When it comes to investing in a high-end brand, every dollar counts. On one hand, just about any premium appliance brand offers the benefits of quality materials, impressive durability, and features that are only available to buyers with bigger budgets. However, with so many great options to consider, it’s important to look at all the factors that go into creating your ideal vision of luxury. So, when it comes to a comparison between two high-end California kitchen brands — Dacor and Wolf — which name reigns as the true champion of California-inspired professional appliances? Find out in this article, along with insight on what to expect from each brand, as well as a list of expert-chosen appliances across four categories: ranges, wall ovens, cooktops, and kitchen ventilation.
At a Glance:
Dacor® Contemporary 36" Stainless Steel Pro Dual Fuel Steam Range-DOP36M86DHS
Wolf® 36" Pro Style Dual Fuel Range-Stainless Steel-DF366
Dacor® Professional 29.88" Stainless Steel Electric Double Oven Built In-HWO230PS
Wolf® E Series 30" Electric Double Oven Built In-Stainless Steel-DO30PE/S/PH
Dacor® Professional 36" Stainless Steel Professional Gas Cooktop-HPCT365GS/NG
Wolf® 36" Stainless Steel Professional Gas Cooktop-CG365P/S
Dacor® Professional 30" Chimney Wall Ventilation-Stainless Steel-DHW301
Wolf® 30" Cooktop Wall Hood-Stainless Steel-VW30S
Dacor vs Wolf Ranges
Use these charts throughout this article for a quick comparison of specs, such as the size each brand offers, or the budget required for an appliance from each brand category.
|
|
Dacor |
Wolf |
|
Fuel Options |
Gas ‣ Dual-fuel ‣ Induction |
Gas ‣ Dual-fuel ‣ Induction |
|
Size Options (in.) |
30 ‣ 36 ‣ 48 |
30 ‣ 36 ‣ 48 ‣ 60 |
|
Burner Types |
Dual-stacked Brass |
Dual-stacked Sealed |
|
Min/Max Burners |
4 ‣ 6 |
4 ‣ 8 |
|
Min/Max BTU Output |
750 ‣ 22K |
>300 ‣ 20K |
|
Max/Min Oven Size (cu. ft.) |
5.2 ‣ 6.6 |
4.4 ‣ 10.2 |
|
Convection |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Steam Ovens |
✓ |
✗ |
|
Smart Ranges |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Price Range |
$3,499–$13,999 |
$5,470–$19,860 |
Discover More: The Best Luxury Ranges
Dacor Professional Ranges
If Wolf ranges showcase the heritage of Californian style, Dacor ranges display an edgier side across three lineups of smart ranges with pronounced hardware, brilliant displays, and an impressive repertoire of cooking methods to excite aspiring cooks. On one end of the spectrum, Dacor’s Transitional range collection is all about haute refinement, followed by the Professional collection that brings the spirit of pro restaurants into domestic kitchens. However, the Contemporary series is the most robust, offering models with integrated griddles, steam, and a beefier build that makes a bold statement.
When ranked in terms of power, the Professional series sits modestly on the low end with 18,000 BTUs of output, while both the Transitional and Contemporary series up the ante with 22,000 BTUs of firepower. Yet, with more cooktop configurations than Dacor Transitional ranges, any range from the Contemporary line would be a beast any ambitious home cook would love to tame. Regardless of the line, all Dacor ranges feature four-part convection, along with brass burners with the agility to go from full output to a low flame instantly.
Depending on the model, Dacor ranges offer a plethora of high-end features, including:
- Dual-stacked brass burners
- Steam cooking
- Built-in/removable griddle accessory
- Wi-Fi enabled LCD panel
- 3,500–4,400W broiler
We Recommend: Dacor® Contemporary 36" Stainless Steel Pro Dual Fuel Steam Range-DOP36M86DHS
Take sautés, sears, and sizzles to the next level with the powerful versatility of this Dacor range featuring six high-performance gas burners and a convection oven. A steam oven and up to 22,000 BTUs of power provide all the tools necessary to skillfully master every menu like the pros. With an elegant setup of LED Illumina knobs, brass accents, and a vivid LCD control panel, enjoy a stunning presentation every time you cook on this 36-inch professional range.
Wolf Professional Ranges
Wolf ranges have long been trusted by professional chefs for their quality, reliability, and power, meaning a kitchen stocked with a Wolf range is one ready to create restaurant-grade meals. While these ranges are easily recognized for their signature red knobs, they’re remembered for their clean-lined designs and high-capacity performance. On every Wolf gas or dual-fuel range, patented dual-stacked, sealed burners provide the freedom to turn up the heat with a max of 20,000-BTU output or prepare sauces and simmers at just 300 BTUs.
It’s hard to match the versatility Wolf ranges provide. The most modest cooking setup features either four burners or elements, but with the ability to upgrade to larger models with an infrared griddle, an infrared charbroiler, or a French top, Wolf ranges are dynamic tools ready to conquer any menu. And with a lineup of gas, dual-fuel, and induction ranges, there are even more possibilities waiting to discover for every kitchen.
Features found across Wolf ranges include:
- Dual VertiCross convection
- Adjustable infrared burner
- Gourmet Mode over 45 cooking presets
- Induction Boost Mode for 40 percent faster boils
- Bridge Function
See the Brands Head-to-Head: Thermador vs. Wolf ranges
We Recommend: Wolf® 36" Pro Style Dual Fuel Range-Stainless Steel-DF366
With six dual-stacked burners and blazing heat at your demand, this Wolf range is the ticket to achieving elite performance in the kitchen. Intelligent craftsmanship enables this pro-style range to work at ultra-low simmers below 300 BTUs and up to 20,000 BTUs for the complete spectrum of use, from slow-simmered sauces to steaks with perfect sears. For main entrées, enjoy the 5.4 cubic-foot oven equipped with dual convection and 10 preset cooking modes, providing ample space and function to create meals at standards that will impress everyone.
Dacor vs Wolf Wall Ovens
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|
Dacor |
Wolf |
|
Fuel Options |
Electric |
Electric |
|
Size Options (in.) |
27 ‣ 30 |
24 ‣ 30 ‣ 36 |
|
Configurations |
Single ‣ Double ‣ Combi-Oven |
Single ‣ Double ‣ Speed Oven |
|
Min/Max Oven Size (cu. ft.) |
4.5 ‣ 9.6 |
1.6 ‣ 10.2 |
|
Convection |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Steam Ovens |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Smart Ovens |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Pricing |
$2,999–$7,699 |
$2,409–$9,225 |
Dacor Built-in Ovens
The revolutionary power of steam cooking makes its way into two Dacor built-in oven designs: The Contemporary line and the Transitional series. Using this new-age feature, users can create ideal cooking environments suited for long roasts with succulent results or enjoy making artisanal bread with that signature crust and fluffy interior. A standard on all Dacor wall ovens is four-part convection that makes rotating cookware no longer necessary by supplying every level with equal, uniform heat.
Three unique styles and configurations provide the freedom to explore a number of installation options suited to the lifestyles of every kind of home.
Other features include:
- Wi-Fi enabled display
- Chef Mode with guided cooking
- SmartThings Wi-Fi programming
- SoftShut hinges
- Smooth-rolling GlideRacks
We Recommend: Dacor® Professional 29.88" Stainless Steel Electric Double Oven Built In-HWO230PS
This Dacor double wall oven invites you to take on daring menus with high-end features designed for high output with fantastic results. A total of 9.6 cubic feet of oven capacity grants more room to prepare meals side-by-side, along with exclusive Dacor Pure Convection that provides superior heat distribution. The luxury continues with RapidHeat broil technology, SoftShut doors, and smooth GlideRacks for a full package of power and convenience ready at your will.
Wolf Built-in Ovens
Having a Wolf built-in oven in the kitchen is like having a chef to help you with dinner when you use top-notch features like Gourmet Mode with new-age technology that automatically cooks preset items to perfection. Together with the power of convection, Wolf wall ovens provide a luxury experience with results that are equally as delectable.
For even more performance, select ovens also feature Wolf Dual VertiCross. The exclusive technology relocates the heat source to the back and uses vertical heat sources to produce better heat circulation than even standard convection baking.
Select Wolf wall ovens also feature:
- Wi-Fi monitoring and programming
- Steam function
- Built-in temperature probe
We Recommend: Wolf® E Series 30" Electric Double Oven Built In-Stainless Steel-DO30PE/S/PH
Great feasts await inside this Wolf oven with 9 cubic feet of oven space ideal for whipping together multiple entrées at once. A full range of functionality, from dual convection to a collection of cooking modes, gives you the liberty to execute meals, from the modest to the ambitious. Enjoy the added convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity, deluxe halogen lighting, and a built-in temperature probe for a complete experience of luxury.
Dacor vs Wolf Cooktops
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|
Dacor |
Wolf |
|
Fuel Options |
Gas ‣ Induction |
Gas ‣ Electric ‣ Induction |
|
Size Options (in.) |
30 ‣ 36 |
15 ‣ 24 ‣ 30 ‣ 36 ‣ 48 |
|
Burner Types |
Dual-stacked Sealed Brass |
Sealed ‣ Dual-stacked |
|
Min/Max BTU Output |
800 ‣ 18.5K |
9,200 ‣ 20K |
|
Smart Cooktops |
✓ |
✗ |
|
Pricing |
$1,499–$3,999 |
$1,205–$3,150 |
Dacor Pro Cooktops
Some manufacturers go big with selection while others, like Dacor, prefer a refined approach, as is the case with the brand’s modest, yet impressive, line of professional gas and induction cooktops. Dacor 30-inch and 36-inch ranges are designed to install cleanly into countertops for a high-end look and come with powerful cooking features that are just as impressive.
Dacor gas cooktops showcase the brand’s high-performance, sealed brass burners as a beautiful contrast to a Diamond Like Carbon coating and Illumina knobs that also sparkle with a gentle accent glow. A dark-tone theme continues on Dacor induction cooktops across ceramic glass surfaces embedded with touch controls and a Wi-Fi connectable LCD frame with pre-loaded cook settings and recipe instructions. The addition of an LED virtual flame brings the theatrics and makes for easier heat control, and with nine flexible elements, plus Dacro SmartThings wireless programing, creating meals is simple and sensational from start to finish.
We Recommend: Dacor® Professional 36" Stainless Steel Professional Gas Cooktop-HPCT365GS/NG
Empower your countertop with this Dacor cooktop and its powerful output. Five burners combine for a spacious cooking setup complete with SimmerSear technology that registers up to 18,000 BTUs of heat, plus the Dacor Smartflame feature that protects the cooktop from heat damage. A bead-blasted finish gives a premium detail that sparkles, a perfect complement to Illumina knobs with ambient LED glowing.
Wolf Pro Cooktops
Wolf ranges are quintessential staples in high-end kitchens, but not every home has the bones to accommodate one. In those cases, Wolf cooktops are perfect solution with equal performance to Wolf ranges, minus the space. They are also great paired with a Wolf built-in oven to enjoy a cooking space that is entirely eye level, and with a customizable installation that works with each kitchen’s unique workflow.
Like their range counterparts, Wolf cooktops allow users to get creative with the setup, offering models with as few as two burners or elements, and up to six, including options with an infrared charbroiler, wok burner, and a French top. With up to 20,000 BTUs of heat ready at the fingertips, Wolf gas cooktops are serious cooking tools made for great results.
New-age cooks will also enjoy 40-percent faster boil times on Wolf induction cooktops, which also include black ceramic glass surfaces that are sleek and require little maintenance.
We Recommend: Wolf® 36" Stainless Steel Professional Gas Cooktop-CG365P/S
A Wolf cooktop is a surefire way to cook like a pro, and this 36-inch model lets you do it with finesse. With the turn of a knob, 18,000 BTUs of firepower activate for delicious sears and rapid boils, and simmers at just 300 BTUs. Continuous grates allow for smooth movement of cookware and provide a stunning presentation that is unique to the Wolf brand.
Dacor vs. Wolf Ventilation
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|
Dacor |
Wolf |
|
Styles |
Insert ‣ Chimney ‣ Wall ‣ Island ‣ Downdraft |
Insert ‣ Chimney ‣ Wall ‣ Island ‣ Downdraft |
|
CFM Range |
390–1,200 |
300–1,500 |
|
Sizes (in.) |
30 ‣ 36 ‣ 46 ‣ 48 |
24 ‣ 36 ‣ 42 ‣ 45 ‣ 54 ‣ 60 ‣ 66 |
|
Smart Hoods |
✓ |
✗ |
|
Pricing |
$959–$4,099 |
$805–$4,230 |
Related: 9 Range Hoods for Every Kind of Kitchen
Dacor Ventilation
Smoke, odors, and humidity — nobody wants any of these in the kitchen. But what’s always welcome is quality design and performance, which are two things Dacor premium ventilation delivers. Dacor insert range hoods offer a slim profile that also works with a custom hood to seamlessly blend into their surroundings. True statements are made with hearty chimney hoods, wall hoods, and island hoods, all which feature a restaurant-style canopy for better reach of circulation, plus a pronounced presentation. Handy features like Wi-Fi connectivity, task lighting, and quiet operation provide added function that ensure only thing that lingers after cooking is your joy for creating meals.
We Recommend: Dacor® Professional 30" Chimney Wall Ventilation-Stainless Steel-DHW301
Accidents happen in the kitchen, but the elevated look of this Dacor chimney hood is purely by design. Four variable speeds make quick work of smoke and humidity with a maximum of 600 CFM of power. This luxury 30-inch chimney hood also comes with two halogen lights and dishwasher-safe baffles, providing easy operation from cooking to cleanup.
Wolf Ventilation
No kitchen is too big or too small to enjoy the convenience of powerful air ventilation. Wolf remedies with a vast range of professional range hoods up to 66 inches in width. Each model carries with it the stamp of Wolf craftsmanship, from classic stainless-steel hoods to glass hoods to black range hoods. With an equally diverse spectrum of power as low as 300 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and up to a whopping 1,500 CFM, even kitchens with high-output ranges are defended from the inconvenience of air contaminants. Best of all, Wolf pro hoods come with intelligent technology that automatically responds to temperatures above 200 degrees allowing you to continue cooking without the need to stop and switch the ventilation on.
We Recommend: Wolf® 30" Cooktop Wall Hood-Stainless Steel-VW30S
However you get down in the kitchen, this Wolf 30-inch chimney hood has you covered with a fully customizable blower with up to 1,500 CFM of performance. Heavy-grade stainless steel provides a classic, professional look, while electronic controls and LED lighting add a touch of convenience to make this a multipurpose kitchen appliance.
Dacor or Wolf: Which is Better?
It’s hard to go wrong when choosing between the performance of Wolf and Dacor appliances. Both dedicate quality craftsmanship into their manufacturing, offering an impressive lineup that will not only do the job at hand — it will help you do it better.
Dacor ranges provide slightly higher output than Wolf ranges, 22,000 and 20,000, respectively, and Dacor gains a slight edge with its Contemporary range series that is loaded with new-age cooking features. Wolf, on the other hand, comes with an unparalleled 20-year lifespan and has been trusted by the pros for decades.
More points go in favor of Wolf with its expansive cooktop catalog, especially with the ability to create a custom setup using 15-inch cooktops. Dacor cooktops, while impressive, are part of a limited selection, which can be a tradeoff for buyers looking for a unique setup.
When it comes to usability, Dacor built-in ovens offer simple operation via SmartThings Wif-Fi programming, whereas Wolf built-in wall ovens stick to traditional controls. Additionally, Wolf’s Dual VertiCross technology is found on select models only, while Dacor’s Pure Convection is a standard on all models.
Besides a slight difference in ventilation at 1,200 versus 1,500 from Dacor and Wolf, respectively, both brands offer a rich choice of premium range hoods that pair well with any of these appliances.
Related: Friedmans favorite luxury appliance brands
Shop Wolf and Dacor at Friedmans Appliance
Count on Friedmans Appliance for all you luxury appliance needs, including Wolf and Dacor products. We’ve been a Trusted Name in the Bay Since 1922™ and provide the expert insight to find you the right appliance for your needs.
Shop online, by phone at (925)-808-2950, or at our appliance showroom located at 2304 Monument Boulevard in Pleasant Hill.