The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are favored by our experts due to their versatility and precise flame control. 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 an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as do gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to warm the copper coils that are below your pans. The cooktop stays cool to touch which makes it safer to use and easier for cleaning. They can boil water faster than kettles and require less power. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with their own functions and an hour timer. It is smooth and can be cleaned easily and is simple to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, however one small 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 hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with the lowest power consumption of just 775 watts per 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 pans or pots as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure speedy boiling. The auto-shutoff function as well as the 'fryingSensor' that ensures that your pan is not overheated are other useful features.
This is a affordable induction cooker that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified by an arrow or cross to show where the centre of the coil lies beneath it, and there's also an easy-to-use control panel. It comes with a large "Flux Zone" which can hold larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed to have preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you often cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that need to be brought to a boiling point, then simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, in the case of American) remains the most popular choice in kitchen cooking. They are ideal for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them and pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately create high heat levels making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows users to check the status of every burner in one glance, which is useful for safety reasons. It's much more difficult to forget to turn off the burner on, or to switch it off accidentally, than it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. There is no material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll have to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts as they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces energy costs. This is especially true with vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one unit and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This will save the space in your kitchen as well as resulting in an elegant and modern design that will blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs uk with freestanding design over built-in models because of their efficiency and convenience. They are more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
Another benefit of going for an independent model is the ability to connect it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which can be an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you consider this alternative. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the best choice if you're looking for an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, and best oven the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burning!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase. You'll require a set of induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great alternative. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need lengthy scouring. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they fall behind induction hobs when it regards energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy use this may not be the best option for you.
Solid plate hobs, the affordable option, with their simple and durable design, are perfect for cooking at home. They're quick to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for chefs who are able to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs and ovens are not as energy efficient as other options.
We suggest that you search for reviews on websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a clear view into how it performs, but it will assist you in locating the right model 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. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen 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 offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with sophisticated cooking functions, such as power up settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob choose one that is sleek with touch controls and without dials or buttons sticking out. They are easier to clean with a flat surface, and won't scratch or chip. For safety, choose models with child lock, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, go for digital displays that give you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, ensuring you can manage your stove effortlessly.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel stove that has induction and gas burners. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times so that food is ready when you require it. This minimizes the chance of cooking too long and makes your food less tasty.
For added convenience for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate cooking pans in different shapes and sizes is the best choice. This will save space and can be beneficial for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to offer additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at different prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should cost less than PS200. If you'd prefer glass models there are plenty of great options from own-brand manufacturers. However, bear in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a particular supply with the appropriate cables and breakers to work so you'll need to get it installed by a qualified electrician.