Choosing the Right Oven for Your Home

Both scenarios lead you to the same conclusion: it’s time to shop for a new oven.

A great oven can make all the difference in your cooking experience, and by extension, your daily life. Choosing an oven is a decision that will rely on a blend of practicality, personal preference and a little bit of appliance know-how.

Luckily for you, we happen to be Experts on the matter—and we’ll walk you through the process, with insights and advice about the best oven brands, the latest features, and the right way to plan for your purchase.

Think before you buy

When it's time to get a new oven, you might be tempted to make a beeline for the shiniest one you see. But choosing the best oven for your home isn't just about picking the one that looks the coolest; it's about finding the one that fits your lifestyle and your home’s needs. So let’s start with a few key considerations to get you prepped.

Assessing your kitchen needs

Take a step back and look at your kitchen. What oven features do you absolutely need? Are there features you’d like, but are not super necessary? You want to be happy with your purchase, so you’ll need to set some guardrails and separate your wants from your needs.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

1. How much space do I have? Measure the space where your oven will go to identify what dimensions you’ll need to keep in mind.
2. What type of oven works with my kitchen layout? Do you have room for a free-standing range or would a built-in wall oven with a separate range be better?
3. How often do I cook and for how many people? This will help you think about features and capacity.
4. What are my cooking priorities? Are you a baker, roaster, a stove-top chef, or all of the above?

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer here. It's about what works best for you and your home.

Set your budget

Let's talk money. Ovens come in a range of price points, so knowing what you can afford beforehand is important.

• Price Range: Ovens can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand for high-end, top rated stoves. You’ll also need to factor in potential installation costs.
• Tax Credits and Rebates: You might be eligible for rebates and tax credits. Some states offer credits for purchasing new, energy-efficient appliances.
• Long Term vs. Short Term: Consider long-term value versus upfront costs. A cheaper oven might save you money now, but if it's not durable or energy-efficient, you might end up spending more in the long run.

Features, features, features

Now, think about your must-haves. Maybe you bake a lot and need precise temperature control, or you're all about convenience and a self-cleaning function is a must. Think about your day-to-day cooking and what features would make your life easier.

Then, you can move on to the fun part: the nice-to-have features. These are the extras that aren't essential but would be great to have. Maybe it's a smart oven you can control with your phone or a special setting for perfect pizza crust. While these aren't deal-breakers, they can add some extra joy to your cooking.

The world of ovens is always evolving, and the latest models from the best oven brands come packed with some pretty amazing technology. Here are a few things you might look for:

1. Smart Technology: Control your oven from your smartphone, set timers, or even get recipe suggestions.
2. Convection Cooking: This helps cook food more evenly and often faster, giving you great results every time.
3. Specialized Cooking Modes: From bread proofing to slow roasting, modern ovens offer a variety of settings for specific types of cooking.
4. Energy Efficiency: Newer models are often more energy efficient, which is better for the planet and your utility bills.
5. Safety Features: Things like automatic shut-off and child locks can give you peace of mind, especially in busy households.

If you’re not sure what features will be most useful to you, our Frontdoor Experts are only a click away in the app. We’ll connect you with an appliance Expert equipped with knowledge on the latest oven trends and technologies who can help you pick out the best oven for your home.

Best oven brands & models by price point

Now comes the exciting part: exploring different oven brands and models.

Whether you're looking for something basic and budget-friendly or a high-end model with tons of trendy features, there's an oven out there with your name on it. And we’re sharing our best rated stoves for each tier.

Budget-friendly options

When it comes to finding an oven that's kind on your wallet, you don't necessarily have to sacrifice quality. The 2023 market offers some solid, budget-friendly options that can meet your basic cooking needs without breaking the bank.

These examples represent what you’ll generally find in the budget-friendly range, from brands known for their durability and performance, even at lower price points. In short, they have the features you need to tackle everyday cooking.

Mid-range options

In this price tier, you can expect a step up in quality, features, and durability compared to the budget-friendly options. Mid-range ovens typically bring more advanced cooking technologies and better materials, making them a great choice for those who love to cook and want a bit more from their oven.

If you're considering a mid-range oven, think about how often you cook and what features will truly benefit your daily life. The added cost over budget models can be justified by the improved performance, versatility and longevity these ovens provide.

High-end luxury options

High-end, luxury ovens are where technology, design, and performance converge. These ovens are the top of the line, offering the best in terms of build quality, advanced features, and aesthetic appeal. They are designed for serious cooks and those who want their kitchen to make a statement.

If you’re considering a high-end oven, think about how its features align with your cooking needs and kitchen style. The investment here goes beyond cooking; it's about the joy of using a top rated stove and the elegance it adds to your home.

Bye bye buyer’s remorse

Remember, choosing the best oven for your home is about matching your needs with the right features, at a price that makes sense for you. With these tips in your pocket, you can shop confidently and get an oven you’ll love.

Our Frontdoor Experts are here to serve up support and guidance at every step of your oven-buying journey. Still not sure what oven is right for you? Measuring your kitchen and need a second set of eyes? Download the app to video chat with an appliance Expert who can tackle all your burning questions. Happy oven hunting!