While both gas cooktops come from the same parent company, the Whirlpool and KitchenAid brands target different home chefs by offering distinct levels of performance, style, and price. Whirlpool focuses on reliability and affordability with a practical, no-frills design, whereas KitchenAid offers premium materials, professional-grade features, and a sleek, modern aesthetic at a higher price point.
Here's everything you need to know to choose the right gas cooktop for your kitchen and budget.
Whirlpool Gas Cooktops
Whirlpool is a household name trusted for producing durable, user-friendly appliances that deliver consistent performance without breaking the bank. Their gas cooktops are designed for everyday family use, focusing on practical features, straightforward controls, and easy cleaning. They are a go-to choice for homeowners who need a reliable workhorse appliance that blends seamlessly into a functional kitchen.
- What it is: A line of mid-range gas cooktops known for reliability, value, and ease of use.
- Key features: Standard burner configurations, hinged or dishwasher-safe grates for easy cleaning, SpeedHeat™ burners for quick boiling, and reliable electronic ignition systems.
- Price: Most models range from $500 to $1,200.
- Style: Practical and utilitarian with a straightforward design that fits into most traditional and modern kitchens without being a major statement piece.
- Materials/Construction: Built with solid materials like stainless steel and porcelain-coated steel, with cast iron grates for durability.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price, dependably built for longevity, easy to find at major retailers, simple to operate and clean.
- Cons: Lacks the premium feel and advanced features of high-end brands, design is more functional than stylish, burner control may be less precise for specialty cooking.
This brand is ideal for budget-conscious families and first-time homeowners who prioritize reliability and straightforward performance over advanced features.
Shop this brand: whirlpool.com
KitchenAid Gas Cooktops
A subsidiary of Whirlpool Corporation, KitchenAid is positioned as a premium brand for passionate home cooks and design-focused homeowners. Their gas cooktops are built with high-quality materials and professional-style features, offering more precise cooking control and a sophisticated look. For those who see the kitchen as the heart of the home, a KitchenAid cooktop often serves as a central design element.
- What it is: A line of upper-mid to premium gas cooktops offering professional-style performance and an elegant, modern design.
- Key features: Even-Heat™ Torch Burners for precise simmering and searing, heavy-duty cast-iron grates, high-BTU professional burners, and premium metal control knobs.
- Price: Typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500.
- Style: Sleek, modern, and high-end, with clean lines and premium finishes like stainless and black stainless that complement contemporary kitchen designs.
- Materials/Construction: Heavy-duty, die-cast metal grates and knobs with durable stainless steel surfaces and sealed burners to contain spills.
- Pros: Superior performance and precise temperature control, elegant aesthetics act as a kitchen centerpiece, built with high-quality, durable materials, advanced features for serious cooks.
- Cons: Significantly higher price point, may offer more features than the average user needs, repair costs can be higher due to specialized parts.
This brand is perfect for avid home chefs and homeowners undertaking a kitchen renovation who are willing to invest in superior performance and designer style.
Shop this brand: kitchenaid.com
Whirlpool vs. KitchenAid Gas Cooktop Comparison
Dimensions & Sizing
Both brands offer gas cooktops in the industry-standard 30-inch and 36-inch widths, which fit most residential countertop cutouts. A 30-inch model typically features four or five burners and is suitable for most families and kitchen layouts.
The 36-inch models from both Whirlpool and KitchenAid provide five burners and more space between pots and pans, which is ideal for those who frequently cook large or multi-course meals. Where KitchenAid sometimes expands is in its specialty lines, which might include 48-inch models for very large or professional-style kitchens, a size category Whirlpool generally doesn't serve in its standard lineup.
Materials & Construction
Whirlpool cooktops are built for durability and function. They use reliable materials like stainless steel and porcelain cooktops paired with sturdy cast-iron grates. While perfectly robust for everyday use, the focus is on longevity over luxury, the finish and feel are solid but not necessarily high-end.
In contrast, KitchenAid elevates the construction with a clear focus on premium quality. You'll find thicker, continuous cast-iron grates that are heavier and provide a stable surface across the entire cooktop. Many models feature sealed burners that prevent spills from seeping into the burner box, making cleaning easier. The control knobs are often made of die-cast metal, providing a weighted, professional feel compared to the standard plastic knobs on some entry-level models.
Price & Value
This is the most significant differentiator between the two brands. Whirlpool cooktops are squarely in the mid-range market, priced from roughly $500 to $1,200. For this price, you get a dependable, long-lasting appliance that performs its core functions extremely well. The value proposition is clear: trusted reliability at an accessible price.
KitchenAid occupies the premium segment, with prices typically starting where Whirlpool's top out, from $1,200 to over $2,500. The extra cost buys you superior performance, more elegant design, higher-grade materials, and features like ultra-low simmer burners or high-output professional burners. The value here lies in investing in a high-performance tool that enhances both the cooking experience and the kitchen's aesthetic appeal.
Style & Aesthetic
Whirlpool designs are practical and understated. They are meant to blend in, featuring classic stainless steel or black finishes that complement a wide range of kitchen cabinets and countertop styles. A Whirlpool cooktop is functional and will not clash with your decor, but it's not designed to be the main attraction.
KitchenAid cooktops are crafted to be a focal point. Their designs are sleek, with clean lines, minimalist grate patterns, and premium finishes that mirror the look of professional restaurant kitchens. With thoughtful details like laser-etched markings and polished chrome accents, a KitchenAid cooktop makes a clear style statement and is a popular choice for homeowners aiming for a high-end, contemporary kitchen design.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both brands offer excellent products, but they are built for different users with different priorities.
Choose Whirlpool if:
- You're on a practical budget and need the best reliability for your money.
- You need a straightforward, easy-to-use appliance for daily family meals.
- Performance and ease of cleaning are more important to you than high-end design.
- You are replacing an old appliance and want a trusted brand that is widely available.
Choose KitchenAid if:
- You are a passionate cook who would benefit from precise simmer controls and high-powered burners.
- Aesthetics are a top priority, and you want your cooktop to be a kitchen showpiece.
- You are doing a full kitchen remodel and want your appliances to have a cohesive, premium look.
- You are willing to invest more for better build quality, materials, and a more refined cooking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Whirlpool and KitchenAid cooktops?
The primary difference is their market position. Whirlpool is a mid-range brand focused on reliability and value, while KitchenAid is a premium brand focused on high performance, advanced features, and sophisticated design. Think of Whirlpool as the dependable family sedan and KitchenAid as the luxury sports coupe.
Are KitchenAid cooktops worth the extra money?
For avid home chefs or those who prioritize kitchen design, the answer is often yes. The extra cost buys more precise flame control, higher-quality materials like heavier grates and metal knobs, and a more elegant aesthetic. If you only perform basic cooking tasks, the advanced features may not be worth the added expense.
Which brand is more reliable?
Since both brands are owned by Whirlpool Corporation, they share a foundation of reliable engineering. Whirlpool has a long-standing reputation for durable, low-maintenance appliances. KitchenAid uses more premium components, which can contribute to a long lifespan, but repairs can sometimes be more expensive. In general, both are considered highly reliable brands.
Which cooktop is easier to clean?
KitchenAid often has an advantage here due to its sealed burners, a feature common on their models. Sealed burners contain spills on the cooktop surface for easy cleanup. Whirlpool models with hinged grates are also very easy to clean as they lift up simply so you can wipe underneath without fully removing the heavy grates.
Do these cooktops come in different sizes?
Yes, both brands primarily offer cooktops in 30-inch and 36-inch widths. A 30-inch cooktop is standard for most kitchens, while a 36-inch model provides more cooking space and is popular in larger kitchens or on kitchen islands.
Which cooktop is better for simmering delicate sauces?
KitchenAid typically excels at this. Many of their models feature specific Even-Heat™ simmer burners that provide a very low, consistent flame, giving you the precise control needed for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or simmering sauces without scorching.
Can I install these myself?
While some experienced DIY-ers might be able to, installing a gas appliance involves connecting gas lines, which can be dangerous if done incorrectly. It is almost always recommended to have a qualified professional install your gas cooktop to ensure it's done safely and to code.
What about warranty?
Both brands typically offer a one-year limited warranty covering parts and labor. KitchenAid sometimes provides extended warranties on specific components, like their sealed burner systems. Always check the specific warranty details for the exact model you are considering before purchasing.
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