Looking for your next kitchen? Do you want a freestanding appliance or a built-in oven and hob? Whatever you need and whatever your requirement may be, you can easily and quickly find the model that will fit your space.

➡ And before we answer the above questions, don’t forget that with purchase through Skroutz you get: 

• Free delivery to your floor (yes, even to the 5th floor).
• Free returns in case you change your mind.
• 2-year warranty for every eventuality (repair, replacement, or refund) so you can have peace of mind. 
• After-sales support for whatever you may need after your purchase.

In short, you buy without stress.

Now, let’s go through everything in detail, so every question is answered!

⚡ Types of appliances

1. Freestanding cookers

These are the traditional all-in-one appliances that include the oven and the hob on top, and are placed either independently in the space or between the kitchen counters. Most of us grew up with this type of cooker at home, with the characteristic storage drawer in which mom used to put the baking trays and other utensils.

Advantages:

• Easy installation
• More economical option for the complete "oven + hob" set
• Wide variety of sizes and technologies

They are suitable for households that do not have a built-in space or need ease of replacement. They are also preferred more often in older or holiday homes, where space has been left for placing the appliance between the kitchen cabinets.

2. Built-in ovens & hobs

Built-in ovens are installed inside a kitchen cabinet, offering a harmonious aesthetic to the space. If you choose such an oven, which is found in most modern kitchens, you need to go through a series of other small decisions. 

First, you should decide in advance where your built-in oven will go. At what height do you want it to be installed? There is the option of high column installation, for easy and immediate access without needing to bend down, or classic low installation, under the counter and usually under the hobs. 

Next, you should decide whether you want to buy the oven separately from the hobs or together as a set. The hobs are separate units, usually independent, and can be combined with any oven.

➡ You can learn more about choosing the right ones in the detailed buying guide for kitchen hobs.

Advantages:

• Integration into the kitchen design, offering a more flexible layout
• Easier use (can be installed at a height)
• Many advanced functions

This option is suitable for those who are building or renovating their kitchen and want a modern look and ergonomics, offering both freedom of movement and practicality in everyday life.

⚡Dimensions & Capacity

Dimensions are another factor you need to consider before purchasing, to ensure that your appliance will fit in your kitchen. Therefore, you should answer the following question:

Is there already space in the kitchen designated for your new appliance?

• If yes, you should look for an oven/stove that will fit in the specific space and has the appropriate dimensions.
• If no, you can choose any appliance you want and then coordinate with the professional who will do the installation to create the corresponding space.

The typical width of freestanding stoves ranges from 50–90 cm, while for built-in ovens, the width is usually 60 cm.

SkroutzTip: For choosing the ideal dimensions, you can check if the largest baking tray you already have fits in the new oven you are considering buying. This will help you easily compare the old with the new appliance.

⚡Type of energy

1. Electric energy | Electric energy is the most common choice for ovens and hobs in modern kitchens. 

• Electric ovens offer stable temperature, which is ideal for even baking of foods such as pies, desserts, and roasts. 
• They feature many functions such as fan, grill, top and bottom heating elements, and combined programs, while their installation is relatively simple, as it only requires a power supply. 
• Another advantage is self-cleaning, which is offered in many models, either through catalytic or pyrolytic technology.

However, one of their main disadvantages is that they take longer to heat up compared to other types. Also, they may have slightly higher electricity consumption, especially if used frequently. Nevertheless, they are an ideal choice for everyday use by families or people who cook regularly and prepare a variety of dishes.

2. Gas (natural gas or LPG) | Appliances that run on gas are a traditional yet effective solution, especially for hobs. 

• They provide immediate and powerful heating, with instant response to power settings – something that gives the cook greater control. 
• Their operating cost is lower, especially when natural gas is used. 
• Gas hobs in particular are ideal for frying, sautéing, and quick cooking in pots.

In ovens, however, gas technology is less popular, mainly because it offers fewer functions. There is no option for hot air circulation, advanced programs or self-cleaning. In addition, installation requires connection to a gas supply and good ventilation of the space. Despite the difficulties, gas ovens are suitable for traditional kitchens or professional environments, where cost savings and speed come first.

3. Mixed | Mixed ovens are a flexible and comprehensive solution for the kitchen, as they combine more than one cooking technology in a single appliance. 

• Thus, the user can enjoy both the precision and consistency of electric baking and the speed and immediacy of gas. 
• The most advanced mixed ovens offer specialized programs or combinations of functions for fast and even results. 

Although they usually cost more, they are aimed at those seeking maximum flexibility and space saving, without sacrificing cooking quality.

If you still find it difficult to decide, the main question - which you can answer to reach the ideal choice - is: 

⚡Oven Functions

Another key factor in choosing is the functions, cooking methods, and programs that the appliance offers. Once, the top, bottom resistance, and grill might have been enough. Nowadays, however, we have many more options. Let's look at the main operating methods that modern ovens provide, regarding the preparation of foods and desserts, and for which types each is suitable:

⚡Cleaning

Removing burnt food residue is sometimes a nightmare. Modern oven technology, however, promises impressive results in the area of cleaning and self-cleaning of internal surfaces with minimal effort. This can be achieved thanks to the following:

• High-durability interior surface made of non-stick enamel material
• Foldable grill for easier cleaning of the oven ceiling
• Removable oven door for easy and effective cleaning
• Door with an interior glass surface for easy cleaning
• Special coatings on the back with self-cleaning capability

Self-cleaning functions

• Pyrolysis, in which very high temperatures (450–500°C) are used for a period of 1.5–3 hours, cleaning the oven by burning off the residue. An ideal type of self-cleaning for those who use the oven frequently and want minimal maintenance and maximum cleanliness.
• Hydrolysis, which is a self-cleaning function using steam, for gentle removal of residue. Here, water is added to the bottom of the oven and at a low temperature (~50–100°C) for about 20–40 minutes. Then, after the oven has cooled slightly, manual cleaning with a cloth is required. An ideal method for those who cook lightly and simply want an easy way of regular maintenance.
• Catalysis, in which fats are absorbed by the special panels on the oven walls and then gradually broken down (during baking). It is suitable for users who cook often and want easy maintenance without time-consuming procedures.

Manual cleaning

Of course, there is always the option of manual cleaning with special cleaners for perfect results from your own hands. Always, though, with care. Follow the steps below and you will be impressed by the result.

1. Before you start, unplug the oven or turn it off from the panel and wait for it to cool down completely to avoid burns. For stubborn stains, warm the oven slightly to 50–60°C for a few minutes, turn it off and apply the cleaner to a warm surface – the grease will soften more easily.
2. Remove baking trays, racks, guides, even the side supports if they are removable, and clean them separately with hot water and soap or with baking soda + vinegar for stronger action.
3. Prefer special oven cleaners or natural solutions such as vinegar or lemon for disinfection, baking soda + water (make a paste and spread it on the stains) and avoid harsh chemicals if the oven has catalytic panels. Also, never use wire scrubbers or metal sponges – you may scratch the surfaces.
4. The interior glass door can be cleaned with warm soapy water or a special glass cleaner, while for the joints, use cotton swabs or an old toothbrush for the corners. Don’t forget to clean the vents, grilles, and sealing gaskets as well.
5. After cleaning, wipe thoroughly with a damp cloth to remove any cleaner or soda residue and then dry with a clean, dry cloth. Leave the oven door slightly open for a few hours so that any moisture and odors can evaporate.
6. Repeat every 1–2 weeks if you use the oven often.

⚡Energy label

The energy label on ovens is not as important as on other household appliances, such as the refrigerator or washing machine. However, it contains some important information worth looking at, such as:

• How efficient the oven is
• What energy consumption it has per cycle
• The size and capacity of the cavity

Since 2021, the new EU energy label has been simplified and applies to all major appliances.

⬇ Below you can learn everything about the energy labels of ovens and how to decode them:

⚡Safety

Modern appliances have built-in child protection programs and have become so “smart” that you will never need to rush back home because it crossed your mind that you left the oven on.

Let’s take a closer look at some options:

• Automatic shut-off capability if the operating time exceeds the maximum allowed limit
• Safety lock button for the appliance so it cannot be turned on by children
• Low temperature on the outer glass of the door, thanks to multiple layers of thermal insulation glass, to prevent burns

⚡Equipment

• Every kitchen or oven usually comes with 2 baking trays (one shallow, one deep) and of course the racks, while you can also get various additional accessories for more options. Some appliances also offer a rotisserie spit for even more cooking choices.
• Very important is also the presence of a telescopic mechanism, which allows you to pull the tray out without having to "go" inside the oven to check on the progress of the food, with the risk of getting burned. Meanwhile, ovens with a folding door, which sinks down beneath the cavity, are another excellent option to ensure safe and easy access to the food.
• Finally, also look for a built-in stop function on the rails, if you want to avoid the tray falling unexpectedly as it is pulled out.

⚡Appearance & design

In most cases, they are silver-colored kitchens & ovens that give the feeling of “high technology” in the kitchen and suit most spaces. However, there are still appliances in white color, mainly freestanding kitchens, while there are also options for those looking for other shades, such as black ovens for a minimal and original aesthetic.

Other features worth paying attention to:

• Timer: Useful both for programming the oven to start baking while you are away, so you find the food ready when you return, and for avoiding any accidents even if you are at home.
• Meat thermometer, so there is no longer a need to monitor the cooking process. The oven switches off automatically when the roast reaches the desired temperature.
• Folding oven door: After opening the oven, the folding door sinks completely below the oven chamber, making it easier to use.
• Switches: You can choose between recessed switches for easy cleaning and a minimal aesthetic, touch switches for modern kitchens, or the classic fixed switches, which do not sink inward.

Don't forget! By considering the above individual characteristics and combining those that suit your needs, you can arrive at the ideal choice for you. Before deciding, you can also take a look at other users' reviews to see their opinions and experiences, which can help you reach a final decision much more easily.

You can also take a look at the guide with the top choices for cooktops & ovens, where you will find the best options based on user feedback.