The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in different sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs because of their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by utilizing features such as an energy boost or a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to warm up the copper coils below your pans. The cooktop stays cool to touch, making it safer to use and easier to clean. They can boil more quickly than kettles and require less power. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones, each with its specific functions and the minute timer. It has a smooth surface that can be cleaned easily and is easy to use using the touch control panels, however one minor issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, this is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating and a low power usage of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match the pans or pots you use and the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which prevents overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are marked with an arrow, 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 be used to accommodate larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is a great option for cooking using a variety of pans, all different shapes and sizes that need to be heated and simmered at the exact while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, if you're American) remains the most popular choice when it comes to kitchen cooking. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water simmering sauces and soups as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately generate high temperatures, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
The flame indicator's visual display allows you to see each burner's status at a glance. This is extremely useful to ensure safety. It's much more difficult to forget about leaving a burner on, or even switch it off by accident as it is with an electric hob.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that can stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to keep on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, reducing electricity costs. This is especially true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the need for a vent hood. This can save space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker look that will be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their efficiency and convenience. They're simpler to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option for those who you want to go green. However, you'll need to find the right LPG boiler and stove before this option becomes a possibility for you. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great option for those who want an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than their counterparts made of electrical or gas. Induction hobs can be expensive and you will need to invest in kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
For those who don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs best oven can be a good middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements hidden underneath that make them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean, as there's no need to do tricky scrubbing. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. 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.
Finally, solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a straightforward and reliable design that's perfect for everyday cooking. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the best choice for chefs who are able to multitask. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, making them not as efficient as other options on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend looking for one that has been reviewed by customers on the websites of retailers. Not only will this provide you with a clear view into the performance of the appliance and how it's used, but it can also help you to find a model that's right for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it is finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the advantage of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs may be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their instant heating and ease of control, they're also a popular choice due to the fact that they are quick to heating. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs that offer advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
Find an electric hob with a an elegant design and has control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid those with buttons or dials that protrude. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you select flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. To ensure safety, select a model with child locks with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs to stop accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might want to choose a digital display which lets you control your hob remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
Consider a dual-fuel hob which has gas and induction burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set 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.
For added convenience for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate zones for cooking pans in different shapes and sizes is the best option. This can help save space and is beneficial when cooking with large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to give you additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model it won't cost a fortune either as there are some fantastic options that are made by own brand. However, bear in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply configured with the right breakers and cables so you'll need to get it installed by a certified electrician.