The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs will be durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Gas hobs are favored by our experts due to their versatility and precise control of flames. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by using features such as a power boost and a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs offer a modern efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone like gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to warm the copper coils beneath the pans. The cooktop is cool to touch and is therefore more secure to use and easier for cleaning. They are able to boil more quickly than kettles and use less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's kitchen test kitchen. We appreciate this sleek, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions and a handy minute reminder. It has a smooth surface that can be cleaned easily and is easy to use by using the touch-sensitive control panels, however one small issue (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, this is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with the lowest power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you move your pans within the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels in accordance with the size of your saucepans or pots. Additionally, the "Power boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops your pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burnt food items.
This is a great affordable induction cooker that is easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are identified with the ring, cross or arrow to indicate the coil centre. There's also a touch-control panel. It comes with an enormous 'Flux Zone' that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is a great option if you cook with a variety pans, all different sizes and shapes that need to be heated up and simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) remain the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. 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 generate high temperatures quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.
Their visual flame indication also makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is helpful for security reasons. It's a lot harder to forget to leave the burner on, or even switch it on by accident when compared to an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could keep out spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts as they heat up more quickly and more evenly, thus reducing electricity costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for a grill. This can save space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker appearance that will blend into any interior style.
As a result of their efficiency and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for freestanding gas hobs rather than built-in versions. They are less difficult to set up and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic kitchen look.
Another advantage of choosing freestanding models is the ability to connect it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG), which provides an alternative energy source if you're looking for a greener alternative. However, you'll need to find the right LPG boiler and stove before this becomes an option for you. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're seeking an energy-efficient and sleek option, an induction hob is the best way to go. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they consume less power than their electric or gas counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll require a set of induction-compatible cookware.
Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who do not need to invest in induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need difficult scouring. They also are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. However, they are behind induction hobs when it regards energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the right choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, the affordable option, with their simple and reliable design, are great for cooking at home. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't need an electric cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best option for chefs who love to multitask. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other options.
We recommend looking for reviews on websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you an honest insight into how it performs however, it will assist you in locating a model that's right for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it is finished in robust stainless steel. ovens and hobs match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks thanks to their instant heat and easy control, electric hobs have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs that offer advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a great choice for busy households.
Find an electric hob that has an elegant design and has 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. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, go for digital displays that give you control of your hob remotely and also notifications through your smartphone, so you can manage your hob with ease.
Look into a dual-fuel stove which has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function, which lets you set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed - reducing the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
For added convenience for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate cooking zones for pans of different sizes and shapes may be the best choice. oven hob can save on space and is useful when cooking using large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills as extra cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs that start at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should cost not more than PS200. If you prefer glass there are a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. However, bear in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply configured with the right breakers and cables so you'll have to have it installed by a licensed electrician.