Best Apartment Stoves of 2023 – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide
Finding the perfect electric stove for an apartment kitchen can make all the difference when it comes to cooking and entertaining. With limited counter space, you'll want a compact stove that doesn't skimp on features or power. The ideal model should heat up quickly, provide flexible burner sizes, and offer convenience settings - all without consuming excessive electricity. This buyer's guide covers our top picks for apartment stoves along with smart shopping tips to get you cooking.
We've researched the latest compact electric ranges to uncover which ones maximize performance in small spaces without breaking your budget. By evaluating critical factors like size, power, efficiency and essential cooking functions, we narrowed down the options to the best values for apartment living.
Top Electric Stove Picks for Apartments
GE JB645DKWW
For an affordable and reliable apartment electric range, the GE JB645DKWW hits the sweet spot. This smooth-top 30-inch stove has four standard burners including a larger 9-inch element to fit bigger stockpots. While it lacks some extra features, the GE JB645DKWW delivers solid performance and heats quickly thanks to an embedded ribbon element. The durable knobs and dishwasher safe drip pans also make cleaning a breeze.
This GE model provides good bang for your buck if you want basic cooking capabilities without breaking the bank. While it doesn't have a warming setting or fifth burner, the lower price point makes it one of the best values for small kitchens. You can often find it under $600, making it very budget-friendly.
Frigidaire FFGF3047LS
For a step up in cooking convenience, the Frigidaire Gallery FFGF3047LS electric stove inserts seamlessly into apartment kitchens. It stands out for its Smoothtop cooktop and Ready-Select controls that take the guesswork out of temperature settings. The Quick Boil element gets water bubbling in a hurry while the simmer function is ideal for delicate foods.
This Frigidaire range provides stellar performance and handy preset cooking options in a compact footprint. The downside is the price tag exceeds $800. However, solid ratings for reliability make it worth the extra cost if your budget allows.
GE JB735SPSS
As our top overall pick, the GE JB735SPSS electric range delivers the complete apartment stove package. It deftly combines a roomy cooktop and versatile oven settings. This smooth-top model stands out with its owning cooking functions like a melt setting, rapid boil element, and convection cooking. The fifth burner provides extra space for griddles or other cookware.
Despite its robust capabilities, the GE JB735 still fits most apartment cutouts with dimensions of just 29.75" x 22". While it sits at the higher end for cost, the combination of power and handy preset functions make this GE range worth the investment.
Buying Considerations for Apartment Stoves
Measure Available Space
Trying to squeeze an oversized electric stove into a small kitchen is never a good idea. Before you start shopping, take measurements of the existing cutout space for the range. Make sure to leave a few extra inches of clearance on each side for safe operation and ventilation. Standard apartment sizes often accommodate 30-inch wide freestanding units nicely.
Choose Appropriate Burner Size
Electric ranges come with burners in different sizes to accommodate everything from small saucepans to large stockpots. For apartments, you'll want at least one large 9-inch or 12-inch element for versatility. But the other burners can be standard 6-inch size to save space. You want the flexibility to use both small and large pans.
Compare Power and Efficiency
Electric stoves use considerable power, especially when multiple elements are running at once. Check the wattage rating and opt for an energy-efficient model if possible. Those with with Energy Star certification consume less electricity, which saves you money on utility bills.
Evaluate Essential Features
While you may have limited room, you don't have to sacrifice cooking functionality. Seek out useful features like convection cooking, warming drawers, and melt settings for apartment living. Quick boil elements help get water boiling fast. And safety features like auto shut-off provide protection.
FAQ About Buying Apartment Stoves
What size range for a small kitchen?
Look for a 30-inch wide freestanding range which typically fits apartment cutouts. Make sure the largest burner is at least 9 inches.
Top brands for reliability?
GE and Frigidaire earn top marks for making durable and functional electric ranges sized right for apartments.
Installation and safety tips?
Always have a qualified electrician install and inspect the electrical hookup for safety. Inform your apartment manager before installing a new range.
Key features to look for?
Quick boil, convection cooking, warming drawer, melt setting, auto shut-off, and oven probe are ideal extras.
Budget-friendly options under $500?
The GE JB645 provides the best value under $500 with solid performance and convenience.
Upgrading to a quality electric stove designed for apartments can transform your cooking experience. Models like the GE JB735SPSS and Frigidaire FFGF3047LS deliver full-sized performance to fit small spaces. By measuring carefully, evaluating essential features, and estimating operating costs, you can discover the perfect compact range for whipped up meals in your urban kitchen.