The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs because of their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by utilizing features like power boosts and a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs offer a modern, efficient alternative to the traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone like gas hobs they utilize magnetic technology to warm the copper coils that are below the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the surface which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones, each with its distinct functions, as well as an hour timer. It has a smooth, smooth surface that is easy to clean and is easy to use by using the touch-sensitive control panels, but one minor gripe (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven, but this is only really noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating, with a low power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you to move your pans between the four zones, and adjust the power levels according to the size of your saucepans or pots. In addition, the "Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor,' which helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is a fantastic affordable induction cooker that can be easily hardwired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are marked with the ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There's also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It features a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease, and it's pre-programmed to have set power levels in the front and back zones. This is a great choice when cooking with a variety of pans of various dimensions and shapes that require to be heated and simmered at the same while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) remain the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. They are the best choice for boiling water simmering sauces and soups, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately create high heat levels making them ideal for searing and boiling.
Their visual flame indication also allows you to see the status of every burner in one glance, which is helpful for safety reasons. It's much more difficult to forget about leaving a burner on, or switch it on by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll need to be vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction cousins because they heat up faster and more evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is particularly true for vented stoves, which incorporate the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This can save space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker appearance that will be a perfect fit with any interior style.
Due to their efficiency and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for freestanding gas hobs instead of built-in models. These can be simpler 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 the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative energy source if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you consider this option. These models require gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
If you're looking for an energy-efficient and sleek option an induction cooker is the best option to choose. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly while the ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than counterparts made of electrical or gas. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't wish to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good alternative. These sleek and stylish hobs are made of a smooth glass top with hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs as they don't require a lengthy scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when it regards energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy usage this may not be the best choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, which are a low-cost option with their basic and sturdy design, are great for cooking at home. They're easy to warm up, which makes them a good choice for those who don't need a powerful cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other alternatives.
If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we recommend looking for one that's been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only provide you with an honest assessment of the performance of the model however, it will also ovens uk aid you in locating the right one for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen and give it a minimalist and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks due to their rapid heat and simple control, electric models offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with sophisticated cooking functions, such as power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
Look for an electric hob with a sleek design and touchscreen controls. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you choose flat surfaces that don't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might prefer a digital display which lets you manage your hob from afar and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
Consider a dual-fuel hob that has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports to support traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that lets you set specific cooking times for meals so they are ready when needed - reducing the risk of cooking too long and making food less tasty.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you might want a model that allows you to combine two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can save space and is useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should still cost you not more than PS200. If you'd prefer glass models there are a variety of excellent alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the correct breakers and cables to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.