Glass Top Stove vs Coil: Which Is Better?

When planning a kitchen upgrade, choosing between different cooktops, ranges, wall ovens, and ventilation setups can feel overwhelming—especially with so many configurations available. If you're narrowing down your options for an electric cooktop, one question you're bound to face is this: glass—top stove vs. coil—which is better?

Each style has its appeal. Glass cooktops offer a sleek, modern finish that complements contemporary kitchens, while coil stoves remain a reliable and cost-effective choice. But when it comes to performance, maintenance, and long-term value, how do you know which is right for your cooking routine?

This guide breaks down the differences, benefits, and trade-offs between these two popular cooktop styles, helping you choose the best fit for your space and lifestyle.

How Glass Top Stoves Work

Glass top stoves, often referred to as smooth surface cooktops, are a popular choice for modern kitchens. But despite their minimalist appearance, there's a lot going on beneath that shiny exterior.

Electric Element Beneath the Glass

The heating source in a glass top stove is typically a radiant electric element that sits directly below the ceramic or glass surface. When activated, the heating elements glow red and generate heat through the smooth surface, which then warms your pots and pans. While not the same as induction (which uses electromagnetic energy), radiant heat is still fast and reliable.¹

Rapid Heating Technology

Many glass top models feature rapid or high-heat settings, helping you boil water faster than older coil models. Heat is dispersed relatively evenly across the flat surface, and temperature control tends to be more precise, making them a great fit for everything from simmering sauces to searing protein.

How Coil Stoves Work

Coil stoves have been around for decades, and while they may lack the visual appeal of glass models, they remain a staple in many households.

Exposed Coil Heating Elements

With a coil electric stove, the burners are exposed spiraled metal elements that rest above drip pans and heat up through a direct electrical connection. The electric coil heats up and transfers energy directly to your cookware through direct contact.

Heat Transfer Characteristics

One major distinction in the coil electric stove vs glass top debate is how heat is distributed. Coil stoves may not offer the same sleek profile, but they tend to handle rugged cookware like cast iron better due to their physical strength and the ability to maintain high temperatures over time, even if heat distribution isn’t always perfectly even.

Pros and Cons of Glass Top Stoves

Glass top stoves have gained favor in recent years for more than just their looks.

Sleek Appearance and Easy Cleaning

A glass stove brings a clean, modern look to your kitchen. The uninterrupted smooth surface is easy to wipe down, especially if you act quickly after a spill. Many homeowners prefer the polished appearance, especially when coordinating with stainless steel or minimalist cabinetry. The flat stovetop also allows you to slide pots around with less risk of tipping.

Risk of Cracking or Scratching

On the flip side, glass is not as forgiving as metal. Dropping a heavy pan—or even dragging a rough-bottomed pot across the surface—can cause scratches or even cracks. Using the wrong cookware can reduce the lifespan of the stove or create hot spots. So while these models are often more efficient in terms of cleaning and temperature precision, they do require more careful handling.

Pros and Cons of Coil Stoves

Despite looking more old-school, coil ranges still come with notable advantages.

Durability and Affordability

Coil stoves are generally less expensive than glass top models and easier to repair if something goes wrong. The burners themselves can often be replaced individually, which makes long-term maintenance more cost-effective. For budget-conscious customers or those outfitting a rental unit or vacation property, they’re often the more practical option.

Uneven Heat Distribution

While they’re tough and inexpensive, coil stoves aren’t known for consistent heat distribution. Depending on the model and how well the coil sits in its housing, you may experience cool spots or slow response times when adjusting the temperature. And cleaning around the coils, drip pans, and raised components can be tricky, especially if food spills get baked on.

Choosing Between Glass Top and Coil Stoves

If you’re stuck between the two, here’s how to break it down based on real-world considerations.

Best Option for Heavy Cookware

If you frequently cook with heavy cast iron, Dutch ovens, or other thick pots and pans, a coil stove is likely the better choice. The burners can handle the weight, and there’s no risk of cracking the glass. This makes coil ranges a better long-term solution for rugged home chefs or those who prefer traditional cooking tools.

Best Choice for Easy Maintenance

For those who want a cleaner, more modern kitchen and prefer quick wipe-down sessions over scrubbing drip pans, a glass stove is the way to go. Just be mindful of which types of cookware you’re using to avoid scratching the surface. If you’re upgrading your range or considering a full appliance suite, a glass or ceramic cooktop offers that sleek, built-in appearance that many homeowners love.

Understanding the Types of Stovetops

Before narrowing your decision to coil or glass, it’s helpful to understand the different types of stovetops on the market. From gas and electric to induction and hybrid models, each comes with its own set of features, pros, and performance benefits. Knowing where glass and coil options fit within that landscape can help you make a more informed, long-term choice.

Other Considerations When Comparing Cooktop Types

Still unsure which type of cooktop makes the most sense for your kitchen? Start by thinking about your overall cooking preferences. For many households, the decision begins with cooking with gas vs electric, which can shape everything from appliance layout to cookware compatibility. Once you've committed to an electric setup, choosing between a glass top or coil model becomes a matter of design, maintenance, and how you like to cook.

Which Stovetop Is Right for You?

When comparing a glass-top stove vs. a coil stove, it all comes down to how you cook, what kind of maintenance you’re willing to take on, and how important style is in your kitchen. A glass stove delivers on looks and easy cleaning but demands a bit more care. A coil stove offers rugged practicality, a lower price, and better durability with heavier cookware, though it might lack that modern appeal.

If you’re ready to replace your old stovetop or are exploring options for a new kitchen build, Town Appliance offers a wide variety of ranges, electric cooktops, and coil or glass top models from trusted brands. Whether you’re searching for a flat surface or a traditional coil range, our expert team can help you find the right fit for your home.

Need help deciding what’s best? Contact our team today, and we’ll walk you through the options to help make your kitchen work smarter, not harder.

Sources: 

1. U.S. Department of Energy. Radiant Heating. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/radiant-heating