After deciding whether you need a gas oven range or electric range oven fueled by convection, you need to decide what type of Range is best for your needs.

Types of Ranges

An electric and gas stove range comes in three configurations:

• Freestanding -  A freestanding range is, as the name implies, a range that stands alone. It has panels on both sides, giving it a complete finished look from any angle. It is the range of choice if either side will not be placed next to a cabinet.
• Slide-on -  A slide-in range does not come equipped with finished side panels. This configuration is the logical choice if the unit will be placed between two cabinets, and it may even be used at the end of a row of cabinets if the manufacturer offers an optional side panel.
• Drop-in -  this range is fueled by electricity only and is at least partially supported by the cabinets on either side. Drop-in models are so named because they are installed between two cabinets by lifting and dropping. This range has no bottom drawer beneath the oven; in its place is a panel that matches the cabinetry to give the kitchen more of a built-in look.