Cooktops

Upgrade Your Kitchen: The Ultimate Guide to Cooktops in the US

Why a Modern Cooktop Changes Everything

Thinking about a kitchen upgrade? A cooktop is one of those changes that feels small but transforms how you cook, entertain, and even how your kitchen looks. Whether you’re searing steaks at high heat or simmering a delicate sauce, the right cooktop delivers consistent heat, saves time, and can make cleanup a breeze. Plus, swapping an old range for a sleek 30-inch or 36-inch cooktop instantly modernizes your space without a full remodel.

Types of Cooktops: Which One Fits Your Style?

Cooktops come in three main flavors: gas, induction, and electric. Each has strengths and trade-offs, and the best choice depends on how you cook, what your kitchen supports electrically or gas-wise, and your design priorities. Let’s break them down in plain language so you can pick what matches your habits.

Gas Cooktops: Classic Control

Gas remains the favorite of chefs who want instant, visual control of heat. A powerful gas cooktop can crank out high BTU for fast boiling and rapid searing. Many models come in popular sizes like 30 inches or 36 inches and feature multiple burners so you can run several pots at once. Expect a little extra cleaning around grates, but if you love the tactile response of a knob and flame, gas is hard to beat.

Induction Cooktops: Fast and Efficient

Induction uses magnetic fields to heat the pan directly, so the surface stays relatively cool and heat transfers very efficiently. That means faster boiling times and less wasted heat in your kitchen — great for summer months. Induction cooktops are also easy to wipe clean since spills don’t bake on as quickly, and many models have precise temperature steps for delicate tasks like melting chocolate.

Electric/Ceramic Cooktops: Sleek and Affordable

Traditional electric and ceramic glass-top cooktops strike a balance between price and looks. They provide steady heat and come in frameless designs that sit flush with your countertop. While not as quick as induction, electric glass tops are often more affordable and available in countertop-ready formats like 30-inch drop-ins or compact two-burner options.

Popular Cooktop Sizes: Choosing the Right Fit

Size matters when you’re replacing or installing a cooktop. The two most common widths are 30 inches and 36 inches, but you’ll also find compact 12-inch two-burner units for small apartments or secondary cooking zones. Think about your typical cookware and how many burners you use simultaneously. A 30-inch four-burner is a reliable everyday choice; a 36-inch model gives room for five burners or a custom center element for griddles.

Top Cooktop Models Available at Walmart

Walmart carries a broad selection of cooktops that work well for budget-conscious shoppers to those seeking premium features. From affordable 30-inch four-burner gas units in chrome finishes to induction and electric ceramic options, Walmart covers many bases. If you’re browsing, look for features like sealed burners for easier cleaning, touch controls, child safety locks for induction and electric models, and stainless or glass finishes that complement your kitchen.

Notable Models to Consider

Among the types you’ll find are 30-inch four-burner gas cooktops that balance power and footprint, electric ceramic 30-inch units with multi-function settings, and compact two-burner stainless steel gas cooktops ideal for small spaces. Some models include safety timers and sensor touch controls for precision. If you want a high-output gas cooktop, be sure to check burner BTU ratings to match your searing and boiling needs.

Other US Retailers Where You Can Shop Cooktops

Walmart is convenient, but it’s worth comparing options at several retailers. Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Costco, and specialized appliance dealers like AJ Madison and Appliances Connection offer different brand mixes, installation packages, and expert advice. Shopping across stores helps you compare warranty options, in-store demo availability, and finance or promotional deals.

Best Buy: Tech-Forward Choices

Best Buy tends to stock cooktops with tech features—smart compatibility, precise induction controls, and name-brand choices that pair well with connected kitchens. It’s a good stop if you want to try a demo and ask questions about smart appliance ecosystems.

Home Depot and Lowe’s: Remodeling Friendly

Both Home Depot and Lowe’s are solid picks during a kitchen remodel. They carry wide model ranges and offer installation services, countertop cutout guidance, and accessory kits for gas or electric hookups. If you’re coordinating an installer and a countertop professional, these big-box retailers simplify the logistics.

Costco: Value and Bundles

Costco offers branded cooktops with strong warranty extensions and occasional bundled deals that include installation or accessory packages. Their selection is often curated, so you’ll find reliable mid-to-high-end models at competitive price points, especially if you’re a member and shopping for a larger appliance purchase.

Appliances Connection and AJ Madison: Specialist Retailers

If you want a deep lineup of specific brands, professional-grade gas burners, or specialty sizes, online appliance specialists like Appliances Connection and AJ Madison deliver comprehensive catalogs and knowledgeable support. They’re especially useful for sourcing 36-inch models, high-output burners, and custom finish options not always stocked in big-box stores.

How to Match Cooktop Features to Your Cooking Style

Picking the right features is more important than chasing the flashiest model. Ask yourself: do I need heavy searing power, precise low heat control, or easy cleanup? For stir-frying and high-heat tasks, choose a gas model with at least one high-BTU burner. For delicate melting and fast water boiling, induction shines. If a smooth, integrated look matters, a frameless ceramic or glass-top may be your favorite.

Burner Layout and Power

Look at burner spacing so large skillets don’t crowd smaller saucepans. A mix of one or two high-power burners and several medium burners gives flexibility. Some five-burner 36-inch cooktops include a small center burner perfect for simmering sauces while using the outer rings for larger pots.

Controls and Safety

Controls range from traditional dials to sleek touch pads. Dials are intuitive and still common on gas units; touch controls provide a modern look and often pair with smart lock features. For families, child safety locks and indicator lights are must-haves—especially on induction and electric models where residual heat can be an issue.

Installation Basics: What to Know Before You Buy

Before buying, confirm whether your countertop cutout matches the cooktop size and that your kitchen has the correct gas line or electrical circuit. Many cooktops require a dedicated 240-volt circuit or specific gas fitting. If you’re replacing an existing cooktop of the same width, the swap is usually straightforward, but measuring is essential—double-check the depth and clearance around the unit to avoid surprises.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

For electrical or gas hookups, hiring a licensed professional is strongly recommended. They’ll ensure proper ventilation, correct gas pressure, and safe electrical connections. Some retailers bundle installation at checkout, which can simplify scheduling and warranty coverage.

Design and Finish Options to Match Your Kitchen

Cooktops come in finishes that impact style and maintenance. Stainless steel is durable and hides fingerprints well, while black glass offers a minimalist, modern look that’s easy to wipe clean. Chrome trims add shine but can show smudges. Consider the overall kitchen palette—stainless for industrial or transitional kitchens, glass for contemporary spaces.

Built-In vs. Slide-In Aesthetics

Drop-in built-in cooktops sit flush with the counter and create a seamless look, whereas countertop-mounted or freestanding units are easier to swap but may not achieve the same custom appearance. If you’re planning a full renovation, coordinate the cooktop layout with the countertop fabricator to get a perfect cutout and finish.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Cooktop Shining

Regular cleaning makes appliances last longer and perform better. For gas cooktops, remove grates and wipe the surface with a non-abrasive cleaner; soak stubborn burner caps. For glass and induction tops, use a special ceramic cooktop cleaner and a soft cloth to avoid scratches. Quick wipe-downs after cooking prevent food from baking on, and periodic deep cleans keep burners and sensors working correctly.

Energy, Efficiency, and Cost Considerations

Induction models are among the most efficient, transferring a high percentage of energy directly to the pan. Gas loses more heat to the air, which some cooks accept for control. When budgeting, factor in not just purchase price but lifetime energy costs, potential installation fees, and maintenance. A mid-range cooktop often offers the best balance of features, longevity, and value.

Making the Final Decision: A Quick Checklist

Before you click buy or head to checkout, run through this quick checklist: measure the countertop cutout in inches, verify gas or electrical requirements, decide between 30-inch and 36-inch widths, choose the cooking technology (gas, induction, or electric), pick a finish that complements cabinetry, and confirm installation plans. Taking these steps will keep surprises minimal and satisfaction high.

Conclusion

Upgrading your cooktop is one of the smartest investments you can make in the kitchen. Whether you lean toward the traditional flame of a gas cooktop, the speed of induction, or the sleek look of a ceramic glass top, there are excellent options available at national retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Costco, and specialty outlets such as Appliances Connection and AJ Madison. Measure carefully, match features to your cooking habits, and don’t skimp on safe installation. Get the right cooktop, and you’ll enjoy faster meals, better results, and a kitchen you’re proud to show off.