Freestanding

• A freestanding range allows more options for placement within the kitchen. Both sides feature panels so the stove looks finished even if it stands on its own. This style also works between cabinets or at the end of a length of cabinets. This style of range is easier to pull out for cleaning purposes. It also contains either a storage drawer or broiler unit at the bottom of the range. Most freestanding ranges feature the knobs at the back of the unit on a raised panel area that extends above the cooking stove. This panel also contains a timer and clock unit on many freestanding ranges.
  
  

Drop-in

• A drop-in range goes down into the cabinets in a more compact unit. Instead of a bottom drawer like other ranges, the drop-in version has a panel underneath to blend in with the cabinetry. This style lacks the finished panels on the sides like a freestanding model since the drop-in rests in the cabinetry without exposing the sides. The top of the stove is even with the countertop and doesn't have a higher control panel on the back that contains the knobs. Instead, the knobs are on the front of the drop-in range.
  
  

Slide-in

• A slide-in range is similar to a drop-in range in many ways. This style is designed to slide in between cabinets for an incorporated look. The sides are unfinished and the knobs are on the front of the range because there is no higher control panel. A slide-in range looks like a freestanding range in that it has a drawer at the bottom to hold pans instead of the panel, like a drop-in.
  
  

Cooktop and Ovens

• An alternative to the three range types is a cooktop and separate oven. The cooktop is set into the countertop so it doesn't take away from cabinet space underneath. A separate oven unit goes into the cabinetry, typically around chest or waist height. A double oven unit is also a possibility. This provides more flexibility and usually takes away less cabinet space, making it a suitable option for smaller kitchens.