The Best Hobs

Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting elegant, stylish and easy to clean.

Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts for their versatility and precision control of the flame. Electric models are more efficient and are easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features such as power boosts and a timer.

1. Hobs induction

Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils that are below your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch and is safer to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than a traditional kettle and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with their specific functions and the minute timer. It has a smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to use with the touch control panels, however one small issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be patchy; however it is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive green credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating and the lowest power consumption of 750W for each cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and alter their power levels to suit your pots or pans, while the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% for speedy boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops the pan from overheating, so you don't need to worry about burning food items.

This is a low-cost induction hob that is easily wired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are marked with an arrow or cross to indicate the center of the coil. It also has an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It features a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pots and pans effortlessly and is pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front and back zones. This is a great option for cooking with a variety of pans of different shapes and sizes that need to be heated up, simmered at the same time, and then kept warm.

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 choice for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately generate high heat levels, making them perfect for boiling and searing.

The flame's visual indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is useful for security reasons. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally turn on the burner or forget that it was turned on.

Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's nothing that can stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.

Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction cousins, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on energy costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one unit and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This can free up space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can fit in with any interior style.

As a result of their effectiveness and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own instead of built-in models. They are less difficult to install, and offer more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic kitchen look.

A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option if you want to go green. However, you'll need be able to find a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. click here These models require a gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.

3. Hobs with Sealed Plates

If you're looking for an energy-efficient and sleek option an induction hob is the best option to choose. These hobs are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burning!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than gas or electric counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.

Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who don't want to invest in the Induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They're more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs since they don't require hard scrubbing. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They do not offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they might not be an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.

Solid plate hobs, a low-cost option with their basic and reliable design, are great for everyday cooking. They are quick to get hot, making them a good option for those who do not require a powerful cooktop. However, they can take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, which means they're not as energy-efficient like the other options on this list.

If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we recommend looking for one that's been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. Not only will this provide you with a clear view into how it performs, but it will aid you in finding a model that's right for your home. For example, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen with a sleek and contemporary look.

4. Electric Hobs

Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs can be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and control, they are also a popular choice because they are quick to warmth. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer advanced cooking functions like power increase settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.

When choosing an electric hob choose one that is sleek with touch controls and no buttons or dials sticking out. This makes them easy to clean, especially if you opt for flat surfaces that don't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. And, if you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, so you can manage your stove easily.

Look into a dual-fuel stove that has both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set specific cooking times so that food is ready when you require it. This minimizes the chance of cooking too long, and can make your food less flavorful.

Additionally, for greater convenience, you may want an appliance that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of varying dimensions and shapes. This will save space and is beneficial when cooking with large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills as extra cooking options.

You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you prefer glass models, there are many excellent alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. However, bear in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply that is plugged in with the correct breakers and cables so you'll need to get it installed by a licensed electrician.