cooktop. For practical and safety reasons, don’t expect to be able to adjust burner operation. However, it can serve as a safety double-check, since you can use an app to see if any element is active on the cooktop. In addition, some smart gas cooktops have Bluetooth and can integrate with a smart kitchen hood, automatically turning on the exhaust fan or lights when the burner is active. For most people, these smart features aren’t essential, but they might be of interest to smart home enthusiasts that have existing smart appliances. Continuous grates make the surface of your gas cooktop flat, so you can easily move pots and pans from one spot to the next. The feature is made to reduce spills or accidents that could be caused by bumping into the tough, cast iron grates. It’s particularly fitting for large households who need more space to prep meals, and also work with many pieces of cookware at one time.
Dual-Ring Burner
A dual-ring burner is frequently found on professional-style gas cooktops. It offers versatile heating power that can be cranked up for high heat or turned low for delicate heating needs. When used at maximum power, the burner will fire up both the inner and outer ring. If you only need the burner for melting or simmering functions, only the inner ring will ignite. While an average single-ring burner may offer about 12,000 BTU, dual-ring burners are frequently between 17,000 and 22,000 BTU.
Control Knob Features
The function and finish of control knobs on a gas cooktop can make a difference in the experience of using the cooktop, as well as play a role in how easy it is to keep the cooktop clean. Premium gas cooktops will have sturdy, metal control knobs that can stand up to the heat of the burners. These knobs are sometimes removable and dishwasher-safe, giving you a convenient and easy way to deep-clean the cooktop. Another control knob feature to look for is illumination. An under-knob light or a strip of light on the knob itself will give you a clear visual indicator of when a burner is active. Our pick for the best splurge, the Bosch NGM8058UC 800 Series 30 in. Gas Cooktop, illuminates the corresponding control knob when a burner is in use. In addition, the light will flash until residual heat from the burner has dissipated.
Griddle
A griddle can now be integrated into your cooktop for easy preparation of breakfast and lunch foods, like hot sandwiches and pancakes. In gas ranges, this cooktop might sit in between two burners, but in cooktops, it’s a separate accessory you can buy and place over two burners. Now, you may find it’s difficult to use the griddle and a large pot at the same time. However, this feature is still so useful for any household that doesn’t have the storage in their kitchen for a separate appliance, and frequently cooks this type of food.
Wok Grate
If you’ve cooked with a wok before, you know this type of cookware has a very round bottom. In order to heat it, you usually have to situate it on a ring or stand that holds it right above your burner. A wok grate eliminates the need for a separate ring and has a dip in it to accommodate this cookware. Just swap it for your usual center burner grate whenever you want to cook with a wok.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Erica Puisis, a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce with extensive experience researching large and small appliances. For this article, she considered 30- and 36-inch gas cooktops from leading manufacturers like GE, Whirlpool, Samsung, Bosch, KitchenAid, Frigidaire, and more. Models were compared based on features like the number of burners, power level, and ease-of-cleaning to find the options that are best for large households, gourmet chefs, and everyday cooking tasks. Erica also interviewed Jenny Hunter, food blogger at Happy Muncher and former professional chef, to learn more about the features and benefits of gas cooktops, along with the advantages of this type of cooktop when compared to electric models.
