The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in different sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precise control of flames. However, electric models can offer superior energy efficiency and are also easier to keep clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to speed up cooking.
1. hob and oven provide a contemporary efficient and effective alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space like gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to warm the copper coils that are below the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the surface, making them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with their specific functions and a minute minder. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is easy to operate using the touch control panels, however one minor gripe (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven; however, this is only really noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency with the lowest power consumption of just 775 watts per cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and adjust the power levels to match your pans or pots, while the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% for speedy boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor,' which helps to prevent overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is an induction cooktop with a reasonable price that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are marked with the ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There's also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It comes with an enormous 'Flux Zone' that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is an excellent option when cooking with a variety of pans of different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated and simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, in the case of American) is still the best in kitchen cooking. They are the best choice for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to create high heat levels quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.
hobs and ovens allows you to see the status of each burner at glance. This is very useful for safety. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally switch on the burner or forget that it was turned on.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's no material that could fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are more energy efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on energy costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the requirement for a hood. This will save the space in your kitchen and also create an elegant and modern design that will blend into any style of interior.
As a result of their efficiency and their ease of use, a lot of homeowners opt for freestanding gas hobs instead of built-in models. They are more straightforward to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
Another benefit of going for an independent model is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG), which provides an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a greener alternative. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you look into this option. In addition, these models require a gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great choice if you're looking for a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly and the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface stays cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than electric or gas counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you will need to invest in induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs are smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath that make them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean since there's no need to do complicated scouring. 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, which means they are not an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs are the budget option, with a simple and durable design that is perfect for everyday cooking. They are quick to heat up, making them a great choice for those who do not require a powerful cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs also emit a lot of residual heat, which means they're not as efficient in energy use like the other options on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a clear view into how it works and how it's used, but it can assist you in locating the perfect model for your home. For instance 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 with other appliances in the kitchen with a sleek and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred option for cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric hobs are more energy efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic choice for busy households.
Look for an electric hob with a sleek design and control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface that doesn't scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select one with child locks, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, go for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications through your smartphone, so you can manage your hob effortlessly.
Look into a dual-fuel stove that has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set cooking times to ensure that food is ready when you require it. This reduces the risk of overcooking, and makes your food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may want an appliance that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of different sizes and shapes. This can save on space and is useful for those who cook frequently with large rectangular cooking dishes such as roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a reputable brand should still cost you no more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model it won't cost a fortune also, as there are top options from own brands. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the right cables and breakers to function, which means you will need to have it installed by an electrician.