The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts recommend gas hobs due to their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more energy efficient and easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process with features such as power boosts and 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 like gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat the copper coils underneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to touch, making it more secure to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with their own functions and an hour minder. It has a smooth, smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to operate using the touch control panels. However, one small issue (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven, but this is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year warranty and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency and a low power consumption of 775 watts per cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter their power levels to suit your pans or pots and the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for speedy boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your pan from overheating, which means you do not need to worry about burning food.
This is an induction hob with a reasonable price that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified with a ring or cross to show which side of the coil is beneath, while there's an easy-to-use control panel. It has a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pans and pots easily and is pre-programmed to have power levels set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is great if you often cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that need to be brought to the boil, simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop for those who are American) is still the best oven when it comes to kitchen cooking. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water simmering sauces and soups as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately produce high temperatures, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to determine the status of each burner at an instant. This is extremely useful for security. With an electric hob, it's harder to accidentally turn on the burner or forget that it was turned on.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to clean than their 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 their induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, which saves electricity costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for a hood. This will save space in your kitchen, as well as resulting in an elegant design that can be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models because of their efficiency and ease-of-use. These can be easier to install and provide greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option if you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you consider this option. These models require a gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the best option for those who want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. Hobs that induction are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burning!) and more efficient, as they use less power than their gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to purchase kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a great option for those who do not need to invest in induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs are smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath which makes them more attractive than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean, as there's no need for a difficult cleaning. Plus, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when it is energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the best choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, the affordable option, with their simple and durable design, are great for cooking at home. They're quick to get hot and ideal for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for dynamic chefs who like to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other alternatives.
If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob uk, we recommend choosing one that has been rated by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide a true insight into the performance of the model and will aid you in locating one that is right for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's finished in robust stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred option for cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric hobs have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. 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 option for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob choose one that's streamlined with touch controls and without dials or buttons hanging out. This makes them easier to clean, particularly if you opt for a flat surface that won't scratch or chip. For safety, choose models with child lock with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that can stop accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may opt for a digital display which lets you control your stove remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel stove that has gas and induction burners. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and sturdy cast iron pan supports that support traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set specific cooking times to ensure that food is ready when you require it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various sizes ovens and hobs shapes. This will save space and can be beneficial for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills as additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in different prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a major brand should cost less than PS200. If you prefer glass there are a variety of excellent options from own-brand manufacturers. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the right cables and breakers to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.