The Best Hobs

Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.

Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precision flame control. However, electric hobs can provide superior energy efficiency and are more easy to clean. You can speed up the cooking process with features such as a power boost and a timer.

1. Hobs Induction

Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs uk do, they use magnetic technology to warm the copper coils that are below your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch, making them safer to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with its distinct functions, as well as a minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However, the heat distribution is uneven. This is a common issue with all induction stoves.

The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive green certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency and a low energy consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you to move your pans between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels in accordance with the size of your saucepans or pots. Meanwhile, the 'Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' that ensures that your pan is not overheated are other useful features.

This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are identified with a ring or cross to indicate the center of the coil. There is also a touch-control panel. It features large 'Flux Zone' that can accommodate larger pots or pans. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you often cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought to a boiling point, then simmered and kept warm simultaneously.

2. Gas Hobs

A gas hob (or gas cooktop, if you're American) is still the best when it comes to kitchen cooking. They are the best choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high temperatures, making them perfect for searing and boiling.

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

Most models have a flat surface, which makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll need to be vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.

Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than induction cousins, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on electricity costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for the grill. This will save space in your kitchen and create a sleeker appearance that will blend into any style of interior.

Due to their efficiency and ease of use, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. These are easier to install and provide more flexibility in the event that you want to create a an elegant kitchen design.

A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you consider this alternative. These models require gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.

3. Hobs with Sealed Plates

Induction hobs are the Best hob choice if you're looking for a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. 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 more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient, since they use less power than their gas or electric counterparts. However, the drawback 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 do not need to invest in induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need difficult scouring. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they are behind induction hobs when regards energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy use this may not be the best hob choice for you.

Solid plate hobs are a good budget alternative, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best ovens and hobs choice for chefs who are able to multitask. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other alternatives.

If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we recommend looking for one that's been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only provide you with an honest view into how it works and how it's used, but it can also help you to find the right model for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, creating a an elegant and minimalist look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their rapid heat and simple control, electric models are more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power up settings oven and hob temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.

Find an electric hob that has a streamlined design with touch controls. Avoid hobs with dials or buttons that protrude. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface, and won't scratch or chip. For security, opt for a model with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might opt for an electronic display that lets you manage your hob from afar and also receive notifications from your smartphone.

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

To make cooking more convenient, a model with two separate cooking pans of various sizes and shapes may be the best hob choice. This will save space and is ideal for those who cook frequently using large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to offer additional cooking options.

There are cheap gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model it shouldn't break the bank either as there are some excellent own-brand options. But, keep in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll need to get it installed by a licensed electrician.