The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The most durable hobs are sturdy elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precise control of flames. However, electric models can provide superior energy efficiency and are more easy to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features such as an energy boost or a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a contemporary 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 underneath your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact which makes them safer to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with their own functions and an hour timer. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is easy to operate using the touch control panels, but one minor issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, this is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive environmental credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating with a low power usage of 750w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you move your pans within 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% to speed up the boiling process. Other useful features include an auto-shutoff function, as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating so you never need to worry about burning food items.
This is an induction stove that is priced at a bargain that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified by the use of a cross or ring to show where the centre of the coil is, while there's an easy-to-use control panel. It comes with large 'Flux Zone' that can accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is a great option if you cook using a variety of pans of various dimensions and shapes that require to be heated up and simmered at the same time, and then kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, for those who are American) still reigns supreme when it comes to kitchen cooking. They are ideal for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups, frying meats and eggs and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately produce high heat levels making them ideal for searing and boiling.
Their visual flame indication also allows users to check the status of every burner in one glance, which is helpful for security reasons. It's a lot harder to forget to turn off a burner on, or to switch it off accidentally as it is with an electric hob.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's nothing that can keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy-efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on energy costs. This is especially true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for an hood. This can free up space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker appearance that will be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models because of their effectiveness and ease of use. They're simpler to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
Another benefit of opting for freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source if you're looking for a more sustainable option. However, you'll need to be able to find a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this becomes an option for you. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the best choice if you're looking for a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly and the flat ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than counterparts made of electrical or gas. Induction hobs are expensive and you will need to purchase kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who don't wish to invest in induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easy 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. They don't 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, a low-cost option with their basic and sturdy design, are perfect for everyday cooking. They're easy to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for chefs who love to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, so they're not as energy-efficient like the other options on this list.
oven suggest that you search for reviews on the websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with an honest assessment of the performance of the product and will help you find the one that is suitable for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances with a sleek and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks due to their quick heat and simple control, electric hobs are more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have advanced cooking functions like power increase settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has a streamlined design with touch controls. Avoid those with dials or buttons that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially if you opt for flat surfaces that don'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. And, if you have an intelligent home, opt for digital displays that give you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, ensuring you can manage your hob effortlessly.
To maximize flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with gas burners and induction. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set cooking times to ensure that your food is ready when you need it. This minimizes the chance of overcooking, and makes your food less delicious.
To make cooking more convenient for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate zones for cooking pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This will save space and is ideal if you often cook with large rectangular cooking dishes, like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding induction plates or grills to offer additional cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs that start at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a reputable brand should cost less than PS200. If you'd prefer 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 special supply with the correct cables and breakers in order to function, which means you'll need it installed by an electrician.