Gas vs. electric stove — which one is better?

Electric stove overview.

Electric stoves often have a flat cooking surface made of ceramic, glass, or a blend of both. They usually have heated metal coils that transfer heat to your cookware, allowing you to cook your food.

To use an electric stove, you need to connect it to a 220- or 240-volt outlet. This is different from the 110-volt outlet used for other appliances.

Chances are, your kitchen may already have this option. If not, you can hire a pro to assemble an electric stove hookup.

Pros of getting an electric stove:

• An electric stove is relatively easy to install. Electric stoves don’t require a gas hookup. All you need is a 240-volt outlet, which most modern kitchens have. If there isn’t any, you can also have a pro install it.
• An electric stove is usually easier to clean. Its smooth ceramic or glass top is easy to wipe down. (However, cleaning an electric stove with coils is a little bit more intensive.)
• An electric stove lets you cook your food faster. When you turn up the heat, your electric stove responds immediately. You’ll find that boiling water or heating a pan takes minutes on an electric stove.
• An electric stove may be safer for you to use. Electric stoves don't have flames, so there's less of a chance of accidentally setting a towel or oven mitt on fire. Plus, an electric induction stovetop usually has a built-in safety feature, preventing it from heating anything unless you place the right cookware on top. However, fires can still occur if you have an electric stove and don't use it properly (or it malfunctions).

Cons of getting an electric stove:

• An electric stove requires the right cookware — especially if you’re using an induction electric stove. You'll need induction-capable cookware (cookware with magnetic metal) if you’re using an induction cooktop.
• An electric induction stove can be noisy. While using your electric stove, you may hear a buzzing or humming sound. You may also hear a clicking sound while fixing the setting.
• An electric stove can be more expensive in the long run. While electric stoves may seem cheaper and easier to assemble, you’ve got to factor in electricity costs. These costs can be higher than using gas, depending on various factors.

Gas stove overview.

Gas stoves allow you to cook over an open flame. With a gas stove, you're able to control the heat intensity. You’ll usually find that the burners have different flame sizes and varying heat levels.

Gas stove tops also require a dedicated gas line. If your kitchen doesn't have a gas line, you can hire a pro to install one and hook up your stove.

Pros of getting a gas stove:

• A gas stove may give you better control over the temperature. With different burner sizes and corresponding knobs, you can easily and quickly adjust the flame as you want it.
• A gas stove lets you char and grill directly on the burner’s open flame. If your recipe requires a little grilling, you don’t have to set up a barbecue pit outside your home. Turn the stove, and grill or char whatever you need atop the open flame. You can also brown or broil your food in your gas oven.
• A gas stove is often cheaper to operate in the long run. While costs depend on your area, gas is generally cheaper than electricity.
• A gas stove’s burners tend to cool down quickly. If you want to clean your gas stove after using it, you don’t need to wait that long. 

Cons of getting a gas stove:

• A gas stove requires a dedicated gas line to operate. If you don’t have one in your kitchen, you’ll need to get one installed by a pro.
• A gas stove can be a little challenging to clean. Cleaning your stove thoroughly often involves removing grates and burner caps, soaking them, wiping down your stove, and then replacing the removed parts.
• A gas stove can be expensive to buy and install. Gas stove units are generally more expensive. Not to mention, you'll also need to factor in the cost of setting up a dedicated gas line in your kitchen.
• A gas stove can affect indoor air quality. Gas stoves that use natural gas can create health risks by releasing harmful pollutants in the air, like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde. These pollutants can be dangerous to humans and animals.

Tips for choosing the best stove for your home.

When it comes to choosing the best type of stove for your home, you need to keep in mind several things.

1. What kind of kitchen setup do you have?

Does your kitchen already have a 240-volt outlet to plug an electric stove? Or does it already have a dedicated gas line for a gas stove? You can always get a pro to install either, but you’ll save more money if you choose a stove that’s compatible with the setup.

2. What's your cooking style?

If you prefer doing slow cooking over a bit of heat, an electric stove may be right for you. On the other hand, a gas range offers more versatility than an electric stove. You can control the temperature better, sear meat, and cook in high heat.

3. What kind of cookware do you have?

You may also want to think about the cookware you already have. If they aren’t induction-friendly, you may opt for a gas stove instead. That way, you won't have to buy new pots and pans.

4. What's your budget?

Gas stoves tend to cost more upfront. Electric stoves are cheaper, and installing an outlet for them versus installing a gas line will also help to bring down costs. But rather than just looking at the upfront expenses, also consider the operational costs.

Electricity can be more expensive than gas. If you plan to use your electric stove a lot (and for long periods of time), you might face higher electricity bills.

Gas, on the other hand, is usually cheaper in most places. Depending on where you live, it may be a more budget-friendly option in the long run.

5. Have you considered dual fuel range?

If you love both electric and gas stoves and can’t decide what to get, why not opt for a dual-fuel range instead? Dual fuel ranges feature gas cooktops and electric ovens — bringing together the best of both worlds.

Some chefs and home cooks may prefer gas stoves because of their versatility. However, bakers may laud the electric oven because of its various features.

Find a pro to help you install your new stove.

Ultimately, the best kind of stove for you depends on what you want and what you need. Weigh your options, consider what you like, and choose the stove that fits your cooking style and preferences. 

If you need help installing your new stove, an electric outlet, or a gas line, get someone skilled to do it for you. Download the Thumbtack app to find a top-rated appliance professional who can help you set up your new stove.