Consider The Best Range Cookers: An All-In-One Solution

Ideal for those who adore spending time in the kitchen, our guide to the best range cookers brings these all-in-one appliances to a modern kitchen; in this guide, we demystify and debunk these highly practical cookers equipped with the latest best oven technology. Thanks to Leisure Cooker – a leading brand of range cookers in the UK – we’re able to answer the question: What is a range cooker? According to the brand, a range cooker is a “great choice for those who want or need the very best.”

In general, a range cooker is essentially a freestanding cooker that usually comes with a double oven and a selection of hob burners – not to mention a grill space. Versatile, this all-in-one appliance has moved past its antique past and can now be tailored to the look of modern kitchens. If anything, they’re super practical, and you don’t have to find several bulky appliances that match—looking for something a little smaller? Maybe our oven buyer's guide can help.

Best range cookers at a glance

• Best on-trend green range cooker: Rangemaster Leckford Deluxe in Mineral Green – View on John Lewis
• Best range cooker in red: Bertazzoni Professional Series in Red – View on John Lewis
• Best induction range cooker: Stoves Richmond S1000Ei MK22 in Anthracite Grey – View on Appliances Direct

Not only do they offer a practical element to the kitchen, but range cookers also offer a unique focal point to your kitchen’s overall design. They’re a statement, adding bold beauty to the mix, unlike a built-in oven. A range cooker is not just for rustic Country Kitchens, like Lily Allen and David Harbour have in their New York apartment. Indeed, these freestanding oven and hob appliances come in all shapes and sizes, with a fabulously vast choice of colours and styles to fit any preferences.

Alongside the flexibility they bring, range cookers allow us to batch cook, cope with multiple courses at beloved dinner parties and you can cram a decent amount of baking trays in at once, which is required for a classic Sunday Roast. At the end of this article, we’ve made sure to list all the benefits of a range cooker, below in the FAQS. A range cooker is really just that. It has the range. As Leisure Cooker says: “High capacity, high quality, versatile freestanding cooker, with great aesthetics, too.”

Best Range Cookers

Our Verdict: Best Range Cooker

All of our picks are so fantastic! So, this was hard to choose. But, we recommend the Rangemaster Leckford Deluxe in Mineral Green. With a three-year John Lewis guarantee, this range cooker combines style and performance. It features dual electric ovens, a five-ring induction hob, an electric grill, and storage drawer. With an Aga-inspired design and vibrant colour, it will become the hub of any large kitchen. This appliance boasts multifunction cooking and convenient features, such as a programmable timer and catalytic cleaning.

Buyer’s Guide

Range cookers are a large investment – and it’s a great idea to do ample research on the topic. After all, there are plenty of different types, keen to cater to all spaces, lifestyles and budgets. Thanks to Appliances Direct, we’ve got a snappy guide to finding the best range cooker for your kitchen:

Fuel

Consider the fuel. Luckily, there are different types of range cookers to cater to your preferences:

Dual Fuel – is the best of both worlds, says Appliances Direct. After all, with this type, you’ll get heat almost instantly, not to mention precision control and reliable cooking temperatures. Handy, we know. These tend to be the most popular choice of range cookers.

Electric – comes next, with a typical model providing an electric oven, alongside a ceramic or induction hob. So, make sure your pans are induction-friendly for this. Appliances Direct says that most of these ovens will include a fan, which “assists in spreading heat around the oven for even temperatures.” This makes things speedy when it comes to heating and cooking time.

Gas – is the third option. They will have gas ovens and hobs. Gas hobs tend to be the cheaper option to run – as gas, generally, is cheaper than electricity. But, this will depend on your provider. It’s best to weigh up your options and opt for a cooker that won’t cost much in the long run. Appliances Direct says these hobs are great for cooking pros, as “they provide instant heat and precise control.”

Hobs

Next, comes the hob itself. Which fuel do you, and your pan sets, prefer?

Induction Hobs – are “electric and use magnetic technology to directly heat the pan,” explains Appliances Direct. Indeed, in turn, induction hobs tend to be more energy-efficient as no heat is lost, which is great if you’re looking to save as much money as possible. Plus, the hob surface will never become hot enough to burn, which is ideal if you have curious children. Not only do they heat up quickly, but they’re easy to wipe clean. Ensure your pans are magnetised before you buy.

Ceramic Hobs – bring a “modern look to the kitchen with their smooth and sleek surfaces,” says Appliances Direct, making cleaning easy-breezy. Though a little slow to heat up – compared with gas or induction – ceramic hobs are more compatible with pans on the market. For this type of hob, we recommend good quality pans with thick bases, avoiding anything that could scratch the surface.

Gas Hobs – are preferred by many, says Appliances Direct, as you get instant heat and you’re able to control temperature precisely. Not only that, any pot or pan can be used. Result. Plus, with a visible flame, you’ll be able to notice “when the hob is switched on, and the burners will have flame failure devices to cut off the gas supply if the flame were to go out.”

Widths

Size comes into play with a range cooker. After all, they’re large and in charge. For this, Appliances Direct recommends considering your space carefully. Luckily, there are a “variety of standard width sizes to choose from, enabling you to find one” that fits your kitchen to a tee. As a general rule of thumb, the larger the range cooker, the “more cooking space and functionality.”

Typically, you can choose from 90, 100, 110 or 120cm.

Cleaning

As with all ovens and cookers, there are different methods, depending on many factors. As for the higher-end models, they may be equipped with pyrolytic cleaning, which “burns off grease and grime at really high temperatures of 500°c,” says Appliances Direct. Smart.

On the other hand, some high-tech and premium range cookers may even have catalytic liners that “absorb spillages and dirt which are burnt off when cooking over 200°c.” These can come in handy, also, making our lives easier. After all, who likes to clean up the kitchen?

Typically, the smooth enamel liners will make cleaning relatively easy, as long as you keep on top of it. If you’re tackling burnt-on food and can’t shift it, we recommend some gentle oven cleaners.

Functions

Next, come functions, which are added on to make things easier when we choose to cook. For example, Appliances Direct says that range cookers may come with features such as rotisserie cooking – which is “perfect for succulent joints of meat”, defrost and even slow cooking.

Grilling

Coming in handy for some of our favourite meals and treats, a grill can give our range cookers an extra leg up on the competition. If you’re a fan of grilled cheese or want to give a cottage pie a bit of pizzazz, why not let the grill do the work? Some range cookers will have one already installed.

We love the Salter AeroGrill, which is an air fryer and grill, all-in-one…

Installation

Range cookers are freestanding, says Appliances Direct, which “makes them easier to fit into your kitchen, usually between your kitchen cabinets.” For this, measure and make space for your new appliance – and accuracy is very important. They add: “Nothing should be placed above the hob unless it is heat resistant,” such as shelves and plug sockets.

For gas or dual fuel range cookers, an engineer will need to fit it for safety. You can’t DIY this one.

Lids

Though it may seem not very important, a lid on your range cooker can come in handy, says Appliances Direct. Typically arriving on the gas variety, a lid can protect your precious hob and allows you “to utilise the surface space as a worktop.” Suppose you’re stretched for space... Why not do some prep on this surface? Plus, they will protect walls from splashback, which is ideal for a messy saucier.

LPG Convertible

Believe it or not, some range cookers can be converted to work with bottled LPG gas. As Appliances Direct points out, this may be a good option for those who “don't have access to a mains gas supply.” Some will come ready to convert – and some will not. It’s best to check before you buy.

Style

Perhaps, most importantly, style comes into play. There is a great variety of styles and colours to choose from, says Appliances Direct. Pick out your dream cooker that compliments your style. For this, we’ve handpicked range cookers for all interior styles and tastes. Why not jump on a 2023 kitchen colour trend and opt for a coastal blue or sage green cooker? They’re all the rage…

We adore colour in the kitchen.

FAQs: Best Range Cookers

What are the benefits of a range cooker?

With range cookers being rather different from your usual Bosch oven, there are some benefits you may not have thought of. Luckily, oven and stove merchant, Direct Stoves, has pointed us in the right direction with some fabulous thoughts. Are range cookers worth it? Well, it’s time to find out…

Style – comes first and is a big benefit of these cookers. They “really are stylish and can completely transform even the most humble of kitchens,” says Direct Stoves.

Increased Home Value – is one of the most “overlooked points about range cookers,” says Direct Stoves, and makes a home way more desirable, according to a survey by Selling Up/Populus.

Longevity – may be fairly straightforward but can last as “long as 50 years.” Hard to believe, right? Though the upfront cost is a little daunting, their huge lifespan is more than appealing, working out cheaper.

Versatility – above all, is a prime feature of a range cooker. You can do so much with them. For this reason, they can save you from having to buy other kitchen appliances,” says Direct Stoves.

Storage – is another great ‘pro’, offering storage to a “wide variety of kitchen items such as pots, pans, and griddles.” This way, you’ll never be cramming cookware into your cupboards again.

Convenience – comes to a range cooker naturally, as “they are effectively an entire kitchen in one single unit,” says Direct Stoves. Not only that, but they’re freestanding and easy to heat up.

Some more...

Efficiency – is important to us at A Modern Kitchen, as prices are soaring. As they’re multifunctional, range cookers can heat water and beyond, saving you money on breaking out an electric kettle.

Eco-Friendly – is an untapped benefit of a range cooker. After all, using wood and gas – as fuel – can be damaging to our environment. However, believe it or not, wood fuel stoves have made strides toward sustainability in recent years, lowering emissions. Plus, this appliance can last a while, “saving on the earth’s natural resources,” adds Direct Stoves.

Cost-Effective – appliances are favourable here, at A Modern Kitchen. As they combine multiple appliances and are long-lasting, range cookers may be cost-effective for your renovation.

More Cooking Space – makes the range cooker best if you’re “an avid cook, or often need to cook large amounts of food,” says Direct Stoves. After all, range cookers tend to be around 20% larger than your typical oven. Plus, you can use the warmer trays to keep your meals warmer for longer.

Improved Use of Space – is the final benefit, as the range cooker is effectively an “entire kitchen in one”, helping you make better use of space and buying multiple appliances.

Are range cookers expensive to run?

Though range cookers are known for their impressive functionality and stylish appearance, you may be wondering if the benefits come at a high cost to run. Well, this depends on several factors. And – while the initial purchase cost can be significant, modern range cookers have stepped into the 21st century with energy efficiency in mind. Newer models come with features and programs that will enhance your cooking, whether you’re a cooking enthusiast or not.

As for running costs, this is very likely influenced by the type of fuel it uses (electric, gas or dual), the efficiency of the appliance itself, frequency of use, and energy prices in your area. Electric range cookers may have higher energy consumption compared to gas ones, but they offer more even cooking and faster preheating times. Ultimately, it’s down to you. Some more thoughts…

What do I need to know?

Energy Efficiency – should come into play, especially when we’re holding onto our purses for dear life. For this, look for models with smart features that help conserve energy.

Usage Planning – can save you money in the long run. If you plan your cooking sessions to maximise multiple uses of the oven and hob burners, you can save time as well as energy.

Proper Maintenance – comes next, as regularly cleaning and maintaining your range cooker will keep it performing well and efficiently. We recommend keeping the oven seals intact, too.

Cooking Techniques – can affect your energy consumption from these range cookers. A Modern Kitchen recommends exploring energy-efficient techniques, such as batch cooking.

Energy Prices – seem to be going up continuously. A solution? Some energy companies offer reduced prices during non-peak hours, typically between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. So, if you’re a night owl, get ahead.

As mentioned above, while the initial cost is high, the ongoing expense of a range cooker is influenced by various factors. Luckily for us, modern range cookers have caught the energy-efficient bug and offer optimised energy consumption. If you’re considerate, the long run can be manageable.

So, you can enjoy the versatility and luxury of a range cooker without breaking the bank.

What is a dual fuel range cooker?

Think of a dual fuel range cooker as an appliance that is the best of both worlds – to enhance your cooking experience. It's a kitchen appliance that features the convenience of an electric oven and the precision of gas burners in a single unit. Sounds great, right?

This way, you get the even cooking and accurate temperature control of an electric oven, perfectly primed for baking and roasting, along with the quick and responsive heat of gas burners equipped to tackle stovetop cooking. So, this fabulous and versatile combination allows you to explore a wide range of culinary techniques, much to the happiness of us who love to cook all different ways.

Piper Huxley is a Homes, Gardens and Wellness Product Writer for A Modern Kitchen, specialising in cookware. When she’s not cooking up a storm in the kitchen, Piper is re-watching a TV show or listening to a podcast.