Both induction and gas cooktops can help you handle mealtime, but each type can have different configurations, heating elements, sizes and features. Learn more on the advantages and differences between gas and induction cooktops to find the right type for your cooking preferences and kitchen layout.

What are the differences between induction vs. gas cooktops?

Induction cooktops differ from gas by generating heat through electromagnetism and needing induction-compatible cookware to function properly. Learn more on the differences and capabilities below to find the configuration that matches your cooking style.

Induction cooktops

An induction cooktop has a sleek, flat surface that generates heat through electromagnetism, essentially turning your cookware into its own source of heat. You will need induction compatible cookware to use this type of cooktop. Induction cooktops are best suited for pots and pans with flat bottoms to help ensure even heating and stability on the cooktop surface, like cast iron pans. This heating source may help you quickly bring pots to a boil, and the cooktop cools down quickly once cookware is removed. 

The smooth, glass-top surface of an induction cooktop can also provide an optimal approach for your cleaning routine in the kitchen. With these features in mind, explore the induction cooktop collection from Whirlpool brand to find the right type for your home.

Gas cooktops

On the other hand, gas cooktops utilize an open flame to cook below grates. This yields a more hands-on experience with the ability to seamlessly adjust the flame from a light simmer to a heavy sear or flambé technique. The open flame also provides the flexibility to heat the sides of sculpted cookware, such as stir fry pans. If this versatility suits your needs, explore the gas cooktop collection from Whirlpool for a wide range of sizes and configurations to help you keep dinnertime moving.

Is there a difference between cooking with induction vs. gas?

Yes! Induction cooking generates an electromagnetic charge directly to the bottom of compatible cookware, helping to provide optimal cooking times and quick cool downs. Gas cooktops function with a responsive flame that allows you to transition from a simmer to a char in a flash.

Induction cooktops are best suited for flat cookware, but be mindful to make sure you are using induction-compatible pots and pans, such as enameled steel or cast iron. The flame of a gas cooktop has the ability to reach up the sides of contoured cookware, providing you the flexibility to cook your favorite recipes on your favorite pans.

Do chefs prefer gas or induction?

While every chef has their personal preference and cooking style, both induction and gas cooktops provide unique features and configurations for recipes and meals.

If you are looking for optimal cooking times, effortless cleanup or need to quickly bring a pot to boil for pasta, an induction cooktop may best suit your preferences.

But, if you are flame-roasting peppers or creating the perfect amount of char to a tortilla, the open flame of a gas cooktop would work best. For more experimental cooking and the flexibility to test out certain techniques, such as a flambé approach, a gas cooktop is also ideal due to its open flame. Learn more about the flambé cooking technique with these chicken flambé recipes for your next family dinner.

Which is more energy efficient: a gas or induction cooktop?

ENERGY STAR rates induction cooktops as three times more efficient than gas due to their ability to use less energy while heating. This is in part due to heat being generated directly in the cookware, as opposed to the cooking surface or around the pan as is custom with flame and radiant heat models.

Is a gas or induction cooktop more cost-effective?

Cooktops come in a variety of sizes and configurations to match your kitchen layout and cooking style. Gas cooktops from Whirlpool range from around $700 to $1,000, depending on the desired features and sizes. Whirlpool^® Induction Cooktops range from roughly $1,000 to $1,500, yet can be three times more efficient than gas depending on the model and other factors—which may help decrease your energy costs. 

What are the benefits of gas vs. induction cooktops?

Both gas and induction cooktops provide unique benefits to help you keep dinnertime under control, even on the busiest evenings:

Gas cooktop pros

• Responsive open flame for light simmering to heavy sautéing.

• Ideal for additional cooking styles, such as the flambé technique.

• Ability to reach all sides of contoured cookware, such as woks.

Induction cooktop pros

• Optimal temperature control provides thorough, even heating.

• Ability to quickly bring a pot to a boil and cool down.

• Smooth, flat surface helps cut down on cleanup time.

• Can be three times more energy efficient than gas cooktops, according to ENERGY STAR.

Induction vs. gas cooktops: which is best for your home?

Choosing between an induction vs. gas cooktop depends on your personal preference, cooking style and kitchen layout. Whirlpool offers a wide variety of gas and induction cooktops to choose from, providing you the flexibility to select the model with the right features to help you keep dinner moving.

Not sure what to choose? Use our convenient Appliance Finder Tool to help you decide.