The Best Hobs

Hobs can be found in various sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy and stylish, as well as easy to clean.

Our experts recommend gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features like a timer or power boost that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to increase the speed of cooking.

1. Induction Hobs

Induction hobs are a modern efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as do gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils that are below the pans. The cooktop remains cool to touch, making it safer to use and simpler for cleaning. They also boil water quicker than traditional kettles and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with its specific functions and a minute minder. It has a smooth surface that can be cleaned easily and is simple to operate with the touch control panels. However, one minor gripe (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, this is only really noticeable when trying to stir-fry.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with a low power usage of 750W for each cooking zone. The “Flux zone” feature lets you to move your pans around in the four zones and adjust the power levels to fit your pans or pots and the ‘Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure speedy boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the ‘fryingSensor,’ which helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features.

This is a low-cost induction hob that can be easily wired and fitted 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 you where the center of the coil is, while there’s a simple touch-control panel. It comes with an enormous “Flux Zone” that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you often cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought to a boil, simmered and kept warm at the same time.

2. Gas Hobs

Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the best option for cooking in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups, frying meats and eggs, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to generate high levels of heat quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.

The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance, which is useful for security 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.

Most models are also designed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. There isn’t a material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You’ll need to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.

Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing electricity costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the requirement for a grill. This can save space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker look that will blend into any style of interior.

Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. These are easier to set up and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve an elegant kitchen design.

A freestanding model can be 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 are looking to go green. However, you’ll need to find an appropriate LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.

3. Sealed Plate Hobs

If you’re seeking a sleek and energy-efficient option an induction hob is definitely the option to choose. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient, as they use less electricity than electric or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you’ll need to buy induction-compatible cookware.

Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who do not want to invest in the technology of induction. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements that are hidden beneath, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They’re also easier to clean, as there’s no need for a complicated scouring. Additionally, they 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, which means they are not the best choice if are concerned about your energy usage.

Finally, solid plate hobs are the best budget alternative, with a simple and sturdy design that’s ideal for everyday cooking. They’re easy to heat up, making them an ideal option for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool. 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 thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we suggest looking for one that has been rated by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide you with an honest view into how it performs however, it will aid you in finding a model that’s right for your home. For example, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is made of long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, creating a an elegant and minimalist look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their quick heat and easy control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking functions like power boost settings and temperature control. They’re an excellent choice for busy households.

When you’re choosing an electric stove choose one that has a sleek design with touch controls and no dials or buttons that stick out. They are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface, which won’t scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select models with child lock with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that will stop accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you may want to choose a digital display which allows you to control your stove remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.

Think about a dual-fuel hob that has both induction and gas burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and durable cast iron pan supports that support traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set specific cooking times to ensure that your food is ready when you need 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 of different shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This can help save space and be useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to offer additional cooking options.

Gas hobs are available in various costs, from as little as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or induction model from a major brand shouldn’t cost more than PS200. If you’re looking for an elegant glass model, it won’t cost a fortune either as there are some top options from own brands. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the correct cables and breakers to function, which means you’ll need it installed by an electrician.