On a tight budget? Check out these ovens that cost less than $1,500
These seven ranges deliver solid performances at budget-friendly prices.
Home appliance ads can be discouraging if you're in the market for a new oven. Manufacturers are quick to show off their latest range models that are loaded with various cooking modes, wrapped in stainless steel and priced into the four figures. We see a lot of these models in the CNET test kitchen ( one that even approached $10,000 ). Fortunately, we've also seen budget-friendly ranges that performed well in our cooking tests. Here are seven ranges that got our attention and cost less than $1,500.
GE Artistry Series Electric Range
This retro-styled range from GE proves that eye-catching design is attainable for less than $1,000. This $600 oven lacks upgrades that are standard for higher-priced ovens, such as self-cleaning capability, a convection fan and a hidden bake element. But the simple, old-school appearance makes this range stand out from similarly priced competitors. Plus, the Artistry range is easy to use and provides consistent cooking performance.
Read the complete review of the GE Artistry Series Electric Range.
GE 30-inch Freestanding Electric Range (model JB650SFSS)
GE delivers another affordable range with the JB650SFSS, a smooth-top electric model with a stainless steel finish. The range's look isn't as unique as GE's Artistry line, but the JB650SFSS has a streamlined touchpad, five burners and a steam clean option that make up for its generic appearance. The JB650SFSS originally cost $800 when we reviewed it back in December, but some retailers now sell the range for $700 or less.
Read the complete review of the GE 30-inch Freestanding Electric Range (model JB650SFSS) .
Frigidaire Gallery 30-Inch Electric Range
This Frigidaire model looks more expensive than its original $899 price. Stainless-steel finishes, a smooth cooktop with a warming zone and a quick-boil feature are just some of the features that make this range feel like an upgrade. Its performance in our cooking tests was consistent, even without having a convection fan in the oven to more evenly distribute heat. We weren't too pleased with its MSRP at the time of our review, but a quick online search reveals that the price for this Frigidaire Gallery range is as low as $650 at some retailers.
Read the complete review of the Frigidaire Gallery 30-Inch Electric Range .
Kenmore 74343
The first gas range on this list impressed us with its intuitive touchpad, nice looks and solid cooking performance. For $1,400, the Kenmore 74343's oven comes with a convection fan that makes for more even multirack baking. The Kenmore also excels when it comes to boiling water: Its large 18,200-BTU burner brought 112 ounces of water to a rolling boil in 9.75 minutes. Not too shabby for less than $2,000.
Read the complete review of the Kenmore 74343.
KitchenAid Freestanding Gas Range Architect Series II (model KGRS306BSS )
This gas range came with an MSRP of $1,649 when we reviewed it back in April, but retailers have already dropped this model to $1,250. That's a fair price to pay for the KGRS306BSS, which produced some of the tastiest, most uniform biscuits we'd had in the test kitchen and broiled six burgers in a hasty 14 minutes and 37 seconds. The responsive, simple design also makes this range a top pick.
Samsung Gas Range with True Convection (model NX58F5700 )
Samsung loaded this midpriced gas range with the slick details of a more expensive model. The touchscreen has with a digital LED display that blends into the stainless steel finishes, and the model comes with cooktop accessories such as a wok ring and a griddle. The cooking times weren't the fastest, but the range produced some tasty food. The NX58F5700 was originally priced at $1,699, but it's possible for consumers to find a model for $1,299.
Read the complete review of the Samsung Gas Range with True Convection (model NX58F5700).
Samsung Dual Door Flex Duo (model NE59J7850WS)
Versatility is the selling point for this Samsung range. The NE59J7850WS (originally $1,899, now available for $1,470) includes a Flex Duo divider that gives you double-oven capability. There's also a latch that lets you open a smaller door for the top part of the oven without letting heat escape from the bottom portion. Add the speedy broiler and the quick convection roast mode, and you have a valuable tool for the kitchen.
Read the complete review of the Samsung Dual Door Flex Duo (model NE59J7850WS).