We've rounded up a selection of electric freestanding ranges offering professional-style looks and the latest in technology, bringing more power and flexibility to electric-powered cooking. The choices are limited, but not insurmountable. Size is one of the biggest limitations; nothing over 30 inches (the size we have featured). Our selections offer front-placed controls (no reaching over the heat source to operate the appliance), professional-style knobs and handles for ease of use, and the latest electric appliance features including hot-surface warning lights, high-power elements, and flexible convection ovens.
(N.B.: Freestanding ranges differ from slide-in ranges in that they have finished sides, offering more flexibility for installation. We did not include slide-in ranges in our selections.)
Above: Viking was the first to offer a professional-style electric range. The Viking Professional Series Custom 30-Inch Electric Range (VESC) features four high-infrared cooking elements for fast surface cooking, as well as a"bridge" element between the right front and right rear elements, perfect for use with a portable griddle or extra large pan. The 4.7-cubic-foot oven has a rapid preheat system and dual convection features; $5,879 at AJ Madison. Viking also offers a freestanding range with an induction cooktop; the Viking Professional Series 30-Inch Pro Style Induction Range; $7,279 at A.J. Madison.
Above: In addition to the standard finishes (stainless, white, and black), the Viking Professional Series Custom 30-Inch Electric Range (VESC) is offered in custom colors including Apple Red (L) and Graphite Gray (R); $6,349 at AJ Madison.
Above: The Viking D3 Series 30-inch Freestanding Electric Range has five surface elements that utilize ribbon technology for rapid heating (elements reach full power in about three seconds). The 4.7-cubic-foot convection oven features several different cooking modes. Available in stainless (as shown), black, and white for $3,599, and in a range of custom colors for $4,099 at AJ Madison.
Above: The GE Cafe Series Freestanding Smoothtop Electric Range offers five heating elements, a warming zone, a 5.4-cubic-foot convection oven and warming drawer; $3,199 at Home Depot.
Above: The Dacor Distinctive 30-inch Freestanding Electric Range features a black ceramic glass cooktop with four burners in different sizes, including one flexible triple circuit element (allowing for different heating areas). It has a large 4.8-cubic-foot convection oven and comes with a 6-inch backguard; $3,399 at AJ Madison.
Above: Our budget entry is the Summit Professional Series 30-inch Freestanding Electric Range with a 3.69-cubic-foot oven, four coil elements on a black porcelain cooktop, a digital clock and timer on the back guard, and a storage drawer; $809 at AJ Madison.
Considering a new gas range? See our list of Favorite Freestanding Gas Ranges.