The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best hobs will be robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precision control of the flame. Electric models are more efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer that allow you to boost the heat quickly to speed up cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a modern efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat the copper coils beneath the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil more quickly than kettles and use less power. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with its distinct functions, as well as a minute minder. It has a smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, but one small issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be patchy; however it is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency with a low energy consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around within the four zones and adjust their power levels to suit your pots or pans, while the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for rapid boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shut off function and a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating so you never have to worry about burning food.
This is an induction hob with a reasonable price that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are identified with a ring, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. There is also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It features a large "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots easily and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with different sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought to the boiling point, then simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, in the case of American) remains the most popular choice in cooking in the kitchen. They are the best for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately generate high temperatures making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The flame's visual indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance, which is beneficial for security reasons. It's much more difficult to forget to leave a burner on, or even switch it off accidentally as it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll need to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts as they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented stoves, which combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the requirement for a vent hood. This can help save the space in your kitchen and also create an elegant design that can blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. They are less difficult to install, and offer more flexibility in the event that you want to create a an elegant kitchen design.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to go green. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you look into this option. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation as well as regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're seeking an energy-efficient and sleek option an induction cooker is definitely the option to choose. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly, while the flat glass-ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than electrical or gas counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll require a check here set of induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good middle ground. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs as they don't require a difficult scouring. Plus, they get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when it regards energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this might not be the best option for you.
Solid plate hobs, which are a affordable option, with their simple and sturdy design, are great for cooking at home. They are quick to heat up, making them a good option for those who do not need a powerful cooktop. However, they can take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, making them not as efficient as other options on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an honest assessment of the quality of the product, but will also assist you in finding one that is right for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's finished in robust stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs may be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their instant heating and ease of control, they are also a popular choice due to the fact that they provide instant heat. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic choice for busy households.
Look for an electric hob with a an elegant design and has touch controls. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially if you opt for flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. For safety, choose one with child locks, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to help prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you might opt for an electronic display that allows you to control your stove remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with both induction and gas burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature, which allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they are ready when needed and reduces the risk of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may want an appliance that allows you to merge two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can help save space and is beneficial when cooking with large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or grills to offer additional cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you prefer a glass model there are a variety of excellent alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a special supply with the correct cables and breakers in order to function, which means you will need to have it installed by an electrician.