Gas or induction? Why a cooktop? We need info to help. You need to understand how each choice functions for how you cook.

Cooktop or rangetop? There is a difference.

Sorry, gas cooktop specifically not rangetop. We are looking at cooktops because we are replacing an existing but smaller, and are able to reuse existing cabinet (its a custom base cabinet sized much larger so it can accomodate a larger cooktop).

CR tested numerous 36" gas cooktops. The Monogram ZGU36RSLSS did well not only in CR's ratings but among owners at Appliances Connection, Best Buy, and AJ Madison. Not cheap, though, at $2500. So many people don't pay attention to the cutout dimensions before buying!

We have a Thermador gas cooktop with the controls in front of the burners. Feels more like a range set-up, which, if that's what you're used to, is an easy transition. The controls are pretty much in line with where the burners are located, so easy to know which knob goes with which burner.