Induction Cooktop Vs. Gas: Is Induction Better Than Gas?
Even though both induction and gas cooktops are reliable and durable, they each offer distinct advantages and features. An induction cooktop uses electromagnetism to convert compatible cookware into its own heat source, while a gas cooktop utilizes an open flame and a gas line. Learn more about induction vs gas cooktops and how to choose the right option for you.
HOW DO GAS VS INDUCTION COOKTOPS DIFFER?
In order to cook food, the two methods generate heat in different ways. On a gas cooktop, the cookware heats up over an open flame, but on an induction cooktop, the cookware generates its own heat using electromagnetism.
INDUCTION COOKTOPS
Stainless steel or cast iron cookware can be heated directly on induction cooktops with electromagnetism. Induction cooktops house a copper coil beneath a ceramic-glass surface and generate an electromagnetic charge that creates heat directly within pots and pans. Although they look like electric cooktops at first glance, they do not have burners. Due to the fact that the cookware is the source of heat, induction cooktops stay cooler than other cooktops. This can result in less burnt food on spills and splatters. They are easy to clean-up, as they feature a smooth, flat surface. An induction cooktop is plugged into an electrical outlet and does not need a gas connection.
GAS COOKTOPS
An electric and a gas connection are required for gas cooktops, which use an open flame generated by natural gas or propane under grates. A popular and easy-to-use choice, these stoves are compatible with a variety of cookware and can be used to create different kinds of cooking techniques like charring or flambéing using the open flame.
HOW DO GAS VS. INDUCTION COSTS COMPARE?
Depending on your cooking needs and your budget, you can choose from several different styles, features, sizes, and price points of cooktops. KitchenAid® gas cooktops & rangetops range in price from approximately $2,000 - $5,800. KitchenAid offers a number of induction cooktops retailing for approximately $1,400 - $3,100
INDUCTION COOKING VS GAS: WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
The type of cooktop you use may influence the way you cook. Using induction cookware, the cookware heats up more quickly, thus reducing the overall cooking time. To avoid overcooking, you should monitor your food carefully.
The open flame of a gas stove allows you to experiment with different ways of cooking. You can, for instance, grill peppers or tortillas directly on the open flame or roast marshmallows for s'mores. The flame of a gas cooktop can easily reach the sides of a wok or stir-fry pan, and it can work with just about any type of cookware.
GAS VS INDUCTION: WHICH HAS THE ADVANTAGE?
Either choice is great, but induction and gas cooktops offer distinct advantages based on your priorities and cooking needs.
Benefits of Induction Cooktops
- The sleek top makes cleaning easy
- A quick heat-up and cooling down
- Heating that is even and thorough
Benefits of Gas Cooktops
- Ability to control the open flame
- Able to reach cookware from all sides, including woks and stir fry pans
- You can experiment with cooking styles such as charring and flambéing
- Suitable for all cookware
GAS VS. INDUCTION COOKTOPS: WHICH IS MORE EFFICIENT?
Induction cooktops can be three times more energy efficient than gas cooktops according to ENERGY STAR™. Due to the fact that the cookware itself becomes the source of heat, induction cooking loses less energy to the surrounding air, reducing the workload of the HVAC system overall.
WHICH IS BETTER FOR YOU: INDUCTION OR GAS COOKTOPS?
Induction or gas cooktops depend on what you prefer cooking and the layout of your kitchen. Induction cooktops offer a new cooking experience, but non-compatible cookware may need to be replaced. Gas cooktops let you experiment with different cooking styles, have clean-up grates that are easy to remove, and work both with gas and electricity.
SHOP FOR KITCHENAID® INDUCTION AND GAS COOKTOPS
Our collection of induction and gas cooktops from KitchenAid® are designed to meet your needs. Click here to find the right one for your kitchen.
