HOD Builder’s Brief: Wolf is one of the biggest names in luxury appliances and is known for delivering products with high-end features. However, shoppers would be wise to consider that high-end competitor ZLINE offers the same features and specifications at a much lower price.
For home chefs looking to take their cooking to the next level and go beyond simple meal prep, the right kitchen appliances can make or break their foodie experiments. The appliances that perform precisely and reliably can make all the difference in the world when it comes to whipping up delicious dishes that will wow families and guests. This is why so many consumers are choosing luxury kitchen appliances that offer top-tier performance and exceptional features that will help to guarantee a perfect result each and every time.
These top-tier appliances come at a cost that matches their incredible features and quality. In fact, for many years, only professionals or the wealthiest of consumers could enjoy the amazing benefits that high-end appliances offer. In recent years, though, certain luxury brands have worked to bring these amazing devices to a wider range of consumers with affordable pricing options.
Where can a consumer begin when shopping for luxury kitchen appliances and seeking to compare features? A large number of options are on the market with an even wider array of features, so it’s important to start out with a little research. That’s why here we take a side-by-side comparison of two of the biggest names in luxury cooking appliances, Wolf and ZLINE. Read on to find out how they compare to each other when it comes to quality, features and price.
An Overview of Wolf and ZLINE
Wolf
For years Wolf has been a brand recognized by designers, real estate professionals, and consumers as one of the leaders in quality and innovation of cooking appliances. Wolf’s cooking appliances are trusted by iconic restaurants and discerning homeowners across the world. Wolf is best known for its cooking ranges bearing distinctive red knobs. However, the brand also manufactures other cooking appliances, including induction cookers, outdoor grills, and electric wall ovens. You may wonder why you never see a Wolf dishwasher or Wolf refrigerator. In fact, the company is made up of three name brands: Wolf, Sub-Zero and Cove. Wolf focuses on cooking appliances, while SubZero as the name implies caters to refrigeration and Cove rounds things out with a line of dishwashers.
ZLINE
In recent years, ZLINE has offered the same amazing features and specifications at prices that a far wider range of consumers can afford. From its very founding in 2007 by Andrew Zuro, ZLINE has aimed to bring quality and luxury at a price that consumers can afford. The brand manufactures industry-leading cooking and refrigeration appliances as well as bath fixtures. ZLINE appliances not only offer a luxury experience but also an elegant appearance inspired by the natural beauty of their Lake Tahoe headquarters. The number one goal of ZLINE is to make luxury quality attainable.
Comparing Wolf Ranges to ZLINE Ranges
Home cooks rely on ranges that heat evenly with powerful cooktops and reliable ovens. A luxury range also looks sleek, professional, and timeless. These workhorses of the kitchen must remain durable through hundreds of cooking sessions while providing an easy-to-use interface and unparalleled precision. In fact, all of these details combine to set a luxury kitchen range apart from standard ranges. Users can pick from their preference of fuel, which typically falls into three categories:
- Electric
- Gas
- Dual fuel (using both gas and electric)
Electric Ranges
Electric ranges are perhaps the most popular choice for modern buyers for their safety, convenience, and precision. ZLINE’S 36” Induction Range promises an excellent cooking experience, as does Wolf’s 30” Professional Induction Range. Both of these models provide premium features like induction cooktops with precise temperature control. Induction has become one of the most popular cooking methods thanks to its clean cooking experience, cool heating and precision temperature dials. You’ll find boost mode for rapid heating in both models. Since the ZLINE has a wider body range, it has an oven capacity of 4.6 cu. Ft., while the smaller Wolf model comes in at 3.2 cu. ft.
ZLINE’s model boasts a glass and aluminum mesh door that stays cool during baking, a smart feature for busy kitchens or families, while Wolf’s range claims its cooktop remains cool during heating, preventing spills from becoming burnt messes.
The Wolf electric range does come with a variety of extra features, like 10 cooking modes for different methods of preparation, a gourmet mode that assigns rack height, controls the cooking mode, and even adjusts the heat with almost 50 preset options. For the techie in the family, the Wolf includes Wi-Fi control features and a convection system for controlled airflow and even heating. If you want a customizable look, ZLINE offers this model in seven color tones, so you can create the exact style that will match your kitchen perfectly. The ZLINE unit also offers home chefs all of the perks of a luxury range at less than half the Wolf unit price.
Gas Ranges
One of the most classic tools in a chef’s arsenal is a powerful gas range for searing, sizzling, and sautéing with firepower. ZLINE’s 36” gas range delivers six burners and up to 18,000 BTUs, combining a strong gas cooktop with a powerful gas convection oven. On the other hand, Wolf’s 36” gas range lays claim to six dual-stacked, sealed burners, yet only promises 15,000 BTUs on its burners for a price of $7,810. This model does have a continuous cast-iron surface for seamless movement of pots and pans on the cooktop.
However, ZLINE’s model includes a bundle of premium features, from smooth glide ball-bearing oven racks to dual oven lighting to stay-put hinges that keep the door steady at any angle. When taking into account that ZLINE’s gas range offers all that plus more finish options than the Wolf gas range–while still with a price tag less than half of Wolf’s–ZLINE becomes the clear winner in this category.
Dual Fuel
Many chefs don’t want to choose between gas or electric–they want the advantages of both at their fingertips. Dual fuel ranges satisfy this desire by combining an electric convection oven and gas burners into a single appliance. Wolf caters to these serious home cooks with its 48” Dual Fuel Range with six burners. ZLINE offers a similar product in its 48-Inch Professional Dual Fuel Range.
Both ranges supply gas burners for fast and convenient stovetop cooking, electric convection ovens for reliable, consistent baking, and a cooktop griddle for all-in-one breakfast prep. ZLINE’s sealed burners deliver from 4,200 up to 18,000 BTUs of cooking power. While on the Wolf model, there are six dual-stacked burners which produce up to 20,000 BTUs. Both also come with the convenience of two separate ovens, with the ZLINE model sporting a total of 6.0 cu. ft. Wolf's dual fuel features 30" and 18" ovens.
The range from Wolf distinguishes itself with its many gourmet mode options for simple cooking, as well as its strikingly modern full-color touchscreen. However, the dual fuel option from ZLINE competes with its industry-wide first-lifetime burner warranty guaranteeing longevity, as well as its bonus seventh burner. For cooks also wanting a custom interior design look for their kitchen, ZLINE’s model comes in a greater variety of finishes and trim colors.
Yet, for many buyers, the price will also be a prime factor.
Wolf ZLINE
Gas Range: $7,810.00 $3,299.00
Electric Range: $8,770.00 $3,649.00
Dual Fuel Range: $16,330.00 $5,399.00
ZLINE vs. Wolf: Cooktops
With a subtle appearance and luxury features, the right cooktop offers a lot of benefits. Whereas a range may consume less space, when square footage is at a premium, cooktops offer versatility and unique options that should not be overlooked. Both Wolf and ZLINE offer luxury cooktops in several options and styles, including range tops, drop-in gas cooktops, and drop-in induction cooktops.
Range Tops
Range tops are very similar to traditional cooktops but with a few distinctions. Cook tops drop into a cutout in a countertop and sit flush, while range tops feature a frontal display and slide into countertops from the front. Both Wolf and ZLINE offer luxury stainless steel gas range tops with cast iron grates. Wolf offers a 36-inch option with up to 20,000 BTU for fast cooking at a precise range of heat with the brand’s distinctive red control knobs at an MSRP of $4,585. In contrast, the ZLINE 36-inch gas cooktop offers cooking power of up to 18,000 BTUs range tops at a low price point of $1,399. Both of these range tops offer impressive heat at precise temperatures for optimal cooking power, but ZLINE offers these features at less than half the cost.
Drop-In Gas Cooktops
Gas cooktops offer a lot of power as well as precise temperature control, all while sitting flush within a countertop for a sleek and modern appearance. Unsurprisingly, both of these luxury brands have impressive offerings. Wolf serves up a five-burner gas cooktop that, like its comparable range top, offers 20,000 BTUs of heat and front-facing illuminated control knobs that pass through the facade. In contrast, ZLINE offers a six-burner drop-in gas cooktop with 18,000 BTUs of heat, an Italian-made porcelain surface for easy clean-up, and top-mounted controls for a sleeker overall appearance. The largest distinguishing factor between these two, however, has to be the price, with Wolf’s five-burner gas drop-in selling for $3,030 and ZLINE’s six-burner priced well under $1000.
Drop-In Induction Cooktops
Induction cooktops have long been popular in Europe, and now, they are making headway in the U.S. due to their safety and highly efficient heat transfer. Unlike traditional methods of cooking, which transfer heat to the cooktop and, in turn, the cookware, induction cooktops transfer heat directly to the cookware through electromagnetic waves. This means the cooking surface never becomes hot at all. Both Wolf and ZLINE have very similar offerings when it comes to induction cooktops.
Both brands offer a 36” cooktop with five burners, LED touch displays, and power boost settings when extra power is needed. However, ZLINE’s induction cooktop offers a little bit more power with one 2,000-watt burner, two 2,400-watt burners, and a 3,700-watt center burner in contrast to Wolf’s induction cooktop with four 2,100-watt burners and one 2,600 watt burner. Perhaps the largest difference between these two is the price, with Wolf’s induction cooktop priced at $4,040 and ZLINE’s coming in at an impressively affordable $1,199.
Wolf ZLINE
36-Inch Rangetop $4,585.00 $1,399.00
36-Inch Drop-In Gas Cooktop $3,030.00 $899.00
36-Inch Drop-In Induction Cooktop $4,020.00 $1,199.00
Wolf and ZLINE Refrigerators: A Side-by-Side Comparison
ZLINE and Wolf: Comparing Freestanding Refrigerators
Luxury refrigerators add a timeless and beautiful centerpiece to kitchens while also guaranteeing food safety and quality with their performance. Per luxury branding, these refrigerators come with a lot of features and performance that outshine an average fridge. Luxury refrigerators offer quality construction designed to last for many years, as well as superior seals for better efficiency. Precise temperature controls help prevent bacterial buildup and guarantee optimal refrigeration of their contents.
Both ZLINE and Wolf offer premium refrigeration units that meet all of these standards and more. Wolf’s Sub-Zero line offers a 36-inch stainless steel refrigerator and freezer that can either be installed directly into surrounding cabinetry or used as a freestanding refrigerator with the addition of optional panels. This model offers an ice maker with water filtration and two separate cooling systems for the refrigerator and freezer to guarantee optimum humidity and temperature levels. With this Sub-Zero model, you’ll get 22.7 cubic feet of space and that will carry a price tag of $15,850.
ZLINE offers a similar 36-inch stainless steel luxury freestanding refrigerator with a flat door design that can stand flush with surrounding shelving. With this model, you’ll enjoy a triple cooling system with separate systems for the refrigerator, freezer, and ice maker that, like the Wolf model, helps to guarantee perfectly preserved food each time. This model also comes with a flex drawer that offers four temperature ranges in order to offer flexible storage for different types of food or beverages. With a price point of less than $4000 and a savings of over $10,000 compared to the Sub-Zero model, it’s easy to see who is the clear winner of this comparison round.
ZLINE and Wolf: Comparing Built-In Refrigerators
There’s nothing quite like a built-in refrigerator, with its massive storing capacity, extra features and stylish “pro” look. With this type of elegant appliance, you never will have to worry about running out of space, even with preparing the largest Thanksgiving dinner. Sub-Zero and ZLINE both offer large-scale built-in refrigerators that fit right in with cabinetry to create a polished, sleek look to any kitchen.
The Sub-Zero 48-inch PRO Refrigerator/Freezer features an air purification system, dual refrigeration system for keeping humidity and temperature settings consistent. It features 18.7 cu. ft. of refrigerator space and a freezer capacity of 11.7 cu. ft. Contrast that to the large 32.2 cubic ft. ZLINE 60-inch built-in French door refrigerator which features a 23.2 cu. ft. refrigerator, a 9 cu. ft. freezer and a flex drawer with 5.4 cu. ft. capacity. With brushed high-end 430-grade stainless steel and adjustable temperature controls, including a special RapidChill Mode for quick cooling (think melting ice cream). The ZLINE’s Digital ChillControl is enabled by a user-friendly LED display that makes controlling your fridge extra convenient.
Comparing the pricing of these two models, there’s a striking difference. Although the Sub-Zero model is one foot smaller than the ZLINE model, it costs more than $7000 extra. More space, a peace-of-mind warranty and comparable features, it’s hard not to choose ZLINE in this head-to-head match-up.
Comparing Range Hoods: Wolf vs. ZLINE
When it comes to range hoods, performance matters. After all, no one wants greasy residue and smoke buildup in their home. Both Wolf and ZLINE offer high-quality range hoods for your home, but there is little competition here. Wolf offers a 36-inch stainless steel wall hood with built-in LED lighting and can support venting or filtered recirculation at 300 to 600 CFM for $1,955. However, an additional blower motor will also be required for installation at an additional cost.
In contrast, ZLINE offers a complete stainless steel unit, including a 400 CFM blower motor, with a lifetime motor warranty. This model also includes built-in LED lighting and dishwasher-safe baffle filters and can support venting or filtered recirculation. This impressive package comes in at only $499, which amounts to nearly a quarter of the cost of the Wolf model, leaving a clear winner.
Comparing Wolf vs. ZLINE Dishwashers
What about clean-up? Fast, easy cleanup of dishes after cooking is an equally important part of the process–but one that nobody wants to spend excessive time on. Thus, investing in a luxury dishwasher can simplify that chore. Wolf’s Cove 24” dishwasher is a close match for ZLINE 24-Inch Tallac Series dishwasher. Both models maximize space with three racks for greater dish-loading capacity than your standard dishwasher. Also, they are impressively quiet for this kind of appliance, operating at 41 and 51dBa, respectively, varying according to the wash cycle and setting.
Wolf adds a touch of excellence with interior LED lighting and remote cycle progress monitoring. Yet, ZLINE competes by providing eight different wash cycles suited to specific cleaning needs and an Auto Cycle setting that detects and adapts temperature and pressure to the right levels for each load. The price difference is far smaller for these appliances, but again, ZLINE comes in at around half the price of Wolf with a cost of $1,349.95 vs $2,610.
Microwave Drawer Comparison: Wolf vs. ZLINE
Microwave drawers are a popular upgrade that frees up the counter space a traditional microwave wastes and allows for convenient top-loading access. Though it may not be a mainstay of gourmet cooking, a reliable microwave is a cornerstone of a well-used kitchen and busy families. ZLINE and Wolf both offer excellent options for drawer microwaves that a discerning buyer will find surprisingly useful. These 24” models can both fit 9x13 pans for ease of rewarming or cooking casseroles and have the capacity to accommodate dishes, cups, and bowls up to 7“ tall. They also fit perfectly into modern kitchens with sleek, minimalist, simple designs. The ZLINE 24-Inch 1.2 cu. ft. Built-in Microwave Drawer is however over $1000 less in cost for a near similar appliance.
Built-In Microwave Oven Comparison
Again, the ZLINE microwave offers greater finish and trim options to match a variety of kitchen color schemes, while the Wolf option provides specialty Gourmet mode settings to take over the cooking. The microwave from ZLINE’s line wows with an auto-touch button for effortless opening and closing. ZLINE’s model is $1,349, almost half the price of Wolf’s comparable microwave, which sells for $2,295.
Wolf vs. ZLINE Appliance Package Comparison
Sources: Wolf and ZLINE
Buying kitchen appliances separately may offer flexibility, but it is important to keep in mind that by bundling your purchases together, you may be able to save significant amounts of money while purchasing the luxury appliances you love. This also helps to ensure that the appliances you purchase will match perfectly, offering a uniform appearance. So, whether you are replacing your dated appliances or planning a full remodel, an appliance package can be a great way to save money and purchase the luxury appliances of your dreams.
So, which of these brands offers a better appliance package? ZLINE delivers a 36-inch appliance package that includes a range, refrigerator, dishwasher, and range hood, all for only $9349. This is an amazing deal for four major appliances that is an impressively lower price than a similar bundle from its competitors, which would come out to $28,225. This is less than half the cost for the same level of quality and luxury features, leaving a clear winner when it comes to appliance packages!
Final Thoughts on ZLINE versus Wolf Kitchen Appliances
A discerning chef would not go wrong in equipping their kitchen with top-of-the-line offerings from ZLINE or Wolf. But, a cost-savvy shopper would stretch their kitchen upgrade budget much further by relying on ZLINE’s luxury appliances. All these appliances offer stunning and reliable performance, but ZLINE does so at around half the cost every time.
When shopping for luxury appliances to take your cooking to the next level, you’d do your best to turn to Home Outlet Direct. Find a wide selection of luxury appliances at attainable prices, including ZLINE’s range of offerings, at Home Outlet Direct. There’s no better place to find ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers, and more that guarantee exceptional durability, reliability, and performance at a price that matches your budget. Builders and military buyers can take advantage of extra discounts and special rates for even greater savings. Shoppers also enjoy getting easy appliance financing through integrated Affirm payments.
Luxury appliances don’t need to be a dream–at the right price, they could be a reality in your kitchen tomorrow. Home Outlet Direct should be your first choice for upgrading your kitchen without breaking the bank. Our team would be happy to answer all your questions on a call or in live chat, so reach out today!