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When it comes to cooktops, even heating is just as important as raw cooking power. After all, a high-BTU burner is only useful if it gets all that heat to the bottom of a pan.
Enter KitchenAid's new Even-Heat Torch Burner, a standard feature on the brand's all-new 30-inch KCGS950ESS (MSRP $1,649) and 36-inch KCGS956ESS (MSRP $1,849) gas cooktops. The lower burner cap fans out to separate the flame evenly, so it spreads across the entire bottom of your pots and pans. KitchenAid says it makes for more even heating, and we can't wait to test it and find out if it's true.
The KCGS956ESS cooktop, from KitchenAid, features a new design and a unique burner.
In addition to the 10,000 BTU Even-Heat burner, the KCGS956ESS 36-inch cooktop also features a 20,000 BTU center burner with a more conventional flame design.
Looks-wise, the cooktop sports KitchenAid's new brand identity. The overall look is professional, but not industrial—you'll notice lighted knobs, knurled surfaces, and controls with brushed stainless finishes on top.
The True-Heat burner, turned off.
But these aren't just showpieces. They're meant to be cooked on—and cleaned, too. A deep well holds spills, and continuous grates keep spills from happening in the first place.
Most interestingly, KitchenAid has coated all of the cooktop's stainless surfaces with a stain-resistant finish it calls CookShield. Glass cleaner is all it takes to remove dirt, grime, and grease spatters.
"A knurled knob with a spin finish" might sound like diner slang, but it's what makes this cooktop look like a KitchenAid.