Whirlpool WCE97US6KB Reviews & Ratings by Customers and Consumer Reports

Designed for busy home cooks who want the flexibility of multiple pan sizes without stepping up to induction, the Whirlpool WCE97US6KB is a 36-inch electric radiant cooktop that prioritizes practical versatility, straightforward operation, and easy day-to-day cleanup. As a five-element ceramic-glass model, it’s well suited to households that regularly run several pots at once—weeknight meal prep, holiday cooking, or batch cooking included. The standout performance advantage is element adaptability. The FlexHeat™ Triple Radiant Element uses concentric rings (6", 9", and 12") to better match cookware diameter, which helps reduce wasted heat around smaller pans while still accommodating oversized stockpots when needed. A FlexHeat™ Dual Radiant Element (6" and 10") adds similar flexibility for medium-to-large cookware, and the dedicated Warm Zone is genuinely useful for holding sides or sauces at serving temperature without overcooking. In real kitchens, these features translate to fewer “hot spots” caused by mismatched pan sizes and less juggling of burners when timing multiple dishes. Control design is another strength. Tap Touch Controls keep the surface sleek and are easier to wipe down than raised knobs, while Control Lock Mode helps prevent unintended activation—an important safety and cleaning convenience in family kitchens. A hot-surface indicator light provides clear feedback after cooking, which is especially valuable on smooth-top electric units that can look cool before they actually are. As with most ceramic-glass radiant cooktops, there are tradeoffs. Heat response is typically slower than gas or induction, and the glass surface can show smudges or cooked-on residue if spills aren’t addressed promptly with appropriate ceramic-glass cleaning methods. The touch interface may not suit buyers who prefer tactile knobs or who often cook with wet hands. Overall, Whirlpool positions the Whirlpool WCE97US6KB as a dependable, feature-forward radiant cooktop for shoppers who want a clean built-in look and flexible burner sizing—whether outfitting a U.S. kitchen or a Canadian household that prefers widely serviceable electric cooking. It’s best for everyday multi-dish cooking and low-fuss maintenance, while those prioritizing ultra-fast response may want to consider induction alternatives.