Turn up THE HEAT

From flames to futuristic tech, here's how to find the cooktop to suit both your kitchen and your cooking style

- WORDS REBECCA HOOTON

Choosing a cooktop isn't just about picking the sleekest option in the showroom. It's about how you cook, how your kitchen flows, and what fuel and power options are available to you. From classic gas burners to high-tech induction panels, the modern cooktop landscape has evolved rapidly. And now, hybrid designs are offering the ultimate in culinary versatility.

According to Steve Morato, senior product expert at Winnings, your cooktop choice really starts with existing infrastructure: “Cooktops require either electricity or gas as a fuel source, so how much of either you have access to dictates which type of cooktop you should choose.”

Meanwhile, aesthetics are playing a bigger role than ever. Brent Bennett, category manager at Gaggenau, explains that the latest cooktop designs “integrate seamlessly into the kitchen without compromising performance”. They're made to disappear effortlessly into the kitchen design.

Let's dive into the most popular types of cooktops on the market today, explore which might be right for your kitchen, and unpack the pros, cons and what's coming next.

An old flame

Real fire, instant heat and total control - gas cooktops remain a staple for passionate cooks. They work using LPG or natural gas and are often seen as the chef's choice thanks to their responsiveness and versatility. “Gas delivers high-power cooking with lightweight cookware and looks amazing,” says Steve. “Flaming woks look spectacular when you're rocking your inner chef.”