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What is a kitchen range?

Q: What is a kitchen range appliance?

When you picture the common cooking appliance where you can both bake and saute, you are probably picturing a range. A kitchen range, also called a stove, brings together an oven and a stovetop/cooktop to keep up with all your cooking tasks. Ranges come in a variety of styles, sizes and fuel types to complement different cooking routines and kitchen aesthetics.

A kitchen range, also called a stove, brings together an oven and a stovetop/cooktop to keep up with all your cooking tasks from sautéing to baking. Ranges come in a variety of styles, sizes and fuel types to complement different cooking routines and kitchen aesthetics.

Why is a kitchen stove called a range?

Over time, different terminology arose to refer to this classic cooking appliance, but a range and a stove are essentially the same thing when talking about modern kitchen appliances and these words can be used interchangeably. Learn more about the difference between a range vs stove vs oven and decide what’s right for your kitchen.

Freestanding range next to a slide-in range

Different types of kitchen ranges

Within the kitchen range category, you have some choices regarding style, fuel type and features.

Style: freestanding and slide-in kitchen ranges

Freestanding ranges are designed to either stand alone or install between cabinets, while slide-in ranges are built to slide between cabinets or be integrated with kitchen islands for a more built-in look. The most noticeable difference between the two is the presence of a backguard on freestanding ranges where the oven controls are located. Slide-in ranges don’t have a backguard and instead place the controls on the front of the range. Learn more about these distinct styles in the slide-in vs freestanding range guide.

Fuel type: gas, electric, induction and dual fuel ranges

Kitchen ranges come in a variety of fuel types. Selecting a fuel type will depend on the cooking experience you prefer and your kitchen layout. Read more about the different fuel types below to help you decide which will work best for you.

Gas ranges

Gas ranges have gas heat on the stovetop and inside the oven. They cook food with an open flame and require a dedicated natural gas or propane line. Gas heat is known for its responsiveness: the flame can be adjusted instantly, allowing you to quickly move between heat levels. An open flame can also be used to flame-grill, char and flambé right on the stovetop.

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Electric ranges

Electric ranges feature electric heat on the stovetop and inside the oven. On the stovetop, heat is typically generated through metal coils, often housed in an easy-to-clean, flat glass surface. Inside the oven, heating elements are generally known to provide dry, consistent heat excellent for roasting and broiling. Learn more about electric vs. gas ranges.

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Induction ranges

Induction ranges are technically electric ranges since they use electric power, but the stovetop heats differently. Induction stovetops generate electromagnetic energy that interacts directly with compatible cookware, turning pots and pans into their own heat source. These ranges are known for exceptional temperature control and ease of cleaning. Learn more about induction cooking.

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Dual fuel ranges

Dual fuel ranges bring together a gas stovetop and electric oven, capitalizing on the benefits of both. Dual fuel ranges are designed for those who want the responsive, hands-on experience of an open flame on the stovetop, but also prefer the dry, even heat of an electric oven. Learn more about dual fuel ranges.

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Kitchen range features to consider

As you’re choosing a kitchen range, you will want to explore the different features available. Kitchen ranges come with a variety of cooking options, in a number of sizes with different burner configurations and oven capacities and in a number of finishes. Read more about kitchen range features below to help you narrow down the options as you make your choice.

Cooking options

Convection cooking is available in all range types. A convection oven has a fan that circulates hot air around the cavity so you can cook foods fast and don’t have to move dishes around as you cook. Learn more about convection vs. regular ovens.

Size options

Various sizing options help you find a range that's right for your family and your kitchen layout. A standard range is usually 30 inches wide and features 4 or 5 burners or elements on the stovetop. A 36-inch wide range is also widely available and is more likely to have 5 burners or elements. Compact models for small spaces and large, commercial-style ranges are also available. Learn more about range sizing.

Oven capacity

Double oven ranges can give you more capacity and flexibility to cook all your family's favorites. A double oven has two separate cooking compartments that can be set to different temperatures, times and other settings like convection cooking. The lower oven is usually larger than the upper oven to ensure you still have space to cook large dishes. Learn more about the pros and cons of double ovens.

Finish options

When selecting a kitchen range, you also want to consider the different finish options that are available. Ranges from Whirlpool brand come in timeless stainless steel, sleek black stainless, classic white and matte black. When choosing a finish, you’ll want to consider the overall aesthetic of your kitchen, your personal style and the benefits and drawbacks of each look.

A person making a selection on a self-cleaning range

Self-cleaning options

Self-cleaning ranges are the perfect option if you have a busy household but you want to keep a sparkling clean kitchen. These ranges use high temperatures or steam to help remove leftover food and residue from previous baking or roasting sessions.

A smart phone app for a smart oven range

Smart range options

With a smart range, you can harness the power of technology to streamline your cooking process. Depending on the model, smart ranges allow you to set temperatures, select range settings and monitor cooking progress all from your phone, as well as set various cooking presets for different types of food.¹

How do you measure your kitchen for the right size range?

To ensure an ideal fit for a new kitchen range, it’s important to measure the cutout dimensions properly. Before installing a new range, be sure to remove the previous appliance to get an accurate measurement. Then, take note of the cutout height, width and depth. The new range should fit snugly within the available wall space in your kitchen.