The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precise control of flames. However, electric models can offer superior energy efficiency and are more easy to keep clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features such as a power boost 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 area as gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to heat only the copper coils beneath the pans. The cooktop stays cool to the touch and is therefore more secure to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than traditional kettles and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones, each with its own functions and a minute minder. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is easy to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, however one small issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the heat distribution can be patchy; however this is only really noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year warranty and impressive eco credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency with a low energy consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels to suit the size of your saucepans or pots. In addition, the "Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed the boiling process. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burnt food items.
This is a budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily hardwired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly marked with the use of a cross or ring to show which side of the coil is beneath and there's an easy-to-use control panel. It features a large "Flux Zone" which can hold larger pots or pans. It also comes pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought to the boiling point, then simmered and kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are the best choice to cook in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately produce high heat levels, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to check the status of each burner at glance. This is very helpful for security. It's much more difficult to forget to leave the burner on, or switch it off by accident when compared to an electric hob.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's nothing that can stop spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to keep on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction counterparts as they heat up more quickly and more evenly, thus reducing energy costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for the grill. ovens This can save space in your kitchen and give it an elegant look that can be a perfect fit with any interior style.
Due to their effectiveness and ease of use, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. They're 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 possibility of connecting it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative energy source for you're looking for a greener option. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you think about this alternative. These models require a gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great option for those who want an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. They heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surfaces remain 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 their counterparts made of electrical or gas. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase. You'll need to invest in an induction-compatible set of cookware.
Ceramic hobs are a great option for those who don't want to invest in the induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They're more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need difficult scouring. They also are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they might not be the best choice if are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, which are a affordable option, with their simple and reliable design, are perfect for everyday cooking. 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, so they're not the best choice for chefs who love to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also release lots of heat, which means they're not as energy-efficient as other choices on this list.
We suggest that you search for reviews on retailer websites in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with an honest view into the performance of the appliance, but it will assist you in locating the perfect model for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's made of robust stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances with a sleek and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks thanks to their rapid heating and easy to control, electric hobs are more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer sophisticated cooking functions, such as power up 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 no buttons or dials that stick out. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. And, if you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, so you can control your hob effortlessly.
Consider a dual-fuel hob which has both induction and gas burners for maximum flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer, which allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed which reduces the chance of overcooking and making food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may need a model that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one zone for pans of different sizes and shapes. This will save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular cooking dishes such as roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for extra cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for glass models, there are many excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Be aware that both induction and ceramic 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 licensed electrician.