Wolf vs. Viking

What's the Difference Between Wolf and Viking?

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Question: Is there somewhere other than Consumer Reports that gives pros and cons about different brand-name appliances? I'm trying to get solid info on Wolf versus Viking.

Answer: To make a very long story short: Wolf offers a stainless steel finish and heavier components; a wider range of Btus for cooking at extreme temperatures; and a two-year full warranty. Viking offers a stainless steel finish plus 23 other colors, a wider range of appliance types, and a one-year full warranty.

"The number one difference is the build quality," says Chris Athanas, sales manager in the custom kitchen department of Abt Electronics in Glenview, Ill. The dealership carries both Wolf and Viking appliances. "What Wolf does differently than any other company is they use a cast-iron frame. Everyone else uses stamped steel."

The cast iron makes for a durable product that withstands the rigors of shipping and moving and can last 20 to 25 years, says Athanas.

Kirby Holekamp, sales manager for Modern Kitchens in Syracuse, N.Y., agrees, but adds that Wolf appliances, which his company represents, tend to be heavier as a result. If you have an older home, check with your salesperson, designer or installer to be sure the floor joists can support the weight.

He points to the Btu output of the burners as another Wolf advantage. On gas ranges, Wolf's burners provide 500 to 16,000 Btus while Viking's burners provide 1,000 to 15,000 Btus. Athanas doesn't consider it much of a difference, but Holekamp says that cooks who work at extreme temperatures appreciate the extra control.

Viking offers more design possibilities than Wolf, thanks to finishes such as mint julep and cobalt blue, and a 24-inch wide model that makes it possible to have a professional-style range in a small kitchen.

Another neat option from Viking that Wolf doesn't offer: a self-cleaning gas range. This is for chefs who prefer cooking with gas to electric or dual-fuel (gas cooktop, electric oven) but want the self-cleaning feature.

Viking also offers refrigerators, dishwashers, compactors, disposers and countertop appliances. Wolf’s sister company, Sub-Zero, however, makes refrigeration appliances.

Prices vary by region and retailer, but comparable Wolf and Viking appliances usually cost within a few hundred dollars of each other, according to Athanas and Holekamp.

One thing your money can't get with Viking: Wolf's trademark red knobs, considered a status symbol in some circles.

 
Comparing Wolf and Viking