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The best cooktops we track: induction, gas and radiant

7 tested, 7 ranked · Last verified: Sep 28, 2026

TL;DR — the short answer

Samsung's CC70F36S2D leads the induction field at $1,245 with five zones and anti-scratch glass, ZLINE's FCIND-36 brings 36-inch induction under $1,100, and on gas THOR Kitchen's HRT3618U six-burner at $1,124 is the pro-look pick.

A separate cooktop buys ergonomics a range cannot: burners at counter height, ovens at eye level, and design freedom between. The category's fuel split matters more here than anywhere — induction's speed and cleanup, gas's visual control, radiant electric's price. Every listing carries live dealer pricing.

Our top picks

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Compare the top picks

Prices and stock load live from each merchant. Specs are from our verified editorial database.

Side-by-side specification comparison
SpecTHOR Kitchen TEC30 30-inch Electric CooktopForno Ornonzo 36-inch Induction CooktopGE JP3030SWSS 30 inch Electric Cooktop with 4 Elements, K...ZLINE 30" Gas Cooktop with 4 Gas Burners and Black Porcel...ZLINE 36 in. Induction Cooktop with Anti-Scratch Glass an...
Dealer price—————
Configuration30-inch · electric · 4 burners24-inch · induction · 5 elements30-inch · electric · 4 burners24-inch · gas · 4 burners36-inch · induction · 5 elements
FinishBlackNot disclosedStainlessBlackNot disclosed
ValueScore9.210.08.76.55.6
VerifiedScore8.08.08.08.08.0
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Best cooktops: the full review

How this ranking works

Live dealer pricing on every entry; seed scores from the published cooktop rubric (heating performance 40%, value 20%) pending bench protocol.

Fuel is the first decision: induction needs magnetic cookware but boils fastest and wipes clean; gas works with everything and shows the flame; radiant electric is the budget flat-top. Our cooktops guide covers the trade in full.

Frequently asked questions

Is induction worth the premium?

For speed, safety and cleanup — yes, if your cookware is magnetic (magnet-stick test) and your electrical panel handles a 30-40A circuit. It is the fastest way to boil water in a home kitchen.

What cutout do I need?

Measure the existing cutout, not the counter: 30- and 36-inch cooktops vary by brand, and the spec sheet lists exact cutout requirements. A 36-inch unit will not fill a 30-inch hole.

Do gas cooktops need a hood?

Yes — combustion produces moisture and combustion byproducts that belong outside. A ducted hood sized to the cooktop's total BTU is the right pairing; downdraft models exist for islands where a hood cannot.

Changelog