Cooktops

Choosing a cooktop comes down to three things: how you like to cook, the space you have, and the finish you want on your benchtop. Here's what to check before you buy.

Induction, gas or electric?

• Induction: Heats fast, cools down just as quick, and is easier to wipe clean since the glass surface stays cool around the pot. Needs induction-compatible cookware (magnetic base).
• Gas on glass: Combines open flame cooking with a sleek black glass surface. Good middle ground if you want gas control without a steel cooktop.
• Gas on steel: The traditional choice. Stainless steel handles heat and knocks well, and hides small marks better than glass.
• Electric (ceramic): A simpler, budget-friendly option. Slower to heat and cool than induction, but straightforward to install and use.
• Freestanding cookers: Combine a cooktop and oven in one unit, useful if you're replacing both at once or working with a tight kitchen footprint.

Explore matching rangehoods and ovens.

Picking the right size cooktop 

Cooktops most commonly come in 60cm and 90cm widths. Measure your existing benchtop cutout before ordering:

• 60cm suits smaller kitchens or households that don't need four large cooking zones.
• 90cm gives more room between burners or zones, better for bigger pots or cooking multiple dishes at once.

Always check the cutout dimensions against your current benchtop opening, especially if you're swapping between brands or cooktop types.

Finish and style

Black glass gives a flush, modern look and suits kitchens with dark or minimal benchtops. Stainless steel is a practical choice if you want something that matches existing appliances or handles daily wear without showing scratches as easily.

Power and gas connection

Induction and electric cooktops need a dedicated electrical circuit, and larger models may need three-phase power. Always confirm your home's wiring can support the model you're after. Gas cooktops need a gas point already in place or run by a licenced plumber. In both cases, use a licenced tradesperson for installation.

Low current options

If your home has limited electrical capacity, look for cooktops built for low current draw. These are worth checking if you're renovating an older property or apartment with restricted circuit capacity.

Once your cooktop is sorted, round out the kitchen with a matching kitchen tap mixer or a new kitchen sink to finish the space.