The Best Hobs

Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The most durable hobs and ovens are long-lasting, stylish and easy to clean.

Our experts prefer gas hobs because of their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost that let you boost the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.

1. Induction Hobs

Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat the copper coils that are beneath the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact which makes them safer to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil more quickly than kettles and use less energy. 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, smooth surface that is easy to clean and is easy to use using the touch control panels, but one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs oven) is that the distribution of heat may be patchy; however it is only noticeable when stirring-frying.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating with a low power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pans or pots and the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% for rapid boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops the pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burning food items.

This is an induction cooktop that is priced at a bargain that can be hardwired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified by a ring, cross or arrow to indicate the coil centre. It also has a touch-control panel. It has an enormous 'Flux Zone' which can hold larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you regularly cook with different sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought up to boiling point, simmered and then kept warm at the same time.

2. Gas Hobs

Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the best option to cook in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups, frying meats and eggs as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately create high heat levels, making them perfect for boiling and searing.

The visual flame indicator makes it easy to determine each burner's status at a glance. This is extremely useful for security. It's a lot harder to forget about leaving the burner on, or switch it on by accident, than it is with an electric hob.

The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's nothing that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.

Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented stoves that combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This can free up space in your kitchen and create a sleeker look that will blend into any interior style.

Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. They are less difficult to install and provide more flexibility when you are looking to achieve 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 want to go green. But, you'll need be able to find a suitable LPG boiler and stove before this becomes an option for you. Moreover, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.

3. ovens hobs for Sealed Plates

If you're seeking an elegant and energy-efficient choice an induction cooker is the best hob uk choice. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly and the flat glass-ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than counterparts made of electrical or gas. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs uk is that they can be expensive to purchase and you'll require an induction-compatible set of cookware.

Ceramic hobs are an excellent option for those who do not want to invest in the induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need lengthy scouring. Plus, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when regards energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy consumption this might not be the right choice for you.

Then, solid plate hobs are the budget option, with a simple and durable design that is perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're easy to warm up and are perfect for those who don't need a high-powered cooktop, but they can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for chefs who love to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs also give off lots of heat, making them not as energy-efficient as the other options on this list.

If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we recommend looking for one that has been rated by customers on retailer websites. This will not only give you a true insight into the performance of the product however, it will also help you find the right one for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and contemporary appearance.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks thanks to their quick heat and easy control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer advanced cooking functions like power increase settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.

When choosing an electric hob, look for one that is sleek with touch controls, and no dials or buttons hanging out. This makes them easy to clean, particularly if you opt for flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. Choose a model that has child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may want to choose an electronic display that allows you to control your stove remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.

Look into a dual-fuel stove which has both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature, which allows you to set cooking times for meals so they're ready when you need them and reduces the risk of cooking too long and making food less tasty.

Lastly, for added convenience, you may need a model that allows you to join two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This can save space and be useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.

Gas hobs are available in a range of prices, from as low as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should cost not more than PS200. If you're looking for glass models, there are many excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. However, bear in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs need a specific supply that is plugged in with the correct cables and breakers to work so you'll have to have it installed by a licensed electrician.