The 7 Best Downdraft Cooktops Of 2024 + Buying Guide
Add to your kitchen's aesthetics with good-looking, modern, and intelligent devices.
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A cooktop is essential in every household in modern life. Furthermore, a larger cooktop helps you cook more food at once. The best downdraft kitchen top will make your cooking experience much more enjoyable and easier.
Given the wide range of benefits that these cooktops offer, there is no reason why you would not want to get one. Downdraft cooktops save a lot of power and effort and change your kitchen’s entire appearance. They fit comfortably on the countertop and have an inbuilt vent, making them great for ventilation.
Hence, you should invest in an overdraft cooktop to make the most out of your cooking skills. Take a look at our list of the best downdraft cooktops. Keep scrolling!
In This Article
What Is A Downdraft Cooktop?
A downdraft cooktop is a cooktop designed with inbuilt special features for handling smoke and odor in the kitchen. It comes with a pre-installed ventilation system with a pipe and a fan that sucks in the smoke and fumes. This system is installed underneath the cooktop.
Let’s now take a look at the top 7 downdraft cooktops you can buy.
7 Best Downdraft Cooktops
1. Best Upgraded Boost Function:IsEasy 36” Induction Cooktop
The Is Easy 36” Induction Cooktop is one of the best induction electric cooktops on the market, with a total power of 8000W that can be boosted up to 8600W. With booster functionality and a timer setting of 1-99 minutes, you can enjoy easy cooking with precision settings. This cooktop with downdraft also has 9 cooking levels, from simmering to rapid boiling. The overheat protection technology displays a warning and shuts down the stove automatically when it reaches excessively high temperatures. The LED display features operation indicators that are easy to use. This induction downdraft cooktop has a flat-tempered cooktop surface that is easy to clean. The five burners are compatible with iron, stainless steel, and alloy utensils.
Features
- Dimensions: 35.43 x 20.47x 2.72 inches
- Weight: 29.7 pounds
- Burners: 5
- Heating Capacity: 1800W + 1800W + 1200W + 1200W + 2000W
Pros
- Upgraded heat booster function
- Lightweight
- Hot surface warning indicator
- Child lock
- Residual heat indicator
- Easy-to-use LED instructions
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Slightly noisy fan
"This cooktop is both stylish and efficient. The cooking zones in different sizes and power levels make my cooking experience a smooth ride. The settings took me a while to get familiar with, but then it became a breeze!"
2. Best Stainless Steel:Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa Downdraft Range Hood
The Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa Downdraft Range Hood is a leading name in the market for kitchen range hoods and wine coolers that are high-powered, design-driven, and subjected to innovation with changing trends. This automatic, stainless steel-manufactured downdraft hood comes with a stylish appearance and a 500 CFM internal blower. The infinite speed levels and automatic heat sensor of this innovative performance cooktop will surely amp up your daily cooking experience!
Features
- Dimensions: 7 x 36 x 29.5 inches
- Weight: 83.8 lbs
- Burners: 5
- Heating Capacity: NA
Pros
- Automatic heat sensor
- Auto delay-off
- Made with stainless steel
- Functions automatically
- East to install
Cons
- Outlets for the vents can be a bit low
"This is a very useful product with its automatic heat sensor and makes my kitchen work a lot safer. The model is easy to install and is also durable. The stainless steel body looks extremely sleek in an indoor setting."
Quick Tip3. Best Ergonomic Design:AMZCHEF Electric Cooktop 30” Built-in Electric Burner
If you are looking for a powerful yet sleek cooktop for your kitchen, the AMZCHEF Electric Cooktop 30” Built-in Electric Burner is the right pick. The cooktop features 4 burners- two 1200 Watt burners and two 2300 Watt burners. You can put all your flat base pots and pans on this electric cooktop. The black polished flat glass plate top makes it easy to clean, and the spacing between the burners has an ergonomic design. The stainless steel knobs are textured, thus preventing slipping. Several reviewers appreciate the cooktop with downdraft as it has top-notch safety features like the hot surface indicator light and an auto switch-off feature that detects excessive internal temperature. It also offers impact resistance.
Features
- Dimensions: 2.8 X 30.7 X 21.3 inches
- Weight: 38.1 Pounds
- Burners: 4
- Heating Capacity: 1200 W+ 1200W + 2400W+ 2400W
Pros
- Offers temperature protection
- Compatible with every flat base utensil
- Slip-resistant knobs
- Auto-switch off feature
- Quick heating
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not enough wattage to do canning
"This is a very versatile cooktop with a touchscreen feature. The four burners make the cooking process convenient and fast. The temperature control and hot surface indicator are good for safety purposes at home. This is also easy to clean and maintain."
IsEasy 36” Induction Cooktop Best Upgraded Boost Function | Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa Downdraft Range Hood Best Stainless Steel | AMZCHEF Electric Cooktop 30” Built-in Electric Burner Best Ergonomic Design | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heater Surface Material | Glass Ceramic | - | Glass Ceramic |
| Wattage | 1800 watts | - | 7000 watts |
| Dimensions | 35.43 x 20.47 x 2.72 inches | 7 x 36 x 29.5 inches | 2.8"D x 30.7"W x 21.3"H |
| Color | - | Stainless Steel | Black |
| Weight | - | 83.8 pounds | 38.1 pounds |
| Material | - | - | Glass Ceramic |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | - | - | - |
| Price | $299.98 | - | $369.99 |
4. Best With Central Knobs:KitchenAid KCGD500GSS Stainless Steel Gas Downdraft Cooktop
When you have a minimalist kitchen, you need elegant-looking appliances and cookware to add to your kitchen’s aesthetics. The KitchenAid Stainless Steel Cooktop features an integrated downdraft ventilation system that does not require a separate hood and is built for a seamless cooking experience. It has full-width cast-iron grates for safety and even cooking. The 17,000 BTU powerful burner is designed to cook the food at high heat and for low simmering, while the 5,000 BTU burners are designed for precise simmering and melting. Multiple reviewers like its convertible, duct-free ventilation system as it circulates and filters the air in the kitchen.
Features
- Dimensions:22 x 30 x 19 inches
- Weight: 66lbs
- Burners: 4
- Heating Capacity: 5,000-17,000 BTUs
Pros
- Automatic reignition
- Powerful vent
- Central control knobs
- 3-speed fan controls
- Sturdy
Cons
- Scratches easily
- The finish chips off easily.
"This stylish stainless steel cooktop is easy to clean and maintain at home. The heat capacity on the burners is good and this helps my cooking processes. I also like that the installation is simple to figure out. It's a value buy for both its use and aesthetics."
Remember5. Best Dishwasher-Safe:Frigidaire FGGC3047QB Gallery 30-Inch Gas Cooktop
The Frigidaire FGGC3047QB Gallery 30-Inch Gas Cooktop is made with cast iron. It features five sealed gas burners for versatile cooking. The product also offers a liquid propane conversion kit and is known for its seamless cast iron grates that allow for quick transitions of pots across the cooktop, extensively reducing your meal preparation time. It has a porcelain finish that assists in easy cleaning. Many reviews on online forums boast about the sleek design of this cooktop which adds to the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen.
Features
- Dimensions: 21.75 x 30 x 5 inches
- Weight: 50 pounds
- Burners: 5
- Heating Capacity: 5000 BTU+ 9500 BTU+ 7500 BTU+ 12000 BTU+ 18000 BTU
Pros
- Easy installation
- Low maintenance
- Easy to clean
- Affordable
Cons
- Grates are not durable.
"This is a step up in efficiency, particularly with its center burner that boils water in no time. The porcelain finish and professional grates make cleaning easy and also give it a nice touch. The installation is simple enough, and it offers a good cooking experience."
6. Best High Efficiency:Thermomate Gas Range Top
Level up your kitchen’s aesthetics with the Thermomate Gas Range Top made of pure stainless steel. With the precise flame control system that offers varied, stable flame options, even distribution of heat will help you meet a variety of cooking demands. The ignition is controlled by a push-type rotary switch, which can prevent accidental touch, and is embedded with protective technology for complete safety. It is the best for modern kitchens as it has a sleek cooking surface. It is easily washable, comes with energy efficiency build, and is low maintenance!
Features
- Dimensions: 36 x 20.67 x 1.73 inches
- Weight: 42.2 lbs
- Burners: 5
- Heating Capacity: 13,000 BTU
Pros
- Precise flame control system
- 2 safety protections
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- CSA certified
Cons
- Indicator decals might rub off easily
"I recently switched from an electric to a gas stove and the transition was smoother because of this piece. The installation process was simple, and I like how it complements my kitchen's aesthetics. I like the quick heating feature that makes life easier. This model is easy to clean, which is a big bonus!"
7. Best Quick Heating:NOXTON 12” 2 Burner Electric Cooktop
The Noxton 12” Electric Cooktop has two burners with heating powers of 1500 W and 2000W. This energy-efficient cooktop features independent touch control panels. It comes with 9 power-level settings, making it easy to adjust the temperature to preheat, bake, broil, defrost, and dehydrate foods. The burners of this electric cooktop with downdraft are compatible with iron, aluminum, ceramic, copper, and heat-resistant glass utensils. The cooktop features a black polished plate design that is easier to clean and offers high-temperature resistance. Additionally, this downdraft electric cooktop is equipped with a timer key, round edges, heat indicator, and child lock features for safety.
Features
- Dimensions: 4.49 x 8.07 x 0.67 inches
- Weight: 11.08 pounds
- Burners: 2
- Heating Capacity: 1200W and 1800W
Pros
- Touch control panel
- Easy to clean
- Easy To Install
- Round edges
- Offers high-temperature resistance
- Has child-safe lock
Cons
- The instruction booklet may not be clear
"This cooktop is easy to install and use. The wiring system is user-friendly with a simple plug connection. I like the features of the child lock, intuitive touch interface, and safety alarms that make it safe to work with at home. It also heats up quickly and makes the cooking experience smoother."
These 7 superbly designed downdraft cooktops will seamlessly fit in your kitchen, make cooking more fun, and make your daily life simpler and better. If you are confused about which one you should buy, go through our buying guide below to make a decision.
What To Consider When Buying A Downdraft Cooktop
Here are some expert-recommended essential factors you need to consider before buying a downdraft cooktop:
- Venting
Complex cooktop models are challenging to clean. If cleaning is a high priority for you, pick a system that comes with removable parts and is easy to clean. Most downdraft induction and glass cooktops are easy to clean while the gasoline grills are difficult to clean. Some cooktops come with sealed grates, and it becomes difficult to clean some hard-to-reach areas. Figure out the ways you can clean such areas.
- BTU Rating
If you frequently use the downdraft cooktop for cooking different dishes, you need one with a high BTU. Cooktops with high BTU rating heat up quickly and cook the food efficiently. Most downdraft cooktops come with 10,000-20,000 BTU ratings, which are adjustable. However, test the BTU rating of you cooktop before proceeding with your cooking.
- Size And Number Of Burners
Most downdraft cooktops come with four burners with different BTUs. These units are helpful if you cook multiple dishes simultaneously. Ensure that the size of the burners complements the size of your cookware, and there is a proper gap between the burners.
- Design
Cooktops with glass, ceramic, or stainless steel cooking surfaces look appealing on any countertop and add to the beauty of the kitchen. Remember, downdraft cooktops are not for small and compact spaces, so make sure that you consider the size of your kitchen and countertop. Measure the dimensions of the cooktop and see if it fits comfortably on your countertop and go for one that easily coordinates with your ventilation and oven.
- Durability
Stainless steel downdraft cooktops are the best if you are looking for a highly durable option. These cooktops are long-lasting, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.
- Controls
Some downdraft cooktops come with touch controls, while some offer knobs for temperature control. The selection depends on your taste.
A downdraft cooktop offers plenty of benefits compared to the standard cooktops. A few of the benefits are listed below.
Advantages Of Downdraft Cooktop
- Unlike the standard cooktops with hooded fans, the downdraft fan is easy to reach. Hence, you can clean the fan and internal part of the unit easily.
- You can place the entire unit under a wall cabinet and free up some space on the kitchen counter. Thus, a downdraft cooktop is space-saving and compact.
- These units look incredibly stylish and attractive compared to the overhead cooktops.
- Since the downdraft cooktops come with a pre-installed ventilation system, they are reasonably priced and cheaper than other alternatives.
Mentioned below are a few precautions to take while using downdraft cooktops.
Precautions Need To Be Taken While Using A Downdraft Cooktop
- Before cleaning the unit, always switch off the power from the service panel and lock the auto-igniting feature or service.
- If you find faulty wires or are having trouble with installation or using the cooktop, call a certified or qualified professional to fix it.
- Downdraft cooktops need sufficient space and air for proper ventilation and exhausting gas and steam. Follow the safety instructions given in the manual while placing and using the cooktop.
- The ducted fans should always be vented to the outdoors.
- Use metal ductwork to prevent fire.
- Ensure that the unit is appropriately grounded before use.
Downdraft cooktops are a blessing for people who love cooking. Not only are there great cooktop designs, but these also tend to save power due to their energy efficiency builds. Downdraft cooktops for large kitchens are professional at handling odor and smoke that come off from household kitchens. Downdraft cooktops like the IsEasy 36” Induction Cooktop offers heat control and takes minimal time to cook, while the KitchenAid KCGD500GSS Stainless Steel Gas Downdraft Cooktop is perfect for cooking with gas, and the Frigidaire FGGC3047QB Gallery 30-Inch Gas Cooktop allows easy movement and high heat for boiling and searing. These time-tested products are also useful for small kitchens and are easy to clean and maintain. The cooktop maintenance is also quite hassle-free, and some of these cooktops come with heavy-duty knobs for seamless cooking. While purchasing a downdraft cooktop for yourself, you should avoid the ones that do not come with the auto-ignite feature. If you’re planning to install one in your new house, opt for a suitable cooktop kitchen design. Also before buying a few things to check are– noise levels, replacement parts, its safety features, and whether it comes with a downdraft vent and a proper downdraft exhaust system. Opting for a Downdraft cooktop with a griddle, grill, or ventilation fan can enhance your cooking experience. Some other designs that you can look out for include: flush-mount, pull-down, slide-in downdraft, and the under-cabinet downdraft cooktop.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do downdraft cooktops work?
Unlike the standard cooktops, downdraft cooktops come with an inbuilt fan and a pipe that sucks the smoke and fumes. The exhaust fan is not mounted overhead but installed underneath the cooktop. The fan sucks the smoke when you start cooking and exhausts it out through the pipe that runs under the kitchen floor and towards the door.
Can you use a downdraft vent with a gas cooktop?
Yes. You can use a downward vent with a gas cooktop. Make sure that the downdraft unit properly vents to the outdoors as a malfunctioning unit can cause accidents. A spacious, airy, and ventilated space is required to use a downdraft vent with gas cooktops safely.
Do downdraft ranges need to be vented?
The downdraft cooktops have built-in vents. The smoke and fumes are sucked in by an exhaust pipe-filtration system. Hence, you don’t need to attach any vent hood to the unit. Ensure that the pipe vents outdoors.
Can you install a downdraft vent behind a range?
It is not suitable to install a downward vent behind the range as it can reverse the heat and grease, and the ventilation system will not work effectively. The smoke and odor of the food will remain in the kitchen.
Is a downdraft cooktop hard to clean?
The ease of the cooktop cleaning depends on the model of the cooktop. Some systems have removable parts that make cleaning easy, while some models have sealed parts like sealed grates that make cleaning a bit tricky. However, the downdraft unit is easy to clean as the pipes and fan are installed underneath the cooktop.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Pratyasha Ray, loves reviewing home appliances and devices. She keeps a constant check on the latest advancements to minimize the stress of household management. Our list of best downdraft cooktops is compiled by her after thorough research and reading many customer reviews online. She says that downdraft cooktops are an excellent addition to your kitchen as they are very convenient, and the cooktop base absorbs the contaminants, fumes, and smoke.
