May 3rd, 2024 | 15 min. read
Learn how to find the perfect cooking products with our Pro Cooking Buying Guide
Your key takeaway: No brand dominates every feature for professional ranges.
Why it matters: The best brand for you is determined by how you cook.
Finding the right 36-inch professional (pro) range can be overwhelming.
With so many options, it's no surprise that many people regret their purchases.
Contrary to what manufacturers and other websites may claim, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for pro ranges.
The best range for you and your family will depend on your cooking habits and needs.
In this article, you'll learn about the differences between gas and dual fuel ranges, the importance of reliability and features, and the best brands to consider.
By the end, you'll clearly understand what type of professional range will suit you best.
Let's get started.
My Mom's Range and Whether You Should Buy Dual Fuel or All Gas
My mom's pot roast and London broil were legendary, and they are the reason I was a vegetarian for almost seven years.
For my mom, an all-gas range is better due to its moist heat being better for roasting.
My mom's shoe leather steaks resulted from a more effective gas broiler left in the oven for far too long.
Gas is far better for broiling than electric, especially the intense infrared heat found in a pro range.
In terms of price, gas ranges are less expensive by 10-15% compared to dual fuel ranges.
Additionally, they only require a 120-volt electrical hookup to power the electronic components.
So why is everyone pushed into dual fuel?
A dual fuel range has a gas stovetop and an electric oven. Dual fuel ovens have more precise heat control and are better for baking.
Also, in pro ranges, dual fuel ranges have additional features like steam assist ovens, better controls, and induction burners.
PS About Mom: In her retirement, my mom morphed into a baker of considerable note. Her peanut butter cookies and banana bread are classic.
I ate 38 last weekend. They are small, thank heaven.
And she now has a dual fuel range - the very one shown above.
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The Best 36-Inch Dual Fuel and Gas Professional Ranges for 2024
Wolf All Gas and Dual Fuel Pro Ranges
Wolf is a premium appliance brand owned by Sub-Zero. Wolf is most well-known for its red knobs and dual-stack burners.
Wolf's professional gas and dual fuel ranges are reliable and have one of the best service networks available.
Let's look at Wolf's best features.
Best Features of Wolf Pro Ranges
Wolf Grill and Griddle
Wolf pro ranges feature a high-powered grill and griddle.
If you are looking for a grill, you can stop here.
Many manufacturers like Thermador and Miele have stopped manufacturing ranges with grills.
BlueStar is the only other manufacturer, and Wolf is better at using infrared than regular gas.
Burners
Every burner on Wolf's ranges can simmer exceptionally well at a 340-degree constant temperature.
In terms of burners, Wolf's dual fuel range has 20,000 and 18,000 BTU (British thermal units) burners, while the all-gas GR series features only 15,000 BTU burners.
Wolf Gourmet
The Wolf Gourmet feature allows you to input the food and weight, and the oven will calculate the necessary time, temperature, and rack position for the best cooking results.
Wolf Dual Fuel vs. All Gas Ranges
Wolf's ranges differ beyond the burners.
The dual fuel range features a 7-inch control screen, Wi-Fi technology, and a higher-level convection system known as "VertiFlow."
Wolf's VertiFlow convection system moves air faster and more evenly with two fans for more even heat distribution.
On the other hand, the all-gas range only has a single convection system and LCD display.
Wolf Pro Range Problems
While Wolf's dual fuel range offers a great combination of features, including high output, a grill and griddle option, and the best convection system, the all-gas range's output, at 15,000 BTU per burner, is slightly less than that of other pro ranges.
Additionally, Wolf's ranges are only available in stainless steel and do not have the special features of some of the other brands on this list.
BlueStar All Gas and Dual Fuel Pro Ranges
BlueStar is another family-owned American company based in Pennsylvania.
Their top two gas ranges, the Platinum and RNB series, are the most popular options and share a similar appearance.
However, their new dual-fuel range is the most intriguing.
Best Features of BlueStar Pro Ranges
BlueStar Burners
BlueStar's new range features three sealed 25,000 BTU gas burners, and the back burners are still impressive at 18,000 BTU.
The X8 burner spreads out 20 inches with 152 ports, providing superior heat distribution compared to other gas ranges.
At least, that's what the marketing says. Personally, I think heat hits the pan and the pan cooks the food.
BlueStar Controls
BlueStar now offers controls with a 7-inch touchscreen and eight different cooking modes.
All of BlueStar’s gas ranges have no controls other than knobs.
Customization
With over 1,000 colors and 10 trim options, BlueStar's ranges can be customized to fit any kitchen decor.
You can also match your own as well.
BlueStar Pro Range Ovens
The BlueStar Platinum series gas ranges feature a pure convection system that evenly distributes temperature by blowing air from the rear.
Only SKS and BlueStar offer pure gas options.
All BlueStar ovens can fit an 18-26-inch sheet pan, providing ample space for cooking large meals.
BlueStar Platinum vs. RNB Series Ranges
The all-gas models in these two series feature regular open burners.
The BlueStar Platinum is more powerful, with a maximum output of 25,000 BTU compared to the still powerful 22,000 BTU for the RNB series.
The RNB series includes an integrated grill and griddle, while the Platinum offers a freestanding option.
Built-in grills and griddles generally offer more even temperatures than portable options.
BlueStar’s RNB series range has regular convection with the heat generated at the bottom and distributed by the fan versus the pure convection of the Platinum.
BlueStar Pro Range Problems
While their dual fuel range offers impressive output, it is only available in all or four burners and a griddle.
The grill and griddle use regular gas instead of infrared, producing less direct and intense heat.
The broiler is advertised as reaching 1,850 degrees, but its actual output in British thermal units is only 15,000 BTU.
In comparison, other brands average around 20,000 BTU, with Miele offering the highest at 23,000 BTU.
BlueStar ranges also do not offer Wi-Fi technology.
Thermador All Gas and Dual Fuel Pro Ranges
Thermador, a premium appliance brand owned by Bosch, offers two styles of gas ranges: the Pro Grand Series and the Harmony Series.
They are best known for their star-shaped burners, which (allegedly) provide better pan coverage.
They also offer great packages with free dishwashers and hoods with qualifying purchases.
Unlike other brands, Thermador's all-gas and dual-fuel ranges are aesthetically similar except for the self-cleaning feature.
But there is a difference in the two series.
Thermador Pro Harmony vs. Pro Grand Series 36-Inch Ranges
The Pro Grand series has several additional features compared to the Harmony series.
It includes a clock, a 22,000 BTU burner (compared to 18,000 in the Harmony), a proof (low temperature) mode for baking bread, and a bigger oven based on depth.
You can add a set of induction burners to the Pro Grand, which is the best option for simmering or quick boiling. Induction burners have better temperature control and fast heat response.
Induction is also easier to vent and clean, especially for Massachusetts residents.
The Thermador Pro Grand gas range is self-cleaning but is also more expensive, costing about $1,500-$2,000 more than the Pro Harmony.
In terms of installation, the Pro Grand protrudes 3 inches past your cabinets once installed.
This is one reason why the Harmony series is more popular - it sits flush with the cabinets.
Best Features of Thermador Pro Ranges
Star Burners
Thermador's signature Star Burner is designed with a unique shape that offers better pan coverage (allegedly) and easier cleaning.
The simmer burner on the gas range delivers 100 BTUs, but it's only available on two burners.
It has an on/off setting, meaning the flame will turn on and off intermittently. In comparison, Wolf's simmer burner is continuous.
However, the cleanup is easier because the star is raised.
Wi-Fi
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Thermador's range comes equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities.
You can control your range from a phone app, which also allows you to access recipes and adjust the temperature remotely.
Thermador Pro Range Problems
Despite being among the most affordable on this list, Thermador Pro Ranges have some limitations to be aware of before making a purchase.
The electric griddle takes some time to reach temperature, but once it does, it functions decently.
The Pro Grand model comes with a basic clock, but the Harmony model does not have a clock or timer function.
Additionally, Thermador uses an older single convection system, while competitors like Miele offer a twin convection system.
BlueStar has a pure convection system in their Platinum series in all gas.
Monogram All Gas and Dual Fuel Pro Ranges
Monogram professional ranges are an intriguing option if you're looking for a high-quality range.
Monogram's SmartHQ app has the best functionality and incorporates Hestan Cue technology to guide you through cooking new recipes step-by-step.
These ranges are available in two models: all burners and four burners with a griddle.
Best Features of Monogram Ranges
Burner Output
Brass burners typically are more durable, and only La Cornue offers them at a steep price of $40,000 or more.
Monogram burners produce a high output, ranging from 23,000 BTU to 15,000 BTU.
One option to consider is the all-gas ZGP366NTSS.
This range provides a slightly lower burner output of 18,000 BTU but is still a powerful and more affordable option compared to other models at $7,100.
Monogram Griddle
In addition to its high burner output, this range also has a powerful griddle with an output of 18,000 BTU.
Brass Accents and Lighting
I am not a style influencer, but the brass is appealing. The lighting allows you to change the colors on the App.
Ours are understandably Celtics Green and Bruins yellow.
Monogram Rebates
You also have a rebate program like Thermador, which offers free appliances when you buy the range.
Monogram Pro Range Problems
Unfortunately, this range lacks the option for a grill and comes in a single convection oven without any color variations.
Fisher & Paykel All Gas and Dual Fuel Pro Ranges
Fisher & Paykel is a division of Haier known for turning around GE in recent years.
The company's 36-inch ranges have also undergone updates to keep pace with their competition.
Best Features of Fisher & Paykel Ranges
Powerful Burner Output
The best feature of Fisher & Paykel ranges is their burner output.
This range includes two 23,500 BTU sealed burners and four 18,500 BTU burners, providing good output.
Feature Upgrades
The dual-fuel model includes a clock as well as Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing you to remotely monitor and control the range.
Fisher & Paykel Pro Range Problems
If you're someone who loves to cook large meals and frequently entertain guests, Fisher & Paykel's range, with a smaller oven capacity of 5.3 cubic feet, may not be the best fit for you.
Another disadvantage of Fisher & Paykel ranges is the lack of a grill or griddle stovetop option.
The controls on Fisher & Paykel gas ranges are relatively basic, lacking the advanced features found in other high-end ranges.
This may be fine for those who prefer a more straightforward cooking experience, but it may be a drawback for those who demand more control over their cooking.
Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) All Gas and Dual Fuel 36 Inch Pro Ranges
SKS (Signature Kitchen Suite) is LG's premium division. It offers five 36-inch pro ranges, including three dual-fuel and one gas range.
This is a new company worth a peek at because they make technology so simple.
The SKSDR360SIS is an excellent range to consider, especially if you live in Massachusetts.
Best Features of SKS Pro Ranges
It features burners with 18,000 BTU output and a low of 100 BTU with a Sous Vide option.
For non-sous vide ranges, the maximum output is 23,000 BTU.
Induction
It also has a two-zone induction burner on the other side, providing faster boiling and even better simmering.
Sous Vide
The range includes a sous vide stovetop option.
Sous vide is a cooking method that involves vacuum-sealing food in a bag and then cooking it in water at a precise, controlled temperature.
I’ve seen sous vide cooking in action. The meat has a consistent flavor and texture, and the chef says it stays that way even when reheating.
SKS’s sous vide stovetop option works, but you'll need to learn how to use it to make it worthwhile.
Make-Up Air Compatible
SKS’s range with induction and sous vide produces less heat and smoke.
It is also make-up air compatible, so you don't have to plan for a make-up air vent through your HVAC system.
Griddle
The griddle is the easiest to clean, and the oven has a capacity of 6.3 cubic feet with a 23,000 BTU pure convection element.
Combi Steam Oven (Dual Fuel)
SKS’s dual fuel ranges also feature a combi steam oven that allows you to cook by convection steam, which is a healthier way to cook by adding moisture.
Build
SKS markets itself as the range for the "Technician," with an advanced clock and timer and LG's ThinQ Wi-Fi package.
The clock is so simple to use with its swipe controls.
Warranty
SKS also provides the best warranty of three years, with no longer than a five-day wait for service.
SKS Pro Range Problems
However, the SKS range does have some drawbacks.
For instance, you cannot buy a grill for your stovetop with the SKS, and the sous vide feature may not be useful to everyone.
Additionally, SKS might need help to fulfill its service claims.
Read More: Should You Buy a Signature Kitchen Suite Professional Range?
Miele All Gas and Dual Fuel Pro Ranges
Miele is a well-respected, family-owned appliance company from Germany.
Best Features of Miele Pro Ranges
Control System
The M touch control system, available in their dual fuel range, is the most advanced on this list.
Like Wolf, the system calculates time and temperature based on the food type and cooking preference. This makes meal prepping much easier.
Steam Assist
The range also features a useful Steam Assist feature, which includes up to three bursts of steam and 17 automatic bread recipes on the controls.
Oven
In addition, both dual fuel and all gas models have twin convection. Miele's gas range also has the hottest infrared broiler at 23,000 BTU.
Cleanability
Cleaning Miele's range is hassle-free, as the grates and racks are designed to be easily washable.
You can even put them in your dishwasher, and the racks can remain in the oven during the self-cleaning cycle, saving you time and effort.
Burners and Stovetop
The stovetop features burners that provide up to 19,500 BTU of heat output.
Miele also offers the option of having a high-output infrared griddle.
Miele Pro Range Problems
While the 19,500 BTU burner is impressive, some of Miele's other burners are less powerful, with 9,000 and 8,000 BTU outputs.
Not to mention, they discontinued their infrared grill stovetop option this year.
Additionally, Miele's range is not available in color.
La Cornue All Gas Pro Ranges
If you equate the best professional range with the best range, then La Cornue could be a consideration. La Cornue is French-made but American-owned.
Best Features of La Cornue Ranges
Customizable Stovetop
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With La Cornue, you can customize your range to fit your cooking preferences.
You can choose from several stovetop configurations, including a grill, griddle, French top, or induction burners.
Oven
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The oven is great because it uses natural convection. Air comes in from the bottom, keeping the temperature steady without any fans.
Plus, the arched top spreads the air around better.
You can choose between electric or gas - larger La Cornue ranges offer both options.
Colors
La Cornue offers a vast range of colors and trims, totaling 56 colors and eight trim options, so the range is like an heirloom that is as beautiful as it is functional.
La Cornue Pro Range Problems
While La Cornue's range is one of the best on the market, it comes with a steep price tag of over $40,000 plus shipping from France.
It also doesn't offer any technology, not even clocks or timers.
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Which 36-inch Professional Range Should You Buy?
Now that we've explored the pros and cons of various professional ranges, let's examine which range best suits your specific cooking habits and style preferences.
Best for Style and Color: BlueStar and La Cornue
BlueStar is the clear winner due to the endless custom color and trim combinations you can choose.
You can design your range to be truly yours, matching your style and preference.
Want orange with brass trim? You can do that only with BlueStar.
La Cornue also offers a beautiful range of color choices and customization options, though with 56 options, it falls behind BlueStar in terms of variety.
Most Powerful: BlueStar
While most ranges are hot enough for cooking, BlueStar stands out with the hottest burners at 25,000 BTU, and their least powerful burners still come in at a strong 18,000 BTU.
However, Monogram, SKS, and Fisher & Paykel all have at least one 23,000 BTU burner, making them a close second in terms of power.
Best Simmer Performance: Wolf, SKS, and Thermador
If you value having a low simmer for delicate tasks like melting chocolate, Wolf, SKS, and Thermador are the best options.
Wolf uses a dual-stack burner with two gas ports to every burner, allowing for many simmer performance variations.
Thermador and SKS's simmer performance is intermittent but still performs well, with the induction burner on the Thermador Pro Grand and SKS offering the best simmer and never blowing out at the lowest temperature.
Best Grill: Wolf
Wolf uses an infrared grill and griddle for faster, more intense heat.
Infrared is better than regular gas for cleaning because it evaporates drippings.
While BlueStar also has a grill option, it uses straight gas and diffuses heat, which is not ideal for grilling or cleaning.
Best Griddle: SKS
The SKS griddles are chromium-infused, making them the easiest to clean. Food easily slides off the surface.
Best for Oven Performance: BlueStar and SKS
BlueStar's Power Oven and SKS are the best gas ovens on the market, pro or regular.
They are known for speedy preheating, quick cooking, and even oven temperature due to blown air from the back.
A few other brands have notable convection systems:
La Cornue's natural convection is also highly praised, as it doesn't dry out food with fans. Wolf's dual-fuel option uses twin convection and bigger elements to keep heat even.
Miele also gets an honorable mention, as both models have twin convection for even more heat distribution.
Best Gas Broiler: Miele
An infrared broiler on a gas range is the best broiler type for intense and directed high heat.
Many ranges have infrared broilers, but Miele's broiler is the hottest at 23,000 BTU.
Best for Value: Thermador, SKS, and Monogram
Thermador is a reliable and reasonably priced option that offers free dishwashers and hoods with qualifying purchases.
Monogram also offers a $3,500 credit with other Monogram purchases, making it a great value option for those looking to buy multiple appliances.
The SKS all-gas six burners are $5,499 after the rebate.
If you have any questions, we're here to help. Feel free to schedule a showroom visit, call, or live chat with one of our senior staff members.
Professional Ranges 101
In this section, we'll cover the key elements that make a range "professional" and explain the differences between gas and dual fuel ranges.
What Is Not a Professional Range
If you were to Google "best pro ranges", the number one response was a site with this range as its best, the Forte freestanding professional gas range FGR366BSS.
It's a private Italian brand like Smeg, Bertazzoni, Verona, or Ilve.
These ranges are beautifully styled and priced well at $2,099, or about 1/4 of the price of a professional range. However, pro-syle ranges lack high output and performance.
The burners are 20,000, 15,000, 12,000, 6,000, and two at 9,000 BTU, so you only have two burners with higher output.
The broiler is 10,000 BTU or less than half of the Miele 23,000 BTU infrared broiler. Also, infrared heat is directed heat versus the more diffused types.
With a pro-style range, you do not have a grill or griddle option. The oven size of 4.5 cubic feet is much smaller than the average professional oven at 5.7 cubic feet.
Additionally, controls are minimal, like some on this list, and reliability is a concern. Who will fix your pro-style range if something goes wrong?
However, if you are looking for a basic 36-inch range, any pro-style range will suffice.
Gas or Dual Fuel: Which Is Better for a 36-Inch Pro Range?
When deciding between a dual-fuel or all-gas range, consider your cooking needs.
Dual fuel ranges are better for baking due to their more precise heat, while gas ranges are great for roasting and broiling. Let's examine how each fuel type differs.
Baking
Dual fuel produces a more precise heat, making it better for baking. Straight gas is better for roasting and broiling.
Broiling
There is an enormous difference between broiling with gas and using dual fuel.
Most gas pro ranges have an infrared broiler, which produces more concentrated, direct heat than a regular gas broiler.
Many commercial-style broilers are infrared, as are the sear elements in professional grills. Here is a video explaining how it works in a grill.
The differences between an infrared and an electric broiler are substantial, with infrared being way better.
Roasting
Gas, with its moister heat, is technically better than the drier heat of an electric oven.
Self-Cleaning Oven
Every dual fuel range is self-cleaning, but less than half of all gas ranges have a self-cleaning option.
Cooking Programs
Wolf, SKS, and Miele upgraded their dual fuel ranges. Miele has its MasterChef guided cooking program with push-button control.
They also added steam and 17 bread-baking programs. If you like California sourdough, there is an option to bake it automatically.
Read More: What's the Difference Between All Gas and Dual Fuel Professional Ranges?
Key Takeaways
First, there is no one best range. It would have been a much simpler article to write. I don't expect you to spend $40,000+ on La Cornue.
However, there is one range that suits your cooking style best.
Before going online or going to your local appliance store, take some time and understand how you currently cook:
- Do you bake or broil?
- Do you want a more powerful burner or an easier-to-clean range?
- Do you want self-cleaning?
- Do you want more controls and smart functionality?
- Do you often use a grill, griddle, or burner?
Answering these questions will help you choose the best range for you.
Make sure you tell your dealer what you want instead of them showing you what they consider "the best." Often, you will be unhappy with their choice because it won't match how you use it.
You have some good options in the more familiar brands. The newer ones like SKS and Fisher & Paykel are also worth considering.
Also, service can be a problem with more specialized products like pro ranges. Inquire about service before purchasing any range or at least before your next Thanksgiving dinner.
Additional Resources
Make an informed decision about your next kitchen upgrade with our Free Pro Cooking Buying Guide. Over 1 million home chefs have already benefited from our detailed brand analyses and answers to the top questions. Whether you're considering Wolf, Miele, or another premium brand, our guide provides the clarity you need. Don't miss out—download your free guide now and join a community of satisfied readers who've chosen the best for their homes.
Related Articles:
- The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Professional Range
- Should You Buy a Griddle for a Professional Range?
- BlueStar RNB Series Vs. Wolf 36-Inch All Gas Pro Ranges
- Best 36-Inch Professional Dual Fuel Ranges
- Best 48-Inch Professional Ranges
- Most Reliable Professional Ranges
- 5 Ways to Make Your Kitchen Unique With Appliances
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A Note About Pricing
Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.
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