KitchenAid's Freestanding Electric Range KERS807P offers only a few more features than its Architect Series cousin, the KERA205P, yet it costs hundreds of dollars more. The biggest difference is in the design and, though expensive, many shoppers are willing to pay the extra money to take home the sleeker KERS807P. If your interest is in the popular stainless-steel finish, you'll need to consider this model because the KERA205P isn't offered in stainless steel. If black, white or biscuit is more your cup of tea, then you'll have the option of choosing between the two.

For the additional $400, the Freestanding Electric Range KERS807P offers a more fully featured cooktop. In place of two more typical dual elements, this model offers three larger ones with a higher total wattage. The two 9-inch duals offer a maximum of 2500 watts apiece while the one 10-inch dual offers a maximum of 1800 watts. Each dual element can also be used in a smaller configuration at a lower wattage. The smaller circumference encourages more efficient contact between small-size pans and the element.

On the KERS807P you'll find the clock and digital readout at waist height instead of on the backsplash. This design change is sleek and attractive, but does reduce the oven capacity to 4.1 cubic feet. Chances are this slight decrease in size will not affect your ability to fit bakeware in the oven, though. The redesigned backsplash serves no other purpose than protecting your walls, but who can complain about that?

The rest of the story stays true to the high quality features we've come to expect from KitchenAid. The oven offers a true third element convection and fan. Automatic convection conversion ensures this feature is easy to use. The self-cleaning feature can be adjusted to the amount of soil in the oven. Even the ash remaining is easily removed thanks to the hidden element. Like most of the KitchenAid ranges, this one offers a broiler that can be used in econo-mode for a couple of burgers or in maxi-mode for a great, big juicy steak. One of our favorite additions to this freestanding electric range is the handy warming drawer at the bottom. It's just so nice to keep dishes warm until the guests arrive.

An excellent choice for those looking for outstanding design combined with high-performance features, the KitchenAid Architect Series Freestanding Electric Range KERS807P makes a luxurious statement in any dream kitchen.


Pros: Sleek model, with solid build, attractive, features high powered, versatile glass-ceramic elements
Cons: Considerably more expensive than KitchenAid's less-featured KERA205P

Warranty
1 year, full; 5 years, parts (limited)