The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. hob and oven are durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Our experts recommend gas hobs because of their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer and power boost which allow you to increase the heat quickly to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
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 employ magnet technology to only heat the copper coils that are beneath your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the surface, making them more secure to use and easier to clean. They boil water faster than kettles and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with its distinct functions, as well as the minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However, the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common complaint with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency and the lowest energy consumption of just 775 watts per cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and adjust the power levels according to the pots or pans you use. Meanwhile, the 'Power Boost" function boosts the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor,' which helps to prevent overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly marked with the use of a cross or ring to show you which side of the coil is and there's an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It has a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pots and pans easily, and it's pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is a great choice when cooking using a variety of pans of different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated up, simmered at the same while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, if you're American) is still the best when it comes to kitchen cooking. They're the ideal choice for boiling water simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high temperatures which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see each burner's status at glance. This is very useful to ensure safety. It's a lot harder to forget about leaving the burner on, or to switch it on by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll need to be on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, which saves electricity costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for the hood. This will save space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can blend into any style of interior.
Because of their effectiveness and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own instead of built-in models. These are easier to install, and offer more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is an excellent option if you are looking to go green. However, you'll need to be able to locate the right LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. These models require a gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the ideal option if you want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly and the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than their electric or gas counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll have to buy cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who don't need to invest in induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs, since they don't require hard scrubbing. Plus, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they might not be a good choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, a low-cost option with their basic and sturdy design, are ideal for everyday cooking. They're quick to heat up, making them an ideal option for those who do not need a powerful cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other alternatives.
If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we suggest choosing one that has been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only give you an accurate view of the performance of the model however, it will also assist you in finding the right one for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances with a sleek and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their rapid heating and easy to control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. And 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.
When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that is sleek with touch controls and without dials or buttons that stick out. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface, and won't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart home, you might opt for a digital display which lets you control your stove remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.
For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob that includes gas and induction burners. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and durable cast iron pan supports that accommodate traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set specific cooking times to ensure that your food is ready when you require it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less tasty.
For additional convenience, a model with two separate cooking pans of different sizes and shapes may be the best option. This can help save space and can be beneficial if you cook with large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for additional cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a reputable brand should cost no more than PS200. If you're looking for a glass model there are plenty of great options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the correct cables and breakers to function, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.