Gas vs. Induction: Which Type Of Cooktop Is Right For You?

Deciding between gas and induction cooktops? Learn the difference so you can make an informed purchase. We'll help you understand each type of cooktop and its pros and cons.

If you're trying to decide between a gas and induction cooktop, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the technical terms and features associated with each type of stove. Read on to learn more about the differences between gas and induction cooktops and how to find the best one for your needs.

Know the Difference: Gas vs. Induction

Gas cooktops are powered by natural gas or propane and use a flame to generate heat. On the other hand, induction cooktops use electromagnetic energy to heat up pans and cooking vessels. An induction cooktop works by generating an alternating magnetic field which causes a reaction within the metal in the cookware, producing molecular friction and resulting in heat.

Appearance

There are two main types of cooktops on the market: Gas and Induction. Gas cooktops use an open flame to heat up food, while induction cooktops convert electricity into a magnetic field which creates heat. Gas cooktops have knobs that allow you to adjust temperatures and flame sizes, while induction cooktops feature touch controls with pre-programmed settings. Induction cooktops offer a smoother surface due to their ceramic design and do not glow red when hot zones are activated, unlike traditional electric cooktops.

Gas cooktops are considered more traditional in style, as they require a gas line in order to function. They typically have the grates elevated over the countertop and may be made of materials such as stainless steel with aluminum layers. On the other hand, induction cooktops are becoming increasingly popular for their sleek appearance and functionality. Induction cooktops work by using electric coils beneath the ceramic-glass surface that create a magnetic field which helps to heat up pots and pans quickly.

Maintenance and Care

Wondering what the differences between gas and induction cooktops are? Gas cooktops have a flame that's triggered by turning on the oven. They're more common in older homes, and they can be great for certain cooking styles like frying. Induction cooktops use electric currents to create heat which is transferred directly to your cookware. These types of cooktops are faster, safer and more energy efficient than gas—and they’re much easier to clean since there’s no residue or crevices. 

Gas cooktops are great for those who want immediate heat and control over the temperature of their food. The downside however is that they require more maintenance and cleaning than induction cooktops since it can be difficult to get into the many crevices and grooves in the burners. They also need the special burners grates to be removed and cleaned separately, as well as regularly refilling a gas tank depending on your gas supply. On the other hand, induction cooktops provide much less hassle since all you have to do is wipe down its surface with soap and water after each use.

Cost

The main difference between gas and induction cooktops is the cost. Gas cooktops range in price from about $400 up to around $1,200, while induction units typically range from a starting point of $1,000 up to as much as $2,500. Induction ranges also tend to be more energy efficient than gas cooktops since almost all of the heat is transferred to the cookware itself, meaning less heat emission into the kitchen and less need for air conditioning or exhaust fans. 

What is the difference between gas and induction cooktops? Gas cooktops are traditionally cheaper than an induction cooktop unit, costing anywhere from $300 to $1,500. Unfortunately, they are not as energy efficient due to the amount of radiant heat emitted and can potentially raise your cooling costs. On the other hand, an induction cooktop uses electromagnets to transfer heat to the pan more efficiently and uses less energy than a gas cooktop does.

Resale Value

Gas cooktops and induction cooktops offer different cooking experiences, but both can increase the value of your home. Gas cooktops typically provide a more professional look, while induction cooktops are becoming increasingly desirable for their modern, sleek design. For those in areas with access to natural gas lines, having a gas cooktop is likely to add more value to your property than an induction range. 

When it comes to choosing a cooktop, you have two main options: gas and induction. Gas cooktops burn fuel—usually natural gas or propane—in order to heat the cooking area. Induction ranges, by contrast, use an electric coil to create a powerful magnetic field that instantly heats pots or pans. While both create even heat for cooking, gas cooktops tend to be more affordable, while induction cooktops are faster and easier to clean.