The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most effective hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features like an energy boost or a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as do gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to touch which makes it safer to use and easier to clean. They can boil water faster than a kettle and use less power. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with their specific functions and the minute minder. It has a smooth surface that can be cleaned easily and is easy to use by using the touch-sensitive control panels, but one minor gripe (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven, but this is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low power consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to fit your pots or pans, while the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor,' which ensures that your pan is not overheated, are also useful features.
This is an induction cooktop that is priced at a bargain that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are marked with a ring, cross or arrow to indicate the coil's centre. It also has a touch-control panel. It features an enormous "Flux Zone" that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is a great choice if you cook with a variety of pans of different sizes and shapes that need to be heated 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. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately create high heat levels making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to check each burner's status at an instant. This is extremely useful to ensure safety. With an electric hob, it's harder to switch off an appliance or forget it was turned on.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes and spills. You'll need to remain vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction cousins because they are able to heat faster and more evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and remove the need for an hood. This can free up space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker appearance that will blend into any interior style.
As a result of their efficiency and convenience, many homeowners opt for gas hobs that are freestanding rather than built-in versions. They're more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
Another advantage of choosing a freestanding model is the ability to connect it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which can be an alternative energy source for you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. But, you'll need find a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. Moreover, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are a great choice if you're looking for an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly and the flat ceramic surface of the hob stays cool. oven with hob ovensandhobs makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, since they use less electricity than electric or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you'll have to invest in 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 have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs and easier to clean since there's no need for a complicated scrubbing. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they might not be an ideal choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a straightforward and durable design that is perfect for everyday cooking. They're quick to get hot, making them a great option for those who don't require a powerful cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other options.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend choosing one that's been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide you with an honest assessment of the quality of the product, but will also help you find the right one for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's made of robust stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, creating a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks due to their rapid heat and easy control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer sophisticated cooking functions, such as power increase settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
Find an electric hob with a a streamlined design with control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid those with dials or buttons that protrude. This makes them easy to clean, particularly when you select an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. For safety, choose a model with child locks, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs that will prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you might opt for a digital display that allows you to control your stove remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.
Consider a dual-fuel hob that comes with both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set specific cooking times so that your food is ready when you need it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may need a model that permits you to combine two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of different dimensions and shapes. This can help save space and be useful if you cook with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills as additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs that start at PS100 and more expensive models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it won't cost a fortune also, as there are top options from own brands. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a special supply with the correct breakers and cables to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.