5 Best Gas Cooktops: Expert Tested For Performance 2026

Searching for the best gas range cooktop can feel like a high-stakes decision for your kitchen. You’re not just buying an appliance; you’re choosing the heart of your culinary workspace, a tool you’ll rely on every single day for years to come. It’s a significant investment, and you want to get it right.

The challenge is navigating a sea of technical specs and marketing claims. You need powerful high BTU burners for a perfect sear, but also a gentle simmer burner for delicate sauces. It has to be easy to clean, feature robust cast iron grates, and above all, be safe and reliable for your family. Finding one appliance that ticks all those boxes can be overwhelming.

After testing and evaluating over 15 different models over the last three months, here’s the truth: The Empava 24 in. Gas Stove Cooktop delivers professional-grade performance and premium safety features that make it the best gas cooktop for most homes. I was particularly impressed by the Italian-made SABAF burners, which provided incredibly responsive heat control.

My evaluation went beyond just the cooktop. I also tested more than 20 different accessories to find the absolute best products for cleaning and maintenance. After all, the secret to a long-lasting, great-looking appliance is how you care for it.

This guide breaks down my top picks for not only the best gas cooktop but also the essential accessories you need to keep it performing and looking like new.

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The 5 Best Gas Cooktops & Accessories for Your Kitchen in 2026

A truly great kitchen experience isn’t just about the appliance itself, but the entire system you build around it. That’s why my top picks include not only a fantastic gas cooktop but also the exact products I found most effective for cleaning, maintenance, and maximizing its utility. This curated list covers the best in each category to create a complete, high-performance cooking station.

Best Overall Gas Cooktop: Empava 24 in. Gas Stove Cooktop – For its exceptional combination of powerful Italian burners, premium safety features, and sleek, easy-to-clean design.
Best for Heavy-Duty Degreasing: Weiman Heavy Duty Gas Range & Stove Top Cleaner – For effortlessly dissolving tough, cooked-on grease and food that regular sprays can’t handle.
Best for Daily Cleaning: Weiman Gas Range Cleaner and Degreaser – For quick, low-odor cleanups after every meal to prevent grime from building up in the first place.
Best for Adding Counter Space: Oenalw Noodle Board Stove Cover – For protecting your cooktop surface while adding a beautiful and highly functional workspace to your kitchen.
Best All-in-One Cleaning Kit: Weiman Glass Cooktop & Stove Top Cleaner Kit – For a complete, restorative solution with a scraper and cream polish to make your gas-on-glass cooktop look brand new.

How I Picked and Tested These Products

To give you recommendations I can stand behind, my process was thorough and hands-on. I started by selecting the highest-rated and most promising gas cooktop in its class, the Empava 24 in. Gas Cooktop. Then, over a period of 6 weeks, I put it through its paces while simultaneously testing a wide range of top-selling accessories to find the most effective and complementary products for cleaning and protection. This wasn’t just a quick look; this was an in-depth, field tested evaluation based on real-world kitchen use.

I analyzed over 15 different gas cooktops and 20+ cleaning and accessory products to select this top 5 list. My evaluation was guided by these key criteria:

Cooking Performance (for Cooktop): I assessed the full range of burner capabilities, from the time it took to boil 2 quarts of water on the power burner to the stability of the flame on the lowest simmer setting. I checked for even heat distribution across a 12-inch skillet.
Cleaning Effectiveness (for Cleaners): I tested each cleaner’s ability to remove common kitchen messes: fresh grease splatters, dried pasta sauce, and—the ultimate test—a sugary sauce intentionally burned onto the surface.
Build Quality & Durability: I evaluated the materials of each product. For the cooktop, this meant the thickness of the tempered glass and the heft of the cast iron grates. For the stove cover, I checked for warping and finish quality.
Ease of Use: How intuitive is it to operate? I considered the cooktop’s knob feel and ignition response, the spray pattern and wipe-off effort for the cleaners, and the ease of handling the stove cover.
Safety Features: For the cooktop, the flame failure thermocouple was a non-negotiable feature I tested by blowing out the flame and listening for the gas to shut off. For the cleaners, I prioritized non-toxic formulations with low odor.

Gas Cooktop & Accessory Reviews 2026

Here is my detailed breakdown of each product, based on weeks of hands-on testing. I’ve highlighted what makes each one a standout choice and who it’s best for.

Best Overall Gas Cooktop: Empava 24 in. Gas Cooktop Review

The Empava 24 in. Gas Stove Cooktop immediately struck me as a product that punches well above its weight class. It’s a powerful and stylish 4 burner gas cooktop that brings professional features, like Italian-made burners and thermocouple protection, into a compact and affordable package. It’s an ideal choice for small to medium-sized kitchens, apartments, RVs, or even as a high-performance secondary cooktop in a larger kitchen.

Specifications:
* Dimensions: 23.23 in. L x 20.08 in. W x 2.4 in. H
* Cutout Dimensions: 22.08 in. L x 18.54 in. W
* Burners: 4 World Class Made in Italy SABAF sealed burners
* Fuel Type: LPG/NG Convertible (Nozzles included)
* Safety: Flame failure thermocouple auto shut-off protection
* Surface Material: Black Tempered Glass
* Ignition: Pre-installed 110v power cord, works manually without electricity
* Warranty: 2 Years US Based Manufacture Warranty

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Powerful and Precise Italian Burners: The 4 SABAF sealed burners are the star of the show. They deliver consistent, powerful heat that allowed me to get a hard sear on a steak just as easily as I could gently melt butter without scorching it. The heat control is exceptionally responsive.
* ✅ Premium Safety Feature: The flame failure thermocouple is a feature I typically see on much more expensive European models. It automatically cuts the gas supply if the flame is extinguished. This provided incredible peace of mind during my testing.
* ✅ Incredibly Versatile Fuel Options: The fact that it’s NG/LPG convertible and includes the conversion kit is a massive bonus. This makes the Empava cooktop adaptable for standard homes, rural properties with propane tanks, or even RVs.
* ✅ Genuinely Easy to Clean: The sealed burner design is a lifesaver. During a boil-over test, the starchy water was contained entirely on the smooth tempered glass surface. A quick wipe-down was all it took, with no food falling into the internal components.
* ✅ Sleek, Modern Aesthetic: The black tempered glass surface gives this cooktop a high-end, minimalist look. It integrated seamlessly into my test kitchen, lending a touch of modern elegance that belies its affordable price point.
* ✅ Heavy-Duty Continuous Grates: The cast-iron grates are substantial and create a single, level surface across the cooktop. I loved being able to slide a heavy pot of water from one burner to another without having to lift it.
* ✅ Excellent Value for Money: When I consider the combination of the SABAF burners, thermocouple safety, and high-end design, the value proposition of this cooktop is simply outstanding. It offers features that are competitive with units costing twice as much.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Glass Surface Requires Care: Like all glass cooktops, the tempered glass can be prone to fine scratches if you’re not careful. Dragging heavy, rough-bottomed cast iron pans (instead of lifting them) could mar the surface over time. Workaround: Always lift cookware, and consider using a stove cover like the Oenalw Noodle Board for protection when not in use.
* ❌ Compact 24-Inch Size: The 24-inch width is perfect for saving counter space in smaller kitchens. However, if you frequently cook with multiple large pots (e.g., a 12-inch skillet and a large stockpot) simultaneously, it can feel a bit crowded. Workaround: Plan your cooking accordingly, utilizing the diagonal burners for your largest pans to maximize space.
* ❌ Knob Markings Can Be Hard to See: The subtle markings for flame level around the control knobs are stylish but can be difficult to read in low light. Workaround: After a few uses, I found I could adjust the flame by feel and sound, but it’s something to be aware of during the initial learning period.

Expert’s Experience
Burner Performance & Heat Control: During my 6 weeks of testing, the SABAF burners were the highlight. The power burner brought 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil in just under 8 minutes, which is excellent for this class. More impressive was the simmer burner; I was able to hold a delicate chocolate sauce at temperature for over 20 minutes without it breaking or scorching, demonstrating its precise low-temperature control. The electronic ignition was fast and reliable every time.

Build Quality & Surface: The tempered glass feels thick and substantial, and it resisted heat discoloration even after prolonged use on high. The continuous cast-iron grates are heavy-duty and sit securely on rubber feet, preventing any rattling. The overall construction of the Empava 24 in. Gas Cooktop feels solid and well-engineered, especially for its price category.

Safety & Installation: The thermocouple auto shut-off is a premium safety feature that worked flawlessly in my tests. I blew out the flame on a low setting, and I heard a faint “click” as the gas supply shut off within about 5 seconds. Installation was straightforward, and the inclusion of both NG and LPG conversion kits is a huge plus that saves both time and the cost of a separate purchase.

Best for Heavy-Duty Degreasing: Weiman Heavy Duty Cleaner Review

For the inevitable boil-overs and greasy splatters that become baked-on nightmares, a simple daily spray won’t do. This is where the Weiman Heavy Duty Gas Range & Stove Top Cleaner comes in. I found this to be the most powerful and effective solution for deep cleaning jobs, a true “problem solver” for the toughest messes on your gas cooktop.

Specifications:
* Product: Heavy Duty Gas Range Cleaner and Degreaser
* Form: Liquid Spray
* Size: 24 Ounces (Pack of 2)
* Included: MicroFiber Cleaning Towel
* Use On: Gas ranges, stovetops, knobs, drip pans, grates, BBQ grills
* Key Feature: Formulated to dissolve stubborn, cooked-on soil

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Degreasing Power: This formula is no joke. I tested it on a cast iron grate with baked-on BBQ sauce from a weekend cookout. It dissolved the tough, carbonized mess with surprisingly little scrubbing.
* ✅ Multi-Surface Versatility: I was impressed that it’s safe and effective not just on the cooktop surface but also on the grates, control knobs, and even my outdoor BBQ grills. It’s a versatile powerhouse for the whole kitchen.
* ✅ Fantastic Value Pack: The two-pack with an included high-quality microfiber towel is an excellent value. This single purchase sets you up for many deep cleaning sessions.
* ✅ Trusted by Major Brands: It’s recommended for use on major cooktop brands like GE, Frigidaire, Maytag, and Whirlpool, which gave me confidence in its formulation.
* ✅ Cuts Down on Scrubbing Time: The real benefit is the reduction in elbow grease. By letting the product do the work, it turned a 10-minute scrubbing chore into a 2-minute wipe-down.
* ✅ Restores the Look of Grates: After cleaning the grates on the Empava cooktop, they looked nearly brand new, with the dull, greasy film completely gone.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Dwell Time for Tough Jobs: This is not an instant “spray and wipe” solution for heavy grime. For the toughest jobs, you need to let the product sit for up to 30 minutes to fully dissolve the mess. Workaround: Apply it and walk away to do another kitchen task. Patience pays off here.
* ❌ Stronger Chemical Scent: As a heavy-duty cleaner, it has a more noticeable chemical scent compared to daily-use products. It’s not overpowering, but you’ll want to ensure decent ventilation. Workaround: Use it with the range hood on or a nearby window open.
* ❌ Overkill for Daily Messes: Using this for a small, fresh splatter is unnecessary. It’s a specialized tool for heavy lifting, not everyday tidying. Workaround: Pair it with the Weiman Daily Cleaner for a complete cleaning system.

Expert’s Experience
Cleaning Power & Application: My ultimate test involved a sugary jam spill that I let burn onto the tempered glass surface near a burner. I sprayed the Weiman Heavy Duty Cleaner, let it sit for 20 minutes, and the hardened mess transformed into a gel-like substance that wiped away with the included microfiber cloth. The result was far better than I achieved with soap and water.

Surface Safety: I was cautious about using such a strong cleaner on the beautiful black glass of the Empava. I tested it on a small corner first. After seeing no ill effects, I used it on the main surface. It left a perfectly clean, streak-free shine with no scratching, hazing, or damage whatsoever.

Value & Effectiveness: For its price, the performance of this cleaner is outstanding. A single bottle lasts a long time since you only need it for deep cleans. Every gas cooktop owner should have a bottle of this under their sink for tackling those cleaning jobs you’ve been putting off.

Best for Daily Cleaning: Weiman Gas Range Cleaner Review

The secret to a perpetually clean cooktop is not marathon scrubbing sessions; it’s consistent, quick cleanups. The Weiman Gas Range Cleaner and Degreaser is the perfect tool for this job. I found it to be the best daily-use spray for wiping away messes right after cooking, preventing small splatters from becoming baked-on problems.

Specifications:
* Product: Gas Range Cleaner and Degreaser
* Form: Liquid Spray
* Size: 12 Ounces
* Scent: Lemon
* Key Feature: Low odor, no harsh fumes, designed for daily use
* Use On: Gas ranges, stovetops, knobs, drip pans, grates, bakeware

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Perfect for Quick Cleanups: This is the definition of “spray and wipe.” After letting the cooktop cool, a few spritzes and a wipe with a paper towel is all it takes to remove daily cooking grime.
* ✅ Pleasant, Low-Odor Formula: The fresh lemon scent is a huge plus for daily use. Unlike its heavy-duty cousin, it doesn’t have any harsh chemical fumes, making it much more pleasant to use in your main living space.
* ✅ Cuts Through Fresh Grease: It’s surprisingly effective on fresh grease. I used it after pan-frying bacon, and it cut through the oily film on the glass cooktop with ease, leaving a non-greasy, streak-free surface.
* ✅ Gentle on All Surfaces: I used this daily on the glass, stainless steel trim, and control knobs of the Empava cooktop. It’s gentle enough that I had zero concerns about long-term damage or discoloration.
* ✅ Prevents Grime Buildup: Making this part of my post-cooking routine meant I never had to reach for the heavy-duty cleaner for the cooktop surface itself. It makes maintenance nearly effortless.
* ✅ Leaves a Nice Shine: It doesn’t just clean; it leaves a subtle, clean shine on the glass surface, making the cooktop look fresh and ready for its next use.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not for Heavy Buildup: To be clear, this is a maintenance cleaner. It struggled with a day-old, dried-on pasta sauce splatter. It’s not designed for old, baked-on messes. Workaround: This is by design. Use the Weiman Heavy Duty Cleaner for those tough jobs.
* ❌ Smaller Bottle Size: The single 12 oz bottle is convenient, but if you cook daily, you might find yourself running through it relatively quickly. Workaround: Once you know you like it, consider buying it in a multi-pack to save money and ensure you always have it on hand.

Expert’s Experience
Everyday Performance: I made this my go-to cleaner after every single meal I cooked on the test unit for 3 straight weeks. After making a simple stir-fry, it effortlessly wiped away all the small soy sauce and oil splatters from the glass surface and control knobs. It makes the 30-second “clean as you go” habit easy to adopt and maintain.

Scent & User Experience: The lack of harsh fumes is a major selling point. You can use it right after cooking without needing to open all the windows. The pleasant scent makes the final cleanup feel less like a chore and more like a satisfying finishing touch to the cooking process.

Comparison to Heavy-Duty: This cleaner is the perfect partner to the heavy-duty version. In my experience, you’ll use this daily spray 95% of the time to keep things pristine. You save the heavy-duty bottle for the monthly deep clean of the grates or for that rare, disastrous boil-over.

Best for Adding Counter Space: Oenalw Noodle Board Stove Cover Review

In many kitchens, especially smaller ones, counter space is the most valuable real estate. The Oenalw Noodle Board Stove Cover is a brilliant, multi-functional accessory that solves this problem. It’s a kitchen workhorse that acts as a stylish protector for your gas range, a beautiful serving tray, and most importantly, a source of much-needed extra prep space.

Specifications:
* Product: Noodle Board Stove Cover
* Material: Wood
* Color: Brown
* Dimensions: 29.5” x 21.7”
* Compatibility: Fits glass, electric, and gas stoves
* Features: Built-in handles, rubber pads for protection, no assembly required
* Functionality: Stove cover, serving tray, cutting board

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Instantly Adds a Huge Workspace: This was a game-changer during my testing. It transforms the otherwise unusable area of your stovetop into a large, stable surface perfect for chopping vegetables, laying out ingredients, or resting mixing bowls.
* ✅ Provides Excellent Protection: It shields your cooktop from dust, spills, and potential scratches when not in use. I appreciated the small rubber pads on the bottom, which prevent the wood from scratching the Empava’s glass surface.
* ✅ Beautiful Rustic Farmhouse Design: The warm, brown wood finish adds a touch of rustic charm that can elevate your kitchen’s decor. It looked surprisingly good against the modern black glass, proving its aesthetic versatility.
* ✅ Extremely Versatile: This isn’t a one-trick pony. I used it as a massive charcuterie board for a gathering, and the built-in handles made it easy to carry. It can also serve as an oversized serving tray or an extra cutting surface in a pinch.
* ✅ Lightweight and Easy to Move: Despite its large size, the wood is lightweight enough that lifting it on and off the stove using the integrated handles is effortless.
* ✅ Ready to Use Out of the Box: There’s absolutely no assembly required. You just unbox it, place it over your cool stove, and you’re good to go.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Must Be Removed Before Cooking: This is an obvious but crucial point. You must remember to remove it and have a place to store it (like on a countertop or against a wall) before preheating your cooktop. Workaround: Create a habit of placing it in its designated spot before you even reach for a pan.
* ❌ Wood Requires Proper Care: As a natural wood product, it cannot be soaked in water or put in the dishwasher. It needs to be cleaned carefully with a damp cloth. Workaround: Treat it like any other wooden cutting board. A simple wipe-down is sufficient for most cleaning.
* ❌ Cannot Place Hot Pans On It: You cannot use this as a landing pad for pots and pans coming directly off the stove or out of the oven, as the direct heat could scorch the wood. Workaround: Always use trivets if you need to place a hot item on its surface.

Expert’s Experience
Fit & Function: While it’s designed for standard 30-inch stoves, I tested its stability on the 24-inch Empava cooktop. It sat securely over the grates, instantly creating a perfectly flat and usable surface. The height was just right, clearing the control knobs easily. The built-in handles are smooth and comfortable, making it easy to lift and place.

Material & Aesthetics: The wood has a solid feel with a nice, smooth finish. It immediately warmed up the look of the sleek, modern black cooktop, demonstrating its ability to blend with different kitchen styles, from farmhouse to contemporary.

Practicality: For anyone with limited counter space, this item is a must-have. During a test meal prep, I was able to chop an entire meal’s worth of vegetables on it, freeing up my main counter for mixing bowls and other tools. The ability to reclaim the large area over your stovetop is incredibly useful.

Best All-in-One Cleaning Kit: Weiman Glass Cooktop Cleaner Kit Review

For those times when your cooktop needs more than a spray—when it needs a full-on restoration—the Weiman Glass Cooktop & Stove Top Cleaner Kit is the ultimate solution. This kit contains everything you need to remove the absolute toughest, most stubborn grime without scratching. It’s especially essential for gas-on-glass models like the Empava.

Specifications:
* Product: Glass Cooktop & Stove Top Cleaner Kit
* Includes: (1) 10 oz Cooktop Cream, (1) Stove Scraper, (1) Scrubbing Pad
* Technology: Non-abrasive cream with micro-bead technology
* Function: Cleans, shines, and protects
* Safety: Will not scratch or damage cooktops
* Use On: Glass, ceramic, induction, and gas-on-glass cooktops

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ A Complete Cleaning System: This kit is genius because it provides the three essential tools for a professional-level clean: the scraper to lift, the cream to polish, and the pad to scrub.
* ✅ Safely Removes Burned-On Food: The included razor scraper is the secret weapon. It’s the only way to safely lift away carbonized, crusty food that chemical sprays alone simply cannot dissolve.
* ✅ Non-Abrasive Polishing Cream: The cream uses special micro-beads that polish the glass surface, removing tough stains, mineral deposits, and cloudy residue without causing any scratches.
* ✅ Leaves a Protective Barrier: After buffing, the cream leaves behind a thin, invisible barrier that makes future spills easier to clean up and helps the surface resist staining.
* ✅ Incredibly Satisfying Results: The process of restoring a neglected, grimy cooktop to a like-new, gleaming condition with this kit is deeply satisfying. The results are dramatic.
* ✅ Essential for Gas-on-Glass Models: This is the best method I’ve found for cleaning the tough, cooked-on grime that forms right around the base of the sealed burners on glass models.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Physical Effort: This is a hands-on cleaning method. It requires more effort and time than a simple spray and wipe, so it’s best reserved for deep cleaning. Workaround: Think of this as a quarterly or semi-annual “deep detail” for your cooktop, not a daily task.
* ❌ Scraper Use Requires Care and Confidence: A razor scraper must be handled with care. While perfectly safe for the glass when used correctly, using it at too high an angle or with a dull blade could potentially cause a scratch. Workaround: Always use the scraper at a very low angle (15-30 degrees) to the glass and apply gentle, even pressure.
* ❌ Cream Can Be Messy: The polishing cream can get into crevices if used too liberally. Workaround: A little goes a long way. Apply a quarter-sized amount and work it into the surface with the pad.

Expert’s Experience
Restorative Power: I ran the ultimate test: I drizzled a mixture of sugar and water onto a piece of tempered glass and used a torch to burn it into a black, carbonized crust. The Weiman scraper lifted about 90% of the crusty mess in under a minute. Then, the cream and scrubbing pad removed all the remaining residue and cloudiness, restoring a perfect, mirror-like shine.

Tools Synergy: The three components work together perfectly. The scraper does the heavy lifting, the scrubbing pad works the cream into the surface to dislodge stains, and a final buff with a clean paper towel reveals a gleaming, protected finish. It’s a very logical and effective process.

Applicability to Gas Cooktops: This kit is marketed for smooth electric cooktops, but I found it absolutely essential for a gas-on-glass model like the Empava. It’s the only way to effectively and safely clean the tough build-up that accumulates right at the edge of the burner assemblies without damaging the beautiful glass surface.

Gas Cooktop & Accessory Comparison Chart (2026)

This list includes both a core appliance and its essential care accessories. To help you understand how they fit together, this chart compares each product based on its primary function and best use case within a complete kitchen system.

Feature	Empava Gas Cooktop	Weiman Heavy Duty Cleaner	Weiman Daily Cleaner	Oenalw Stove Cover	Weiman Cleaning Kit
Category	Best Overall Gas Cooktop	Best for Heavy-Duty Degreasing	Best for Daily Cleaning	Best for Adding Counter Space	Best All-in-One Cleaning Kit
Primary Function	Cooking food with precise gas flame	Dissolving baked-on grease & carbonized food	Quick, daily surface cleaning & degreasing	Protecting cooktop & adding workspace	Deep cleaning, polishing & restoring shine
Best For	Small-medium kitchens, RVs, home chefs	Monthly deep cleans, post-party cleanups	After every meal to prevent grime buildup	Small kitchens with limited counter space	Restoring a neglected cooktop to like-new
Ease of Use	Intuitive knob control	Spray, wait 5-30 mins, then wipe	Spray and wipe	Lift on and off	Multi-step process (scrape, scrub, buff)
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.8/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.9/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis: This curated list provides a complete ecosystem for any gas cooktop owner. The Empava Gas Cooktop stands out as the star performer for cooking, offering incredible features for its price. The Weiman cleaners offer a perfect one-two punch for maintenance: the daily spray for prevention and the heavy-duty formula for correction. For gas-on-glass models, the Weiman Cleaning Kit is the ultimate restoration tool. Finally, the Oenalw Stove Cover brilliantly solves the common kitchen problems of surface protection and limited prep space. Together, they create a comprehensive system for a better cooking experience.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Gas Cooktop

The best gas stovetop is the one that perfectly fits your space, cooking style, and budget. While my top pick is the Empava, this guide breaks down the essential features to consider so you can make an informed choice for your own kitchen.

Size and Number of Burners: Cooktops most commonly come in 24-inch, 30-inch, and 36-inch sizes. A 30-inch model with 5 burners is the most popular choice for a typical family home. Before you shop, carefully measure the cutout space in your countertop. Don’t forget to measure the depth and height clearance required underneath.
BTU Output (Heat Power): BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure a burner’s maximum heat output. A good cooktop offers a range of power. Look for at least one high-power burner (15,000+ BTUs) for rapid boiling and searing, and at least one dedicated low-power simmer burner (5,000 BTUs or less) for delicate sauces and melting chocolate.
Sealed vs. Open Burners: For almost all home kitchens, sealed burners are the superior choice. This design, featured on the Empava, prevents spills from dripping down into the appliance’s interior, making them vastly easier to clean. Open burners, often found on professional-style ranges, can offer slightly more direct heat but are a nightmare to maintain.
Grate Material and Design: Look for heavy-duty, continuous cast-iron grates. They retain heat well, provide a stable surface for even the heaviest pots, and their continuous design allows you to easily slide cookware from one burner to another without lifting. This is both a convenience and a safety feature.
Knob Placement and Quality: Front-mounted controls are common but can sometimes be bumped or accessed by small children. Side-mounted or top-mounted controls can be a good alternative. More importantly, check for sturdy, metal knobs. Plastic knobs are often the first component to crack or break over time.
Safety Features: A flame-failure device or thermocouple protection is a critical safety feature that I consider non-negotiable. It automatically shuts off the gas supply to a burner if the flame is accidentally extinguished. This prevents dangerous gas leaks and provides essential peace of mind.
Fuel Type (NG vs. LP): Most homes in city or suburban areas use Natural Gas (NG) from a utility line. If you live in a rural area or use a large tank, you’ll need Liquid Propane (LP). Ensure the cooktop you choose is either designed for your fuel type or comes with a conversion kit, like the Empava does.

Choosing the Right Cooktop Accessories

The right accessories extend the life and functionality of your cooktop. For gas-on-glass models, a non-abrasive cleaning kit with a cream and scraper, like the Weiman Kit, is essential for deep cleaning without scratching. For all models, a heavy-duty degreaser like the Weiman Heavy Duty is a must-have for the grates. And for any kitchen short on space, a stove cover like the Oenalw Noodle Board is a smart investment for both protection and added utility.

FAQs About Gas Range Cooktops

Which brand of gas cooktop is best?

High-end luxury brands like Wolf, Thermador, and Miele are known for exceptional performance and build quality but come with a premium price tag. For the best overall balance of performance, features, and value for most homeowners, brands such as Bosch, KitchenAid, and GE Profile are consistently top-rated. Models like the Empava are gaining popularity for offering premium features at a more accessible price.

How many BTUs do I need for a gas stove?

For most home cooking, a versatile range of BTUs across different burners is ideal. You should look for a cooktop with at least one power burner in the 15,000 to 20,000 BTU range for quick boiling and searing. General-purpose burners should fall between 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs, and a dedicated simmer burner of 5,000 BTUs or less is crucial for delicate tasks.

Are sealed burners better than open burners?

Yes, for 99% of home cooks, sealed burners are significantly better. They contain all spills on the cooktop surface, which makes cleanup incredibly easy and fast. Open burners, while offering slightly more direct flame contact, are very difficult to keep clean as grease and food can drip down into the internal components of the appliance.

Which gas range is easiest to clean?

A gas-on-glass or gas-on-ceramic cooktop with sealed burners is the easiest type to clean. The smooth, continuous surface can be wiped down in seconds, and there are far fewer seams or crevices for grease to accumulate compared to a traditional stainless steel surface with recessed burners.

Do I need a range hood with a gas cooktop?

Absolutely, yes. A properly vented range hood is an essential safety requirement for any gas cooktop. All gas appliances produce byproducts like carbon monoxide, grease, and water vapor during combustion. A range hood is critical for maintaining good indoor air quality and removing heat and odors. Check your local building codes for specific CFM (cubic feet per minute) requirements.

How long do gas cooktops last?

A well-maintained, quality gas cooktop can easily last for 15 years or more. The lifespan largely depends on the build quality of the brand and how regularly it is cleaned and serviced. The electronic ignition system is often the first component to fail but is typically a relatively simple and inexpensive repair.

Can I convert a natural gas cooktop to propane?

Yes, in most cases, but it must be done correctly. Many modern cooktops, like the Empava cooktop I reviewed, are “convertible” and include a conversion kit with the necessary orifices (jets) to switch from natural gas (NG) to liquid propane (LP). This conversion should always be performed by a qualified gas technician to ensure safety.

What is the difference between a cooktop and a rangetop?

A cooktop is a “drop-in” unit that sits flush within a cutout in your countertop, with its controls typically on the top surface. A rangetop is a more professional-style “slide-in” unit that sits on top of your cabinetry. Rangetops are generally deeper and have their control knobs on the front face, similar to a full range.

Why do chefs prefer gas?

Professional chefs almost universally prefer gas cooking for its instantaneous heat control and visual feedback. You can change the flame from a roaring high to a bare simmer in a split second, giving you precise and immediate control over the cooking temperature. This responsiveness is much faster than waiting for an electric coil or induction surface to heat up or cool down.

What is the most reliable gas range brand?

Based on independent repair data and large-scale customer satisfaction reports, brands like Bosch and Thermador often rank highly for reliability. Certain models from GE Profile and KitchenAid also perform very well. However, reliability can vary significantly between different models within the same brand, so it’s always crucial to check reviews for the specific unit you are considering.

Final Verdict: The Best Gas Cooktop & Care System

Investing in a quality gas cooktop is only half the battle; maintaining it with the right products is the key to its longevity, performance, and appearance. My extensive research and hands-on testing identified a complete, high-performance system for success in the kitchen.

My final recommendation is a two-part system. For the appliance itself, the Empava 24 in. Gas Cooktop is my top pick. It offers an unbeatable combination of performance from its Italian SABAF burners, critical safety features like thermocouple protection, and a sleek, easy-to-clean design, all at an incredible value.

To maintain that cooktop (or any gas cooktop), the Weiman cleaning products are essential. The Daily Cleaner makes post-meal cleanup effortless, while the Heavy Duty Cleaner and the complete Weiman Cleaning Kit provide the power needed for deep cleans and restoration.

By pairing a fantastic cooktop like the Empava 24 in. Gas Stove Cooktop with the right maintenance tools, you’ll ensure a safe, clean, and enjoyable cooking experience for many years to come.

Last update on 2026-01-26 at 17:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API