The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish ovens and hobs uk easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by utilizing features such as power boosts and a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone like gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to only warm up the copper coils below the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the surface which makes them safer to use and easier to clean. They can boil water faster than a kettle and require less power. They are now a staple kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's test kitchen and we are in love with this elegant, premium model from AEG that comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an efficient minute reminder. It has a smooth, smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to operate using the touch control panels. However, one minor gripe (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the heat distribution can be uneven; however, it is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency with a low power consumption of 775 watts per cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and alter their power levels to suit the pans or pots you use, while the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% to ensure speedy boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function and a 'fryingSensor' that prevents the pan from overheating, so you never need to worry about burning food items.
This is an induction hob with a low price tag that can be hardwired to a kitchen worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified oven with hob the ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There's also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has an enormous 'Flux Zone' that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that need to be brought to a boil, simmered and kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) remain the best choice 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 stems from their ability to generate high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The flame's visual indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is useful for safety reasons. It's a lot harder to forget to turn off the burner on, or to switch it off accidentally, than it is with an electric hob.
A majority of models are 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 from splashes and spills. You'll have to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts since they are able to heat faster and more evenly, which reduces the cost of electricity. This is especially true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This can save on the space in your kitchen and also create a sleeker 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 are simpler to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
Another benefit of opting for a freestanding model is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can look into this option. Moreover, Best Ovens these models will require gas supply and ventilation as well as regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're seeking an elegant and energy-efficient choice, an induction hob is the best choice. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burning!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than gas or electrical counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to invest in cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good alternative for those who do not need to invest in induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need lengthy scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they are not a good choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs are the best budget alternative, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They're easy to get hot and ideal for those who don't need an electric cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, so they're not the ideal choice for chefs who love to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs also release lots of heat, so they're not as energy-efficient as the other choices on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest choosing one that's been reviewed by customers on the websites of retailers. This will not only give you an honest insight into how it performs and how it's used, but it can aid you in finding the perfect model for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it is finished in robust stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances with a sleek and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred option for cooks due to their rapid heating and easy to control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking features like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that's streamlined with touch controls and without buttons or dials sticking out. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly if you opt for an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. For safety, choose models with child lock as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that can help prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, you might opt for a digital display that lets you control your stove remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob which has gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that allows you to set cooking times for meals so they are ready when needed which reduces the chance of overcooking and making food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various dimensions and shapes. This will save space and is ideal for those who cook frequently using large rectangular cooking vessels such as roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in various prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob uk from a big brand should still cost you no more than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it shouldn't break the bank either as there are some top options from own brands. Be aware that both ceramic and induction hobs require a particular supply that is plugged in with the correct breakers and cables so you'll have to have it installed by a certified electrician.