The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in different sizes and materials. The best hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are favored by our experts for their versatility and precise control of flames. Electric models are more efficient and easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer and power boost that let you boost the heat quickly to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat only the copper coils that are beneath your pans. The cooktop remains cool to touch and is therefore more secure to use and easier for cleaning. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. They're now a standard appliance in the HelloFresh's kitchen test kitchen. We are in love with this sleek, premium model from AEG that comes with four cooking zones with individually controlled functions as well as a handy minute reminder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are easy to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common complaint with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with the lowest power consumption of 750W for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows you to move your pans around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match the pans or pots you use, while the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other helpful 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.
ovens Ovens & Hobs is an induction stove with a low price tag that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are marked with the ring, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. It also has an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pots and pans with ease and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels that are set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that have to be brought to a boil, simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop for those who are American) remains the most popular choice when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. They are the best for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats and pan-frying. Their popularity stems from their ability to generate high temperatures quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see each burner's status at a glance. This is very useful for safety. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally turn on the burner or forget that it was on.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than ceramic counterparts. There is no material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to remain careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are more energy efficient than their induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing electricity costs. This is especially true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the requirement for a vent hood. This will save space in your kitchen, as well as creating an elegant and modern design that will blend into any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their efficiency and convenience. They're more straightforward to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to go green. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you think about this alternative. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the best option if you want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you will need to buy cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good alternative for those who don't want to invest in the induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath which makes them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean, as there's no need for tricky scrubbing. Additionally, they get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they are not an ideal choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, which are a budget option with their simple and durable design, are ideal for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't need a high-powered cooktop, but they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for dynamic chefs who like to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs are not as efficient in energy as other options.
We recommend looking for reviews on websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you an honest insight into how it works and how it's used, but it can assist you in locating a model that's right for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it is finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen and give it a minimalist and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks due to their rapid heating and easy to control, electric hobs have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic choice for busy households.
When choosing an electric hob make sure you choose one that has a sleek design with touch controls and without buttons or dials sticking out. This makes them easy to clean, particularly when you select flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. Select a model with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, you might opt for an electronic display that allows you to control your hob remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob with induction and gas burners. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer, which allows you to set cooking times for meals so they are ready when needed - reducing the risk of overcooking and making food less delicious.
For added convenience For added convenience, a model that has two separate cooking zones for pans of various sizes and shapes may be the best option. This can save on space and is ideal for those who cook frequently with large rectangular cooking dishes, like roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills as additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for a glass model there are a variety of excellent alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. However, bear in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply that is plugged in with the correct cables and breakers to work so you'll need it installed by a qualified electrician.