Maytag MGC4436BDW

Compared to the top-rated Thermador SGSX365FS (*Est. $1,900), the Maytag MGC4436BDW gas cooktop doesn't offer much in the way of features. It doesn't have the Thermador's continuous cast-iron grates (to make moving pots easier), light-up dials or stainless-steel finish. Also, its highest-powered burner delivers only 14,000 Btu, compared to the Thermador's 18,000 Btu. However, what the 36-inch Maytag does offer, according to users, is decent performance, convenience and great value.

Reviewers say the sealed burners are laid out in a way that makes it possible to use all five at once, and they find the cooktop easy to install and use. The one exception is the dial controls, which some users don't find altogether intuitive. However, they generally don't consider this a serious problem.

The Maytag MGC4436BDW has not been included in any professional tests, but it gets positive reviews from about a dozen owners at HomeDepot.com. We also found overall consumer opinions of Maytag cooking appliances in the annual appliance owner survey from J.D. Power and Associates.