Pro-style ranges offer lots of bells and whistles that provide a certain wow factor. We've covered pro-style ranges for years, and in our testing we've keyed on manufacturer claims that higher-powered burners offered faster cooking. "While spending more buys you more stove, it doesn't necessarily buy a better one. Many impressive performers in this report cost the least," we wrote in one report.

Today, many mainstream brands now offer high-performing ranges that have the look of pro-style models but which have better reliability and lower prices. Prices of ranges with induction burners, which provide the fastest heating we've seen as well as precise simmering and control, are also falling. The Samsung FTQ307NWGX 30-inch induction range, $1,900, delivered strong performance in our latest review of ranges. And new hybrid ranges that combine induction and conventional electric-radiant elements are also entering the market.

Essential information: See our free buyer's guide to ranges and check out the ratings (available to subscribers). Discuss ranges in our forum.