Gas vs. induction cooktops: Which is better?

What are the differences between gas vs. induction cooktops?

Induction cooktops are a type of electric cooktop. Induction cooktops differ from gas units because they generate heat through electromagnetism and need induction-compatible cookware to function properly.

Gas cooktops use an open flame fueled by natural gas or propane to directly heat cookware and cook your food. When considering a gas cooktop, you might want to explore various features and configurations to best suit your culinary needs, which can help inform your purchasing decision. Explore the differences and capabilities outlined below to discover the configuration that best suits 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—like cast iron pans—which help ensure even heating and stability on the cooktop surface. 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 help simplify your cleaning routine in the kitchen.

Induction cooktop benefits

Induction cooktops have several benefits that make them an ideal choice for many households. Some benefits include:

• Optimal temperature control helps to provide thorough, even heating

• Ability to quickly bring a pot to a boil and cool down the burner surface

• Smooth, flat surface helps cut down on cleanup time

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

Shop Whirlpool^® Induction Cooktops

Whirlpool^® Induction Cooktops can help you get dinner on the table in less time. Select Whirlpool^® models offer features like Temp Cook^™ Induction Technology that helps you avoid burning with dual temperature sensors that monitor and maintain your heat. Or, on some Whirlpool^® Cooktops, Smart Presets automatically set the right temp to saute, simmer, sear and more.

Gas cooktops

Gas cooktops utilize an open flame fueled by natural gas or propane to cook from below the grates. The open flame provides the flexibility to heat the sides of sculpted cookware, such as stir-fry pans and woks. Gas cooktops offer responsive control over heating temperatures, making quick adjustments for delicate recipes and everyday meals simple.  

Gas cooktops also typically feature removable grates. Some models offer a hinged design to help make cleaning the surface below easier. When choosing a gas cooktop, consider the total BTUs of the cooktop burners to ensure they are compatible with your current ventilation setup.

Every gas cooktop requires a dedicated gas line that can be installed in your kitchen by a licensed professional if it’s not already equipped.

Gas cooktop benefits

Gas cooktops offer many benefits, including:

• Responsive open flame for light simmering or searing to heavy sautéing

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

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

Shop Whirlpool^® Gas Cooktops

With Whirlpool^® Gas Cooktops, you can care for your family with ease. Select Whirlpool^® models offer features like the SpeedHeat^™ Burner that allows you to sear and boil quickly or the EZ 2-Lift^™ Hinged Cast-Iron Grates that let you wipe up spills beneath the grates without the hassle of removing them completely.

Gas vs. induction cooktop FAQs

If you’re still struggling to choose between a gas or an induction cooktop for your kitchen, explore the frequently asked questions below to help you make the best decision for your family.

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. However, induction cooktops require compatible cookware, so consider what types of pots and pans you already have and whether you have the budget to replace them when shopping for an induction model.

If you enjoy flame-roasting peppers or creating the perfect amount of char on a tortilla, the open flame of a gas cooktop might work best for you. 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.

Are induction or gas cooktops more energy efficient?

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 customary 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 brand generally range from around $400 to $1,200, depending on the desired features and sizes, though some models may vary.

Whirlpool^® Induction Cooktops range from roughly $900 to $1,800, though some models vary. These models can be three times more efficient than gas, depending on the model and other factors—which may help decrease your energy costs over time.

Overall, induction cooktops are typically more expensive as an upfront cost, but may be more cost-efficient in the long run depending on your cooking habits and local energy rates.

Does induction cook faster than gas?

Because induction technology turns your cookware into its own heating source, there is minimal heat loss to the surrounding areas on your stove. This may help speed up cooking times compared to standard electric or gas models.

Can you switch from a gas cooktop to induction?

Yes, you can replace a gas stove with an induction model. However, this swap may require working with gas and electrical power lines in your home, since they use different power sources, so you may need to consult with a professional to ensure your kitchen is properly equipped for a different fuel type. It is also important to note that you will need induction-compatible cookware if you’re replacing a gas stove with an induction model.

Shop Whirlpool^® Gas and Induction Cooktops

Choosing between an induction vs. gas cooktop depends on your personal preference, cooking style and kitchen layout. Whirlpool brand 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.