Our GE JGP975SEKSS cooktop review: With deep-recessed gas cooktops becoming more and more in style, you can bet the GE JGP975SEKSS 36 inch model is very popular. What’s nice about these units is that they are a lot easier to clean up and they contain spills better than the average non-recessed model. This model has 5 burners, which range in power from 18,000 BTU’s to a low 140 degrees. A few more nice features on this cooktop include: sealed burners – which help stop spills, dual-flame stacked burner – for extra heat, a control lock, continuous grates, precise simmer burner, and dishwasher safe grates and knobs.

The GE JGP975SEKSS gas cooktop is reasonably priced, at $1,400. This is in-line with similar competitor models. What I don’t like about this unit is how hard it is to keep the stainless steel surface looking clean. It scratches pretty easily and is hard to scrub clean. Also, this cooktop doesn’t have too much that really stands out from other models – in other words, the features are just kind of average. Other than those issues with the clean-up process, I don’t have a lot to complain about with the GE JGP975SEKSS cooktop. Overall, I’m giving it a 3.8 / 5 star rating.

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Our Electrolux EW30GC55GW cooktop review: The white surface along with black grates is a great combination for the Electrolux EW30GC55GW gas cooktop. I also love that the grates are continuous, so you’re able to set bigger pots and pans on without having them tip. Amazingly, this model has burners that range from 18,000 BTU’s to 450 BTU’s – this is definitely one of the widest ranges you’ll find on a smaller model. A few other features you’ll find on this 30 inch unit are: dishwasher safe grates, dual-flame sealed burners, extremely precise control knobs, deep well design, and it also includes a griddle and LP conversion kit. It is currently being sold for around $1,000 – which is within the range of similar competitor models (or slightly more expensive).

Quite honestly, there is not a lot to complain about with the Electrolux EW30GC55GW cooktop. The only complaint I’ve come across is that the mounting brackets can be hard to get into their slots and secured tightly. Another thing I wish they would have done is position the burners in a more traditional way. As they are, bigger pots could potentially get in the way more than they would otherwise. Both of these issues are very minor, and most people won’t have a problem with either. I can’t give the Electrolux EW30GC55GW gas cooktop the best rating because of the slightly higher price. Overall, I’m giving this model a 4.5 / 5 star rating.

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Our GE Profile PP989DNBB Cooktop review: Having a 30 inch downdraft electric cooktop is pretty rare. However, the GE Profile PP989DNBB is every bit as functional and stylish as a bigger more expensive model. Normally, I am not a big fan of controls and downdraft vents being in the center of the cooktop, but for some strange reason I actually think it looks great on this model. A couple other things I really like  are: the powerful exhaust downdraft, the smooth surface for easy cleanup, the bridge elements which create a larger cooking surface, and the overall great look it has.

The issues I have with the GE Profile PP989DNBB cooktop are few. One issue is setting up and installing the downdraft exhaust, which isn’t always easy. If you previously had a downdraft model, it probably won’t be a big issue – but everyone else should be prepared to spend some time on this. Another problem with this model is that dirt and fingerprints can easily be seen on the shiny glass surface. Last “issue” is the $1,100 price tag (I put it in quotation marks because most people won’t have a problem paying that amount for a great model). Overall, I’m really impressed with the GE Profile PP989DNBB cooktop. I think it’s definitely one of the top 30 inch downdraft models out there. I’m giving it a 4.5 / 5 star rating.

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Our Maytag MEC4430WB cooktop review: If you’re looking for a cheaper 30 inch electric cooktop, which still has some style, you’ll definitely want to check out the Maytag MEC4430WB. The black porcelain-enamel surface is easy to clean and looks great. This model features four electric coils – two of them being 8 inches, for more even heating. A couple other features you’ll find on this cooktop are: element in-use light, heavy duty element coils, and no-drip chrome bowls. Also, the knobs can be put into the dishwasher for easy cleaning. As you can see, there are not a lot of “extras”, but you can’t really expect too much for $270.

Although the Maytag MEC4430WB cooktop’s black enamel surface is easy enough to wipe down, the more annoying part is cleaning out the chrome bowls. Most food will be caught by these bowls, but it’s still more of a mess to clean up than a flat surface electric cooktop. Another downside to this model is that the biggest coils it has are 8 inches. In most cases these work fine, but if you have a really big pan it will take longer to heat up (and won’t cook as evenly). Other than those two issues, the Maytag MEC4430WB electric cooktop is a great choice. In fact, in this price range, you’ll be hard pressed to find too much of a better quality electric model. I’m giving it a 4 / 5 star rating.

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Our Frigidaire FFEC3605LB review: If you’re in the market for a cheaper model that still has some style, the Frigidaire FFEC3605LB cooktop may be just for you. It’s four elements sit atop a 36 inch smooth black surface. With a price of just over $300, you won’t be getting much more than the basics. A couple “extra” features on this cooktop include: surface on indicator lights, SpillSaver contains spills for easier cleanup, and Ready-Select controls to help you choose the right temperature.

Quite honestly, it seems like there is a lot of wasted space on the Frigidaire FFEC3605LB electric cooktop. The whole center of the unit is empty. I think they could have put in a 10 or 12 inch coil element in the center, with room to spare. And, while I really love the black surface of this model, I think the actual elements seem a little cheap. Same goes for cleanup – the black surface is a breeze, but junk can get down into the coils pretty easily. I know there is the SpillSave feature, so that will help a little. Overall, I like the Frigidaire FFEC3605LB cooktop well enough. It’s not my favorite model, but I think it’s still worth 3.5 / 5 stars – especially because of the price.

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The LG LCE3081ST radiant cooktop is a 30 inch model with five elements. It’s becoming more popular for smaller cooktops to get more elements, and it does have it’s benefits. The radiant glass surface of the LG LCE3081ST model is both stylish and functional. Another cool feature on this unit is the SmoothTouch controls. Basically, it has touch sensitive controls instead of the classic knobs. The indicator lights on the surface tells you if the elements are on or off. A few more features you’ll find on this cooktop: child lock, stainless steel trim, hot surface indicator lights, warming element, and two double elements (one’s 8 inches and one is 9). I know a lot of people will love the child lock feature – it’s just another safety feature if you have young kids.

Surprisingly, the LG LCE3081ST cooktop only costs about $1,100. For the amount of features it has, I think it’s a fair price. While I really love the SmoothTouch controls, I am a little worried that if it break it wouldn’t be an easy fix (it becomes an electrical problem, rather than a mechanical one). Also, I don’t know how functional the warming element is. It’s nice to say you have one, but to me it’s just taking up valuable space. Other than that, I don’t have much to complain about with the LG LCE3081ST. Overall, I really like it and am giving it a 4.5 / 5 star rating.

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KitchenAid KFGS306VSS is a 30 inch gas cooktop model with a lot of style. The stainless steel surface combined with the black cast iron grates gives it a great elegant look. Since this cooktop is only 30 inches wide, I can really appreciate the knobs being on the front (rather than taking up valuable cooking space on the side). There are 5 burners on this model, with the large 15,000 BTU one being in the center. It’s extremely unusual for a smaller gas model to have 5 burners, but they spaced them out so well that it almost feels like a 36 inch. The burners are also sealed, which makes cleaning them up much easier

I can’t think of much to complain about with the KitchenAid KFGS306VSS gas cooktop. The price is probably the biggest drawback – which is currently around $1,000. Another minor complaint is that the burners don’t go down to very low settings. They go down low enough that it’s not usually a problem – but, if you want to simmer a sauce on very low heat, it can be difficult. A couple users also complained about cleaning up the KitchenAid KFGS306VSS – I don’t really think this will be an issue for most people though. It’s 10 times easier to clean up than the average gas cooktop, especially older models. I’m giving this model a 4.5/5 star rating – I think it’s a spectacular model and solidly built.

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GE JP346BMBB review: Made out of a glass-ceramic material, the 30″ GE JP346BMBB electric cooktop is both durable and good looking. The smooth surface is very easy to clean up, which is why a lot of people prefer electric models over gas. Actually, the glass-ceramic surface is more than just good looking, it’s actually impact and scratch resistant. The smooth and seamless frame design allows the cooktop to blend in to your counter top more easily. The four element design is nice, and I really like that the biggest element is in the front right corner. A lot of newer models are putting the largest element in the back. A couple other features this model has: hot surface indicator light, ribbon heating elements, PowerBoil element, and it can be installed over a wall oven.

There are only a couple issues I have with the GE JP346BMBB cooktop. Although this model is super easy to clean, it’s a little harder to get the original shine back. You almost have to use some soap / polish solution to make it sparkle. Also, only 1 of the elements really turns up very high. This is fine in most cases, but sometimes you need a little more heat (and more of the larger elements). Last thing is the 1 year warranty. It’s better than nothing, but a lot of competitor models have a little longer warranty period. You can currently buy the GE JP346BMBB electric cooktop for around $650. Overall, I’m giving this model a 4/5 star rating.

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The Bosch NIT5665UC induction cooktop is a 36 inch model with a lot of style. Costing around $2500, the Bosch NIT5665UC is certainly not cheap, but I think most people expect to pay more for a good induction cooktop. I really like the layout of this model, with the larger element in the middle and the four smaller elements on the sides. Also, there are no large knobs or buttons taking up a lot of space. Adding the classy black look of this cooktop is a stainless steel strip on the front and back. A few other features worth noting: SpeedBoost – which boils water twice as fast as conventional electric models, child lock, keep warm function, countdown timer for all elements, touch-control buttons, and an overflow alarm. This is a really impressive set of features, as far as I’m concerned.

Now I’ll go over any potential downside of the Bosch NIT5665UC induction cooktop. You can probably guess the first issue – the price. While most people expect to pay more for induction models, it’s still a hefty sum of money to hand over. Also, the touch-control buttons may take some time getting used to, for some people. I really don’t have much else to complain about with the Bosch NIT5665UC cooktop. If you have the budget for a more expensive appliance, it’s certainly one to check into. I’m giving it a 4.7 / 5 star rating.

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Our Maytag MGC7430WS review: If you’re looking for style, but don’t have a lot of space, then the 30 inch Maytag MGC7430WS cooktop may be a great option for you. This is a 4 burner gas cooktop model, with one burner that can go all the way up to 15,000 BTU’s (and one goes as low as 1,000 BTU’s). I really like the porcelain-enamel surface – it’s easy to clean and looks great. The continuous cast iron grates are also a nice feature, so you don’t have pots falling off the edge. If you ever want to convert this cooktop to LP, the kit is included.

As with most gas cooktops, the Maytag MGC7430WS can have food fall down below the grates. This model doesn’t have as many nooks for the food to get stuck in, but it’s still more annoying to clean than a flat electric model.  Another thing I’m not so keen on is the knobs being on the side of the unit, instead of the front. I think more space gets wasted this way – however, I know some buyers actually prefer it on the side. Last thing I want to mention is the $650 price tag. I think the Maytag MGC7430WS is a little too expensive for a 30″ model, when a lot of competitor models sell in the $400-$500 range. However, since there are no major issues with this model and it is solidly built, I’m giving it a 4/5 star rating.

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Our GE JP328SKSS review: If you’re looking for a cheaper, yet reliable electric cooktop, you’ll definitely want to check out the GE JP328SKSS model. It has four electric coil elements – two smaller ones and two larger ones. A few other features you’ll find on this cooktop are: a heating element “on” light, easy-to-reach controls, removable coil elements and drip trays for easier cleaning, and this model can actually lift up with a support rod to clean up messes under the cooktop. As you can see, it’s a pretty basic model. However, the $280 price tag is also very reasonable for what you get.

Now we’ll go over the GE JP328SKSS cooktop’s potential negative aspects. The chrome top looks great, but it is pretty easy to scratch. I know they try to make the GE JP328SKSS easier to clean up, but it really doesn’t compare to a flat surface electric cooktop model. Junk will eventually make its way down into the coils and below. Other than that, it’s a pretty decent model. I’m giving it 4/5 stars – mainly because of it’s very low price point (and there are no major issues).

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Our Frigidaire FGEC3645KW review: If you’re looking for an ultra-white cooktop, the Frigidaire FGEC3645KW may be a good option for you. This model is 36″ wide, and actually features 5 elements. Since it’s an electric cooktop, the surface is completely smooth and is made of ceramic glass. The Express-Select feature allows you go to from warm to boil very quickly. There is one 12″ element and 4 other smaller ones. It also has hot-surface indicator lights.

Currently, the Frigidaire FGEC3645KW cooktop sells for around $620. This is actually a pretty reasonable price for this model. I personally would have preferred if there were 4 larger elements instead of 5 with smaller sized elements. I think the white color will only fit into a specific style of kitchen. It’s looks good enough, but it’s a very bright white color. Of course, for this price you couldn’t really expect an induction cooktop – but those are always nicer than radiant heat, which is what the Frigidaire FGEC3645KW cooktop is. Overall, this is a pretty average model – so, I’m giving it a 3.8/5 star rating.

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Our Whirlpool SCS3017RB review: Priced at just under $400 and having a sleek black exterior, the Whirlpool SCS3017RB cooktop is a great option for buyers seeking a cheaper (yet stylish) 30″ gas cooktop model. A few of it’s most prominent features include: continuous cast iron grates, 2 burners that go up to 12,500 BTU’s, porcelain-on-steel design, sealed gas burners and it has an LP gas conversion kit included. The porcelain-on-steel design gives it an elegant, sleek look. It’s also very easy to clean up.

There’s not too much to complain about with the Whirlpool SCS3017RB cooktop. The one thing buyers had issues with is that it did not come with all the brass connector pieces necessary to hook it up (in some cases you won’t need them all). The clearance is also a little different than older models. Some buyers may find it a little too small for their needs – especially since the knobs take up almost a third of the space. Overall, the Whirlpool SCS3017RB is a very nice model though. I’m giving it a 4/5 star rating.

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Our Maytag MEC7430WB review: The 4 element, sleek black Maytag MEC7430WB cooktop is a 30″ wide model with lots of style. The glass ceramic surface is really nice because you can wash it off so easily. The four knobs are set directly in the center of the unit. And, they are even dishwasher safe if they get too dirty. They styling of this model is fairly typical, but I guess there is no need to re-invent the wheel. What really matters is how well it performs and stands up to tough daily use – and I’m happy to say that it does quite well at both. A couple of its other features include: a 9″ Speed Heat element (most powerful available), 12″ Power Cook element, shatter-resistant surface, hot surface indicator light, and an element-in-use light. I can’t stress enough how easy this model is to clean. It won’t scratch very easily either.

So, what are the negative aspects of the Maytag MEC7430WB cooktop? One thing that would have been nice is to have at least two 12″ elements. But, I realize it is hard to fit larger elements on a 30″ cooktop. The two 5″ elements in front don’t cook very evenly, unless you have smaller pots on them. It would also have been nice if there were a little more power to the elements. The 9″ speed heat is great, but the others lag a little bit. Also, I know it’s a bit picky, but I wish the knobs weren’t taking up so much space in the center of the surface. Maybe if they were all in a row it might be a better use of space. Anyway, the Maytag MEC7430WB cooktop is still a great little model for around $550 (you can get it cheaper some places). I’m giving it a 4/5 star rating.

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