The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts for their versatility and precision flame control. However, electric hobs can be more efficient in energy use and are more easy to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by utilizing features like an energy boost or 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 only heat the copper coils that are beneath your pans. The cooktop stays cool to touch which makes it more secure to use and easier to clean. They can boil water faster than a kettle and require less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones, each with its own functions and a minute minder. It has a smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to operate using the touch control panels. However, one small issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be patchy; however this is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency and the lowest energy consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match the pans or pots you use as well as the 'PowerBoost' function increases the output by 50% for quick boiling. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which helps to prevent overheating of your pan are other useful features.
This is a fantastic low-cost induction hob that can be easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are identified with a ring, cross or arrow to indicate the coil's centre. There is also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots effortlessly and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels that are set in the front and back zones. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans, which need to be brought to a boiling point, simmered and then kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to produce high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to check each burner's status at an instant. This is very helpful to ensure security. It's much harder to forget to leave the burner on, or even switch it on by accident when compared to an electric hob.
Most models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's no material that can keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll need to be on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts as they heat up faster and more evenly, reducing energy costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the need for a vent hood. This will save space in your kitchen, as well as creating a sleeker design that will be able to blend in with any style of interior.
As a result of their effectiveness and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. They are easier to install and provide greater flexibility if you're trying to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option if you are looking to go green. However, you'll need to be able to locate a suitable LPG boiler and stove before this is an option for you. These models require a gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the best choice if you're looking for an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly, while the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface remains cool. best oven are more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than their gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to purchase induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath that make them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean as there's no need for a complicated cleaning. They also are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when regards energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the best choice for you.
Then, solid plate hobs are a good budget option, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They are easy to heat up, making them a good choice for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they may take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs also give off lots of heat, making them not as efficient as the other choices on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with an honest view into how it performs and how it's used, but it can also help you to find the perfect model for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it is finished in robust stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular option for 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 offer sophisticated cooking functions, such as power increase settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
Look for an electric hob with a an elegant design and has touchscreen controls. Avoid hobs with dials or buttons that are protruding. This makes them easier to clean, particularly when you select a flat surface that won't chip or scratch. For safety, choose one with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that will prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may opt for an electronic display that lets you control your hob remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.
For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with gas burners and induction. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and sturdy cast iron pan supports that accommodate traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times so that your food is cooked when you require it. This minimizes the chance of overcooking, and makes your food less flavorful.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may need a model that permits you to join two cooking zones into a single zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This can help save space and be useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs that start at PS100 and pricier high-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a big brand should still cost you no more than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it shouldn't cost much also, as there are excellent own-brand options. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the correct breakers and cables to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.