Baking Battle: Gas vs Electric Ovens - Which Is Right for You?

Choosing the right oven or range for your kitchen is a big decision, but understanding the key differences between gas and electric can simplify your choice. 

Let’s walk through the pros and cons of both, so you can easily figure out which oven is best for you.

The Differences Between Gas and Electric Ovens

Before diving into which option is better for you, let’s cover the basics.

• Gas Ovens: Powered by natural gas, these ovens use an open flame to generate heat. They are available as part of a range (which includes both an oven and stovetop) or as a gas wall oven that fits into your cabinetry. Gas ovens are ideal for roasting and broiling, as they heat up quickly and retain moisture, making them great for cooking meats and casseroles.

• Electric Ovens: These ovens use electric heating elements to generate heat, and they also come as part of a range or as electric wall ovens. Electric ovens excel at maintaining steady, even heat, making them a go-to choice for precise baking and delicate dishes like soufflés.

Why Choose a Gas Oven?

Gas ovens are known for their quick heating and versatility. If you cook a lot of meats, casseroles, or one-pan dishes, you'll love how fast a gas oven gets up to temperature and how it keeps food moist.

Advantages of Gas Ovens:

1. Quick Preheating: Gas ovens heat up almost instantly, so you’re not waiting around before you can start cooking.

2. Moist Cooking: The open flame produces moisture, which is ideal for roasting meats and dishes that benefit from a little extra humidity.

3. Lower Energy Costs: If your home is already hooked up to natural gas, you’ll find that gas ovens can be more affordable to operate than electric ones.

What we recommend:

Whirlpool 30-inch Self-Clean Gas Range with No Preheat Mode
Model #WFGS3530RS

The Whirlpool 30-inch gas range is perfect for making the most of your time in the kitchen. This self-cleaning oven features high heat burners and a No Preheat Mode, so you can get meals going faster. With a 5.0 cu ft capacity and Broil function, it adds a toasty twist or melty magic to your family’s favorite dishes. The built-in temperature sensor ensures even baking, and the two SpeedHeat high BTU burners let you boil 20% faster.

Frigidaire Gallery 24" Single Gas Wall Oven with Air Fry
Model #GCWG2438AF

The Frigidaire Gallery 24-inch Single Gas Wall Oven with Air Fry is perfect for healthier cooking without sacrificing flavor. Air fry directly in your oven, and enjoy faster, more even baking results with True Convection, which circulates hot air throughout the oven. It also features a premium touchscreen control panel and a fingerprint-resistant, Smudge-Proof® Stainless Steel finish, making it a stylish and practical addition to your kitchen.

Why Choose an Electric Oven?

Electric ovens are the go-to choice for homeowners who love to bake. These ovens provide even, consistent heat, which is key for baking cakes, cookies, and bread that require precise temperatures.

Advantages of Electric Ovens:

1. Even Heating: Electric ovens distribute heat evenly, which is great for baking because you won’t have any hot or cold spots.

2. Easier Temperature Control: With electric ovens, you can fine-tune the temperature more precisely than with gas ovens, making them better for delicate cooking tasks.

3. No Gas Line Needed: If your home doesn’t have a gas line, installing an electric oven is easier and more convenient.

What we recommend:

GE® 30" Free-Standing Self-Clean Electric Range
Model #JB256DMWW

This GE 30" electric range is a great choice for everyday cooking with its 5.0 cu. ft. oven capacity, offering plenty of space to cook a full meal at once. It features a self-clean oven, eliminating the need for scrubbing, and Sensi-temp technology, which provides the same cooking power as traditional coils but with added safety. The dual-element bake ensures even heat distribution for consistent results, while the removable full-width storage drawer keeps trays and cookware within easy reach.

Which Oven Is Better?

In this baking battle, the winner depends on how you cook. If you’re big on baking, electric ovens typically win. Their even heat distribution ensures that cookies, cakes, and pastries bake perfectly every time. No need to worry about uneven cooking or cold spots—electric ovens keep everything consistent, which is key for precision baking.

However, if you’re all about roasting, broiling, or preparing hearty meals, a gas oven might suit you better. Gas ovens heat up fast and retain moisture, making them ideal for dishes like roasts, casseroles, or pizzas where quick, high heat and moisture retention are important.

Key Takeaway:

• For baking: Electric ovens provide consistent, even heat, making them the best choice for precision baking.

• For roasting and quick cooking: Gas ovens heat up faster and offer better moisture retention, which is ideal for roasting meats and casseroles.

In the end, the choice between gas and electric comes down to what you cook most and your home’s setup.

Upgrade Your Kitchen With DeWaard & Bode

Whether you're set on gas or think electric is the way to go, DeWaard & Bode has you covered. With a wide selection of ovens, you'll find the perfect match for your dream kitchen. 

Contact us now or swing by one of our kitchen appliance stores in Bellingham and Burlington, Washington, to browse our selection of cooking appliances. We also offer flexible appliance financing to help you build the kitchen of your dreams!

Related readings from our blog:

• Induction Vs. Electric Vs. Gas Cooktops: Which One Is Best?

• Is A Convection Oven The Same As An Air Fryer?

• Convection Vs. Conventional Oven: Which Oven Is Better?

FAQs: Gas and Electric Ovens

Do chefs prefer gas or electric ovens?
Many chefs prefer gas ovens for their faster heat-up times and better moisture retention, especially when cooking meats. However, for baking, electric ovens are often favored because of their even heat distribution.

What are the disadvantages of a gas oven?
Gas ovens can struggle with consistent temperature control, and the heat is less even compared to electric ovens. This can lead to hot spots and uneven cooking, particularly when baking.

Why are people switching from gas to electric stoves?
Many people are switching to electric stoves for their energy efficiency and better temperature control. Electric ovens are also seen as more eco-friendly and easier to clean.

What are the disadvantages of electric ovens?
Electric ovens take longer to preheat and can be more expensive to operate, depending on your local electricity rates.

Is it healthier to cook with a gas or electric stove?
Both options are safe, but electric stoves do not emit combustion gases, making them slightly better for indoor air quality.

Do gas ovens last longer than electric?
Gas ovens tend to last longer because they have fewer electrical components that can wear out. However, both types can easily last over a decade with proper maintenance.

Which type of oven is best for baking?
Electric ovens are generally best for baking because of their consistent and even heat distribution.