You are probably confused on whether to consider a slide-in range or professional gas range. It is confusing as slide-in ranges and freestanding ranges each have evolved to be more like each other.
We will define and look at both ranges and their differences then compare at the end. You will have a better idea on what to consider at the end of this article.
What is a Slide-in Range?
Slide-in ranges are a range with the controls on the front, with no back guard so you're able to see more of your backsplash.
The slide-in range fits over the counters, so spills do not drip down the sides. This is better for new construction, because it is more of a custom fit.
Slide-ins are different now as they have one or two pro style burners of at least 15,000 BTU for fast cooking. Many slide-in's have 5th burners as well as warming drawers or second ovens.
What is a Pro Range?
A pro range is a stainless steel commercial range with three or more high BTU burners. The pro range has also changed over the years. Many have self-cleaning and advanced clock and timers like a slide-in range.
Slide-In Ranges
As an example, we're going to compare the two popular slide-in ranges with two popular pro gas ranges so you can really see the differences.
Jenn-Air JGS1450DS - $2,999
Features:
- 5 Element burners
- 19K BTU(dual-stacked), 15K BTU, 9,200K BTU, 8K BTU, and 5K BTU
- Secondary oven
- Aqualift for self cleaning
- Durafinish protection
- Brass Burners
Electrolux EW30GS75KS - $3,199
Features:
- 5 Element burners
- 450-18K BTU - (dual-stacked), 16K BTU, 9,500K BTU, 5K BTU, and 9,500K BTU
- Sure-to-fit 4.2 cu. ft with three adjustable baking racks
- Perfect convect with third convection element
- Wave-touch control
- Warming Drawer
Pro Gas Ranges
Thermador PRG304GH - $4,149
Features:
- 4 Element burners
- All 18K BTU
- Exclusive star burners most even heat surpassed flame coverage
- Extra low simmer down to 375 BTU
- Quick clean base for easy surface cleaning
Jenn-Air JGRP430WP - $4,099
Features:
- 4 Element burners
- 20K BTU, 15K BTU, 15K BTU, and 5k BTU
- Self cleaning
- Clock, delay start, temperature probe
- Six convection cooking modes
Comparison
As we said in the beginning, the pro range is more powerful per burner, but not by much. In fact, buying a pro range because of high output may not be the best decision after comparing. Interestingly enough, the best range for simmering is a Thermador professional range.
However, the controls are better on a slide-in range. You have more automatic programs in the Electrolux like Proofing for raising breads, Dehydrating for fruits and veggies as well as The Perfect Turkey for a perfect bird.
The Jenn-Air Pro is the only range with twin convection for a more even temperature than single convection.
Which Should You Buy?
You would think a professional range would be much more expensive. In certain cases, like Wolf and Miele, it can cost $5-6,000. Jenn-Air and Thermador are actually cheaper when you factor the $1,300 free dishwasher.
From an aesthetic and resale perspective, the Pro range is more popular. You do have more power in more burners if that is the requirement. The slide-in range with better controls and two ovens is more flexible and perhaps easier to use. So the answer depends on what you like more.
Additional Resources
Have more questions about Pro Ranges? Read our Pro Cooking Buying Guide with features, specs and detailed profiles of every brand like Miele, Wolf, Jenn-Air, Thermador, Viking and More. Over 140,000 people have read a Yale Guide.
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