August 2008
Types
Decide whether you want a stand-alone range or a cooktop/wall-oven combo. Then choose between the convenience of an over-the-range
microwave and the better venting of a range hood.
COOKTOP & WALL OVEN
$1,500 and up for both
Best for separate cooking areas. Some cooktop/oven combos can cost less than some stand-alone ranges, especially pro-style.
But a separate cooktop and a separate wall oven cost more to install than a stand-alone range. You’ll also find a growing number of stylish and capable ranges for less than you’d pay for many of the cooktop/oven combos.
OVER-THE-RANGE MICROWAVE
$300 and up
Best for convenience and keeping counter space free. Many of these ovens have a convection feature, and most now have a sensor that prevents under- or overcooking by adjusting the cooking time based on the steam the food emits as it heats.
But none of the over-the-range microwave ovens we tested could match the smoke-clearing ability of an effective range hood.
STAND-ALONE RANGE
$450 and up
Best for economy. Slide-in styles, stainless-steel versions, and dual-fuel and pro-style models beyond 30 inches cost more.
But all lack the flexibility of a separate cooktop and wall oven. Pro-style and dual-fuel ranges are pricier without necessarily performing better; some pro-style brands have been repair-prone.
RANGE HOOD
$225 and up
Best for venting smoke, fumes, and heat. Today’s models offer higher style, with stainless hoods priced less than $1,000.
But you must find space for a countertop microwave if that’s a part of your cooking. Good under-cabinet and wall-chimney range hoods often cost $800 or less, but island models for venting cooktops often cost $2,000 or more.
$1,500 and up for both
Best for separate cooking areas. Some cooktop/oven combos can cost less than some stand-alone ranges, especially pro-style.
But a separate cooktop and a separate wall oven cost more to install than a stand-alone range. You’ll also find a growing number of stylish and capable ranges for less than you’d pay for many of the cooktop/oven combos.
$300 and up
Best for convenience and keeping counter space free. Many of these ovens have a convection feature, and most now have a sensor that prevents under- or overcooking by adjusting the cooking time based on the steam the food emits as it heats.
But none of the over-the-range microwave ovens we tested could match the smoke-clearing ability of an effective range hood.
$450 and up
Best for economy. Slide-in styles, stainless-steel versions, and dual-fuel and pro-style models beyond 30 inches cost more.
But all lack the flexibility of a separate cooktop and wall oven. Pro-style and dual-fuel ranges are pricier without necessarily performing better; some pro-style brands have been repair-prone.
$225 and up
Best for venting smoke, fumes, and heat. Today’s models offer higher style, with stainless hoods priced less than $1,000.
But you must find space for a countertop microwave if that’s a part of your cooking. Good under-cabinet and wall-chimney range hoods often cost $800 or less, but island models for venting cooktops often cost $2,000 or more.
