Range or cooktop and wall oven? How to choose

A range puts the cooktop and oven in one appliance. Splitting them into a cooktop and a wall oven changes the layout, the budget and how comfortable the kitchen is to use. Here is how to decide.

Why choose a range

• Lower cost: one appliance, one hookup, less cabinetry.
• Simpler layout: fits a standard 30" or 36" space.
• Pro-style looks: 36" and 48" ranges are a kitchen centerpiece.

Why split cooktop and wall oven

• No bending: a wall oven at waist height is easier on backs and safer with heavy dishes. Great for aging in place.
• Two cooks: one at the cooktop, one at the oven, without crowding.
• Double ovens or an oven plus a speed oven or steam oven stack in one tall cabinet.
• Drawers under the cooktop for pots and pans.

Cost and space

Splitting usually costs more: two appliances, a tall oven cabinet, and often separate electrical circuits. It also takes a section of wall for the oven tower, which is hard in a small kitchen. See standard kitchen cabinet sizes for oven cabinets.

Fuel and ventilation

Cooktops come in gas, induction and electric, and wall ovens are almost always electric. Every cooktop still needs a properly sized range hood. Our gas vs induction guide compares fuels.

Plan the layout

The oven tower works best at the end of a run, not between the sink and cooktop. Test it in the kitchen layout planner, or book a consult and we will lay it out with you.

Common questions

Is a wall oven better than a range?

Not better, but more comfortable: no bending, easier for two cooks, and room for double ovens. A range is cheaper and simpler.

Does a cooktop and wall oven cost more?

Usually yes, because of the extra appliance, the tall oven cabinet and separate electrical work.

Where should a wall oven go?

At the end of a counter run in a tall cabinet, with landing space on at least one side, and out of the main path between sink and cooktop.