Choosing the right cooktop size can completely transform your kitchen’s layout, usability, and style.
Among the most common options, 30-inch and 36-inch cooktops dominate the market – both offering unique advantages depending on your cooking habits, family size, and available counter space.
If you’re remodeling your kitchen or upgrading your current unit, the question isn’t just about size – it’s about how you cook, how many burners you need, and what will make your kitchen more comfortable and efficient.
This guide explores the key differences between 30-inch and 36-inch cooktops, explains which fits your kitchen better, and compares 10 top-rated models across both sizes. Let’s dive in.
1. Quick Comparison – 30-Inch vs. 36-Inch Cooktops
| Feature | 30-Inch Cooktop | 36-Inch Cooktop |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Burners | 4 | 5 or 6 |
| Ideal Kitchen Size | Small to medium kitchens | Medium to large kitchens |
| Countertop Space Needed | Less (fits standard cabinet) | Requires wider cabinet (36″+) |
| Price Range | $400-$1,200 | $700-$2,000+ |
| Power Output | Moderate | Higher BTU options available |
| Installation | Easier fit for most kitchens | Requires custom cabinetry in some cases |
| Best For | Singles, couples, small families | Home chefs, large families, frequent cooks |
In short:
30-inch cooktops are perfect for compact kitchens or apartments.
36-inch cooktops are better for families or anyone who enjoys cooking multiple dishes at once.
2. Why Size Matters in Cooktop Selection
The cooktop size directly affects not only how many pans you can use but also your workflow, spacing, and aesthetics.
30-Inch Cooktops
- Typically include four burners arranged in a square or rectangular layout.
- Easy to fit into standard 30-inch cabinets without modifications.
- Better suited for smaller kitchens or secondary cooktops in kitchen islands.
- Consume less power, making them energy-efficient and affordable.
36-Inch Cooktops
- Usually offer five or six burners, allowing you to multitask efficiently.
- Perfect for open kitchens, large countertops, or avid home chefs.
- Offer more room between burners, preventing crowding.
- Often feature dual or triple-ring burners for faster boiling or wok cooking.
3. Design and Layout Differences
| Layout Element | 30-Inch Cooktop | 36-Inch Cooktop |
|---|---|---|
| Burner Spacing | Compact, close proximity | Wider spacing for larger pots |
| Knob/Control Placement | Front or right side | Front or center for symmetrical look |
| Pan Accommodation | Up to 10″ pans comfortably | Fits 12″-14″ pans easily |
| Ventilation Need | Standard 30″ hood | Recommended 36″+ range hood |
If you frequently cook with large pans or multiple pots, the extra 6 inches on a 36-inch model provides noticeable freedom of movement.
4. Power and Performance
30-inch cooktops deliver around 30,000-40,000 total BTUs, suitable for standard cooking tasks.
36-inch models push closer to 50,000-60,000 BTUs, making them ideal for high-heat searing or quick boiling.
| Power Range | 30-Inch Models | 36-Inch Models |
|---|---|---|
| Simmer Burner | 5,000-7,000 BTUs | 5,000-8,000 BTUs |
| Main Burners | 9,000-12,000 BTUs | 10,000-15,000 BTUs |
| Power Burner | 15,000-18,000 BTUs | 18,000-22,000 BTUs |
For everyday cooking, both work well – but if you love wok dishes, large family meals, or entertaining, the 36-inch model’s added power is noticeable.
5. Space and Installation Requirements
- 30-inch models fit standard cabinetry with minimal adjustments.
- 36-inch models may require custom countertop cutting or modified cabinetry width.
If you’re remodeling a small apartment kitchen, stick with a 30-inch unit for convenience. But if you’re upgrading a large home kitchen, the 36-inch cooktop gives you both performance and luxury appeal.
6. Top 10 Cooktops Compared
Below is a comparison of the best 30-inch and 36-inch cooktops, featuring both gas and electric models, along with their average prices, standout features, and ratings.
| Rank | Model | Size | Type | Burners | Price (USD) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GE Profile PGP9030SLSS | 30″ | Gas | 5 | $899 | Powerful, sleek, reliable |
| 2 | Bosch 800 Series NGM8046UC | 30″ | Gas | 4 | $949 | Premium build, quiet ignition |
| 3 | Samsung NA30N6555TG | 30″ | Gas | 5 | $850 | Wi-Fi, digital controls |
| 4 | Frigidaire Gallery FGGC3047QS | 30″ | Gas | 5 | $699 | Affordable, stainless design |
| 5 | KitchenAid KCGS556ESS | 36″ | Gas | 5 | $1,199 | Great for large pots |
| 6 | LG Studio LCG3611ST | 36″ | Gas | 5 | $1,099 | Elegant layout, powerful flame |
| 7 | Bosch Benchmark NGM8656UC | 36″ | Gas | 5 | $1,299 | Precision control |
| 8 | Empava EMPV-36GC5B70C | 36″ | Gas | 5 | $579 | Budget-friendly, stylish |
| 9 | GE Profile PP7036SJSS | 36″ | Electric | 5 | $999 | Smooth glass cooktop |
| 10 | Frigidaire FPEC3677RF | 36″ | Electric | 5 | $1,099 | Touch controls, even heating |
7. In-Depth Reviews of the Top 10 Models
1. GE Profile PGP9030SLSS (30-Inch Gas Cooktop)
Price: $899
Highlights: 18,000 BTU power burner, heavy-duty grates, sleek controls.
Pros:
- Strong heat distribution
- Dishwasher-safe grates
- Excellent durability
Cons:
- Slightly loud ignition click
User Review:
“Great balance of price and quality. Heats up fast and looks premium.”
2. Bosch 800 Series NGM8046UC (30-Inch)
Price: $949
Pros:
- Precise temperature control
- Cast-iron grates
- Professional aesthetic
Cons:
- Smaller burner spacing
User Review:
“Compact yet professional-grade. Love the clean design.”
3. Samsung NA30N6555TG (30-Inch)
Price: $850
Pros:
- Wi-Fi smart controls
- Rapid Boil burner
- LED knobs for safety
Cons:
- Requires Wi-Fi app setup
User Review:
“Tech-savvy and stylish. Great control features for modern kitchens.”
4. Frigidaire Gallery FGGC3047QS (30-Inch)
Price: $699
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Smooth stainless surface
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Slight heat unevenness at low simmer
User Review:
“Excellent for the price. Works just as well as high-end models.”
5. KitchenAid KCGS556ESS (36-Inch Gas Cooktop)
Price: $1,199
Pros:
- 20,000 BTU dual-flame burner
- Perfect for large pots
- Durable metal knobs
Cons:
- Heavier to clean
User Review:
“Amazing power for cooking big meals. Ideal for family dinners.”
6. LG Studio LCG3611ST (36-Inch)
Price: $1,099
Pros:
- Even heating
- Easy-to-use knobs
- Premium look
Cons:
- Fingerprints show on surface
User Review:
“Love how wide it feels. Excellent performance with elegant design.”
7. Bosch Benchmark NGM8656UC (36-Inch)
Price: $1,299
Pros:
- High-end control knobs
- Solid build quality
- Superior flame control
Cons:
- Premium cost
User Review:
“Smoothest gas control I’ve ever used. Feels professional-grade.”
8. Empava EMPV-36GC5B70C (36-Inch Gas Cooktop)
Price: $579
Pros:
- Affordable luxury look
- Five burners, tempered glass
- Easy ignition
Cons:
- Slightly smaller burner rings
User Review:
“Stylish and cheap. Works surprisingly well for its price.”
9. GE Profile PP7036SJSS (36-Inch Electric)
Price: $999
Pros:
- Smooth glass surface
- Consistent heating
- Touch controls
Cons:
- Slow heat-up compared to gas
User Review:
“Love the simplicity – no knobs, easy to clean, modern.”
10. Frigidaire FPEC3677RF (36-Inch Electric)
Price: $1,099
Pros:
- Flex heating zones
- Responsive touch panel
- Great for families
Cons:
- Sensitive touch controls
User Review:
“Stylish, efficient, and perfect for daily use.”
8. Model Summary Table – Pros and Cons
| Model | Size | Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE Profile PGP9030SLSS | 30″ | Gas | Great heat control, strong grates | Noisy ignition |
| Bosch 800 Series | 30″ | Gas | Precise flame | Compact spacing |
| Samsung NA30N6555TG | 30″ | Gas | Smart controls, strong burner | Setup needed |
| Frigidaire Gallery FGGC3047QS | 30″ | Gas | Affordable | Uneven simmer |
| KitchenAid KCGS556ESS | 36″ | Gas | High power, sturdy | Cleaning effort |
| LG Studio LCG3611ST | 36″ | Gas | Stylish, even heating | Fingerprints |
| Bosch Benchmark | 36″ | Gas | Professional feel | Pricey |
| Empava EMPV | 36″ | Gas | Affordable, sleek | Smaller burners |
| GE Profile PP7036SJSS | 36″ | Electric | Smooth surface | Slower heat |
| Frigidaire FPEC3677RF | 36″ | Electric | Flex zones | Sensitive panel |
9. Which Size Fits Your Space?
| Kitchen Type | Recommended Size | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Small Apartment / Condo | 30-inch | Compact and efficient |
| Medium Family Kitchen | 36-inch | Extra burner for multi-dish cooking |
| Open-Concept Kitchen | 36-inch | Aesthetic balance with large counters |
| Minimalist or Secondary Kitchen | 30-inch | Saves space, easy install |
For compact kitchens, a 30-inch cooktop is easier to install and maintain. But if you cook frequently or host dinners, the 36-inch version gives you better multitasking ability.
10. Cost Breakdown – Purchase, Installation, and Operation
| Expense Type | 30-Inch | 36-Inch |
|---|---|---|
| Average Unit Cost | $700 | $1,000 |
| Installation | $150-$300 | $250-$500 |
| Cabinet Modification | Rarely required | Sometimes necessary |
| Operating Costs (Gas) | Slightly lower | Higher BTU usage |
Over a 10-year lifespan, the 36-inch cooktop may cost slightly more in gas and maintenance – but offers a higher resale appeal and better cooking flexibility.
11. Aesthetic and Design Impact
Cooktops are not just appliances; they’re part of your kitchen’s personality.
- A 30-inch cooktop gives a minimalist, clean look – ideal for modern or apartment kitchens.
- A 36-inch cooktop becomes a centerpiece, especially when paired with wide hoods and stone counters.
Choose based on your countertop layout, island size, and desired symmetry.
12. User Feedback Summary
| User Type | Preferred Size | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Single / Couple | 30-inch | Efficient and compact |
| Family (4-6) | 36-inch | Extra burner for big meals |
| Home Chef / Enthusiast | 36-inch | Power and space |
| Minimalist Cook | 30-inch | Easy maintenance |
Most buyers upgrading from 30 to 36 inches cite space and burner variety as the main reasons.
13. Expert Verdict
If you cook simple meals or live in an apartment, go for the 30-inch cooktop – it fits anywhere and saves space.
If you often prepare multiple dishes, love experimenting, or want a professional look, the 36-inch cooktop is worth every inch.
Best Overall Pick: KitchenAid KCGS556ESS (36-Inch Gas)
Best Compact Pick: GE Profile PGP9030SLSS (30-Inch Gas)
Best Value: Frigidaire Gallery FGGC3047QS (30-Inch)
Most Stylish: LG Studio LCG3611ST (36-Inch)
Smart Choice: Samsung NA30N6555TG (30-Inch Wi-Fi Enabled)
Conclusion
Both 30-inch and 36-inch cooktops have distinct strengths – the right one depends on your kitchen layout and cooking lifestyle.
- The 30-inch size is compact, efficient, and fits nearly every countertop design.
- The 36-inch cooktop offers freedom, power, and professional flair.
If space allows, most home chefs agree that the 36-inch size adds value, flexibility, and comfort – but even a well-chosen 30-inch cooktop can handle everyday cooking beautifully.