American Range vs. BlueStar Range Ovens
American Range and BlueStar® both build powerful cooking equipment that gives precise control to operators while cooking items quickly. American Range manufactures durable range ovens for foodservice operators needing dependability for daily restaurant production, while BlueStar is better suited for concepts valuing customization.
American Range vs. BlueStar: Comparison Snapshot
| Category | American Range | BlueStar |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | Commercial ranges focusing on durability and reliability | High-output ranges with extensive design customization |
| Typical Price Range | $$$ | $$$-$$$$$ |
| Strengths | High-output burners, griddles, and charbroilers | Extensive customization options |
| Considerations | Less responsive for fine adjustments | Lower-tech, limited warranty |
| Best For | High-volume foodservice operations | Artisan baking for breads and pizzas |
American Range is a strong fit for foodservice operators who need range equipment built for repeated foodservice use, while BlueStar is better suited to kitchens where professional performance and appearance are higher priorities.
About American Range
Founded in 1982, American Range manufactures commercial cooking equipment including restaurant ranges, ovens, fryers, griddles, broilers, and hot plates. Its range ovens come in gas and electric models and are available in single or double-stack convection units. These ranges feature stainless steel burners with multiple configurations with griddle and charbroiler configurations also available.
Key Features:
- Anti-clog lift-off burners for simplified cleaning and maintenance
- Green Flame electronic ignition system for energy efficiency
- Pop-Off shelves support heavy cookware and simplify cleaning
About BlueStar
Founded in 1880, BlueStar produces handcrafted ranges with strong burner output and extensive customization options. Its ranges include gas, dual-fuel, induction, open-burner, sealed-burner, griddle, charbroiler, and French top configurations, with many models available in more than 1,000 colors and 10 different trim options.
Key Features:
- High-end open burner models
- 130-degree Fahrenheit simmer burners and 1,850-degree infrared broilers on most models
- Extensive color, knob, trim, and door-style customization
Key Differences Explained
Both American Range and BlueStar range ovens deliver outstanding food quality. Choosing between them depends on the desired level of power, durability, and price.
Burner Power and Cooking Performance
American Range restaurant ranges feature open burners with outputs as high as 32,000 BTUs and are equipped with anti-clog lift-off burner heads to support rapid recovery and repeated sauteing, boiling, and searing. Some models pair those burners with 20,000 BTU griddle sections, 35,000 BTU standard ovens, or 30,000 BTU convection ovens. BlueStar’s Platinum models deliver 25,000 BTU flames through its PrimaNova™ open burners, while 130-degree simmer burners deliver precise temperature control for gently warming soups and sauces.
Durability and Cleaning
American Range ovens are made of stainless steel and equipped with durable cast iron top grates. Features such as lift-off open burners, removable spill trays, detachable shelves, and adjustable legs simplify cleaning, and both standard and convection ovens feature porcelain enamel oven interiors that can be wiped clean as needed.
BlueStar’s eco-friendly Continu Clean™ technology on newer dual fuel ranges keeps ovens clean without the need for harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. Unlike traditional self-clean cycles, this feature offers continuous cleaning by using a coated porcelain interior and airflow from the convection system to gradually oxidize grease and food residue through regular use. Although this will not fully eliminate the need for manual cleaning, it does reduce the frequency necessary.
Warranty and Price
American Range covers defects in material and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of installation, while BlueStar ranges used in commercial operations are not covered.
BlueStar ranges often sit at a more premium price point, especially in larger sizes and custom configurations, though some models do sit at a price closer to the average cost of American Range ovens.
Which Brand Is Right for You?
| Scenario | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| High-Volume Kitchen | American Range | Steady temperature control and high tolerance for extended use |
| Culinary School | American Range | Removable components support student learning, use, and cleaning |
| Bakery | BlueStar | Dry gas convection and infrared broiler deliver high heat for baking |
| Open Kitchens | BlueStar | Broad customization options create visual appeal |
American Range offers high burner output and the durability features operators need for repeated daily use, while BlueStar delivers premium oven features and exceptional customization.
Shop American Range at KaTom
KaTom offers a wide selection of commercial ranges and convection ovens from American Range. Check out KaTom’s catalog to find reliable range ovens at the right price for your operation.
