Viking D3 vs GE Monogram: The D3 line is Viking's less expensive series of product versus GE Monogram, or the most expensive line of GE appliances. They both have different philosophies. Viking is branded to consumers whereas GE is the product of choice for builders and has very little name recognition in higher-end appliances among consumers. This article was an actual request (you can make requests on the ole blog).
Viking D3
Viking began full production of professional ranges in 1987 and were one of the first. They have since diversified into other appliances. Viking is a recognized label, and the name has always been associated to professional grade residential appliances. The new Viking D3 was released earlier this year and designed to reach lower prices. It still offers the output we’ve come to expect from Viking, with a flare of style (customizable knobs and handles available). With the introduction of the D3, Viking is now relevant in the less expensive, affordable luxury niche. Read Viking Pro vs Viking D3 for a comparison between the two Viking products.
GE Monogram
GE, or General Electric, began making consumer appliances in 1907. Since then, they have produced and sold a full line of household appliances, satisfying all kitchen and laundry room needs, for all budgets. GE categorizes their appliances within different product lines, which range from value brand to luxurious. GE Monogram was introduced in the late 1980s in an attempt to reach the most affluent customers with pro style refrigerators and cooking. The early Monogram pieces were manufactured by DCS and are now produced in many places from Asia to Slovenia.
For comparison purposes, below is a breakdown between the 2 gas ranges.
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GE Monogram ZGP304NRSS
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An interesting factor you should consider if deciding between these two respected manufacturers is that Viking has always been associated with professional grade, performance and quality. To an average consumer, they’re as close to commercial as you can get. The D3 was created to meet a more affordable price range, but this grade of appliance was never their specialty. I like D3, but the service question has always dogged Viking. Refrigerators and more recently their dishwashers have really been problematic...so consumers are jittery.
On the opposite side, the same (but very different) can be written about GE. They have always been known to offer a more contemporary designed appliance within a more affordable price range. Their luxury line, Monogram, was never their specialty, nor is it a well recognized label within the manufacturer to an average consumer. Monogram has two real issues: First the truly affluent customers have never accepted the label nor has GE really devoted the energy to design a better product. Secondly, it is really expensive and more expensive in fact to competitors like Thermador.
So to answer the question, I like the D3 from a price standpoint...provided it works, and time will tell. I would consider Monogram on a rebate promotion and give some serious consideration to Thermador, Wolf and Jenn-Air.
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Additional Resources
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