After you cook an elaborate meal, the last thing you want to do is perform an archaeological dig under your burners. Luckily, most electric ranges now come with smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces, and you can buy gas units with sealed burners.

6,000 BTU

What it is: Powerful heat that comes out of gas burners about 68 percent more powerfully than from a standard stove’s (a maximum of 9,500 British thermal units).
Makes life easier because: It takes about 20 percent less time to boil a pot of water.
On second thought: It is found only at the very pricey end and may be packaged with other features (computerized cooking) you don’t need.
Who needs it most: High-volume, high-intensity cooks.

Continuous Grates

What they are: Burner covers that line up geometrically, allowing a pot or pan to slide from element to element.
Make life easier because: You can move a big pot of water without lifting it.
On second thought: The two-grate option is heavy (around 10 pounds), making it stable but difficult to lift and clean.
Who needs them most: Anyone who frequently cooks with large, heavy pots.

Convection Mode

What it is: An electric element or fan inside the oven that distributes extra heat. It’s also an option in microwaves.
Makes life easier because: It cooks food about 25 percent faster and more evenly.
On second thought: It could set you back $200 to $300.
Who needs it most: People who want to cook quickly.