The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable and stylish, as well as easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. However, electric hobs can be more efficient in energy use and are more easy to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features like a power boost and a timer.
- Hobs induction
Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking area like gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to heat the copper coils that are beneath your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact, making them safer to use and easier to clean. They boil water faster than a kettle and use less power. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with their own functions and the minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are simple to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common issue for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with a low power usage of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you to move your pans between the four zones and adjust the power levels to suit the size of your saucepans or pots. Meanwhile, the 'Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed the boiling process. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which ensures that your pan is not overheated are other useful features.
This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be wired to a kitchen worktop or a new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified by an arrow or cross to indicate where the centre of the coil is, while there's an easy-to-use control panel. It features a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pots and pans effortlessly and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels set in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans, which need to be brought up to boiling point, then simmered and kept warm at the same time.
- Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, for those who are American) remains the most popular choice when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. They're the ideal choice for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces, frying eggs and pan-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 allows users to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is useful for security reasons. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally turn on an appliance or forget it was turned on.
The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes and spills. You'll need to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, reducing energy costs. This is especially true with vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for a vent hood. This can save space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. They are simpler to set up and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve minimalist kitchen designs.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option for those who you want to go green. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can consider this alternative. These models require a gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
- Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're seeking an elegant and energy-efficient choice an induction cooker is the best way to go. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly, while the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface stays cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burning!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll require an induction-compatible set of cookware.
Ceramic hobs are a good option for those who don't need to invest in Induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need hard scrubbing. Additionally, they get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs, so they might not be a good choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Finally, solid plate hobs are a good budget option, 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 can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the Best hob option for dynamic chefs who like to multitask. Solid plate hobs also emit a lot of residual heat, which means they're not as efficient in energy use like the other options on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest looking for one that has been reviewed by customers on the websites of retailers. This will not only provide an honest assessment of the quality of the product, but will also aid you in locating the right one for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it is finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and contemporary appearance.
- Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks thanks to their instant heating and easy to control, electric models are more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that has a sleek design with touch controls and without buttons or dials that stick out. They are more easy to clean with a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. For security, opt for a model with child locks with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, go for digital displays that give you control of your hob remotely and also notifications via your smartphone, so you can manage your hob with ease.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times to ensure that food is ready at the time you require it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may want an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This can help save space and is useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to give you additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs that start at PS100 and more expensive models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you're looking for glass there are plenty of great options from own-brand manufacturers. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the right cables and breakers in order to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.