There’s lots to think about if you’re in the market for one of the best electric ranges or best gas ranges. It’s an appliance that is worth careful consideration, as you’ll want to ensure it covers your needs now and in the future.
Kitchen ranges can vary in price markedly, but no matter how much you invest, whether you go for a budget or premium range, you’ll want to make the right choice. Even though aesthetics are important, as a range often takes center stage in a kitchen, the main priority is choosing a range with enough capacity.
We’ve called on the experts to share their advice on buying the best gas or electric range for your household.
Forrest Webber, founder of The Trade Table, says, “Buying a range is like finding a partner: you want something reliable, with enough space for all your needs and the ability to handle whatever chaos you throw at it.”
Range capacity
Ranges vary, but you can expect a standard range to measure 30 inches wide. “This is just the right size to fit into most kitchens,” says Webber, “without making you feel like you need to renovate your entire house.”
They also tend to have an oven capacity between 4.8 and 5.8 cubic feet. “That’s enough room to roast a turkey or bake several trays of cookies.”
Webber adds that this capacity is ideal for a regular home cook.
Why does oven capacity vary?
“Brands design ovens based on the features they want to include, such as convection fans, double ovens, or fancy sliding racks. These variations take up space, so capacity can shift depending on whether your oven is a minimalist or an overachiever.”
It will also depend on whether the oven contains a warming or storage drawer, as these two extras will take up additional space. They are both practical additions, but if it’s capacity you’re after, you might want to forgo a warming drawer to heat plates or prove dough to fit in an extra large turkey.
Large ranges
If you’re ambitious and enjoy cooking for a crowd, or if you just like the idea of having a range that looks ‘professional’, you’ll be interested in upping the capacity and buying a larger range.
Three other sizes of larger ranges are available, ranging from 36 to 60 inches wide. An extra 36 inches will give you an oven capacity between 5.8 and 6.5 cubic feet. Webber says you’ll also get more on the cooktop and can expect 5 or 6 burners, giving you greater scope and space to juggle pans.
But if that isn’t enough, you could opt for a 48-inch range. “These have dual ovens with a combined capacity of 7 to 9 cubic feet and 6 to 8 burners,” says Webber. You can also expect a griddle, which will give you more versatility with the food you cook.
However, if you’re a serious cook, then you can up your game with a 60-inch range. Webber explains that just like 48-inch ranges, they have dual ovens but 9 to 11 cubic feet capacity. He describes them as the “limousine of ranges — great if you like cooking multiple dishes at once.”
What should you look out for when buying a range
“The first thing to do is look at your kitchen and see how much room you have,” says Glenn Lewis, President of Mr. Appliance and Neighborly.
If you’re doing a complete kitchen remodel, you won’t have too much of an issue, but if you’re replacing like-for-like, you’ll be restricted with the width size you already have. However, this doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find a range with a larger oven capacity, as this will depend on the design of the individual model.
Capacity matters
“Capacity matters, but it depends on what you like to cook,” says Webber. He explains, “If you regularly roast, bake, or do some ‘oven gymnastics’ with multiple dishes, opt for something 5.5 cubic feet or larger. If your go-to is one-pot meals and cooktop sautés, invest in a cooktop with more burners or a griddle.”
Lewis agrees that your choice of the range will depend on what and how you cook, “Frequent bakers or those who prepare large meals may need larger ovens, while diverse cooking styles might benefit from additional cooktop options.”
What’s the right size range for your household?
Putting aside whether you like the look of the professional styling of larger ranges, whether you need to capacity or not, with the help of the experts, we’ve put together a short guide on what range capacity is best for small and large families and for those who like to entertain.
Small families (1-2 people): A 30-inch range with a 4-5 cubic feet capacity will give you enough space for the essentials without overwhelming your space.
Standard families (3-4 people): A 30-36-inch range should be sufficient, but look for an oven capacity of at least 5-6 cubic feet.
Entertainers: A larger 48-60-inch range will give you the oven capacity you need to entertain and host Thanksgiving while also giving you 6 or more burners to ensure everyone’s tastes are catered for.
Once you’ve determined the best oven capacity for your needs, it’s worth considering extra features.
Double ovens
How about a double rather than a single oven? Webber says it’s the perfect setup for holiday feasts, “Two ovens mean double the baking power — pie in one, roast in the other.
For even greater flexibility, you could consider the Samsung NX60A6751SS gas range with a single oven that splits in two for cooking separate dishes.
Warming drawers
A warming drawer is a great addition, but if you only have space for a 30-inch range, be sure you don’t mind losing out on the oven capacity.
Bridge burners
Webber explains that bridge burners connect two burners to house large griddles or long pans on a cooktop, “They are great for making pancakes that stretch from one burner to the next or when you want to cook a lot of sausages.”
Built-in griddle or grill
This setup will give you greater versatility to cook breakfast burritos and sear steak using fewer pans.
More from Tom's Guide
- Discover I test appliances for a living — here are 9 oven tips you need to know
- And how to clean an oven
- Plus, best meat thermometers
English (US) ·