Whether you are remodeling your kitchen or simply upgrading the appliances, choosing the right cooking product is usually a top priority, since it is the main component in the kitchen.
You can either go with a full range or a cooktop with a separate wall oven. In regards to the flexibility of placement, a cooktop is generally a better option. Cooktops can be installed in an island, a peninsula or anywhere you choose.
Choosing a cooktop is actually easy. They are available in 30-inch or 36-inch widths. Most will have some variation in the output of the burners and come in a couple different configurations, depending on the brand.
The controls will be on the front or along the side of the burners. What differs is output simmer and reliability. We will look at both brands, but first let's make sure we understand the differences between a cooktop and rangetop.
What’s the difference between cooktops and rangetops?
These terms are used interchangeably, but they are not the same.
A cooktop will have the controls on the top whereas the rangetop has the controls on the front.
Rangetops are available in the standard as well as larger 48-inch and 60-inch sizes. Accessories such as grills and integrated griddles are available only on a rangetop.
Lastly, rangetops typically have higher output, but cooktops over the years have increased power (as you will see in this comparison).
Thanks for reporting a problem. We'll attach technical data about this session to help us figure out the issue. Which of these best describes the problem?
Any other details or context?
Bosch
Bosch is a European based company that has become well known for their dishwashers. That doesn’t mean their other products aren’t great. Quite frankly, their cooking products are stellar. They are a huge multinational company based in Germany.
They have a few different series within their line: 300, 500, 800 and Benchmark. The Benchmark line is the most premium within the brand and was introduced in 2014.
It competes with the high-end brands like Miele and Wolf in regards to quality, performance, and reliability.
The Benchmark products include an innovative side-swing door wall oven, slide-in ranges, built-in steam ovens, speed ovens, and of course, a cooktop.
Bosch Benchmark NGMP655UC - $1,399
- The Benchmark Series Gas Cooktop features a 20,000 BTU Dual-stacked Burner, allowing flexibility to cook on High Heat or Simmer
- Powerful 61,500 BTU Burners with a 20,000 BTU Dual-stacked Center Burner
- Powerful Center Burner Designed for Faster Boil Time and a Low Simmer
- Heavy-duty Metal Knobs for a Premium Look and Feel
- Distinctive Red LED light Indicates Burners are On
- Heavy-Duty Metal Knobs for a Premium Look and Feel
- Low-Profile Design for an Integrated Appearance
- Centralized Controls for Easy Use and Intuitive Operation of the Cooktop
Miele
Miele is the world’s largest family-owned appliance manufacturer. The company is actually named after its founder Carl Miele and they have historically been noted for their vacuum cleaners, dishwashers, laundry, and cooking. They have ten showrooms throughout the U.S. and have representation in 47 countries.
Their appliances are made exclusively in Germany and the quality and manufacturing that goes into Miele appliances make them extremely reliable and long lasting. Most of their cooking products have a sleek European design but are loaded with features.
Miele KM3475G - $1,799
- 5 completely sealed burners
- Double insert super burners
- 2 burner: 15,300 BTU output
- 1 burner: 12,000 BTU output
- 2 burners: 9,000 output
- Center control panel
- Stainless steel knob controls
- Cast iron grates: hexa design or contemporary linear design (shown)
- Accessories included: Wok ring
- Optional accessories: Simmer plate, Griddle plate and Grate set
Bosch Benchmark vs. Miele Gas Cooktops
So, how do they compare?
The Bosch Benchmark cooktop overall has higher powered burners. The center burner at 20,000 BTU is great for high heat cooking, searing and bringing food to a boil more rapidly.
On the other hand, the Miele cooktop has 2 power burners, which can also be viewed as an advantage to the real cooks out there. In addition to this, the placement of the knobs on the Bosch Benchmark cooktop makes it seem as though there is a greater cooking surface which can be highly advantageous when cooktops seem to have limited space to being with.
They both boast a low profile design which is perfect for the consumer who is trying to obtain a more integrated look in their kitchen. Miele’s option in grate design is also good when trying to coordinate with the other appliances and aesthetics.
The Bosch control panel is slightly more user-friendly with indicator lights to let you know which burners are being used. For the reasons mentioned here, Bosch may be the better cooktop.
Additional Resources
Get our free Gas Cooking Buying Guide with buying tips, trends and reviews of all the major brands. Over 200,000 people have already found answers in a Yale guide.
Why Should You Trust Us?
It seems that every appliance review has nothing but glowing comments about almost every product, yet you read customer reviews and they are almost universally bad.
We are here to fill in the disconnect. We'll give you the best features, and the drawbacks as well, including reliability based on over 37,000 calls performed by our service team just last year. Our goal is to give you ALL the information so you know what's right for you.
Please consider subscribing or adding to the conversation in the comments below. We appreciate you stopping by.
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.
Topics:
