Ranges vs. cooktop and wall-oven combos

Stand-alone range

Best for economy. Spending more buys slide-in, stainless, dual-fuel, and pro-style models wider than 30 inches.

But all lack the flexibility of a separate cooktop and wall oven. Pro-style and dual-fuel ranges are pricier without necessarily being better; some pro-style brands have been repair-prone.

Price $450 and up.

Cooktop and wall oven

Best for separate cooking areas. Some cooktop/oven combos can cost less than some stand-alone ranges, especially pro-style models.

But a separate cooktop and wall oven cost more to install than a stand-alone range. You'll also find a growing number of stylish and capable ranges for less than you'd pay for many of the cooktop/wall-oven combos.

Price $1,500 and up for both.