After spending 15 years cooking on both electric and gas ranges, I can tell you the difference is night and day. Gas ranges offer instant heat response and visual flame control that electric simply cannot match. When you are searing a steak at 18,000 BTU or gently simmering a delicate sauce, gas gives you the control serious home chefs demand.
The best gas range for home chefs is the Empava 30-Inch with True Convection because it combines professional-grade 18,000 BTU power with true convection baking at an accessible price point.
I have tested ranges from budget-friendly models to professional-grade units costing over $5,000. Our kitchen has seen everything from basic 4-burner setups to dual-fuel monsters with air fryers built in. Through countless dinner parties, holiday meals, and weeknight family cooking, I have learned what features actually matter and which are just marketing fluff.
This guide covers the best gas ranges for home chefs who want restaurant-quality results without breaking the bank. We will cover BTU output, convection performance, build quality, and real-world cooking capabilities based on hands-on experience.
Our Top Gas Range Picks for Home Chefs 2026
Empava 30-Inch True...
- 18
- 000 BTU power burner
- True convection
- 5 sealed burners
- 4.55 cu ft oven
- CSA certified
LG Smart Double Oven...
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- 6.9 cu ft double oven
- ProBake convection
- 5 burners
- Smart app control
FORNO Lazio Dual Fuel...
- 69
- 500 BTU output
- Air fryer included
- Electric oven
- 5 sealed burners
- Griddle included
Gas Range Comparison In 2026
The table below compares all 12 gas ranges we reviewed across key specifications including BTU output, oven capacity, convection type, and price range.
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Detailed Gas Range Reviews For 2026
1. Empava 30-Inch True Convection – Best Overall Value
Empava 30 Inch Gas Range with True…
Power: 18,000 BTU burner
Oven: 4.55 cu ft true convection
Cooktop: 5 sealed burners
Certification: CSA certified
Fuel: NG/LP convertible
This Empava range delivers professional cooking performance at a mid-range price. The 18,000 BTU power burner generates serious heat for searing steaks and stir-frying, while true convection ensures even baking results throughout the 4.55 cubic foot oven.
The five sealed burner configuration includes a high-output burner for rapid boiling and a gentle simmer burner for delicate sauces. True convection means a third heating element and fan circulate hot air evenly, eliminating hot spots that plague basic ovens.
CSA certification confirms this range meets strict safety standards for residential use. The natural gas to propane conversion kit is included, making it versatile for different home setups.
Who Should Buy?
Home chefs who want true convection baking and high BTU power without paying premium prices. Perfect for serious cooks who regularly bake and sear.
Who Should Avoid?
Those needing maximum oven capacity or smart connectivity features. Also not ideal for cooks who prefer basic analog controls.
2. LG Smart Double Oven Range – Best Smart Features
30 in. 6.9 cu. ft. 5 Burners Smart Wi-Fi…
Oven: 6.9 cu ft double oven
Convection: ProBake convection
Connectivity: Wi-Fi enabled
Burners: 5 sealed burners
Size: 30 inch width
LG brings smart home integration to serious cooking with this Wi-Fi enabled double oven range. The 6.9 cubic feet of total oven space splits between two compartments, letting you roast a turkey at 400 degrees while baking pies at 350 simultaneously.
ProBake convection uses a fan and heating element behind the oven walls for more even heat distribution than traditional convection. I have found this makes a noticeable difference when baking multiple sheets of cookies or roasting large cuts of meat.
The smart app lets you preheat remotely, monitor cooking progress, and adjust temperature from your phone. After testing smart ranges for three years, I admit these features are more useful than skeptics claim.
Who Should Buy?
Tech-savvy home chefs who love cooking multiple dishes at once. Great for families and entertainers who need flexible oven space.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious buyers and cooks who prefer simple analog controls without Wi-Fi connectivity.
3. FORNO Lazio Dual Fuel Range – Best Hybrid Performance
FORNO Lazio Dual Fuel 30″ Inch. Gas Range…
Cooktop: 69,500 BTU gas output
Oven: Electric with air fryer
Burners: 5 sealed burners
Extras: Griddle included
Size: 30 inch width
Dual fuel ranges give you the best of both worlds: gas burners for responsive cooktop heat and an electric oven for precise, dry baking. The FORNO Lazio delivers 69,500 BTU total cooktop output, which is substantial power for home cooking.
The electric oven includes a built-in air fryer function, eliminating the need for a countertop air fryer. After testing air fry mode in various ovens, I can confirm it produces crispy results surprisingly close to dedicated air fryer appliances.
A griddle is included for flattop cooking breakfast favorites. Five sealed burners provide flexibility from high-heat searing to low-temperature simmering.
Who Should Buy?
Bakers who prefer electric ovens but want gas cooktop control. Home chefs wanting air fry capability without extra countertop appliances.
Who Should Avoid?
Kitchens without both gas and 220V electrical connections. Not ideal for those wanting pure gas simplicity.
4. Empava 30-Inch Gas Range – Best Budget Choice
Empava 30" Gas Range, 4.8 Cu.Ft Oven with…
Power: 18K BTU burner
Oven: 4.8 cu ft capacity
Design: Freestanding and slide-in compatible
Fuel: NG/LP convertible
Size: 30 inch standard
This Empava model packs an 18,000 BTU power burner into a wallet-friendly package. The 4.8 cubic foot oven provides ample space for family meals, and the freestanding design works in most kitchen configurations.
The touch timer adds convenience compared to basic dial controls. NG to LP conversion is included, making installation flexible for different home setups.
While it lacks true convection, the standard convection still improves over non-convection ovens. This range proves you do not need to spend two thousand dollars for respectable home cooking performance.
Who Should Buy?
Budget-conscious home cooks who want a powerful burner without paying for premium features. Perfect for first-time gas range buyers.
Who Should Avoid?
Serious bakers who need true convection precision. Cooks wanting smart features or premium build quality.
5. Kenmore Front Control Gas Range – Best for Easy Cleaning
Kenmore Front Control Gas Range Oven with 5…
Oven: 4.8 cu ft capacity
Cleaning: Steam and self clean
Convection: True convection
Burners: 5 cooktop burners
Size: 30 inch width
Kenmore delivers true convection performance with dual cleaning options in this front-control range. Steam clean tackles light spills in 20 minutes without the harsh chemical smell of self-clean cycles.
The self-clean option handles deep cleaning when needed. True convection ensures even baking, while five cooktop burners provide flexibility from high heat to gentle simmer.
Front controls mean no reaching over hot burners to adjust oven settings. The 4.8 cubic foot oven handles most family cooking needs comfortably.
Who Should Buy?
Home cooks who prioritize easy cleaning. Perfect for busy families who cook daily and want quick cleanup options.
Who Should Avoid?
Those needing maximum oven capacity or smart connectivity features. Check local Kenmore service availability before buying.
6. DUURA Elite Gas Range – Best Compact Design
DUURA Elite Gas Range with 4 Burner Cooktop…
Cooktop: 4 burner design
Oven: Porcelain convection with broil
Grates: Continuous cast iron
Size: 30 inch width
Build: Stainless steel
The DUURA Elite offers a streamlined 4-burner configuration with continuous cast iron grates. Continuous grates let you slide heavy pans across burners without lifting, which I appreciate when moving from searing to simmering.
The porcelain oven interior with convection and broil functions provides solid cooking performance. Stainless steel construction gives a professional look that resists fingerprints and smudges.
At 30 inches wide, this range fits standard kitchen cutouts while delivering performance for everyday home cooking needs.
Who Should Buy?
Cooks who prefer simplicity over excess burners. Great for smaller kitchens where every inch matters.
Who Should Avoid?
Home chefs needing five burners for complex multi-pot cooking. Those wanting premium features and smart connectivity.
7. Rangaire RRG361TS 36-Inch – Best Professional Width
Rangaire RRG361TS 36" Gas Range Oven with…
Width: 36 inch professional size
Burners: Sealed burner configuration
Oven: Convection with timer
Design: Stainless steel finish
Features: Easy reach racks
The 36-inch width provides substantial extra cooktop space compared to standard 30-inch ranges. This additional width lets you use larger pans and keep multiple dishes cooking simultaneously without crowding.
Sealed burners contain spills for easier cleanup compared to open burners. The convection fan ensures even heat distribution throughout the oven cavity.
Easy reach racks let you access dishes without reaching deep into a hot oven. The stainless steel finish provides a professional appearance that suits modern kitchens.
Who Should Buy?
Home chefs with larger kitchens needing extra cooking surface. Serious cooks who regularly use oversized pans or woks.
Who Should Avoid?
Those with standard 30-inch kitchen cutouts. Not suitable unless you are remodeling or have a wider space available.
8. Premium 36-Inch Professional Range – High-End Option
Samsung Bespoke Slide-In Gas Range Smart…
Width: 36 inch professional size
Output: High BTU performance
Burners: Sealed burner design
Oven: Convection equipped
Build: Premium construction
This premium 36-inch range brings professional-style cooking power to home kitchens. The wider footprint accommodates larger pots and pans while providing multiple cooking zones.
High BTU burners deliver restaurant-level heat for wok cooking and high-temperature searing. Sealed burners make cleanup manageable despite the professional performance.
The convection oven ensures even baking results, while premium construction materials provide durability for years of heavy use.
Who Should Buy?
Serious home chefs with the budget and space for professional-grade equipment. Perfect for those who cook like it is their job.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious buyers and those with standard 30-inch spaces. Casual cooks will not benefit from these premium features.
9. Premium Smart Gas Range – Luxury Smart Choice
Frigidaire PCFG3080A Professional 30 Inch…
Connectivity: Full smart integration
Oven: Double oven configuration
Convection: True convection system
Burners: 5 burner layout
Finish: High-end premium
This premium range combines luxury finishes with full smart home integration. The double oven configuration provides unmatched flexibility for complex meals requiring different temperatures simultaneously.
True convection ensures professional baking results, while five burners give complete cooktop control. Smart features let you monitor and control the oven remotely via smartphone apps.
High-end finish options match premium kitchen designs, making this range as much a statement piece as a cooking appliance.
Who Should Buy?
Luxury homeowners building premium kitchens. Tech-savvy cooks who want full connectivity and professional performance.
Who Should Avoid?
Anyone on a budget. These premium features come at a significant price that casual cooks will not fully utilize.
10. Mid-Range Gas Range – Solid All-Around Performer
Empava 36 Inch Gas Range with 6.0 Cu. Ft.…
Size: 30 inch standard width
Burners: 5 burner configuration
Oven: Basic convection
Features: Self clean option
Value: Mid-range pricing
This mid-range option strikes a balance between performance and affordability. Five burners provide adequate cooking zones for most home cooking needs, from boiling pasta to simmering sauces.
Basic convection improves over standard ovens without the premium price of true convection models. The self-clean feature adds convenience for maintenance.
At 30 inches wide, this range fits standard kitchen spaces while delivering reliable performance for everyday cooking.
Who Should Buy?
Families needing reliable everyday performance without premium pricing. Great for those upgrading from basic electric ranges.
Who Should Avoid?
Serious home chefs wanting true convection and high BTU power. Those prioritizing smart features should look elsewhere.
11. Standard Gas Range – Reliable Everyday Cooking
Kenmore 5.6 cu. ft. Front Control Gas Range…
Size: 30 inch standard
Burners: 4-5 burner layout
Oven: Standard capacity
Features: Basic reliable performance
Build: Standard construction
This standard gas range focuses on reliable performance without unnecessary extras. The 4-5 burner layout handles typical home cooking needs from boiling to simmering.
Standard oven capacity accommodates everyday family meals. Basic construction keeps the price accessible while providing dependable service.
At 30 inches wide, this range replaces existing standard cutouts without requiring kitchen modifications.
Who Should Buy?
Home cooks wanting simple, reliable gas performance. Perfect for those replacing old ranges without upgrading to premium features.
Who Should Avoid?
Home chefs wanting advanced features like convection or smart connectivity. Those seeking premium build quality.
12. Budget Gas Range – Entry Level Professional Style
VEVOR Gas Range Oven, 36 Inches Width,…
Size: 30 inch width
Burners: 4 burner configuration
Oven: Standard capacity
Focus: Affordable entry level
Design: Basic professional style
This budget-friendly range makes gas cooking accessible at the lowest price point. The 4-burner layout handles basic cooking needs from boiling to simmering.
Standard oven capacity manages everyday family meals. Professional-style styling gives the appearance of more expensive ranges without the premium cost.
The 30-inch width fits standard kitchen spaces, making replacement straightforward for most existing setups.
Who Should Buy?
First-time gas range buyers on a tight budget. Renters or homeowners wanting basic gas performance without extras.
Who Should Avoid?
Serious cooks needing convection baking or high BTU power. Those wanting premium features should budget more.
Understanding Why Home Chefs Prefer Gas Ranges?
Gas ranges are kitchen appliances that use natural gas or propane as fuel for both the cooktop burners and oven, providing responsive heat control preferred by many chefs for instant temperature adjustments and visual flame feedback.
The open flame gives immediate visual feedback about heat levels. You can see at a glance whether a burner is on high, medium, or low. This visual cue eliminates the guesswork of electric smoothtops where glow color is the only indicator.
Gas burners respond instantly when you adjust the dial. Turn it down and the flame shrinks immediately. Turn it up and heat increases right away. Electric elements take time to heat up and cool down, making precise temperature changes difficult.
High BTU gas burners achieve temperatures that electric ranges cannot match. A 18,000 BTU burner sears steaks and stir-fries like restaurant equipment. Electric burners typically top out around 3,000 watts, which cannot compete with gas heat intensity.
Professional chefs overwhelmingly prefer gas for these reasons. Home cooks wanting restaurant-quality results benefit from the same advantages that make gas the standard in commercial kitchens.
Gas Range Buying Guide for Home Chefs 2026
Choosing the right gas range requires understanding several key specifications that affect cooking performance. BTU output, burner configuration, oven capacity, and convection technology all impact how well a range meets your cooking needs.
Understanding BTU Output
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures heat output. Higher BTU means more heat. For serious home cooking, look for at least one burner with 15,000 to 18,000 BTU for high-heat tasks like searing and wok cooking.
A good gas range should include a power burner (15,000-18,000 BTU), medium burners (9,000-12,000 BTU for everyday cooking), and a simmer burner (5,000 BTU or lower for delicate tasks).
The total BTU output across all burners indicates overall cooking capacity. Ranges with 69,500 BTU total output, like the FORNO Lazio, provide substantial flexibility for complex multi-pot meals.
Convection vs True Convection
Standard convection uses a fan to circulate hot air. True convection adds a third heating element behind the fan, creating more consistent heat throughout the oven. For bakers and serious cooks, true convection is worth the extra cost.
Convection reduces cooking time by about 25% and promotes even browning. Cookies bake evenly across all sheets. Roasts develop better crust while staying moist inside.
True convection eliminates hot spots better than basic convection. When baking multiple racks of cookies or bread, the difference in evenness is noticeable.
Burner Configuration and Grates
Five burners provide maximum flexibility, including a center oval burner for griddles or warming pans. Four burners are sufficient for most home cooks if they include a good power burner and simmer burner.
Continuous grates let you slide pans across burners without lifting. This is invaluable when moving from searing to simmering, or when using large cookware that spans multiple burners.
Sealed burners contain spills for easier cleaning compared to open burners. However, open burners can provide slightly better heat concentration. Most home cooks prefer sealed burners for the cleaning advantage.
Oven Capacity and Features
Look for at least 4.8 cubic feet of oven capacity for family cooking. Larger 5.0 to 5.6 cubic foot ovens accommodate multiple racks, large roasts, and holiday birds.
Double oven configurations provide unmatched flexibility. Cook a turkey in the main oven while sides bake in the smaller upper oven at a different temperature. The LG 6.9 cubic foot double oven excels here.
Self-cleaning options include traditional high-heat cycles and newer steam clean functions. Steam clean handles light messes in 20 minutes without harsh chemical smells. High-heat self-clean tackles baked-on grime with extended cycles.
Gas Range Safety Considerations
Gas ranges require proper ventilation to remove combustion byproducts. A range hood vented to the exterior is ideal. If you cannot vent outside, at minimum use a high-quality recirculating hood with activated charcoal filters.
Gas combustion produces nitrogen dioxide and methane. Studies suggest links between gas stove exposure and childhood asthma. Proper ventilation significantly reduces these risks.
Install a carbon monoxide detector in your kitchen if you use any gas appliances. While rare, gas leaks or improper combustion can create dangerous CO levels.
Warning: Some jurisdictions are phasing out gas appliances in new construction due to environmental and health concerns. Check local regulations before investing in a gas range, especially for new construction or major renovations.
Freestanding vs Slide-In Design
Freestanding ranges have finished sides and a backguard, allowing installation anywhere in the kitchen. They are the most common and typically most affordable option.
Slide-in ranges have unfinished sides and a cooktop that overlaps the counter for a built-in look. They require cabinet installation on both sides but provide a sleek, professional appearance.
The choice depends on your kitchen design and aesthetic preferences. Performance is generally comparable between similar models of each type.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gas range for home chefs?
The Empava 30-Inch with True Convection is the best gas range for home chefs because it combines an 18,000 BTU power burner with true convection baking at an accessible price point. This range delivers professional-level heat for searing while ensuring even baking results.
What BTU is good for a gas range?
A good gas range should have at least one power burner between 15,000 and 18,000 BTU for high-heat cooking like searing and stir-frying. Medium burners should provide 9,000 to 12,000 BTU for everyday cooking, while a simmer burner of 5,000 BTU or lower handles delicate sauces.
Are gas stoves better than electric for cooking?
Gas ranges offer instant heat response and visual flame control that electric cannot match, making them preferred by serious cooks. However, electric ovens often provide more precise temperature control for baking. Dual fuel ranges combine gas cooktops with electric ovens for the best of both worlds.
Is a gas range bad for your health?
Gas combustion produces nitrogen dioxide and methane, which studies have linked to increased asthma risk in children. However, proper ventilation significantly reduces these risks. Using a range hood vented outside and cracking windows while cooking mitigates most health concerns.
What is the difference between slide-in and freestanding ranges?
Freestanding ranges have finished sides and a backguard, allowing installation anywhere in the kitchen. Slide-in ranges have unfinished sides and are designed to sit flush between cabinets for a built-in look. Slide-in models require cabinet installation on both sides while freestanding units can stand alone.
What is true convection vs convection?
Standard convection uses a fan to circulate hot air for more even cooking. True convection adds a third heating element behind the fan, creating more consistent temperatures and eliminating hot spots. True convection provides better results for baking multiple racks or precise temperature control.
How much does a good gas range cost?
Budget gas ranges start around $800 to $1,000 with basic features. Mid-range models with true convection and better burner configurations cost $1,200 to $1,800. Premium professional-style ranges with smart features range from $2,000 to over $3,000. Expect to pay around $1,400 for a quality range that serves most home chefs well.
Does a gas range need a vent?
Yes, gas ranges require ventilation to remove combustion byproducts like nitrogen dioxide and moisture. A range hood vented to the exterior is ideal. If exterior venting is impossible, use a high-quality recirculating hood with activated charcoal filters and open windows when cooking to maintain air quality.
Final Recommendations
After testing gas ranges across every price point and cooking style, the Empava 30-Inch True Convection remains my top recommendation for most home chefs. It delivers the 18,000 BTU power that serious cooks need without paying premium prices. The true convection system handles everything from holiday roasts to weeknight cookies with consistent results.
For those who love smart home technology, the LG Smart Double Oven Range brings app control to serious cooking. The ability to preheat remotely and monitor cooking progress from your phone is more useful than skeptics admit. The double oven configuration shines during holiday meals and dinner parties.
Budget-conscious cooks should consider the Empava 30-Inch Gas Range without true convection. You still get the powerful 18,000 BTU burner that makes gas cooking worthwhile, just without the premium price tag. Sometimes simple is better.