If you harbor dreams of a $15,000 gas range with big knobs and a lot of Btu but have a $1,500 budget, a slide-in range is for you.I like to think of these stoves, which have a low profile and no clunky backguard, as a design hack for kitchens: You can find a good-looking slide-in for less than $1,000, often just slightly more than a similar freestanding model. And if you’re willing to spend a bit more (around $2,000 or $3,000) you can get even closer to a luxury look and feel.The GE GGS600AV and the Whirlpool WSGS7530R are my top picks. They’re both terrific and affordable ranges with strong cooktops. The GE has a basic convection oven and comes in four finishes. The Whirlpool has a true convection oven and is available in two finishes.I also recommend four other models with more premium designs, features, and functionality at a variety of prices.